The UC Davis School of Education (SOE) marshals the knowledge and
resources of the University of California, the world’s
pre-eminent public research university, to confront and eliminate
inequities among people and communities through the generation of
impactful knowledge and the promise of education. We accomplish
this by engaging in research and policy analysis that bear on
student attainment and success; by preparing and mentoring high
quality teachers and educational leaders who serve as advocates
for all learners; by forging partnerships and collaborations that
make a difference in students’ lives today and tomorrow; by
broadening definitions of learning and the locations in which it
takes place; and by offering interdisciplinary programs that
position our graduates to provide leadership and insight into the
greatest challenges facing educators in California, in our
nation, and around the world.
History of the School of Education
Working to strengthen schools has a long history at UC Davis,
dating back to the first teacher-training program held on the
University Farm in 1918. With the official founding of the School
of Education in 2002, the University reinforced its land-grant
mission, declaring its intention to be a major force in the
education of children throughout the region and beyond.
The School’s research strengths are well aligned with the needs
of the state. Efforts in faculty hiring, program development and
partnership building focus on those needs: English learners;
assessment; math, science and technology; neurodevelopment and
education; literacy; and education policy. We have expanded our
work with practicing educators through professional development
programs and graduate degree programs designed especially for
veteran educators.
Taking inspiration from our roots as a pioneering “ag” school, we
enter our second century eager to stake our claim as an engine
for change in education.
The School of Education at UC Davis trains teachers and education
leaders using the latest and most innovative teaching practices,
and by conducting and disseminating cutting-edge research to
improve instruction.
At the heart of the School of
Education’s vision is a fundamental concern with influencing the
practice of education through research and training. Our faculty
and graduate students are engaged on local and regional levels
and with national and international educational reform and
policy. We especially seek to confront and eliminate inequities
in the schooling opportunities for diverse learners.
At the School, you will work with a distinguished community of
scholars and be mentored by eminent faculty.
The School of Education was founded in 2002, although teacher
training at UC Davis dates back to 1918. Since its founding, the
School has doubled the number of faculty. The teaching credential
program, continues to grow, as do faculty grants and financial
support from alumni and friends.
