jobs with a phd in educational psychology

Getting a Ph.D. in Educational Psychology – Everything You Need to Know in 2024

What’s in this guide, why get a phd in educational psychology, what do you cover in a phd in educational psychology, how much does a phd in educational psychology cost, what jobs can you do with a phd in educational psychology, how much can you earn with a phd in educational psychology.

By PsychologyJobs.com Staff Writer

A PhD in  clinical psychology  is an advanced academic degree that delves into the scientific study, diagnosis, and treatment of mental disorders and behavioral conditions. This rigorous program is designed to prepare graduates for careers in research, teaching, and direct clinical practice. Through the blend of coursework, research, and hands-on clinical training, students are equipped with comprehensive knowledge and skills necessary to become leaders in the field of psychology.

Typically, a PhD in clinical psychology takes between 4 to 7 years to complete, with the variation in duration often depending on the specific requirements of the program, the nature of the student’s research, and the requisite clinical training hours. Most programs include a combination of classroom-based learning, research projects culminating in a dissertation, and applied clinical experience through internships or  practicums .

The curriculum for a PhD in clinical psychology encompasses a wide range of topics. Core areas of study usually include foundations of clinical psychology, research methods, psychopathology, psychological assessment, and various psychotherapy and counseling techniques. Additionally, students often delve into specialized subjects such as  neuropsychology ,  forensic psychology ,  child psychology  and health psychology. This comprehensive training ensures that graduates are well-prepared to address diverse psychological needs across different populations and settings.

Career Advancement

A PhD in Educational Psychology can open up a range of career opportunities, particularly in academia and research. Graduates may go on to become  professors ,  researchers , administrators, or consultants in a variety of educational settings.

Educational Psychology research has the potential to make a significant impact on education and learning. PhD students in this field have the opportunity to conduct original research that can contribute to the development of new theories and practices, and ultimately improve educational outcomes.

Career Prospects & Earning Potential

A PhD in Educational Psychology opens up a plethora of career opportunities as well as significantly boosting your earning potential over your career. We cover some of the jobs open to you later in this guide but each command salaries in excess of $70,000 per year. It is worth noting that if salary is the most important factor for you then pursuing a  PhD in Organizational Psychology  or  Psychiatry  may be more suitable.

Specialization

Educational Psychology is a specialized field of study that allows students to develop expertise in a particular area of interest, such as cognitive development, educational technology, or learning disabilities.

Intellectual Challenge

Pursuing a doctorate level program generally can be intellectually challenging and rewarding. Students are exposed to cutting-edge research and theory, and have the opportunity to engage in critical thinking and problem solving.

A PhD in Educational Psychology typically involves coursework and research in a variety of areas related to human learning and development.

• Human Development:  This may include courses on cognitive, social, and emotional development across the lifespan, as well as developmental theories and research methods.
• Learning and Cognition:  This may include courses on learning theories and principles, memory, attention, problem-solving, and creativity.
• Educational Research Methods:  This may include courses on experimental design, statistical analysis, and research ethics.
• Motivation:  This may include courses on the psychology of motivation and how it affects learning and achievement.
• Assessment and Evaluation:  This may include courses on measurement theory, assessment methods, and evaluation of educational programs and interventions.
• Instructional Design:  This may include courses on the design and implementation of educational interventions, curriculum development, and instructional technology.
• Special Education and Inclusive Education:  This may include courses on identifying and addressing the needs of students with disabilities, as well as promoting inclusive education practices.

The actual curriculum of a PhD in Educational Psychology may differ based on the program but here is a sample curriculum to give you a sense of how a PhD in educational psychology program might be structured:

• Introduction to Educational Psychology
• Developmental Psychology Across the Lifespan
• Learning and Cognition
• Quantitative Research Methods in Education
• Qualitative Research Methods in Education
• Elective Course

Second Year

• Educational Measurement and Assessment
• Psychology of Motivation and Achievement
• Instructional Design and Technology
• Introduction to Special Education
• Research Apprenticeship
• Advanced Seminar in Educational Psychology
• Seminar in Educational Research Methodology
• Elective Courses (to support research interests)

Fourth Year

• Advanced Research Apprenticeship
• Dissertation Proposal Development
• Dissertation Research and Writing
• Dissertation Defense

According to data from the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), the average tuition and fees for doctoral degree programs in psychology and counseling was $16,840 per year for in-state students at public institutions and $37,150 per year for private institutions during the 2020-2021 academic year.

However, it’s important to note that this is an average and tuition can vary significantly by program and institution. For example, the University of Pennsylvania or Harvard University, have annual tuition and fees for PhD programs in the range of $50,000-$60,000 per year.

The career opportunities available to individuals with a PhD in Educational Psychology are diverse. We have  700+ educational psychology jobs  on our board currently.

• Professor or Researcher: Many PhD graduates in Educational Psychology go on to work as professors or researchers at colleges and universities. They may teach and conduct research in areas such as human learning and development, educational technology, motivation, assessment, and evaluation.
• Educational Consultant: Educational psychologists with a PhD may work as consultants, providing guidance and support to schools, school districts, or other educational organizations. They may help with program development, evaluation, or assessment, or provide professional development training for educators.
• Assessment and Evaluation Specialist: Educational psychologists with a PhD may work in the development and validation of educational assessments or evaluations, such as standardized tests, educational surveys, or program evaluations.
• Education Researcher: Educational psychologists with a PhD may work in research organizations or educational institutions, conducting research on issues related to learning and development, such as improving educational outcomes, reducing achievement gaps, or promoting social-emotional learning.
• Government or Non-profit Organization: Educational psychologists with a PhD may work in government agencies or non-profit organizations, such as think tanks or research centers, conducting research, analyzing policy, or developing educational programs.
• Private Industry: Some educational psychologists with a PhD may work in private industry, such as educational technology companies, training and development firms, or publishing companies. They may be involved in product development, research, or consulting.

Here are some estimated salary ranges for a few common careers that someone with a PhD in Educational Psychology might pursue:

• Professor – $78,180 per year
• Researcher – $87,000 per year
• Educational Consultant: $72,000 per year
• Assessment and Evaluation Specialist: $74,040 per year

• Psychology Programs

What Can You Do With an Educational Psychology Degree? [Updated For 2024]

What are the careers in educational psychology, educational psychologist.

You can use your doctorate (Ph.D.) in educational psychology to practice as an educational psychologist . An educational psychologist mainly works with families, children, groups, agencies and/or organizations, unlike a school psychologist who primarily works with just children in an academic setting.

Your primary tasks as an educational psychologist will consist of developing and implementing educational programs and helping teachers create classroom curriculum that enhances the learning process. You may also be required to train teachers and students how to use educational technology within the classroom.

Your main function will be to help teachers incorporate different learning styles and formats into their classroom learning environment. This may include improving teaching and communication skills and enhancing the learning process for children with learning disabilities, developmental delays and/or behavioral problems.

Educational Researcher

You can also use your educational psychology degree in the area of educational research. An educational researcher examines learning processes throughout all stages of life.

As an educational researchers you will be responsible for designing training programs and developing new instructional programs that will benefit infants, children, individuals, groups, elderly, social service agencies, government agencies, private corporations, families, etc.

A master’s degree in educational psychology is normally required to be an educational researcher, but some employers may require a doctorate for employment.

School Psychologist (Elementary, Middle and High School)

Another career field you can enter with a doctorate in educational psychology is school psychology. The primary goal of a school psychologist is to improve the learning process for all students, regarding of development and skill level.

You will also be responsible for helping students process conflicting, confusing and/or disturbing feelings so that they do not affect their learning experience.

You will provide counseling services to children with behavioral, social, emotional, mental problems and those with developmental delays and learning disabilities.

You will also be part of a team that consists of parents, teachers and school administrators. Together you will develop educational programs for gifted students and those with physical, emotional and social delays. It is important to note that most states require a educational doctorate (Ed.S.) to practice as a school psychologist. In rare cases, a master’s degree is accepted in place of a doctorate.

College Counselor

You can use your bachelor degree and/or master’s degree to become a college counselor. A college counselor provides counseling services to a wide variety of students in an academic setting (college campus). The students may consist of non-traditional students, traditional students, students of different cultures, races, religions, sexual orientations and ethnic groups, married students and those with children, etc. You may offer group, family and/or individual counseling sessions.

Your main goal will be to help college students, and possibly their families, cope with life’s stressors (both at school and at home).

Some of your tasks will include teaching students how to cope with the college environment (being away from home for the first time, interacting with different types of people and handing an increase in coursework and academic tasks), emotional distress, mental illnesses, social issues and/or health problems.

College Professor

Many people use their educational psychology doctoral degree to teach college courses. College professors work in a college setting as instructors and/or researchers. Your primary function will be to teach psychological courses to undergraduate and graduate college students.

In some cases, part of your time will be spent teaching students and part of it will be spent developing and supervising research studies in a college research laboratory.

When you are not teaching or conducting research, you may consult with other psychologists or provide counseling services to children, individuals, groups and/or families. In some cases, you may develop educational programs that improve the learning experience in the classroom.

Conducting research is a popular career option for professionals in the educational psychology field. Various public and private organizations as well as the military and other government agencies often employ researchers to help with organizational improvement.

Professionals in this role research how certain settings and instructional techniques impact learning. The results are then used to improve the instructional strategies of various educational and training programs in schools, within the government, and in the corporate world. This research is fundamental to the development of new educational initiatives and policies nationwide.

Private Practitioner

Some educational psychologists choose to become private practitioners . These professionals often contract with government agencies, corporations, court systems, and other public and private organizations as a Consultant.

Private practitioners use their skills to help organizations provide more effective trainings and workshops for their employees. They are also asked to evaluate existing programs or to develop new educational curriculums. Private Practitioners are also known to analyze educational data to determine what program changes should be initiated.

These professionals are often hired by school districts to evaluate teaching strategies, assessment measures, and program quality. The results often give school administrators valuable insight into various areas that are not working for specific groups of learners. The recommendations of Private Practitioners are often implemented by schools to improve the overall quality of their educational programs.

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Neag School of Education

Uconn’s ph.d. in educational psychology.

Study at One of the Most Research-Productive Departments at UConn

The Department of Educational Psychology continues to be one of the most productive departments at UConn in terms of research. Opportunities abound for Ph.D. students looking to begin their research careers and learn from some of the top educational psychology experts in the country.

The department offers five areas of concentration for Ph.D. students, including the No. 17-ranked special education program in the nation according to U.S. News & World Report.

Concentrations

The Ph.D. in Educational Psychology offers students a range of concentrations to choose from:

• Learning Sciences (formerly Cognition, Instruction and Learning Technology) 
• Giftedness, Creativity, and Talent Development  
• Research Methods, Measurement, and Evaluation  
• School Psychology  
• Special Education  

Request More Information

Plans of Study

The Department of Educational Psychology ordinarily admits full-time doctoral scholars. A Ph.D. student’s plan of study is developed between the Advisory Committee and the student. A suggested list of possible courses from which to choose for each concentration is provided.

Learning Sciences

Required Courses (Substitutions Allowed*): 

• EPSY 5605 – Quantitative Methods in Research I  
• EPSY 5610 – Applied Regression for the Education Sciences  
• EPSY 6601 – Methods and Techniques of Educational Research  
• EPSY 5510 – Learning: Its Implications for Education  
• EPSY 5602 – Educational Tests and Measurement  
• EPSY 5220 – Introduction to Educational Technology  
• EPSY 5621 – Construction of Evaluation Instruments  
• EPSY 5613 – Multivariate Analysis in Educational Research  
• EPSY 5515 – Professional Seminar in Cognition & Instruction (2 credits)  
• EPSY 5520 – Instructional Design  
• EPSY 5530 – Theories of Learning, Cognition, and Instruction  
• EPSY 5540 – Research Ethics in Education and Psychology (2 credits)  
• EPSY 6560 – Instructional Psychology  
• GRAD 6950 – Dissertation Preparation (15 credits)  

Recommended Courses (Substitutions Allowed*):  

• EPSY 5230 – Web-based Learning  
• EPSY 5195 – Distance Learning  
• EPSY 5240 – Interactive Learning Environments  
• EPSY 6230 – Advanced Educational Technology  
• PSYC 5615 – Human Factors  
• PSYC 5621 – Simulation and Training  
• EPSY 6621 – Program Evaluation  
• EDLR 5302 – Program Evaluation for School Improvement  
• EPSY 6626 – Sampling and Survey Research Methods  
• EPSY 6636 – Measurement Theory and Application  
• EPSY 6637 – Item Response Theory 5  
• EPSY 6611 – Logistic and Hierarchical Linear Models  
• EPSY 6240 – Academic Motivation  
• EPSY 6550 – Situated Cognition  
• PSYC 5420 – Cognitive Development  
• PSYC 5567 – Cognition  
• PSYC 5572 – Sensation and Perception II  
• PSYC 5575 – Introduction to Cognitive Systems  
• EDLR 5203 – Adult and Experiential Learning  
• EDLR 5201 – Influences on Adult Learning  
• PSYC 5332 – Research Design and Test Construction  
• PSYC 5702 – Field Research Methods  
• PSYC 5130 – Causal Modeling in Social Psychology  
• SOC 5201 – Social Research I  
• SOC 5210- Applied Survey Design and Analysis  
• SOC 5231 – Qualitative Methodology  
• SOC 5753 – Methods of Population Analyses  

*Note: Course substitutions are permitted with approval from the student’s primary advisor and advising committee.  

Giftedness, Creativity, and Talent Development 

Required Courses for the Ph.D.  

Giftedness, Creativity, and Talent Development Required Courses (15 credits)  

• EPSY 5850: Introduction to the Science of Creativity 
• EPSY 6710: Conceptions of Human Potential 
• EPSY 6730: Contemporary Issues in Giftedness, Creativity, and Talent Development 
• EPSY 6770: Concepts in Curriculum and Instruction for Talent Development     
• EPSY 6780: Affective Issues in Achievement and Talent Development 

Research and Other Required Courses (30 credits)  

• EPSY 5510: Learning: Its Implication for Education or EPSY 5530: Theories of Learning, Cognition and Instruction (EPSY requirement)   
• 2 of the following 3: EPSY 5605: Quantitative Methods in Research I; EPSY 5607: Quantitative Methods in Research II; EPSY 5610, Applied Regression Analysis (EPSY requirement; Gifted program students generally take EPSY 5605 and EPSY 5610)  
• EPSY 6601: Methods & Techniques of Educational Research or EPSY 6651: Introduction to Methods for Causal Inference Using Educational Data (EPSY requirement)   
• EDCI 6000: Qualitative Methods of Educational Research (Gifted program requirement)  
• GRAD 6950: Dissertation Research (15 credits – UConn requirement)  

Additional Course Options for the Ph.D.  

Possible Additional Research Courses  

• EDLR 6052: Qualitative Methods of Educational Research II (Gifted program recommendation)  
• EPSY 5621: Construction of Evaluation Instruments (Gifted program recommendation)  
• EPSY 6611: Hierarchical Linear Modeling  
• EPSY 6615: Structural Equation Modeling  

Possible Additional Gifted Education Courses (based on students’ background and interests)  

• Students should enroll in EPSY 5710: Introduction to Gifted Education and Talent Development (online course) if they enter the program without a strong gifted background.  
• Students should enroll in EPSY 5720: Developing Schoolwide Enrichment Programs (summer course) or the free online SEM course if they enter the program without a firm understanding of the Schoolwide Enrichment Model.  
• Students who anticipate accepting a position that involves training teachers in gifted education may wish to enroll in some of the following courses: EPSY 5740: Strategies for Differentiating the Grade Level Curriculum (fall on campus, summer online); EPSY 5750: Enhancing Creativity in the Classroom (summer on campus even years); EPSY 5760: Improving Students’ Thinking Skills (spring online); EPSY 5780: Social and Emotional Components of Giftedness and Talent Development (fall online).  
• Research Methods, Measurement, and Evaluation

Competency 1: Research Methodology and Quantitative Expertise (24 credits or 8 courses)  

Courses for which students may test out:  

• EPSY 5601: Introduction to Educational Research Methods*  
• EPSY 5605: Introduction to Quantitative Methods I*  
• EPSY 5607: Introduction to Quantitative Methods II*  

Required:  

• EPSY 5610: Applied Regression Analysis  
• EPSY 5613: Multivariate Analysis in Educational Research  
• EPSY 6601: Methods and Techniques of Educational Research  
• EPSY 6611: Hierarchical Linear Models  
• EPSY 6619: Advanced Modeling Using Latent Variable Techniques  
• EPSY 6651: Methods for Causal Inference from Educational Data  
• EPSY 6655: Advanced Methods for Causal Inference from Data  

*Expected (equivalent or competency exam required to be waived) but do not count towards 24 credits in this area  

Competency 2: RMME: Theories, Methods and Models (21 credits or 7 courses)  

• EPSY 5602: Educational Tests and Measurements  
• EPSY 5621: Construction of Evaluation Instruments  
• EPSY 6621: Program Evaluation  
• EPSY 6194: Advanced Program Evaluation  
• EPSY 6636: Measurement Theory and Application  
• EPSY 6637: Item Response Theory  
• EPSY 6638: Advanced Item Response Theory  

Competency 3: Theories of Educational Psychology (3 credits)  

• EPSY 5510: Learning: Its Implications for Education**  

** Students may request to have this requirement waived if they have taken a graduate-level Educational Psychology or Learning course from another university and earned a B or better.  

Additional Coursework (12+ credits)  

Students must take a combination of elective courses and independent study/practica which total at least 12 credits. At least 3 of these credits must be from coursework and at least 3 of these credits must be from independent study/practica.  

Dissertation Research (15 credits)  

Students must also register for 15 credits of dissertation research.  

School Psychology

Discipline-Specific Knowledge:  

• EPSY 5455 – History and Systems of Psychology  
• EPSY 5194 - Cognitive and Affective Bases of Behavior  
• PSYC 5140 - Foundations of Neuropsychology  
• EPSY 5318 - Human Growth and Development  
• EPSY 5194 – Advanced Social Psychology or EPSY 5570 – Current Topics in Social Psychology or EPSY 6750 – The Social Psychology of Stigma  
• EPSY 5430 – Child Psychopathology  
• EPSY 6601 - Methods and Techniques of Educational Research  
• EPSY 5605 - Quantitative Methods in Research  
• EPSY 5610 - Applied Regression Analysis  
• EPSY 6651 - Introduction to Methods for Causal Inference Using Educational Data  

Profession-Wide Competencies:  

• EPSY 5199 - Doctoral Seminar: Research in School Psychology   
• EPSY 5408 - Ethics in Educational and Professional Psychology  
• EPSY 5420- Roles and Functions of School Psychologists  
• EPSY5450 - Issues in Cultural Diversity  
• EPSY 5404 – Social Emotional Behavioral Assessment  
• EPSY 5403 - Intellectual Assessment  
• EPSY 5425 - Procedures in Academic Assessment  
• EPSY 5445 - Counseling in School Psychological Practice  
• EPSY 5405 - Applied Behavior Analysis  
• EPSY 5440 – Social, Emotional, and Behavioral Intervention in Schools  
• EPSY 5435 - Academic Intervention  
• EPSY 5194 - Crisis Prevention & Intervention  
• EPSY 5406 - Consultation   

Advanced Integrated Concentration (AIC) credits, including a minimum of 9 additional credits as approved by the major advisor.  

EPSY 6494 - Doctoral Practicum in School Psychology for a total of 18-24 semester hours across 6-8 semesters.  

EPSY 6491 - Doctoral Internship in School Psychology for a total of 12 semester hours.  

GRAD 6950 - Doctoral Dissertation Research (at least 15 credits must be included in the plan of study).  

Special Education

Each student will plan an individualized plan of study that includes required courses, recommended courses, and may include practicum and fieldwork opportunities.  

Required Courses  

Doctoral Seminars (12 Credits):  

• EPSY 6194: Four doctoral seminars are required. These are designed to provide in-depth exploration and discussion of current topics in special education such as law and policy, issues relating to persons with behavior disorders and learning disabilities, literacy, theory and academic writing. These can be taken out of sequence, and occasionally, in a different program with the advisor’s approval.  

Research Methods (9 Credits):  

• EPSY 5605: Quantitative Research Methods I (3 credits)  
• EPSY 5610: Regression (3 credits) and/or EPSY 5607: Quantitative Research Methods II (3 credits)  
• EPSY 6601: Methods and Techniques of Educational Research (3 credits)  

Learning Theory (3 Credits):  

• EPSY 5510: Learning (or the equivalent; 3 credits)  

Area of Emphasis:  

• A minimum of 12 credits (which could include independent study) provides an opportunity to develop expertise in a specialty area such as teacher education, cognitive and attention deficit disorders, early childhood special education, and postsecondary disability services.  

Dissertation Research (At Least 15 Credits Required):  

• GRAD 6950: Doctoral Dissertation Research  

Recommended Courses  

• EDCI 6000: Qualitative Methods of Educational Research (3 credits)  
• EPSY 6499: Doctoral Practicum (1-6 credits). A practicum comprises an opportunity to apply theory in a student’s area of specialization or interest. This may be in conjunction with a graduate assistantship.  

Learn more about each Ph.D. in Educational Psychology concentration in their handbooks:

• Learning Sciences 

Giftedness, Creativity, and Talent Development

• Special Education 

Program Cost and Financial Aid

UConn’s Office of the Bursar maintains up-to-date costs for graduate students. The Ph.D. in Educational Psychology is considered a Program with Tuition and Mandatory Fees. Please visit the Bursar Office’s website for details.  

The total Cost of Attendance (COA) includes direct educational costs (i.e., tuition, fees, housing, and food) and indirect costs.  Indirect costs include books, course materials, supplies and equipment, transportation, miscellaneous personal expenses, loan fees, and professional licensure or certification, if applicable.  For additional information about the Cost of Attendance at UConn, please visit https://financialaid.uconn.edu/cost/ .  

The University of Connecticut offers a variety of financial aid options, in addition to state and federal assistance. Visit the Neag School’s doctoral programs overview page for Schoolwide financial aid information.

EPSY Scholars Program

The Department of Educational Psychology also offers the EPSY Scholars Program, which has the following goals:

• To provide a mechanism for students to engage in research work that will result in peer-reviewed publications for the student.
• To facilitate faculty opportunity to support and prepare high-achieving graduate students.

EPSY Scholars will receive a 10-hour graduate assistantship from the Department of Educational Psychology for up to four years, contingent on satisfactory academic standing and consistent completion of program requirements (i.e., annual submission of a progress update and plan for committee review). This is paired with an additional 10-hour graduate assistantship (provided by the advisor or program), so all EPSY Scholars will be fully funded for at least four years. The EPSY Scholars Program is intended to be a competitive program that will support recruitment of nationally competitive Ph.D. students and will facilitate these students’ engagement with active scholarship during their program.

How to Apply  

Prospective Educational Psychology doctoral scholars must meet the admission criteria of both the Graduate School and the Department of Educational Psychology.

Ph.D. applications are due by December 1 for admission the following Fall. Applicants who submit by December 1 will be considered for funding opportunities (graduate assistantships, teaching assistantships). Applications are welcome after December 1 but may not be eligible for funding.

Consideration for admission requires the following:

1. Complete the online application to the Graduate School . In the Intended Program section of the application, select:   

• Level of Study: PhD/Doctoral  
• Academic Areas: Education  
• Program: Educational Psychology PhD
• Concentration: choose from the list.
• Campus: Storrs  
• Entry Term: Fall 2025  

2. Upload the following materials electronically into the online application. The Admissions Committee cannot make a decision about your application until all materials are submitted:  

• Transcripts of all collegiate work completed to date, graduate and undergraduate   
• Contact information for 3 individuals who can submit letters of recommendation on your behalf.  
• Complete the Residence Affidavit  
• GRE scores only if you are applying to the School Psychology or Giftedness, Creativity, and Talent Development concentrations. All other concentrations do not require GRE scores, but you are welcome to submit them as supplemental materials.  
• TOEFL Scores (if an international student)   
• Current Resume or Curriculum Vitae  
• Learning Sciences  

For questions related to the Learning Sciences concentration, contact:  

Michael Coyne

Professor and Department Head

Educational Psychology

Email: [email protected]

For questions related to the Giftedness, Creativity, and Talent Development concentration, contact:  

Catherine Little

Professor, Educational Psychology

Email: [email protected]  

For questions related to the Research Methods, Measurement, and Evaluation concentration, contact:  

Christopher Rhoads

Associate Professor of Educational Psychology  

Research Methods, Measurement and Evaluation

Email: [email protected]

For questions related to the School Psychology concentration, contact:  

Melissa A. Bray

Professor of Educational Psychology  

Email: [email protected]

For questions related to the Special Education concentration, contact:  

Allison Lombardi

Associate Professor of Educational Psychology

Email: [email protected]

The Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP) accredits the Neag School of Education at the University of Connecticut. Read more about CAEP Accreditation, including the programs covered and the accountability measures .

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What Jobs Can You Get With a Graduate Degree in Educational Psychology?

Reviewed by David Krug David Krug is a seasoned expert with 20 years in educational technology (EdTech). His career spans the pivotal years of technology integration in education, where he has played a key role in advancing student-centric learning solutions. David's expertise lies in marrying technological innovation with pedagogical effectiveness, making him a valuable asset in transforming educational experiences. As an advisor for enrollment startups, David provides strategic guidance, helping these companies navigate the complexities of the education sector. His insights are crucial in developing impactful and sustainable enrollment strategies.

Updated: March 6, 2024 , Reading time: 4 minutes

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In this article, we will be covering...

Educational Psychology mainly focuses on children in an educational setting. It’s often found as a major in master’s programs where undergraduates will be equipped with various teaching and learning methods and insights into child development, cognitive processes, and behavioral theories. 

There are various job opportunities with a master’s degree in Educational Psychology. From counseling and teaching to research and policy development, you have a versatile skill set applicable to various sectors within the field of education.

The Job Market for Educational Psychology Graduates

The demand for education, mental health, and research experts is continually increasing and is not likely to decline anytime soon. Federal data has shown a projected 5% increase in job growth of school and career counselors and advisors. 

Academic institutions constantly hire professionals, including advisors and counselors, to improve their educational and developmental offerings. Moreover, many institutions now focus on providing their students with personalized learning and inclusive education, increasing the demands of professionals with expertise in addressing diverse learning needs . 

Best Educational Psychology Graduate Degree Careers

Educational psychology continuing education.

After earning a master’s degree in Educational Psychology, you have two options on how to use your degree. You can become part of the workforce immediately or pursue a terminal degree.

Although a terminal degree is not often required to pursue some careers in Educational Psychology, it can increase your job prospects and employability. A PsyD or Ph.D. in Educational Psychology provides opportunities for specialized research, advanced clinical practice , and leadership roles within educational institutions or governmental agencies.

A doctorate degree will allow you to take the state licensure exam for educational psychologists, which increases your credibility and authority in the field. With licensure, you can offer a wider range of services, including psychological assessment, therapy, and intervention, to individuals, families , and educational organizations. 

A Doctorate in Educational Psychology leads to higher-paying roles ! These include:

• Requires a PsyD degree
• Helps children and/or young adults deal with their learning, emotional, and developmental issues.
• Focuses on addressing the needs of students with special educational needs.
• Average yearly pay: $101,849
• Handles psychological and educational issues that kids, teachers, and administrators face
• Works with educational agencies, school districts, schools, and similar organizations,
• Average yearly pay: $105,055
• Manages their social and emotional health, mainly focusing on the needs of exceptional learners
• Assists a child’s therapy and recommends special education programs.
• Average yearly pay: $97,596
• Requires a combination of advanced education, teaching experience, and a strong research background
• Requires networking and professional connections
• Average yearly pay: $80,840

Additional Resources:

• Best Online Doctor of Educational Psychology Degree Programs
• Cheapest Online Master’s Degree in Psychology
• Best Grad Schools with Online Doctorate in Education Leadership

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We’re certain of one thing—your search for more information on picking the best graduate degree or school landed you here. Let our experts help guide your through the decision making process with thoughtful content written by experts.

10 PhD in Psychology Jobs

Created by careersinpsychology

Careers in psychology can last for decades, so you definitely want to pick the right path before you get started.

Psychology is a huge field, and jobs after a PhD in psychology cover a huge spectrum of interests, specialties, and industries.

You’re probably already well aware that those kind of qualifications don’t come cheap. According to 2020 data from NCES, the six or seven years you will spend in grad school getting that PhD or PsyD will run you anywhere from $73,000 to over $155,000 depending on the university.

Before you fork over that kind of cash, you probably want to know what jobs you can get with a PhD in psychology.

PhD in psychology careers are both lucrative and fulfilling. But they require specialization and focus, so you need to think about what area you want to concentrate in before you begin your PhD in psychology program.

These 10 doctorate in psychology jobs are some of the options on the table after you graduate.

1. Clinical Psychologist

Doctorate in psychology jobs don’t get any more iconic than work as a clinical psychologist. You want the office with a couch and people laying on it telling you about their childhood? This is the PhD in psychology career you pick to get it.

Clinical psychologists work directly with individuals and groups who need professional psychoanalysis to help them through mental health issues. Private practice isn’t the only option in this role, though. Plenty of clinical psychologists work in hospitals, clinics, and larger rehabilitation or long-term care facilities. You have a wide range of subspecialties you can choose from, ranging from addiction issues to couples counseling. Or you can remain a generalist, and enjoy the variety of challenges that walk in the door needing your assistance.

2. Research Psychologist

If you aren’t as much of a people-person, but are fascinated by behaviors and thought processes, then becoming a research psychologist may be the right pick for you. Research psychologists don’t engage in one-to-one therapy work, but instead investigate the causes and cures of mental illness in general. That can involve devising and executing psychological experiments, or mining huge databases of behavioral data to uncover trends.

3. Industrial/Organizational Psychologist

I/O psychologists make their mark in the psychology of work. Businesses and other organizations need to understand how group psychology effects productivity, happiness, and cohesion in the workplace. There is a science to workplace dynamics. A doctorate in psychology gives you the toolset to understand how groups interact under the hierarchy and pressure of a factory floor, a hospital ward, or a trading desk. Public and private companies can pay out big bucks for the right kind of advice to make their organizations more efficient and effective.

An online PhD degree can make it easy for you to build up the practical experience you need in this specialty even while you are still studying.

4. Forensic Psychologist

With shows like Criminal Minds and the popular CSI series making a splash in popular culture, a lot of people are pursuing a PhD in psychology with the idea of becoming a forensic psychologist. If you want to understand exactly how twisted and dark the human brain can become, a doctorate is definitely in your future.

But forensic psychologists aren’t usually chasing shadowy figures into dark allies and deducing where serial killers work and play. Forensic psychology is really a specialty that has to do with the psychology of law and legal process. That goes far beyond criminal justice, extending to jury evaluation in civil trials, public policy analysis, and even reviewing laws before they are passed to assess the impact on individuals and society.

5. Educational Psychologist

The human brain is in many ways a learning machine. How we process, absorb, and interpret the world around us is a constant consideration for all psychologists. But educational psychologists specialize in understanding how we acquire, process, and interpret knowledge.

Many educational psychologists work in schools, offering counseling to children, but it’s a broader role than that. Psychologists in this job may evaluate textbooks and curricula to make sure they are optimized for delivering information, or evaluate standardized tests to be sure they are accurately measuring knowledge. Educational policy and legislative development lean heavily on research pioneered by these doctorate in psychology jobs.

6. Developmental Psychologist

Developmental psychology is also concerned with how the brain learns and grows, but it’s a field with bigger fish to fry than just educational matters. It’s the study of mental processes across the lifespan, as the brain and sensory systems grow, mature, and eventually began to deteriorate. Developmental psychologists study and diagnose developmental mental health disorders, playing an important role in pediatric healthcare. But they are also active in researching some of the biggest issues at the other end of the lifespan, looking for ways to cure or treat Alzheimer's and other age-related psychological issues.

7. Social Psychologist

If you’ve ever wondered why a meme goes viral, the social psychology might be the PhD in psychology career for you.

Social psychologists take on some of the most fascinating challenges in the field: they specialize in how individuals both influence and are affected in their thinking by interacting with others. Group think is a thing, and how it happens is the province of the social psychologist. They examine how cultures come from shared thought patterns, and how those patterns both fulfill and constrain the thoughts of people within them.

Understanding social interactions and psychological effects is important for big companies, governments, and healthcare organizations. Social psychology researchers also have plenty of impact on marketing and sales campaigns, right down to picking out the colors for product logos.

8. Health Psychologist

In the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, health psychology has developed into one of the most fascinating branches of the field. The world has turned into a showcase of reactions to the coronavirus, from panic to outright denial, providing data that will feed future health psychology PhD dissertations for decades.

But it’s also a moment in which more people than ever need the kind of help and advice that health psychologists can offer. From counseling patients on ventilators and in isolation to advising public health agencies on the best campaigns to increase vaccine acceptance rates, health psychologists have had their shining moment thrust upon them. With new recognition of the importance of professional PhD counseling in healthcare, that moment isn’t likely to fade anytime soon.

9. Sports Psychologist

Becoming a sports psychologist is a dream job for any sports fan. Since there are a lot of sports fans in the United States, that makes it a particularly tough field to get into. But the rewards are massive.

Sports psychologists can and do work with pro athletes in any kind of competitive event, including big names who play for major teams. They might work for the teams themselves, advising on team building and coaching processes. In other cases, they work with individual athletes to maximize performance or help with injury recovery.

But sports psychologists play important roles in rehab and assisting amateur athletes, too. Not everyone needs to work for an NBA team to get satisfaction and deliver real results in this field.

10. Neuropsychologist

We saved the toughest job for last. Neuropsychologists explore the boundaries between the mental and the physical. They study the physiological processes underlying thoughts, perceptions, and feelings for a better understanding of how people think. That gives them an edge in determining when problems are purely psychological, or have a basis in physical injury or disease.

The reverse is also true, and neuropsychologists play an important role in research by helping the field of brain science interpret findings of imaging and experiments by translating them into effects on mental processes. New understanding of traumatic brain injury and diseases like Alzheimer's come out of neuropsychology research. It’s one of the most rewarding PhD in psychology jobs you will find.

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Florida State University

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College of education, health, and human sciences, career opportunities for educational psychology ph.d.s.

Educational Psychology is a highly specialized area within the education field. Educational psychologists study how people learn and retain knowledge in classroom settings based on emotional, social, and cognitive factors. Educational psychologists strive to understand what goes on in the classroom and how to improve it. According to the Psychology Career Center, educational psychologists primarily have careers in elementary and secondary education schools or engage in research at colleges and universities. They go on to say that "Educational psychologists with doctorate degrees in counseling, school psychology, or related fields generally have the best job opportunities, especially those with expertise in information technology and quantitative research methodology." ( source ) Because more and more advancements are being made in the education field - including distance learning - educational psychologists are in high demand to help implement smart policies and practices across a brand new industry. Additionally, as large companies and corporations invest more time and finances into their company culture and employee education, they'll be looking to educational psychologists to help make their education programs more effective and increase revenue.

With a Ph.D. in Educational Psychology, you have the potential to make upwards of $100,000 for an annual income, with a median salary of around $87,000 ( source ). Below is a list of potential career opportunities available for Educational Psychologists:

• Elementary Schools Teacher Training
• Secondary Schools Teacher Training
• College or University Research Programs
• Government Research Programs
• College Professors
• Directing Corporate Employee Programs
• Distance Learning Companies
• Education Policy Regulation
• Development of Instructional Materials

About FSU's Educational Psychology Program

Florida State's Learning and Cognition program is a nationally ranked program focused on preparing students for a career as a researcher or a practitioner in a classroom, organizational, government, or research setting. As a Top 20 Educational Psychology program, countless employers await FSU graduates because they are well prepared for their careers. The Educational Psychology faculty experience spans a wide range of studies, including early childhood psychology, science education, teacher development, and more. Each member of the faculty is nationally and internationally recognized for their research expertise. FSU offers both master's (online and on-campus) and doctorate degrees in Education Psychology, both of which are covered below:

Master's in Educational Psychology

The master's program in Educational Psychology: Learning and Cognition consists of 33- 36 credit hours. Students develop their program of study in conjunction with their advisor and follow one of two tracks: Thesis-track or Exam-track. The Thesis-track is geared toward students who want more practical research training or would like to pursue a Ph.D. The Thesis-track MS takes approximately 3 years to complete, while the Exam-track MS takes less than 2 years. View the M.S. Degree Outline PDF

Ph.D. in Educational Psychology

Our doctoral program is designed to train research-oriented doctoral students who are conversant with current theory and research, and who are competent in methodological and statistical research skills. Students who complete their doctorates in our program become university faculty or researchers in a variety of settings, including with Pre-K-12 education organizations, government, think tanks, and private industry. View the Ph.D. Degree Outline PDF

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Home / Discover Psychology Degrees / Online Educational Psychology Programs / Best Ph.D. and PsyD Programs in Educational Psychology

Best Ph.D. and PsyD Programs in Educational Psychology

2024 - best doctorate degree in educational psychology programs, what will i learn in an online educational psychology doctorate program, admissions requirements for a doctorate in educational psychology, list of educational psychology doctorate degree programs.

The focus of an educational psychologist's job is studying how people learn new information and how they retain it for later recall. Common career paths for those with an advanced degree in educational psychology include educational consultant, school counselor, and research-based positions.

Most people who have earned credentials in educational psychology work with students from kindergarten to grade 12. They may also work with adults who have learning disabilities. Educational psychologists typically specialize in working with students using one or more accepted theories in this field. These include:

• Behavioral theory focuses on how students acquire knowledge through social conditioning and learning. Professionals practicing behavioral theory operate on a system of rewards and punishments to influence student behavior.
• Cognitive theory emphasizes what students already know and prioritizes organization and memory. Concept theory and memorization are two examples of cognitive theory used in the classroom.
• Constructivist theory focuses on how students continually evolve and acquire knowledge throughout their educational journey. Educational psychologists who prefer this theory teach students to use critical thinking skills to solve problems in real-world situations.
• Developmental theory looks at how nature and nurture combine to shape a student's development. Practitioners also place heavy emphasis on developmental stages to help them understand student perspectives better.
• Experiential theory emphasizes how a student's experiences in life impact their capacity for learning and retention. These educational psychologists tend to consider feelings and thoughts more than the other types.

According to the employment website ZipRecruiter.com , the median annual salary for educational psychologists is $92,266. Those in the top 90 percent of earners for this job title earn more than $185,000 per year.

Counselingpsychology.org's Doctorate Degree in Educational Psychology rankings are based on a comprehensive assessment of key factors. The methodology includes factors such as graduation rate, cost of living, admission standards, range of program offerings, faculty experience, and student diversity. All of these components are taken into consideration when compiling the rankings, with the goal of providing an accurate representation of the best programs available. To learn more about the exact methodology used, please visit counselingpsychology.org's Methodology page .

Ohio State University

Ohio State University offers highly reputable PhD and PsyD programs in Educational Psychology through its Department of Educational Studies. These programs focus on the intersection of psychology and education, preparing students for careers in research, teaching, and clinical practice. Students have access to state-of-the-art facilities and renowned faculty, and can choose from a variety of specializations, including learning and cognitive sciences, human development and family science, and school psychology. The programs are located on the main campus in Columbus, Ohio, a vibrant and diverse city with a strong education community.

The Pennsylvania State University

The Pennsylvania State University is located in State College, Pennsylvania and is a public, research-intensive institution. It is one of the largest universities in the United States, with over 46,000 students enrolled. Penn State offers a Doctorate Degree in Educational Psychology, as well as a wide variety of other academic programs. The school's faculty and staff are dedicated to providing a quality education to their students.

University of Kansas

The University of Kansas is a public university located in Lawrence, Kansas. With over 28,000 students, it is one of the largest schools in the state. KU offers a wide variety of degree programs, including a Doctorate Degree in Educational Psychology. With a highly respected faculty and a variety of resources available to students, KU is a great choice for those looking to further their education.

Here are a few courses that are typical requirements for students enrolled in the best online educational psychology doctorate programs:

• Behavioral Disorders in Children
• Early Childhood Special Education
• Educational Psychology
• Human Development
• Measurement and Evaluation
• Research Design and Methods
• Qualitative and Quantitative Research Methods
• Statistical Analysis

Some colleges and universities offering a doctorate degree in this field online require students to complete one or more practicums to help them gain experience. This is especially true for those whose career interests include clinical practice, counseling, or school psychology. Students work under the supervision of a professional with similar credentials as they learn such skills as how to conduct educational assessments. In an online format, this usually translates to the doctorate students performing their internship hours in their own communities.

Students at the doctorate level also complete, present, and defend a dissertation on a specific research question related to educational psychology. They will take several courses to help prepare them for the research, writing, and presentation aspects of a doctoral candidate’s dissertation.

Those entering a doctorate program having already completed their master’s degree should expect to spend the equivalent of at least three years of full-time study to earn their PhD. Capel l a University and North Central University are examples of schools that offer online doctorate degree programs in psychology with the opportunity to specialize in the field of education.

Prospective doctorate students in educational psychology should also be aware that all states require anyone in this field working directly with students to have a license and complete 2,000 to 4,000 hours of supervised clinical practice outside the practicums.

Here are the standard admissions requirements for this doctorate degree program at most online schools:

• Completion of a bachelor’s degree and current or expected enrollment in a master’s degree program
• Grade point average (GPA) of at least 3.0 in undergraduate and graduate work
• Three letters of recommendation
• A letter from the student outlining their interest areas and career goals
• English language proficiency

Keep in mind that specific schools may have slightly different admissions requirements.

Find an online or campus-based doctorate program in educational psychology today – our state-by-state listings make it easy to find a great program near you.

Jump to Your State Listings

Florida state university.

• Learning and Cognition Online

University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign

• Educational Psychology, PhD: Doctor of Philosophy in Educational Psychology Campus
• Ph.D. in Educational Psychology & Research Campus

Massachusetts

Boston college.

• Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Applied Developmental and Educational Psychology Campus

Michigan State University

• Educational Psychology and Educational Technology - Doctor of Philosophy Campus

Oakland University

• Doctor of Philosophy in Education: Counseling Campus

University at Buffalo

• Educational Psychology and Quantitative Methods, PhD Online

Ohio State University-Main Campus

• Educational Psychology Campus

Pennsylvania

• Educational Psychology Doctoral Degree Program Campus

South Dakota

University of south dakota.

• Counseling and Psychology in Education-Human Development and Educational Psychology (Ph.D.) Campus
• Counseling and Psychology in Education-Counselor Education (Ph.D.) Campus

Baylor University

Texas a & m university-commerce.

Are we missing your school's program or need to update information listed? Please contact us so we can make the necessary changes.

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Advance Your Education Career

For educators and those with social sciences background, a master’s degree in Educational Psychology can be the gateway to a rewarding career in research, overseeing curricula and teaching standards, or teaching at the postsecondary level. John Carroll University’s Master of Education in Educational Psychology is a great option for busy working educators and others who want to pursue an advanced degree but need the flexibility of an accelerated, predominantly online program.

Skills and Knowledge for Today’s Educational Environment

The M. Ed. program in Educational Psychology provides a broad knowledge of learning theories, human development, research methods, assessment, and measurement that can be utilized in a variety of settings and fields. The program prepares graduates to excel in an environment defined by assessment and outcomes-based practice.

A Program for Working Professionals

This predominantly online program, featuring asynchronous courses, provides the flexibility full-time teachers and other professionals need to pursue a master’s degree on a schedule that meets their needs.

An Efficient Master’s Degree Option

The M.Ed. in Educational Psychology program requires just 30 credit hours and can be completed in as little as four semesters.

Prepare for a Doctoral Program

In addition to helping students advance toward their professional goals, the comprehensive curriculum lays the groundwork for students to pursue a Ph.D. in educational psychology.

more openings for psychologists annually, over the next decade - according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

additional earnings per year for educators holding a master's degree, according to the National Council on Teacher Quality.

employment growth for training and development specialists by 2031 (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics).

Pursue Your Education Career Goals

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The M.Ed. in Educational Psychology program consists of 30 hours of coursework, which can include a thesis research option and can be completed in four semesters. Most courses are offered online in an asynchronous format that enables students to view lectures and complete online coursework when it is most convenient for them.

View Program Courses »

John Carroll University is a private, Jesuit Catholic University located in Cleveland with a long tradition of training exceptional educators. JCU proudly welcomes students of all backgrounds.

JCU has been ranked #2 on U.S. News and World Report’s list of Best Regional Universities Midwest and been named a Best College Value by Kiplinger’s Personal Finance .

Through the M.Ed. in Educational Psychology program, you will have opportunities to network and engage with other education professionals in a dynamic learning environment.

JCU M. Ed. alumni work in a variety of professional fields:

• Elementary Education
• Secondary Education
• Higher Education
• Testing & Assessment
• Nonprofit Organizations
• Educational Leadership
• Faith-based Organizations
• Private Enterprise

JCU offers an affordable tuition rate reflecting our commitment to educators. This rate is competitive with other Northeast Ohio institutions.

More information regarding the total cost of attendance can be found here .

“John Carroll’s M.Ed. in Educational Psychology program is tailor-made for working teachers. It’s flexible, features online and night courses, and it can be completed relatively quickly—in just four semesters. It also provides a great foundation on which to pursue a Ph.D. in educational psychology or another related field.”

Lisa Shoaf, Associate Dean for Professional Studies

Curriculum Highlights

Ed 519 learning-teaching.

Explores contemporary teaching, learning, cognitive, and motivational theories as they apply to education and other professional settings. Also investigates these issues as they apply to a variety of different types of learners and in relation to evidence-based instructional practices.

ED 532 Developmental Psychology

Provides a survey of current theory and research regarding typical and atypical human development from infancy to young adulthood. Emphases include the biological, psychological, cognitive, cultural, social, and emotional influences on development.

ED 534 The Exceptional Learner

Develops skills in curriculum development, grouping special procedures, planning, educational diagnosis, and other techniques suitable for working with a specified population of exceptional children. Emphasizes the professional educator’s responsibilities in light of inclusion legislation.

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John Carroll graduates who pursue teaching and education careers work at every level — early childhood, middle childhood, adolescent and young adult — for a range of schools and school districts across Ohio and nationally.

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• Catholic schools such as the Welsh Academy at St. Ignatius, Holy Trinity (Avon).
• Private schools such as Hawken Lower School.

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Educational Psychology: Counseling Psychology PhD

UWM’s PhD specialization in Counseling Psychology follows a scientist-practitioner model that integrates theory, practice and research to give you the scientific knowledge and skills needed to work with multicultural populations across diverse settings.

Our program sets up students for success. Placement rates for our graduates is 100%, and 87% of our graduates are licensed psychologists in various states.

Program Type

Program format, why choose our program.

• Commitment to diversity: In 2013, the Department of Educational Psychology won the American Psychological Association’s prestigious Bersoff Presidential Cultural Award for its success in recruiting and graduating doctoral students from racial/ethnic minorities as well as other countries.
• Location: We’re located in the state’s economic, cultural and career capital, just 10 minutes from downtown Milwaukee and 90 minutes from Chicago.
• Career prep: Since 2008, 88% of our counseling students were matched in internships, compared with the national average of 80%. Most years, it’s 100%.
• Research: Work alongside internationally known faculty as an integral member of their research teams. You may have the opportunity to present your work at national conferences.

Our PhD students are expected to conduct research and to advance the science of counseling psychology through scholarly inquiry. You’ll learn how to apply your scientific knowledge using qualitative and quantitative methodologies. Our program, which is accredited by the American Psychological Association through 2029, will prepare you to work as a counseling psychologist in a variety of settings, including universities, hospitals, mental health clinics and private practice.

Note: Due to pending and recent retirements, and funding restrictions that prevent post baccalaureate students from serving as teaching assistants, most faculty will not consider admitting students for 2024 and into the Fall 2024 semester who do not already have a master’s degree.

Counseling Psychology Handbook

For additional information about the program, see the  Counseling Psychology PhD Program Handbook (PDF) .

Student Data

Student Admissions, Outcomes, and Other Data (PDF)

We will assign you a temporary advisor when you are admitted to the program. Once you enter the program, you are free to choose a new advisor who will be the chair of your dissertation committee, or continue with your assigned advisor.

Stipends for teaching or research assistantships at or above 33% time include tuition remission. Stipend salaries vary according to type of assistantship (e.g. teaching, research) and type of student (doctoral, dissertator). For an academic year (nine month) appointment for 2023, stipends are $15,000 for 50% time assistantships and $9,900 for 33% time assistantships.

The following table indicates the type of support given to each cohort of students for the 2022-23 academic year. Assistantships are allocated based on availability of positions, with priority given to first year students, then second year students, and then third year. Students in the counseling psychology program have successfully applied for assistantships in other schools and colleges. After the third year in the program, students are strongly encouraged to seek assistantships through faculty grants or off-campus sources.

Learn more about the Graduate School’s  current assistantship salary schedules .

Counseling Psychology Student Association

Open to all doctoral students in the Counseling Psychology PhD Program, CPSA focuses on student advocacy, professional development, and socialization/peer-to-peer mentorship. Members are also active at the national level (e.g., ACA, APA, APAGS). We encourage all students to get involved.

Career Resources

• Careers as a Counseling Psychologist
• Society of Counseling Psychology
• American Psychological Association
• Licensing Information

The Graduate School provides a range of  resources for student professional development  on its website.

Program Requirements

If you already have a master’s degree, the program involves three years of coursework, a year of dissertation and a year of internship.

Students are required to take 15 credits of courses toward discipline-specific knowledge (psychological foundations), 18 credits of practicum, 13 credits of statistics and 12-18 credits of courses designed to provide profession-wide competencies as a counseling psychologist (Ethics, Interventions, Advanced Multicultural Counseling, Vocational Psychology, Supervision/Consultation and Research).

In keeping with our scientist-practitioner model, we require all students to participate on a faculty member’s research team for two years, registering for ED PSYCH 838 for 12 credits. Many students participate on more than one faculty member’s team, and most students stay involved in research for the entire four years that they are on campus.

Our program is recognized by the state licensing board, and you will be eligible for licensure as a psychologist once you complete the doctorate and the post-doctoral hours required by the state and successfully pass the national licensing exam and state jurisprudence exam.

Application Process

All applications must be completed fully online through the UWM Graduate School’s Panthera Application System .

You should plan to apply a year before you intend to start. Be sure to pay careful attention to the program’s specific deadline.

Final Deadline for Fall Admission : Final application deadline is  Dec. 1  for Fall admission.

Applicants who are invited for interviews will be notified by early January. Applicants will be notified of admissions decisions by mid-February.

• The program requires three letters of recommendation. These letters must be submitted through the application’s electronic recommendation feature by the recommenders themselves. Letters uploaded or sent by the applicant will not be accepted.
• Applicants are also required to submit a writing sample completed within the last five years.

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• University Distinguished Professor , Educational Psychology
• Mary and Ted Kellner Endowed Chair of Educational Psychology , Educational Psychology
• Program Director , Counseling Psychology, PhD
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• Enderis Hall 773

• Assistant Professor , Educational Psychology
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• Professor , Educational Psychology
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Kelsey Autin, PhD, Assistant Professor University of Florida Dr. Autin’s research interests include how people find fulfillment in their occupations and how this relates to overall well-being. Within this, she focuses on how people’s identities along with their sociopolitical contexts shape their beliefs about their freedom of work choice and barriers to obtaining decent work.

Nadya A. Fouad, PhD, ABPP, University Distinguished Professor and Mary and Ted Kellner Endowed Chair of Educational Psychology University of Minnesota Dr. Fouad’s research interests include cross-cultural vocational assessment, career development, interest measurement, role of race and social class in development, and cross-cultural counseling. Dr. Fouad is board certified in counseling psychology, and a licensed psychologist in the State of Wisconsin. *Note : Dr. Fouad is not taking on any new doctoral advisees at this time.

Xu Li, PhD, Assistant Professor University of Maryland, College Park Dr. Li’s research interests include (1) the process and outcome of individual and group psychotherapy, particularly in cross-cultural and multicultural contexts, (2) the development and training of therapists and the measurement of therapist competency, and (3) the career development and mental health of college students. With a bachelor’s degree in mathematical sciences, Dr. Li is keenly interested in exploring the use of advanced and novel quantitative methods in counseling psychology research.

Ankita Nikalje, PhD, Assistant Professor Purdue University Dr. Nikalje’s research focuses on systemic issues within the South Asian diaspora and their impact on lived experiences and mental health. She is particularly passionate about the issue of casteism and how caste discrimination continues to be experienced on an institutional, interpersonal and internalized level outside of South Asia. She has theorized Caste Critical Theory (CasteCRIT) and is developing instruments to measure the impact of caste in the diaspora. Similarly, her research also focuses on the impact of colonization, especially as it relates to internalized colonization or colonial mentality among South Asians.

Leah Rouse, PhD, Associate Professor and Electa Quinney Scholar University of Wisconsin-Madison Dr. Rouse’s research interests include trauma psychology, suicidology and mental health issues facing corrections, EMS and military populations, as well as cancer patients, survivors and their families, and American Indian communities. She works from a qualitative and Indigenous framework in research and practice. Dr. Rouse is board certified in counseling psychology, and a licensed psychologist in Wisconsin.

Stephen R. Wester, PhD, ABPP, Professor University of Florida Dr. Wester’s research interests include male gender role conflict, multicultural expressions of masculinity, gender and emotion, and counseling men, as well as the training of counseling psychologists and counseling supervision. Dr. Wester is board certified in counseling psychology, as well as a licensed psychologist in Wisconsin.

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What Can You Do With a Master's in Psychology?

Published on: March 5, 2024

If you already have a bachelor's degree and are looking to expand your career prospects, then it may be time to explore an advanced degree. Specifically, a master's degree in psychology can open the door for all kinds of job opportunities. Whether you are interested in pursuing a more traditional clinical/counseling role or are interested in a corporate role, there are plenty of potential jobs with a psychology master's degree.

With a better understanding of the different types of master's degrees in psychology along with some common career paths for this degree, you can determine whether this path may be right for you.

Get Your Applied Psychology Degree

Types of Master's Degrees in Psychology

Psychology is a relatively broad field, so there are quite a few different master's degree programs available that you may want to consider. The two main types of degrees are a Master of Arts and a Master of Science (or applied science).

So, what is the difference between an MA and an MS in psychology? Typically, an MA is more focused on the application and practical uses of psychology concepts (such as in a clinical setting), whereas an MS is more focused on the scientific methods and research behind psychology concepts.

Both degree types can have their benefits, depending on what you are planning to do with your degree and where your interests lie. For many students, a Master of Applied Science in psychology offers the best of both worlds, incorporating some scientific research/theory while also covering practical applications that can be useful in the real world.

Within graduate degrees in psychology, there may also be specialized degree programs for those who want to focus their studies even further. You may be able to explore master's degree programs, for example, in:

• Behavioral psychology
• Clinical psychology
• Forensic psychology
• Organizational psychology

Job Outlook for Master's in Psychology Graduates

There is an increasing demand for psychologists and those with graduate-level psychology degrees across the United States. In fact, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the job outlook for psychologists is  expected to grow by 6 percent between 2022 and 2032. That's faster than the national average for all occupations.

Common Careers With a Master's in Psychology

So, what can you do with a master's in psychology? There are so many possibilities to explore, depending on what your interests and career aspirations look like. From clinical roles to corporate, educational and legal roles, you can explore the area of the field best suited to your goals.

Clinical and Counseling Roles

Some people who obtain their master's degrees in psychology go on to work clinical jobs in counseling, therapy and similar roles. Of course, this will depend on the state in which you plan to work. Some states allow psychologists to practice at a limited capacity with just a master's degree, while others may require a doctoral degree.

Corporate and Organizational Psychology

Interested in more of a leadership role in the corporate world? Then working as a human resources manager can be a challenging yet rewarding line of work for a myriad of graduates with master's degrees in psychology. In this kind of role, you can use your understanding of the human mind and its functions to better serve team members and keep the organization running as smoothly as possible.

Educational and School Psychology

If you are more interested in how the principles and theories of psychology may apply to how people learn and grow, then studying educational or school psychology may be right up your alley. With a master's in psychology and proper training, you may be able to work in this fascinating field as a school psychologist or educational psychologist.

Research and Academia

You do not necessarily have to practice applied psychology in your everyday work to make a career out of it. Some people who obtain their master's degrees in psychology go into the realm of academia. These graduates may collaborate with other academics to conduct important research or even teach classes on psychology. 

Legal and Forensic Consulting

Another potential line of work to consider once you have your psychology degree is getting into legal or forensic counseling. These professionals typically work for police departments and government agencies to handle everything from profiling criminals to conducting psychological research on specific cases. This area of the field can be quite challenging and requires a lot of problem-solving and critical thinking, but it can be a good fit for those who like a good challenge.

Sports Psychology

Some graduates of a master's in psychology program may also end up working in the field of sports psychology, which uses psychological theories and concepts to better understand how athletes develop and reach peak performance. If you have a passion for sports or exercise, then this could be the perfect line of work for you to get into after you finish your degree.

Health Psychology

Another potential career path to consider with a master's degree in psychology is getting into health psychology, where principles and theories are used to promote better health and wellness among patients. As a health psychologist, you might work in a hospital setting or in a physician's office, and you can work with a wide range of ages and populations. This can be an excellent area of the field worth exploring if you enjoy helping others and making a difference.

How to Prepare for the Job Market

Regardless of the specific line of work that you are interested in pursuing, having a master's degree in psychology is only one step toward landing your dream job. There are some additional steps you will want to take to better prepare yourself for the job market and ensure that you are a competitive candidate.

Evaluate Your Career Goals

Start by considering your short- and long-term career goals, or what you see yourself doing in the next several years. Do you plan on finishing school once you complete your master's degree program, or do you see yourself potentially pursuing a mental health doctoral degree? Ultimately, this will depend on how far you want to work up your career ladder and what you envision yourself doing professionally down the road.

Identify Your Preferred Clientele or Work Environment

You will also want to consider the kind of people you prefer to work with and where you would like to work within the psychology field. For example, if you enjoy working with children, then getting into school psychology can be a great starting point. On the other hand, if you prefer to take on more of a human resources role where you work in an administrative setting, then organizational/corporate psychology may be a better fit.

Develop Essential Skills

Once you have a better idea of where you see yourself working within the psychology field, you can begin working on the skills you need to succeed in these areas. Many of the skills you need can be sharpened during your graduate program, but you may need to work separately on some essential soft skills (such as communication and critical thinking) to stand out from other talent.

Acquire Necessary Qualifications

Depending on the line of work that you are pursuing, you may also need to acquire additional qualifications beyond your formal degree. For instance, in some states you need to obtain a license to practice as a psychologist. In other areas of the field, certification or other designations may be preferred or required by employers.

Take the Next Step in Your Educational Journey With Husson University

A master's degree in psychology can help you take your career to new heights or even open the doors of opportunity for a career change. That said, not all graduate degree programs are created equal — which is why it is so important to explore and thoroughly research your options before you commit to a program.

At Husson University Online, we offer a  master of science degree in applied psychology  that can be completed in as little as 24 months. This program includes a flexible curriculum that allows you to personalize your studies, as well as free 24/7 tutoring services and career services for all students.  Get in touch  to learn more about this program or any of our other available programs. We would love to speak with you!

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