Master’s in Educational Psychology – Everything You Need to Know in 2024

What’s in this guide?

By PsychologyJobs.com Staff Writer

Our career guides are produced by staff writers in conjunction with our expert career coaches.

Overview

A master’s degree in educational psychology is a graduate-level program that typically takes 2 years to complete. The program is designed to provide students with a thorough understanding of the psychological principles and theories that underpin educational practice, as well as the research methods used in educational psychology.

During the course of the program, students will study a range of topics, including learning theory, cognitive development, motivation, assessment and evaluation, and instructional design. They may also study topics such as social psychology, developmental psychology, and educational research methods.

Why get a master’s degree in educational psychology?

Obtaining a master’s degree in educational psychology can be an important step for professionals seeking to improve educational practices and enhance student learning. Through a master’s program, students develop the theoretical and practical knowledge necessary to identify, evaluate, and implement evidence-based strategies for improving educational outcomes. Whether working in schools, research organizations, or other educational settings, graduates of a master’s program in educational psychology are equipped with the skills and knowledge needed to have a positive impact on the lives of students and educators alike.
Dr. Jerrell Cassady, professor of psychology at Ball State University

Increased Earning Potential

Obtaining a master’s degree in educational psychology can lead to increased earning potential. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, school psychologists earn a median annual salary of $78,200, which is significantly higher than the median annual salary for all occupations. Additionally, instructional coordinators earn a median annual salary of $66,970. Graduates with a master’s degree in educational psychology may also work in research or consulting positions, which can command even higher salaries.

Personal and Professional Development

A master’s degree in educational psychology can provide students with opportunities for personal and professional development. By completing rigorous coursework and engaging in practical experiences, students can develop a range of valuable skills, including critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication. According to a study published in the Journal of Educational Psychology, graduate students in educational psychology reported significant gains in research skills, critical thinking, and professional development. By investing in their own personal and professional growth, students can improve their future job prospects and increase their earning potential.

Depth of Understanding

A master’s degree in educational psychology provides students with a deeper understanding of the psychological principles and theories that underlie educational practice. Graduates are able to critically analyze educational issues and develop evidence-based solutions. For example, a study published in the journal Educational Psychology Review found that teachers who had a better understanding of the psychological processes that underlie learning were better equipped to create effective learning environments. By developing a deeper understanding of the complex interactions between psychology and education, graduates can become more effective educators, researchers, and policymakers.

What’s covered in a master’s in educational psychology?

  • Learning Theory: study theories of learning, including cognitive, behavioral, and constructivist perspectives, as well as how these theories apply to educational practice.
  • Human Development: explore the stages of human development, including physical, cognitive, and socioemotional development, and how these stages influence learning and educational practice.
  • Motivation: study the factors that motivate learners, including intrinsic and extrinsic motivation, and how to apply motivational strategies in educational settings.
  • Assessment and Evaluation: learn about various methods of assessing and evaluating learning, including formative and summative assessments, standardized tests, and observational methods.
  • Instructional Design: explore the principles of instructional design, including how to design effective learning activities, lessons, and units.
  • Social Psychology: study how social factors such as culture, ethnicity, and gender impact learning and educational outcomes.
  • Educational Research Methods: learn about research methods used in educational psychology, including quantitative and qualitative research methods, and how to design and conduct research studies.
Studying for a master’s degree in educational psychology offers students an opportunity to explore the complex intersection of psychology and education, and to develop skills that are relevant to a range of careers in these fields. Graduates are equipped with the knowledge and skills to support learning, promote academic achievement, and improve educational practices through research and evaluation.
Dr. Catherine Brighton, professor of educational psychology at Loyola University Chicago
1

First Year

  • Introduction to Educational Psychology
  • Learning Theories and Instructional Design
  • Human Development and Learning
  • Research Methods in Educational Psychology
  • Introduction to Assessment and Evaluation
  • Social Psychology in Education
2

Second Year

  • Advanced Topics in Learning and Instruction
  • Motivation in Educational Settings
  • Program Evaluation and Data Analysis
  • Educational Research Practicum
  • Assessment and Evaluation Design
  • Educational Neuroscience and Cognition
3

Elective Courses

  • Multicultural Counseling in Schools
  • Technology for Learning and Teaching
  • Positive Psychology and Well-being in Education
  • Classroom Management and Behavior Support
  • Educational Psychology of Special Needs Students

How much does a master’s degree in educational psychology cost?

Tuition and fees for a two-year, full-time master’s program in educational psychology at a public university can range from around $20,000 to $40,000, while private institutions can cost significantly more.

It is important to note that these figures do not include additional expenses such as books, housing, transportation, and other living expenses. Additionally, some students may be eligible for financial aid, scholarships, or grants to help offset the cost of tuition.

Which jobs can you do with a master’s in educational psychology?

Many students pursue a PhD in educational psychology after obtaining their master’s degree however there are a wealth of job opportunities available to you. Here are some common jobs for holders of a master’s degree in educational psychology:

  1. School Psychologist: Providing psychological services to students in school settings, such as assessments, counseling, and behavioral interventions.
  2. Educational Psychologist:Improve the learning and development processes of individuals within educational settings.
  3. Developmental Psychologist:Study the physical, cognitive, social, and emotional changes that occur across the lifespan, from infancy to old age.
  4. Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW): Licensed social worker providing clinical assessment, diagnosis, and treatment to individuals or groups with mental health or emotional issues.
  5. Mental Health Therapist: Licensed therapist providing individual or group therapy to address a range of mental health conditions or concerns.
  6. Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC): Licensed therapist providing counseling to individuals or groups on a range of mental health or emotional issues.
  7. Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC): Licensed counselor providing mental health assessment, diagnosis, and treatment to individuals or groups.
  8. Industrial-Organizational Psychologist: Applying principles of psychology to workplace issues, such as employee selection, training, and performance evaluation.

It is important to note that all of the above positions will require additional training, certification and licensing. Additionally, individuals with a PhD or PsyD may still be preferred.

How much can you earn with a master’s in educational psychology?

Your earning potential will vary based upon your location and chosen career path however here are the average annual salary figures for the common jobs listed above:

  1. School Psychologist: $78,200
  2. Educational Psychologist: $82,180
  3. Developmental Psychologist: $78,000
  4. Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW): $58,000
  5. Mental Health Therapist: $78,534
  6. Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC): $47,660
  7. Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC): $47,660
  8. Industrial-Organizational Psychologist: $112,690