Master’s in Educational Psychology Degree Guide
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Should I Get a Master's in Educational Psychology?
Earning an online master's degree in educational psychology leads to specialized knowledge, enhanced career options, and higher pay. Graduates gain observational, research, and diagnostic skills widely transferable to careers in education and psychology.
Graduates gain observational, research, and diagnostic skills widely transferable to careers in education and psychology.
These programs generally require 30-36 credits, and most learners graduate in 18-24 months. Most programs require a one-semester or yearlong practicum in an educational setting.
In addition to developing a specialized skill set, educational psychology grads can earn state licensure to work as school psychologists or counselors. This degree can also lead to doctoral programs, academic research, and professional certifications.
Find the best online master's in educational psychology programs.
Featured Programs in Educational Psychology
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
Best Online Master's in Educational Psychology Programs
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University of GeorgiaLocation
Athens, GA
Tuition$15539
Graduation Rate86%
Based in Athens, UGA considers itself "the birthplace of American public higher education." The university boasts many degree programs that train students by using rigorous hands-on experiences and research.
Graduate students interested in educational psychology can earn an online master's in educational psychology with an emphasis in applied cognition and development. Concluding with a practicum, the program focuses on understanding human motivations and analytical development. Students may also choose a secondary specialization in learning with technology, learning across the lifespan, qualitative approaches to education, or development of high intellectual capability. Participants join a cohort of 10 learners.
UGA is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Program Snapshot
Program Name: M.Ed. in Educational Psychology - Applied Cognition and Development
School Status: Public
Tuition: $629 per credit
Credit Requirements: 34 credits
Program Length: 2 years
Format: Online
Instruction Style: AsynchronousAdmission Requirements
GPA: 2.6 minimum required
Standardized Tests: GRE/MAT scores accepted but not requiredContact the School
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Florida State UniversityLocation
Tallahassee, FL
Tuition$13318
Graduation Rate83%
Located in Tallahassee, FSU boasts Nobel laureates, Pulitzer Prize winners, and other decorated professionals among its faculty. Online students learn from the same esteemed teachers as those on campus.
Students pursuing an online master's in educational psychology with a major in learning and cognition forego the traditional thesis pursued on-campus. Instead, they follow a course-only curriculum and develop an area of specialization with their advisor after completing the initial 15 credits of core courses. The program also trains students about research and data analysis, ensuring they have a rigorous scholarly foundation. Students who take two classes per semester can graduate in five semesters (including one summer term).
FSU is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Program Snapshot
Program Name: Master's in Educational Psychology With a Major in Learning and Cognition
School Status: Public
Tuition: $444 per credit (in-state); $1,076 per credit (out-of-state)
Credit Requirements: 31 credits
Program Length: 5 semesters
Format: Online
Instruction Style: AsynchronousAdmission Requirements
GPA: 3.0 minimum required
Standardized Tests: GRE required (waived in 2021)Contact the School
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Texas A & M UniversityLocation
College Station, TX
Tuition$19118
Graduation Rate82%
Located in College Station, Texas A&M offers an online master's in educational psychology with an emphasis in school counseling. The program culminates in a 12-credit, two-term practicum that includes 400 hours of practice in a public or private school setting. Students also complete classes like consultation in special education and counseling techniques for school counselors.
The program highly prefers applicants who have at least two years of professional experience as certified educators when they apply. This ensures graduate eligibility for school counselor certification in the state of Texas.
Texas A&M is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Program Snapshot
Program Name: Master of Education in Educational Psychology With an Emphasis in School Counseling
School Status: Public
Tuition: $25,000-$30,000 for the program
Credit Requirements: 48 credits
Program Length: 2 years
Format: Online
Instruction Style: AsynchronousAdmission Requirements
GPA: 3.0 minimum preferred
Standardized Tests: Not requiredContact the School
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Ball State UniversityLocation
Muncie, IN
Tuition$13642
Graduation Rate63%
Located in Muncie, Indiana, Ball State offers a research-based online master's in educational psychology. Students can graduate in 18 months, and the degree program specifically teaches graduates to train other educators.
The curriculum provides students with a well-rounded grasp of theories in research methodologies, statistics, testing, and assessments. Students also choose one of five separate specializations: human development, neuropsychology, gifted and talented, applied behavior, or a customizable option. In total, participants complete 18 credits of core coursework and 12 credits of elective/specialization coursework.
Ball State is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Program Snapshot
Program Name: Master of Arts in Educational Psychology
School Status: Public
Tuition: $449 per credit (in-state); $661 per credit (out-of-state)
Credit Requirements: 30 credits
Program Length: 18 months
Format: Online
Instruction Style: AsynchronousAdmission Requirements
GPA: 2.75 minimum required
Standardized Tests: Not requiredContact the School
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The University of AlabamaLocation
Tuscaloosa, AL
Tuition$20465
Graduation Rate72%
Located in Tuscaloosa, UA offers an online master of arts in educational psychology with an emphasis in learning and assessment. Designed for both education professionals and noneducators, the program focuses on developing a solid foundation in cognition, learning sciences, and program evaluation.
Participants take classes like development of self-regulation and lifespan development. They also complete nonthesis research and a capstone project. Graduates can go on to pursue careers in youth counseling and education. The program also functions as a transitional pathway to earning a doctorate in the field.
UA is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges, and this education psychology program is accredited by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education.
Program Snapshot
Program Name: Master of Arts in Educational Psychology - Learning and Assessment
School Status: Public
Tuition: $420 per credit (in-state); $1,186 per credit (out-of-state)
Credit Requirements: 30 credits
Program Length: 1.5 years
Format: Online
Instruction Style: AsynchronousAdmission Requirements
GPA: 3.0 minimum required on an applicant's last 60 credits
Standardized Tests: GRE/MAT requirement waived for 2021Contact the School
A 2019 study published in the Journal of Abnormal Psychology reveals that between 2005 and 2017, the rate of adolescent depression rose by a staggering 52%. And as COVID-19 potentially exacerbates mental health issues for young people, these issues could transfer to the classroom.
As a result, the value of educational psychology expertise, along with other mental health resources, can help cultivate safe and effective educational environments. Educational psychology students learn best practices in research, diagnostic, and teaching methods.
Read on to learn more about how a master's degree in educational psychology program can advance your career.
What Will I Learn in an Educational Psychology Master's Program?
Over the course of 30-36 credits and about two years, educational psychology master's students explore the fundamental theoretical and practical skills needed to conduct research, identify educational strategies, and create constructive learning environments.
Typical coursework for a master's degree in educational psychology includes introduction to educational psychology, self-regulation and motivation, and qualitative design and analysis. Students can often choose from concentrations like adult education, scholarly research, and applied behavioral analysis.
Many programs require students to complete a practicum in an educational environment. Upon graduating, students can pursue education and psychology doctoral programs.
Concentrations
- Learning and Assessment
- This concentration helps learners develop the educational assessment and evaluation skills essential to the learning process. Students tackle courses like evaluation of classroom learning, statistical methods in education, and advanced educational psychology.
- Applied Behavior Analysis
- Preparing degree-seekers for careers as board-certified behavior analysts, this concentration focuses on evidence-based practices that influence behavioral assessments. Common coursework includes functional behavioral assessment, professional ethics in behavior analysis, and physical bases of behavior.
- School Psychology
- In this concentration, learners prepare for careers as school psychologists. Students learn assessment, consultation, and intervention skills through courses like functional behavior assessment, social foundations of behavior, and behavioral principles of learning.
- Gifted and Talented
- This concentration focuses on program development, creative thinking, and gifted learners' emotional and social needs. Common courses include introduction to gifted and talented students, identification and evaluation of talented students, and models and strategies for gifted learners.
Still Looking for the Right Fit? Discover Similar Programs
How to Get Into an Educational Psychology Master's Program
All educational psychology master's programs require a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university. Many programs also require a 3.0 minimum undergraduate GPA. Some programs offer conditional admission for applicants who do not meet this GPA threshold.
Additional requirements often include official academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, a resume, and a personal essay.
Read Our Guide to Graduate Admissions.
What Can I Do With a Master's in Educational Psychology?
Graduates with a master's degree in educational psychology can pursue various careers in both in and out of traditional educational environments. Whether degree-holders embark on careers in research, private practice, or public schools, this advanced degree can open career doors and increase earning potential.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), general psychologists earn a median annual salary of $82,180. Keep in mind that these positions sometimes require a doctoral degree and a license. Additionally, instructional coordinators earn a median annual salary of $66,970, with the BLS projecting 6% job growth for these professionals between 2019 and 2029.
Popular Career Paths
Popular Continuing Education Paths
How Much Money Can I Make With a Master's in Educational Psychology?
According to the BLS, special education teachers earn a median salary of $61,420 per year. Social workers earn a median annual salary of $51,760, and the BLS projects 13% job growth for these professionals between 2019 and 2029. Keep in mind that salary potential depends on location, role, and experience.
Frequently Asked Questions About Master's in Educational Psychology Programs
What is educational psychology?
Educational psychology is the scientific study concerning human learning. This overarching field encompasses subfields like adult education, applied behavioral analysis, and school psychology.
How much does it cost to get a master's in educational psychology?
The cost of a master's degree in educational psychology varies between programs. Public schools are usually less expensive, and financial aid opportunities like scholarships, grants, and work-study programs can help offset the cost of this degree. Programs at state universities often cost around $25,000.
Is a master's in educational psychology worth it?
Earning a master's degree in educational psychology requires a serious investment of time and money, but gaining an advanced degree can significantly boost career options and earning potential. Completing professional certifications can help augment the value of this degree.
How long does it take to get a master's in educational psychology?
Most master's in educational psychology programs take 18-24 months to complete. Part-time students may need longer to graduate.
Are educational psychologists in high demand?
The BLS projects significant job growth for many related jobs between 2019 and 2029. For example, during that period, the BLS projects 6% job growth for instructional coordinators and 13% job growth for social workers.
