Educational psychology is the scientific study concerning human learning. This overarching field encompasses subfields like adult education, applied behavioral analysis, and school 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. 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. Most master's in educational psychology programs take 18-24 months to complete. Part-time students may need longer to graduate. 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. 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 Name: M.Ed. in Educational Psychology - Applied Cognition and Development Admission Requirements GPA: 2.6 minimum required Contact the SchoolRequest more information about this program. 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 Admission Requirements
GPA: 3.0 minimum required Contact the SchoolRequest more information about this program. Texas A & M University Location College Station, TX 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 Admission Requirements GPA: 3.0 minimum preferred Contact the SchoolRequest more information about this program. 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 Admission Requirements GPA: 2.75 minimum required Contact the SchoolRequest more information about this program. The University of Alabama 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 Admission Requirements GPA:
3.0 minimum required on an applicant's last 60 credits Contact the SchoolRequest more information about this program. 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. 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.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. Related Programs That Might Interest YouLearn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below. ConcentrationsLearning and AssessmentThis 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 AnalysisPreparing 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 PsychologyIn 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 TalentedThis 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 ProgramsMaster's in Psychology Program Guide Master's in Organizational Psychology Program Guide Master's in Educational Leadership Program GuideHow to Choose a Curriculum and Instruction Doctoral ProgramHow to Get Into an Educational Psychology Master's ProgramAll 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. 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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. 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. Compare your school options.View the most relevant school for your interests and compare them by tuition, programs, acceptance rate, and other factors important to find your college home. What can I do as an educational psychologist?Educational psychologists may diagnose learning disabilities, design and manage student individualized education plans (IEPs), and educate and advise teachers and families on learning.
Is there a demand for educational psychologists?According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment opportunities for school psychologists are also expanding, with growth projected at 22 percent—faster than the average for all occupations—through the year 2020.
Is a masters in education worth it?The True Value of a Master's Degree in Education
With this advanced credential, you can increase your earning potential by as much as 29%, even if you don't seek a leadership role. Even more importantly, you will deepen your understanding of teaching and learning, making you more effective in the classroom.
Can you teach with a master degree in psychology?While the competition for teaching positions can be fierce, some graduates with a master's degree in psychology find teaching positions at junior colleges and universities.
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