Evaluation practice has grown in leaps and bounds in recent years. In contrast, the most recent survey data suggest that there has been a sharp decline in the number and strength of preservice evaluation training programs in the United States. In an effort to further understand this curious trend, an alternative methodology was used to examine the current state of university-based evaluation training programs in the United States. An online search and curricular document analysis suggest different trends, including a dramatic increase in the number of evaluation training programs in the United States, specifically within schools of education. The importance of using alternative methodologies for understanding the nature of evaluation training programs is discussed.
2015 was designated the International Year of Evaluation, suggesting that evaluation has an important role to play in service of positive global ideals. It is vital to recognize the critical role that the education of evaluators plays in these efforts. The current study uses an online search and curricular analysis to provide a snapshot of evaluation education in late 2017 as well as a retrospective analysis of advanced degrees in evaluation offered at universities across time. The results indicate a period of dramatic growth in the number of certificates and master’s degrees being offered at universities across the world over the decades, with a minor decrease in doctoral programs in the past 5 years. Implications and directions for future research are discussed.
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