About Us

The Department of Education Studies (EDS) at the University of California, San Diego advances research, teaching, and partnerships that improve educational opportunity, equity, and student success in diverse communities.

Our students, staff, and faculty work toward transforming education in a diverse society, where all students—particularly those in marginalized communities—can thrive and reach their fullest potential.

Our Mission

The Department of Education Studies is guided by a mission that includes:

Engaging in rigorous research to address persistent challenges in education systems
Preparing educators to implement evidence-based, justice-oriented pedagogy
Supporting transformative change in educational institutions
Providing excellent teaching and mentorship to our students

Department Overview

Founded in 1972, the Department of Education Studies grew from the Teacher Education Program into a nationally recognized department committed to educational equity, innovation, and community engagement.

Today, EDS includes more than 30 faculty and affiliated researchers studying a broad range of educational issues. Faculty, students, and partners collaborate on research and practice with local, national, and global reach.

Areas of focus include early childhood education, STEM and world language learning, bilingual education, special education, social networks and social capital, institutional reform, school–university partnerships, and strengthening educational pathways.

At a Glance

30+ faculty and affiliated researchers
450+ undergraduate students pursuing majors and minors in Education Studies
150 graduate students
500+ undergraduate students participating annually in the Partners at Learning (PAL) program

Community Impact

EDS students and alumni play an important role in advancing the department’s mission. Our broader community includes:

More than 200 P–16 educational leaders and 400 teacher leaders across Southern California and beyond
More than 10 current and former superintendents in regional school districts
More than 75 pre-service teachers committed to advancing equitable learning opportunities
Approximately 20,000 hours of annual student volunteer service through the Partners at Learning (PAL) program

Campus Partnerships

The Department of Education Studies maintains close partnerships across UC San Diego, including the Center for Research on Educational Equity, Assessment, and Teaching Excellence (CREATE), CalTeach, OASIS, CASP, and the Center on Gender Equity and Health.

These collaborations support innovative research, community partnerships, and educational pathways that strengthen learning opportunities for students across the region.