Education Policy and Law

The Education Policy and Law (EPL) program at the IU School of Education offers a comprehensive and flexible curriculum designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills needed to navigate the complex legal and policy issues in education. The program features renowned scholars who seek to prepare graduate students for impactful careers in education policy analysis, education law, academia, government, and the private sector.

Students in this program explore a wide range of topics, including the legal rights and responsibilities of educators, the impact of government and philanthropic policies on educational institutions, and the effects on students, families and communities. The program emphasizes practical application, preparing graduates to effectively address real-world challenges in various career settings.

Faculty members have expertise in policy, law and education. They produce cutting-edge and award-winning scholarship, and offer a deep understanding of their areas of expertise. They also focus on the translation of research into the real world of public policymaking, providing students with a rich, interdisciplinary learning experience.

Graduates of the program are well-prepared for making a meaningful impact in schools, universities, and beyond.

Meet Our Current Students

Steffi Thomas is from Kerala, India. She is interested in reasearching the role of non-state actors in influencing education policy through a social justice lens.

Meet more current students

Core Faculty

Core Adjunct Faculty

Edwin Darden

Edwin Darden

Senior Program Officer, Gates Foundation
Adjunct Associate Professor

Courses taught: 
A615
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Catherine Matthews

Adjunct Associate Professor

Courses taught: 
A710
Jennifer Rippner

Jennifer Rippner, J.D., Ph.D.

Former Executive Director of Georgia’s Office of Student Achievement; Adjunct Associate Professor

Courses taught: 
A615, C705

Visiting Scholars

Contact Us

Education Policy and Law Program

Janet Decker
Associate Professor
deckerjr@iu.edu
(812) 856-8375

Ph.D. Specialization in Education Policy Studies

Christopher Lubienski
Professor
clubiens@iu.edu
(812) 856-8389