Graduate School of Education

The following Vision and Mission statements, unanimously affirmed by the Graduate School of Education School Council on April 24, 2023, confirm our beliefs about the Graduate School of Education's purposes and aspirations.

Our Vision

Fordham University Graduate School of Education will enhance its national and international recognition as a leader in the generation and dissemination of knowledge and skills for teachers, counselors, psychologists, school administrators, and other educational practitioners and scholars who serve diverse populations.

Our Mission

In keeping with the University's Jesuit tradition of rigorous academic endeavor, service to complex urban and metropolitan communities, and dedication to the intellectual, moral, and socio-emotional development of the individual, the Graduate School of Education's mission is to

  • create and nurture an inclusive, dynamic, intellectual, and reflective community that generates knowledge and promotes inquiry and excellence;
  • prepare teachers, counselors, psychologists, school administrators, researchers, and other professionals who are committed to social justice, personal responsibility, and equity for all learners;
  • apply and expand the theory and knowledge of their disciplines through the use of reflective pedagogy to meet the changing educational needs of children and adults from richly diverse communities;
  • serve national and international educational communities regardless of race, cultural background, religion, and ethnicity.

The challenges of the 21st century are complex, and solutions call for thoughtful, knowledgeable leaders and creative, cooperative responses. Working with schools, social agencies, and others, the Graduate School of Education is proactive—identifying emerging issues, providing on-target professional preparation and development programs, and helping practitioners understand and apply the most promising theoretical constructs.

Ideally located in the heart of the New York metropolitan area, the Graduate School of Education has forged strong partnerships with public and private schools, other schools within Fordham, other colleges and universities, business and government groups, and human service organizations.

The Graduate School of Education reflects the Jesuit tradition of academic excellence in a values-laden setting. High standards of scholarship are evident in all of the school's programs. A dynamic balance exists between theory and practice, and among research, teaching, and community service, maintained through careful faculty recruitment and development. Faculty and student relationships are mutually supportive and reflect the belief that education is paramount in shaping the kind of society we desire and making the world a better place for all people.

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Statement

Fordham University's Graduate School of Education is committed to preparing educators, school leaders, counselors, and psychologists to promote social change and equity while serving all individuals in inclusive learning and therapeutic environments.

Our graduates are professionals who implement an asset-based perspective that recognizes children's and clients' individual strengths and needs, the community cultural wealth they bring with them, and the systemic challenges and opportunities that affect their experiences in schools and the community. The GSE's campus community affirms and celebrates the identity of every individual. We are committed to a continuous process of acknowledging and dismantling racism and other forms of oppression and discrimination that cause systemic inequity. We likewise are committed to justice-focused, equity-driven, and culturally sustaining practices that lead to improved learning opportunities and better social and mental health outcomes for individuals in all communities.