“Education is the most powerful weapon”. That is an old quote but it perfectly embodies the spirit of the UCLA School of Education and Information Studies.
Established in 1881 the UCLA School of Education and Information Studies stands as the oldest unit at UCLA. Originally it was founded as a normal school. This was before the establishment of the university itself.
In 1919 it became part of the University of California. Since 1994 it was known as the UCLA Graduate School of Education and Information Studies. In 2020 its name changed to UCLA School of Education and Information Studies. This reflects its provision of undergraduate courses as well as post-graduate programs.
The UCLA School of Education and Information Studies has two main departments. These are the Department of Education and the Department of Information Studies. Both departments consistently rank highly. U.S. News & World Report ranks them among graduate schools of education. They also rank Master’s programs of Library and Information Science.
The Department of Education is particularly renowned. It is known for its study of urban education. It also focuses on student testing and assessment. Teacher education and development are important too. This is especially true in urban multi-ethnic environments. The department emphasizes early childhood development. It also addresses issues of access equity and quality in education.
The Department of Information Studies excels. It advances the information fields. It promotes an interdisciplinary approach. This helps people understand information management. They are committed to universal access. They also focus on user-centered organization of information.
The UCLA School of Education and Information Studies offers various degrees. These include MA MEd MLIS EdD and PhD. They also offer professional certificates and credentials. These are in education and information studies. The school hosts visiting scholars. It also houses research centers institutes and programs. One notable program is the undergraduate major in Education & Social Transformation. They also offer a minor in Education Studies.
The school is located in three buildings on the UCLA campus. Moore Hall houses the administration and education faculty. The Mathematical Sciences Building houses research centers programs and institutes. The GSEIS Building houses the information studies faculty and computer labs.
Moore Hall is architecturally significant. It was built in 1930. George W. Kelham designed it. It is an example of the Romanesque Revival style. Kemper Nomland refurbished it in the 1950s. Robert Englekirk & Associates refurbished it again in 1993.
The UCLA School of Education and Information Studies has a rich history. It began as a “southern branch” of the California State Normal School in Los Angeles. Its primary role was teacher training. Ernest Carroll Moore played a key role. He was the director of the school. The school moved to its current location in Westwood in 1929.
The school has many centers and institutes. Center X is a coalition of programs. These programs focus on teacher training and administrative credentials. The Higher Education Research Institute HERI is also important.
Many notable faculty members have taught at the UCLA School of Education and Information Studies. These include Alexander Astin and Christine Borgman.
The UCLA School of Education and Information Studies is not just a school. It is a center for innovation. It shapes the future of education and information. It addresses the challenges of our time. It empowers individuals and communities. It stands as a beacon of knowledge and progress in Los Angeles.
Remember as you leave the College of Education that learning never ends. The pursuit of knowledge transforms lives. May your journey be filled with discovery. May your actions reflect the values instilled here.