In light of the peer pressures that are forced upon the lives of today’s youth, Educational Psychology is a very important and admirable career choice to pursue.

Adequate education is essential for obtaining a decent job and other opportunities in life; therefore, more and more children are in need of emotional support to promote educational success.

Doctor of Educational Psychology - fact

As a psychologist, in this capacity, you will typically work in an educational setting with children who have developmental or learning disabilities, or perhaps, behavioral issues.

Educational Psychologists study how our brains retain knowledge and the best methods of learning. They can implement educational experiences that enhance one’s learning abilities through their research and expertise.

The Doctor of Educational Psychology degree (Ed.D.) provides a pathway for students to build on their master’s level education and gain an advanced understanding and proficiency in the field of educational psychology.

This degree program focuses on the science and practice of educational psychology, and it prepares students to bridge the gap between research and practice by helping them develop the skills and understanding to make evidence-based decisions that promote student success.

Students gain in-depth training in educational assessment, instructional strategies, counseling and mental health services, applied research, data analysis, policy planning, and much more. Upon earning their degree, graduates are well-positioned to become innovative leaders in educational settings and communities.

education psychology concept

Your Doctorate degree in Educational Psychology from an accredited online university will allow you the personal satisfaction of assisting others, particularly children; however, you will be awarded as you strive to improve yourself, as well.


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Methodology

At Online-PhD-Degrees.com, we take pride in bringing you the most up-to-date information available through college websites, as well as, public data from various highly respected sources. We seriously consider student reviews and retention rates, along with, other important attributes, such as:

  • Online Learning Format; such as 100% Online or Hybrid availability, (some on-campus attendance may be required) – geared to accommodate working adults with professional commitments,
  • Focuses on career expansion opportunities, as well as, your own personal growth and knowledge,
  • Provides a deeper understanding of studies related to K-12 Education and how students learn,
  • Offers coursework and training in developing curriculum for special education and gifted students,
  • Introduces the most innovative technology and up-to-date learning techniques used in Educational Psychology,
  • Offers instruction in all concentrations within the field of Educational Psychology,
  • Coursework designed to create Leaders in Special Education, for Gifted & Creative Students, as well as, in Education Psychology,
  • Student Support Services; offering 24/7 Tech Support, communication with faculty and fellow students, as well as, an easy-to-use Learning Management System,
  • Financial Aid options through Grants, Scholarships and Military Discounts,
  • Proper Accreditation..

Below are our picks for the 5 Best Online Doctor of Educational Psychology Degree Programs that we feel will assist you in pursuing your dream career. Good luck!

To obtain a deeper understanding, please see our Methodology page.

educ psychology professional

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Best Online Doctor of Educational Psychology Degree Programs

CAPELLA UNIVERSITY

Capella University

PROGRAM STANDOUTS:

Capella University offers a doctorate in educational psychology program designed for school psychologists, training and development managers, and other professionals in educational settings.

The program emphasizes educational leadership, human learning, and the learning process, particularly for professionals dealing with current teaching and learning challenges in advanced educational psychology.

The intensive courses support student learning in the psychology of teaching including cognitive development, multicultural counseling, and the improvement of student success.

The virtual residences prepare students for the challenges of diverse career paths, from applying research methodologies in educational settings to using educational measurement tools in evaluating academic performance.

The 88-credit online educational psychology program consists of seven core courses and nine specialized courses. While these required courses teach students about the principles and practices of educational psychology, students strengthen their professional skills through three seminars, a comprehensive exam, and a research project/dissertation.

Prospective students can request for transfer of up to 25 credits.

CAMPUS LOCATION: Minneapolis, Minnesota

ACCREDITATION:

  • Capella University has earned accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission

TYPES OF AID:

Capella Progress Reward ($20,000 in financial aid); federal financial aid through FAFSA; employer and association discounts; and 10% military discount.

ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS:

Prospective students of Capella’s online doctoral program in educational psychology must possess a master’s degree, and submit pertinent official transcripts with at least 3.0 GPA and a valid ID. GRE and GMAT scores aren’t required.

PROGRAM FLEXIBILITY:

The fully online program provides students with excellent flexibility via its GuidedPath format. Online students enjoy faculty guidance and peer support, too, resulting in guaranteed student success.

Enrolment counselors and academic coaches also ensure optimal student learning from matriculation to graduation! Doctoral students can work on their weekly assignments on their own time although deadlines are set.

DEGREE OUTCOMES:

Graduates of Capella’s online educational psychology doctorate program have the skill sets to become successful professionals in educational settings, the corporate world, and in government agencies.

Their skills sets include the capacity to critically evaluate effective instruction, apply the principles of advanced human learning, and practice their profession in an ethical manner.

LEARN MORE ABOUT CAPELLA UNIVERSITY’S PHD IN EDUCATIONAL PSYCHOLOGY


CHICAGO SCHOOL OF PROFESSIONAL PSYCHOLOGY

Chicago School of Professional Psychology

PROGRAM STANDOUTS:

In 1979, the Chicago School of Professional Psychology was founded. They are a graduate university that specializes in psychology and is recognized for their noteworthy contributions to the field and science of psychology.

Their exceptional faculty brings their real-world experience to the classroom by focusing on the relevant topics of today.

CSPP offers their students the opportunity to earn an Ed.D. in Educational Psychology and Technology degree, which provides each student with the convenience and flexibility needed to continue needed graduate coursework to obtain a doctoral degree.

Your program will combine online and blended formats of learning to bring you the most up-to-date, innovative study curriculum available in your chosen field.

You will learn about evaluating effective instruction, the development and implementation of new technically inspired approaches to learning, and how to properly assess teaching and learning challenges.

Program concentrations include:

  • Instructional Design,
  • Higher Education Learning and Technology,
  • and K-12 Education Learning and Technology.

Students will need to prepare and defend a dissertation, as well as, attend two residency sessions.

CAMPUS LOCATION: Chicago, IL

ACCREDITATION:

TYPES OF AID:

Grants, Fellowships, Student Loans, Scholarships, and Paid Employment, either inside or outside of the school.

ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS:

The Chicago School of Professional Psychology offers Career Support Services to help graduates choose the best education path and goals for them. To apply, complete an online application and include your $50 application fee.

You will also need to submit:

  • your official transcripts from all accredited graduate programs,
  • a personal essay answering their two required topic questions,
  • your current resumé,
  • and three letters of recommendation.

Applicants will be judged by their academic aptitude, emotional and social maturity, in addition to, their overall ability to commit to a graduate program.

PROGRAM FLEXIBILITY:

CSPP is dedicated to providing online programs that will fit your busy lifestyle. Many online doctorate programs will require a one to two-hour session each term, however, depending on your chosen program, on-campus attendance may be required in a “blended” format, as well.

At these times, students will be required to attend a synchronous virtual residency component at the same time. Through the online “Global Student Dashboard,” you can access your coursework easily via mobile devices, laptops, desktops, or tablets.

Through this interactive format, you can communicate in real-time with fellow classmates, easily interact with professors, and experience video conferencing and podcasts. In addition, 24/7 technical support and your Student Advisor will be available to help you from start to finish.

DEGREE OUTCOMES:

Upon graduation, your Ed.D. in Education Psychology and Technology degree can be used within education, non-profit, administration, industry, or government settings.

You will have a comprehensive education about how children, adults, and organizations learn through new technology, therefore, increasing productivity and personal growth.

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE CHICAGO SCHOOL OF PROFESSIONAL PSYCHOLOGY’S ONLINE ED.D. IN EDUCATIONAL PSYCHOLOGY AND TECHNOLOGY PROGRAM


UNIVERSITY OF GEORGIA

University of Georgia

PROGRAM STANDOUTS:

The University of Georgia is the state’s oldest, most diverse, and comprehensive institution of higher education. Founded in 1785, UGA’s motto is, “to teach, to serve, and to inquire into the nature of things.”

As they strive to educate America’s finest, they are dedicated to providing academic excellence by serving the student body, encouraging high levels of achievement for every student, and by providing the proper support services need for success.

UGA attracts students from all walks of life, nationally and internationally, as they offer a broad array of academic opportunities, such as an online program called the Specialist of Education in Educational Psychology, Gifted and Creative Education.

Through this program, you will enjoy the program curriculum such as Characteristics of Gifted Children and Youth, Supporting the Social and Emotional Development of the Gifted and Multicultural Gifted and Talented Education, among many other relevant topics. As you learn about the development of gifted children, you will focus on instruction, research, and service.

CAMPUS LOCATION: Athens, GA

ACCREDITATION:

  • The University of Georgia is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission

TYPES OF AID:

Federal Pell Grants, Federal Work-Study, Federal Direct Student Loans, Scholarships, Military and Veterans Benefits, Corporate Assistance, Assistantships, Third Party and Loan Forgiveness Programs, University System of Georgia Tuition Assistance Program (TAP).

ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS:

To apply, you will need to submit your graduate school application online, as well as, your $75 application fee. The application fee for US veterans will be waived. You must also submit your GRE or MAT scores and a current resumé or curriculum vita.

UGA would also like to see your transcripts from previous institutions and you will need to submit a statement of purpose that discusses your intentions for the program, in addition to, your interests, goals, and your relevant background experience.

You will also be asked to provide three references to which UGA will submit a reference request. At least one reference should be a previous professor, although all should be individuals who can attest to your capabilities and to your dedication to a doctorate degree program. Registration deadlines vary per semester.

PROGRAM FLEXIBILITY:

Online courses provide working professionals with the opportunity to receive a quality education that is convenient and flexible for them. To participate, you will need computer access with a Windows or Mac operating system, in addition to, a high-speed Internet connection.

Your program may also require a webcam, headphones, and a printer. As online courses are just as rigorous as on-campus classes, your online class size is limited, therefore, providing you with the same quality educational experience as in-person students receive.

Your online learning management system, called e-Learning Commons (eLC), will provide you with easy access to your course content. You may also easily connect with faculty members, as needed.

DEGREE OUTCOMES:

As you complete your Ed.S program, graduates will qualify for positions in colleges or universities as classroom teachers or in administrative positions as coordinators of school systems, state education departments, or as educational consultants. Let the University of Georgia help you reach your educational goals!

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE UNIVERSITY OF GEORGIA’S ONLINE SPECIALIST OF EDUCATION IN EDUCATIONAL PSYCHOLOGY, GIFTED AND CREATIVE EDUCATION PROGRAM


REGENT UNIVERSITY

educational psychology

PROGRAM STANDOUTS:

Regent University is a faith-based establishment inspired by the biblical teachings of Christ. Their motto promotes “Christian Leadership to Change the World.” Established in 1978 by Pat Robertson, they welcome students from all religious backgrounds and currently have students from 89 countries represented in their school.

They offer 129 undergraduate and graduate courses through on-campus programs and online distance learning opportunities, all at affordable costs. With 91% of their faculty holding the highest degree possible in their field of expertise, you will be in good hands through Regent University’s high-quality online doctorate programs in educational psychology.

At Regent University, you will have a choice of two programs. Ph.D. in Education – Educational Psychology is a research-based degree that will prepare you for careers in academia or research.

Regent’s Ed.D. – Educational Psychology program will provide you with the skills and knowledge needed to improve a student’s behavior to assure their success. Both programs are offered through an online format, however, will require a residency.

You can expect to learn about:

  • Advanced Human Development,
  • Qualitative Data Analysis,
  • and Christian Worldviews for Educators, just to name a few topics of study.

Residencies take place during the summer months at the Virginia Beach campus.

CAMPUS LOCATION: Virginia Beach, VA

ACCREDITATION:

  • Regent University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission

TYPES OF AID:

Grants, Stafford Subsidized Loans, Stafford Unsubsidized Loans, Military Benefits, Federal Graduate PLUS Program, Parent PLUS Loans.

ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS:

To begin, you must submit:

  • your online application,
  • a $50 application fee,
  • your previous college transcripts,
  • a graduate program academic paper,
  • a writing sample on a topic related to your concentration,
  • a current resumé stating employment history and accomplishments, such as any published materials you have.

They will also request your GRE test scores and ask you to complete an admissions questionnaire. Your answers should reflect your interests and goals in the field of psychology.

The admissions office will contact you if an interview is necessary, conducted on campus or via telephone. A background check may be required.

PROGRAM FLEXIBILITY:

At Regent, you can expect the same quality education through an online program as their on-campus students receive. The Career Development Center is there for you, whether you’d like to participate in networking opportunities or need prayer and consultation regarding a future career choice.  

Regent utilizes the user-friendly “Blackboard” learning system for their online programs. There you will find a list of courses, your class assignments, and access to your professors and classmates.

You can chat, submit your work and take tests through their asynchronous format. You will also be required to log in at predetermined times to collaborate on class projects, view PowerPoint presentations, or listen to lectures through the virtual classroom provided by “Blackboard Collaborate.”

DEGREE OUTCOMES:

As you graduate from Regent University, you will have many job opportunities available to you, no doubt.

Depending on your focus, you may want to consider a position as a:

  • university educator or researcher in curriculum development,
  • school psychology,
  • educational psychology,
  • case management,
  • or training and development.

Whichever your choice, rest assured, you will be truly blessed and rewarded in this field, as you experience the presence of God in your everyday life, both personally and professionally.

ED.D AND PH.D. EDUCATIONAL PSYCHOLOGY OPTIONS:


MICHIGAN STATE UNIVERSITY

Michigan State University

PROGRAM STANDOUTS:

Since 1855, Michigan State University has been a leading university in the field of scientific agriculture. Previously named the Agricultural College of the State of Michigan, it remains rich in its heritage as a research university.

Today, students can expect an exceptional education, as MSU is considered one of the top 100 research universities in the world. As they have expanded into a variety of other career topics, they work diligently to evaluate and find resolutions to today’s world problems through their research programs.

At MSU, you can become a part of a powerful network of online and on-campus students and faculty who work together to advance the field of psychology. MSU offers its students the opportunity to enroll in their Ph.D. in Educational Psychology and Educational Technology degree program.

This doctoral program is administered through a hybrid format. As you attend classes partially online, you can also enjoy the comradery of fellow students while attending on-campus classes.

Through your doctoral program, you will focus on new technology and innovations in research, as well as, a comprehensive study of how a child’s development is shaped by their learning environments.

Within your first year of the program you can expect courses such as:

  • Proseminar in Educational Psychology I,
  • Educational Inquiry,
  • Quantitative Methods in Educational Research I,
  • and Proseminar in Technology and Education.

As you advance in this five-year program, you will begin your dissertation research in year four.

CAMPUS LOCATION: East Lansing, MI

ACCREDITATION:

  • Michigan State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission

TYPES OF AID:

Stafford Direct Loans, Parent PLUS Loans, Grad PLUS Loans, Private Loans, Scholarships, Work-Study Programs, Education Savings Plans, Military, and Veterans Benefits

ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS:

To apply, you must complete your online application and submit a $65 application fee, however, before completing your application, please contact your department or program of interest to inquire about specific program requirements and deadlines.

PROGRAM FLEXIBILITY:

Through MSU’s hybrid format, students can complete their program within five years. The program typically uses the online format and personal on-campus attendance by cycles, interchanging one after the other. Hybrid courses, in general, usually allow for at least 50% or more delivered through online instruction.

DEGREE OUTCOMES:

As a graduate of Michigan State University’s doctoral program, you will be prepared to become a leader in a K-12 school system, community college, or other higher learning institution where the need for innovative, creative, and research-based learning is utilized to educate today’s youth.

LEARN MORE ABOUT MICHIGAN STATE UNIVERSITY’S ONLINE/HYBRID PHD IN EDUCATIONAL PSYCHOLOGY AND EDUCATIONAL TECHNOLOGY PROGRAM


educational psychologist at work

Frequently Asked Questions

What do Educational Psychologists do?

Educational psychologists serve a key role in meeting the learning, social, emotional, and behavioral needs of children and young people within educational, clinic, or research settings.

Most commonly, they assess and diagnose psychological problems, provide psychological and behavioral interventions, and collaborate with teachers, parents, and other professionals to resolve educational and mental health problems that interfere with academic progress.

Additionally, educational psychologists can provide guidance to parents on how best to understand and support their child’s learning and development. They also may specialize in areas such as special education, learning disabilities, gifted students, career counseling, and educational research.

How will a Doctorate degree in Educational Psychology help my career?

A Doctorate degree in Educational Psychology can open up a variety of opportunities. It can give you the expertise to better support students in academics, social, and emotional areas. It can also help you gain greater knowledge in curriculum and instruction, assessment, and counseling.

Additionally, with the doctorate degree, you can become qualified to teach at the college/university level. Finally, the degree can also help you increase your chances of obtaining positions with higher salaries in educational psychology and school counseling.

What career can I pursue with a Doctorate degree in Educational Psychology?

You could pursue a career as a researcher, higher education administrator, college professor, school district psychologist, or clinical psychologist. Depending on your area of focus, you could also explore career paths such as a life coach, school teacher, school guidance counselor, sports psychologist, or social worker.

What qualities should I have to excel as an Educational Psychologist?

The qualities of an Educational Psychologist should include compassion for others, trustworthiness, honesty, friendliness, and dependability. You must be approachable, observant, and adaptable, as well as and open to change. Check out these other suggestions, too:

  • Knowledge of psychology theories, research, principles, and practice: An effective educational psychologist will have extensive knowledge and experience in the application of theories, principles, and models of psychology to learning, behavior, and instruction.
  • Analytical and problem-solving skills: Educational psychologists need strong analytical skills to understand issues and develop effective solutions. They must be able to identify patterns in data, create models of behavior, and develop strategies for intervention.
  • Empathy and interpersonal skills: The ability to empathize and connect with people on an emotional level is essential for an educational psychologist. They must be able to develop relationships with individuals and families, as well as understand the strengths and challenges faced by each student.
  • Effective communication skills: Educational psychologists must be able to communicate effectively and accurately both verbally and in writing. They must be able to explain complex topics to individuals in clear, concise language.
  • Passion for educational advancement: Educational psychologists must be passionate about helping others and must have a deep commitment to promoting the educational advancement of individuals and society.
  • Flexibility and creativity: Educational psychologists must be able to think outside the box and come up with creative solutions to problems. They must also be comfortable with making adjustments to their schedules.

Additional Information: