Dr. Bowen's research primarily examines the role and influence of, what have been referred to as, "non-core" subjects and school-sponsored extracurricular activities (e.g., the arts and sports) on student achievement and attainment. His studies typically apply experimental and quasi-experimental methods. Dr. Bowen earned his Ph.D. in education policy from the University of Arkansas and holds an M.Ed. and a B.A. in political science from the University of Notre Dame. His research has been featured in The New York Times, NBC Nightly News, CNN, The Wall Street Journal, The Atlantic, Education Week, and others.