Best Online Master’s in Educational Psychology Programs of 2023
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- Educational psychology is the scientific study of how the learning process works and how to improve methods of teaching and learning.
- Entry-level roles in educational psychology often require a master's degree, but most require a doctorate.
- Educational psychology jobs include school psychologists and education program directors.
- Psychology jobs pay a median annual salary of over $80,000.
Think back to your early days of school. Do you remember a time when your teacher gave you a treat as a reward for good behavior? Maybe it was a gold star or a ticket to the toy box.
That wasn't random. It's an example of a behaviorist approach to teaching. But it wasn't a teacher who first thought of it — it was a psychologist named John B. Watson.
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Ready to Start Your Journey?
We use educational psychology to improve the learning process. And that's what you'll get to do with an online master's in educational psychology degree.
If you're considering this career, here's what to do next:
-
Explore this page to make sure this path is the right choice for you. -
Check out the top-ranked online master's in educational psychology programs, as well as our sponsored programs. -
Request more information from the schools you're interested in.
Is a Master's Degree in Educational Psychology Worth It?
Yes, for a few reasons. Psychology is a field that's in demand and pays well. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects the psychology field to grow by 6% from 2021-2031. These professionals had a median annual salary of $81,040 as of May 2021.
Return on investment also factors in. A master's in educational psychology is slightly cheaper than all other master's degrees, according to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES). And the highest-paying jobs in the field earn more than $133,000, BLS data shows.
"In my experience, getting a degree in educational psychology has been well worth it. Since graduating, I have been able to secure a job as a school counselor, and I have been able to use my knowledge and skills to help students overcome challenges and reach their full potential."
— Nikki Davis-Fainbloom, BA in Education Psychology, Ryerson University
Featured Online Programs in Educational Psychology
Why Should You Get a Master's in Educational Psychology?
"Overall, I believe that a degree in educational psychology can provide individuals with a wealth of knowledge and skills that can be useful in a variety of careers in education. Whether you are looking to become a teacher, school counselor, or instructional coordinator, a degree in educational psychology can provide you with the foundation you need to succeed in your chosen field."
— Nikki Davis-Fainbloom, BA in Education Psychology, Ryerson University
Thinking about getting your master's? Here are a few more reasons why you should:
- Specialize in what interests you: Educational psychologists often work in schools to help improve the learning experience, but you can explore other specialties, including quantitative research, educational technology, and counseling.
- It has diverse working environments: Educational psychologists have options. Schools may be the most common setting, but others include private practices, research institutions, and social service organizations.
- You can make a difference: Yes, it's cliché to say. But it's true. Educational psychologists often come up with new programs for students who are struggling or advanced methods for gifted learners.
Still on the fence? Consider why it may not be right for you:
- Extensive education: Some careers require a Ph.D. — which can take up to seven years — in addition to extensive clinical work and training to qualify for a state license.
- Time and cost: It takes a long time to become a psychologist, and the cost of degrees, training and licenses can add up. Depending on your expectations or goals, it may not be worth it in the long run.
- Unusual work schedule: Some educational psychologists follow a fairly set schedule. But others, especially those working in private practice, often work evenings and weekends to accommodate clients.
Best Online Master's in Educational Psychology
Rankings compiled by the BestColleges Ranking Team
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University of Northern Colorado
Greeley, CO - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Self-Paced Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $583
Out of State | $583
Credits to Graduate
30
School Information
School Accreditation | Higher Learning Commission
UNC's online master's in educational psychology features a focus on teaching applications. The online educational psychology MA follows a cohort learning model. You can begin the program in the summer semester and complete it in 19 months.
The educational psychology master's culminates in either a comprehensive exam or a final project. Admission requires a bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited institution and a minimum 3.0 GPA. You do not need to submit GRE scores.
University of Southern Maine
Portland, ME - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Self-Paced Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $447
Out of State | $447
Credits to Graduate
36
School Information
School Accreditation | New England Commission of Higher Education
USM's master's in educational psychology offers an online concentration in applied behavior analysis. The online educational psychology MS follows the Board certified behavior analyst (BCBA) curriculum standards and prepares you to pursue BCBA credentials.
USM accepts applications on a rolling basis throughout the year. You can start your degree in the fall, spring, or summer semester. You must hold a bachelor's degree or master's degree from an accredited school, with at least a 2.5 or 3.0 GPA, respectively.
The College of Saint Rose
Albany, NY - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Self-Paced Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $846
Out of State | $846
Credits to Graduate
30
School Information
School Accreditation | Middle States Commission on Higher Education
The College of Saint Rose offers an MS in educational psychology as a pathway to professional certification for licensed teachers. The degree can qualify you for educational psychology jobs, including scholar or administrator. You can complete the program in about 18-24 months.
St. Rose's program culminates in an integrated educational psychology capstone project. To apply, you must hold a bachelor's degree from an accredited school and a 3.0 GPA.
Florida State University
Tallahassee, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Self-Paced Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $444
Out of State | $1,076
Credits to Graduate
30-35
School Information
School Accreditation | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
FSU's online MS in educational psychology features a concentration in learning and cognition. Within this major, you may choose a thesis or coursework track and a preferred specialization area. Course topics include classroom assessment, program evaluation, and lifespan development.
You can complete FSU's online educational psychology MS in 2-3 years. Admission requires a bachelor's or master's degree from an accredited school with a 3.0 or 3.3 GPA, respectively, and GRE scores.
Northcentral University
La Jolla, CA - 4 years
- Online
100% Online | Self-Paced Classes
Avg. Cost per Quarter-Credit
In State | $442
Out of State | $442
Credits to Graduate
30
School Information
School Accreditation | WASC Senior College and University Commission
NU's master's in educational psychology program prepares you for jobs including education coordinator, instructional designer, and learning specialist. NU's MS in educational psychology culminates in a capstone requirement.
This online master's in educational psychology program has weekly start dates. Courses last eight weeks, and you can earn your degree in 18 months. Plus, you may opt to complete a non-clinical internship. NU accepts up to 12 transferable credits toward the master's degree.
BestColleges.com is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.
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Texas A & M University-College Station
College Station, TX - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Self-Paced and Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $521-$625
Out of State | $521-$625
Credits to Graduate
48
School Information
School Accreditation | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Texas A&M's educational psychology master's follows a non-thesis degree plan. The online M.Ed. in educational psychology includes an emphasis in school counseling. You must complete a two-semester internship in a school approved by the Texas Education Agency (TEA) to earn your degree.
To apply, you need a TEA-issued teaching certification in Texas and two years of K-12 teaching experience. A&M prefers applicants with at least a 3.0 cumulative GPA and does not require GRE scores.
Eastern Michigan University
Ypsilanti, MI - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Self-Paced Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $512
Out of State | $512
Credits to Graduate
30
Program Information
Program Accreditation | Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation
The educational psychology master's degree from Eastern Michigan explores the cognitive, social, and emotional elements of the learning process. EMU's master's in educational psychology features 7.5-week courses in topics like human development, motivation to learn, and the mental health of educators.
The program culminates in a seminar and capstone in educational psychology. You must hold a bachelor's degree and have at least a 2.75 GPA.
University of Georgia
Athens, GA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Self-Paced Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $417
Out of State | $1,082
Credits to Graduate
34
School Information
School Accreditation | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
The online M.Ed. in educational psychology from UGA includes an emphasis in applied cognition and development. UGA's program also offers secondary focus areas, such as learning across the lifespan, learning with technology, and qualitative approaches to education.
You'll complete the degree as part of a 10-member cohort group. The program culminates in an applied project in educational psychology. You must hold a bachelor's degree and a minimum 2.6 GPA. UGA accepts but does not require GRE or GMAT scores.
Ball State University
Muncie, IN - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Self-Paced Classes
Avg. Cost per Semester
In State | $438
Out of State | $656
Credits to Graduate
30
School Information
School Accreditation | Higher Learning Commission
Ball State's online master's in educational psychology offers a choice of four specializations, such as gifted and talented education, human development, and neuropsychology. The final option is applied behavior analysis. You can also choose a customized specialization.
You can enroll in full- or part-time studies and complete the degree in 1-3 years. The online educational psychology MA from Ball State offers many start dates and does not require you to submit GRE scores for admission. You need an accredited bachelor's degree and a minimum 2.75 GPA.
University of Nevada-Las Vegas
Las Vegas, NV - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Self-Paced Classes
Avg. Cost per Semester
In State | $322
Out of State | $322
Credits to Graduate
33
School Information
School Accreditation | Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
UNLV's online educational psychology master's offers a thesis or non-thesis track. The MS in educational psychology suits both certified teachers seeking specialized skills and those looking to pursue non-teaching roles.
UNLV's program culminates in either a thesis or capstone requirement. You must hold an accredited bachelor's degree with at least a 2.75 overall GPA or a 3.0 GPA in your last two years of undergrad work. UNLV admits students in the fall semester for this program.
What Can You Do With a Master's Degree in Educational Psychology?
A master's in educational psychology prepares you for careers in K-12 schools, colleges and universities, counseling practices, community organizations, and government agencies.
Plus, you can specialize in a certain field of expertise, opening your career potential even more. Common specializations include instructional design, special education, and curriculum development.
| Jobs | Average Salary |
|---|---|
| Education Program Director | $107,690 |
| Clinical Psychologist (requires a doctorate) | $83,570 |
| Educational Psychologist | $69,040 |
| School Psychologist | $66,150 |
| Clinical Supervisor | $62,720 |
Read More: What Are the Different Types of Psychology Degrees?
Read More: What Can You Do With a Psychology Degree?
How Much Money Will You Make With a Master's in Educational Psychology?
Source: Payscale
How Much Does an Online Master's in Educational Psychology Cost?
The big question: how much does the degree cost?
While it can cost over $10,000 a year, there are ways to make it more affordable. Psychology scholarships and grants can help cover the costs and increase your return on investment. That means you'll get the same quality of education for less — phew.
Average Master's Degree Costs:
Psychology
$11,748
All Degrees
$12,174
Read More: How Much Does an Online College Cost?
How Long Does a Master's in Educational Psychology Take?
Most master's in educational psychology programs require 30-48 credits and take two years of full-time study to complete. Some online accelerated programs can lead to degree completion in 16 months. And most grad school programs culminate in a capstone project, with some requiring internships or a thesis.
Required Course Credits*
60
Average Length of Time*
3-4 years
*Varies depending on your school/program
Educational Psychology: Beyond the Master's Degree
After getting your master's degree, you must take a few extra steps. Many educational psychology careers may require the following:
- Certification: You may need a Nationally Certified School Psychologist (NCSP) credential to qualify to enter the field. The NCSP proves that you meet national standards.
- Internship experience: You need at least 1,200 hours of internship experience to be eligible for licensure, of which 600 hours must be in a school setting. Some finish their internships during or after their master's degree program. Others do it during their doctorate degree program.
- Doctorate degree: A doctorate is optional to enter the field. But having a doctorate in psychology can help you earn higher salaries and land leadership positions. If you wish to become an educational psychologist, you must earn a doctorate. It takes three to seven years to finish, depending on whether you're a full-time or part-time student.
Still Looking for the Right Fit? Discover Similar Psychology Programs.
Everything Else You Need to Know About Master's in Educational Psychology Programs
What is educational psychology?
Educational psychology is the study of how people learn, especially in settings like classrooms. It explores how behavioral, emotional, and social factors change the learning process.
Is there a demand for educational psychologists?
Yes, there's a demand for educational psychologists with master's degrees. The BLS projects 6% job growth for psychologists from 2021-2031. School and career counselors should see a bump of 10% and 7% for postsecondary education administrators.
What are high-paying jobs in educational psychology?
Educational psychologists can make $88,000 or more annually if they have 5-9 years of experience. Educational psychologists also have higher salaries if they hold leadership positions. For example, an education program director earns an average salary of $107,690.
