Accredited Online Degree in Educational Psychology. Educational psychology is the study of how people learn and what factors influence their learning. Educational psychologists apply their knowledge of learning theories, cognitive processes, motivation, assessment, and intervention to improve educational outcomes and experiences for students, teachers, and other stakeholders. Educational psychologists work in various settings, such as schools, colleges, universities, corporations, government agencies, and nonprofit organizations.
If you are interested in pursuing a career in educational psychology, you may want to consider earning an online degree in this field. Online degrees offer flexibility, convenience, and affordability for busy professionals who want to advance their education and skills. However, not all online degrees are created equal. You should look for online programs that are accredited by reputable agencies and meet high standards of quality and rigor.
Accreditation is a process of external review that ensures that educational institutions and programs meet certain criteria and follow best practices. Accreditation also helps students to transfer credits, apply for financial aid, and qualify for licensure or certification. There are two types of accreditation: regional and national. Regional accreditation is more widely recognized and respected than national accreditation. It is also more common for online programs in educational psychology.
In this article, we will provide a list of some of the best online degree programs in educational psychology that are regionally accredited. We will also discuss the benefits, requirements, and career prospects of earning an online degree in educational psychology.
Online Bachelor’s Degree in Educational Psychology
A bachelor’s degree in educational psychology is a four-year undergraduate program that provides a foundation in the theories and principles of human learning and development. Students learn about the psychological, social, cultural, and environmental factors that affect learning and behavior. They also gain skills in research methods, statistics, assessment, curriculum design, instructional strategies, and intervention techniques.
An online bachelor’s degree in educational psychology can prepare students for entry-level positions in education-related fields or for further graduate study. Some of the possible careers for graduates include:
- Teacher
- Tutor
- Educational consultant
- Curriculum developer
- Instructional designer
- Learning specialist
- Research assistant
Some of the online bachelor’s degree programs in educational psychology that are regionally accredited include:
- Arizona State University: This program offers a Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Educational Studies with a concentration in Educational Psychology. The program requires 120 credits and covers topics such as child development, learning theories, motivation, diversity, assessment, and technology. Students also complete a capstone project that integrates their learning and skills.
- Southern New Hampshire University: This program offers a Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Psychology with a concentration in Child and Adolescent Development. The program requires 120 credits and covers topics such as cognitive development, social development, emotional development, learning disabilities, giftedness, and intervention strategies. Students also complete a senior seminar that synthesizes their knowledge and skills.
- Walden University: This program offers a Bachelor of Science (BS) in Psychology with a concentration in Educational Psychology. The program requires 181 quarter credits and covers topics such as learning theory, cognition, memory, motivation, intelligence, creativity, and problem-solving. Students also complete a capstone course that demonstrates their mastery of the subject matter.
Online Master’s Degree in Educational Psychology
A master’s degree in educational psychology is a two-year graduate program that provides advanced knowledge and skills in the field of learning and instruction. Students deepen their understanding of the psychological processes involved in learning and teaching. They also develop competencies in designing, implementing, and evaluating effective educational programs and interventions.
An online master’s degree in educational psychology can prepare students for leadership roles in education-related fields or for doctoral study. Some of the possible careers for graduates include:
- Educational psychologist
- School psychologist
- Instructional coordinator
- Educational researcher
- Program evaluator
- College instructor
- Professional development specialist
Some of the online master’s degree programs in educational psychology that are regionally accredited include:
- Purdue University Global: This program offers a Master of Science (MS) in Educational Psychology. The program requires 47 credits and covers topics such as research design and methods, instructional design and technology, learning theory and application, motivation theory and application, and program evaluation. Students also complete a capstone project that showcases their professional skills.
- [University of Georgia]: This program offers a Master of Education (MEd) in Educational Psychology with an emphasis on Applied Cognition and Development. The program requires 34 credits and covers topics such as cognitive science, developmental science, motivation science, learning with technology, and diversity issues. Students also complete an applied project that addresses a real-world problem or issue.
- [University of Northern Colorado]: This program offers a Master of Arts (MA) in Educational Psychology with an emphasis on Teaching Applications. The program requires 30 credits and covers topics such as learning and cognition, human development, motivation and classroom management, assessment and evaluation, and instructional design. Students also complete a comprehensive exam that assesses their knowledge and skills.
Online Doctoral Degree in Educational Psychology
A doctoral degree in educational psychology is a four- to six-year postgraduate program that provides the highest level of expertise and research skills in the field of learning and instruction. Students conduct original and independent research that contributes to the advancement of knowledge and practice in educational psychology. They also develop specialized knowledge and skills in a chosen area of concentration, such as cognition, motivation, development, technology, or evaluation.
An online doctoral degree in educational psychology can prepare students for academic or research careers in education-related fields. Some of the possible careers for graduates include:
- Professor
- Researcher
- Consultant
- Director
- Policy maker
- Author
Some of the online doctoral degree programs in educational psychology that are regionally accredited include:
- [Capella University]: This program offers a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Psychology with a specialization in Educational Psychology. The program requires 90 quarter credits and covers topics such as advanced research methods, advanced statistics, advanced learning theory, advanced motivation theory, and advanced instructional design. Students also complete a dissertation that demonstrates their scholarly contribution to the field.
- [Northcentral University]: This program offers a Doctor of Education (EdD) in Educational Psychology. The program requires 54 credits and covers topics such as advanced educational psychology, advanced human development, advanced cognition and instruction, advanced assessment and evaluation, and advanced research design. Students also complete a doctoral project that applies their knowledge and skills to a practical problem or issue.
- [Texas A&M University]: This program offers a Doctor of Education (EdD) in Educational Psychology with an emphasis on Cognition and Creativity. The program requires 64 credits and covers topics such as cognitive processes, creativity theory and research, learning environments, instructional design, and program evaluation. Students also complete a capstone project that integrates their learning and skills.
Benefits of Earning an Online Degree in Educational Psychology
Earning an online degree in educational psychology can offer many benefits for students who want to pursue their academic and career goals in this field. Some of the benefits include:
- Flexibility: Online programs allow students to study at their own pace and schedule, without having to commute or relocate. Students can balance their personal and professional commitments while pursuing their education.
- Convenience: Online programs provide students with access to course materials, instructors, classmates, and support services anytime and anywhere. Students can use various devices and platforms to access their online learning environment.
- Affordability: Online programs often have lower tuition costs than on-campus programs. Students can also save on transportation, housing, and other expenses associated with attending a traditional campus. Additionally, students may qualify for financial aid, scholarships, grants, or loans to help fund their education.
- Quality: Online programs undergo the same accreditation processes as on-campus programs, so online education psychology degrees meet the same academic and professional standards as their on-campus counterparts. Online programs also employ qualified and experienced faculty who are experts in their fields.
- Diversity: Online programs attract students from different backgrounds, locations, cultures, and perspectives. Students can interact with and learn from a diverse community of peers who share their interests and goals.
Requirements for Earning an Online Degree in Educational Psychology
The requirements for earning an online degree in educational psychology may vary depending on the level, institution, and program of study. However, some of the common requirements include:
- Admission: To be admitted to an online degree program in educational psychology, students typically need to meet certain academic criteria, such as having a high school diploma or equivalent for a bachelor’s degree program, having a bachelor’s degree or equivalent for a master’s degree program, or having a master’s degree or equivalent for a doctoral degree program. Students may also need to submit transcripts, test scores, letters of recommendation, personal statements, resumes, or portfolios as part of their application.
- Curriculum: To complete an online degree program in educational psychology, students need to fulfill certain credit requirements by taking courses that cover the core concepts and skills of the field. Students may also need to choose electives or concentrations that align with their interests and goals. Depending on the program level, students may also need to complete capstone projects, dissertations, or doctoral projects that demonstrate their mastery of the subject matter.
- Licensure/Certification: To practice as an educational psychologist or a school psychologist, students may need to obtain licensure or certification from their state board of education or psychology. The requirements for licensure or certification may vary by state, but they typically include having a graduate degree from an accredited program, completing supervised internship hours, passing an exam, and adhering to ethical standards.
FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions about online degree programs in educational psychology:
What is the difference between educational?
The difference between educational psychology and school psychology is that educational psychology is a broader field that focuses on the study of learning and instruction in various settings and contexts, while school psychology is a specialized field that focuses on the application of psychological principles and practices to improve the academic, social, and emotional well-being of students and school personnel in K-12 settings. Educational psychologists may work in schools, but they may also work in other educational institutions, such as colleges, universities, or corporations. School psychologists typically work in schools or school districts, where they provide assessment, intervention, consultation, and prevention services to students, teachers, parents, and administrators.
How long does it take to earn an online degree in educational psychology?
The duration of an online degree program in educational psychology depends on the level of the degree, the pace of the student, and the requirements of the program. Generally speaking, a bachelor’s degree may take four years to complete, a master’s degree may take two years to complete, and a doctoral degree may take four to six years to complete. However, some online programs may offer accelerated or flexible options that allow students to finish their degrees faster or slower than the average time.
How much does it cost to earn an online degree in educational psychology?
The cost of an online degree program in educational psychology varies depending on the institution, the program, and the student. Some factors that may affect the cost include tuition fees, course materials, technology fees, enrollment fees, graduation fees, and financial aid. According to U.S. News & World Report, the average tuition for online bachelor’s degree programs in 2022-2023 was $11,171 per year for in-state students and $15,590 per year for out-of-state students. The average tuition for online master’s degree programs in 2022-2023 was $18,408 per year. The average tuition for online doctoral degree programs in 2022-2023 was $20,598 per year.
What are some of the challenges of earning an online degree in educational psychology?
Earning an online degree in educational psychology can be challenging for some students who may face difficulties such as:
- Lack of face-to-face interaction: Online students may feel isolated or disconnected from their instructors and classmates. They may also miss out on the social and academic benefits of being part of a campus community.
- Self-discipline and motivation: Online students need to be self-directed and motivated to manage their time and workload effectively. They need to set their own goals and deadlines and follow through with their assignments and responsibilities.
- Technical issues: Online students need to have reliable access to a computer and the internet. They also need to be familiar with the online learning platform and tools used by their program. They may encounter technical problems or glitches that may disrupt their learning process or cause frustration.
- Quality concerns: Online students need to ensure that their program is accredited by a reputable agency and meets high standards of quality and rigor. They also need to verify that their degree will be recognized and accepted by employers or licensing boards.
How can I succeed in earning an online degree in educational psychology?
Earning an online degree in educational psychology can be rewarding for students who are committed to their education and career goals. Some tips for succeeding in an online degree program include:
- Choose a program that suits your needs and interests: Research different online programs in educational psychology and compare their curriculum, faculty, accreditation, cost, and reputation. Choose a program that aligns with your learning style, preferences, objectives, and expectations.
- Communicate effectively: Communicate regularly with your instructors and classmates through email, discussion boards, video conferencing, or other means. Ask questions, seek feedback, participate in discussions, and share your ideas and experiences. Build rapport and trust with your online learning community.
- Manage your time and resources: Create a realistic schedule that allows you to balance your personal, professional, and academic obligations. Set priorities, goals, and deadlines for yourself and stick to them. Use a calendar, planner, or app to keep track of your tasks and progress. Use the resources and support services provided by your program, such as tutoring, counseling, library, or technical support.
- Stay focused and motivated: Find a quiet, comfortable, and distraction-free place to study. Eliminate any potential interruptions or temptations that may hinder your concentration or productivity. Reward yourself for completing your assignments or reaching your milestones. Remind yourself of why you chose to pursue an online degree in educational psychology and how it will benefit you in the long run.
I hope this article was helpful for you. If you have any other questions or comments about online degree programs in educational psychology, please let me know.
