online phd educational psychology

Online Doctorate in Educational Psychology

Online Educational Psychology Degree: An Overview

• Listening and observation.
• Emotional intelligence
• Interpersonal and communication skills.
• Research skills. 

Top Schools with Educational Psychology Ph.D. Programs Online

Jobs for educational psychology ph.d. holders, degree requirements, prerequisites for an educational psychology ph.d. or ed.d., online coursework.

• Psychology of learning.
• Leadership theory and strategic operations for education administrators.
• Evaluation and assessment of learning programs. 
• Quantitative methods in educational research. 
• Writing for professional publication. 

How long does an online educational psychology Ph.D. or Ed.D. take to complete?

Example courses.

• Motivation and learning
• Culture, communities and education
• Lifespan development
• Statistical analysis for education research

Cost and Return on Investment (ROI)

How much does an online educational psychology ph.d. cost, how to estimate the return on investment (roi) of your degree, job outlook and salary, educational psychology ph.d. and ed.d. salary.

Best Online Doctorate in Educational Psychology

Are you ready to discover your college program?

Whether you want to work with young people or adults, a Ph.D. in educational psychology gives you the practical and research skills to help you succeed.

Doctoral students study theories of learning, lifespan development, and psychology research methods. Online doctorates in educational psychology help build strong analysis and applied research skills.

We listed the top online doctoral programs in educational psychology on this page in alphabetical order. Learn how to find the right program, common coursework and graduation requirements, and educational psychology career paths.

Educational Psychology Ph.D. Quick Facts

• Credits Required: 63-98 credits
• Completion Time: 3-7 years
• Average Cost: $400-$950/credit
• Admission Requirements: 3.0 GPA, resume, letters of recommendation, professional writing sample, statement of purpose, GRE scores
• Key Skills Learned: Research, measurement, and evaluation; knowledge of learning and development; application of research methods, effective communication of research

Featured Online Psychology Programs

Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.

The Best Online Doctorate in Educational Psychology Programs

Regent university.

• Campus + Online
• In-State $17,220
• Out-of-state $17,220
• In-State $15,552
• Out-of-state $15,552
• Retention Rate 78%
• Acceptance Rate 86%
• Students Enrolled 10,365
• Institution Type Private

The Chicago School of Professional Psychology

• In-State $10,992
• Out-of-state $10,992
• In-State $21,564
• Out-of-state $21,564
• Retention Rate N/A
• Acceptance Rate 13%
• Students Enrolled 2,999

University of Georgia

• In-State $9,790
• Out-of-state $28,830
• In-State $8,878
• Out-of-state $25,186
• Retention Rate 96%
• Acceptance Rate 45%
• Students Enrolled 38,920
• Institution Type Public

What Is an Online Ph.D. in Educational Psychology?

A doctoral program in educational psychology provides advanced training in psychological methods, research, and practice. Graduate students study the process of human learning, including how we understand things, communicate new information to others, and create new knowledge. They conduct original research, write a dissertation, and complete an internship or practicum to prepare for roles in psychology practice.

During a doctoral program, educational psychology students strengthen their research and analytical skills. By blending the fields of psychology and education, graduate students build the skills required for career paths in psychology, research, and education. For example, a doctorate meets the requirements for academic roles, such as psychology professor. Graduates can also work in research, training and development, school psychology, and instructional development.

Earning a doctorate requires a significant investment of both time and money. Before considering a doctorate in educational psychology, prospective students should make sure they meet admission requirements.

Some Ph.D. in educational psychology programs require a master’s degree for admission, while others admit applicants with a bachelor’s degree. Programs may expect candidates to have a psychology degree or meet course prerequisite requirements to enter the program. Applicants with a master’s degree may qualify for a fast track within their doctoral program. Admission requirements often include a minimum GPA and standardized test scores.

Choosing an Online Doctoral Educational Psychology Program

Finding the right educational psychology doctoral program can positively impact your education and career opportunities. Carefully research schools to ensure you make the right choice. Factors such as cost, program length, and delivery format can help you narrow your options and find a good fit for your schedule and academic needs.

Consider whether the program offers specializations in your area of interest? Does the program emphasize practice, research, or both? What options do doctoral students have for faculty advisors? Answering these questions can help you find the program that best meets your needs.

Accreditation for Online Educational Psychology Degree Programs

Prospective applicants should always choose an accredited educational psychology program. Regionally accredited schools and programs meet the highest standards for educating students in psychology. Accredited universities can also distribute federal financial aid to students, and they are more likely to transfer credits from other accredited institutions.

Many psychology careers require an accredited degree. For example, licensed psychologists must attend a psychology doctoral program accredited by the American Psychological Association (APA) to apply for a license. The APA does not currently accredit any fully online doctoral psychology programs, though several accredited programs offer coursework partially online. Learn more about why accreditation matters in our accreditation guide .

What Else Can I Expect From a Ph.D. in Educational Psychology Program?

An educational psychology degree emphasizes research and analytical skills. During a doctorate in educational psychology, graduate students take courses in human development, theories of learning, and the instructional process. They design and implement research studies and analyze the results to write a dissertation.

Doctoral candidates focus their training through specialized courses in areas like educational technology, the psychology of motivation, and instructional design. Many programs also incorporate practicum requirements, which provide experience in educational psychology for doctoral candidates considering careers in psychology practice.

This section introduces common educational psychology courses and the requirements for earning a doctorate.

Common Courses for an Online Doctorate in Educational Psychology

• Lifespan Development: Students explore developmental milestones that occur in the prenatal, childhood, adolescent, adult, and late-adult stages of life. They examine the impact of genetic and environmental factors on human development, as well as strategies and interventions used to promote and sustain healthy developmental processes.
• Human Motivation: Educational psychologists must understand what forces drive students’ behaviors in order to support academic achievement and social and emotional development. This class provides an overview of the diverse historical and contemporary theories behind human motivation, with a particular emphasis on children and adolescents.
• Theories of Learning: The best educational psychologists understand the full range of how student learning takes place. This class covers theories of learning, including constructivism, behaviorism, cognitivism, gestalt, information processing, and humanism. It also reviews theories of cognitive processes, such as language and memory.
• Psychology of the Exceptional Individual: Educational psychologists often work with students who deviate significantly from the norm in behavior and achievement. This can mean counseling students with physical or learning disabilities, or it can involve working with exceptionally gifted or talented students. The course emphasizes the importance of inclusion and diverse learning environments.
• Ethics and Standards of Psychology: To prepare students for the realities of their profession, many online Ph.D. in educational psychology programs feature coursework on ethics and professional standards. Students confront the ethical dilemmas that often arise in academia, individual counseling, and when working within diverse communities. This course also introduces students to ethical questions they may face if a client becomes involved in the legal system.

How Long Does It Take to Complete an Online Doctorate in Educational Psychology Program?

Earning a Ph.D. in educational psychology online usually takes 3-7 years, but this can vary depending on a few factors.

The first stage in earning your doctoral degree is completing required coursework. Students often take these classes as part of a cohort, meaning they learn alongside their peers as they progress through the program together. However, some programs may be self-paced, allowing students to proceed at their own speed. Most full-time students finish their coursework in 2-3 years.

The second stage of earning a psychology doctoral degree is completing a dissertation. Generally speaking, students work with a faculty advisor on their dissertations, but they do the majority of their research and writing independently and at their own pace. When finished, students defend their dissertation in front of a faculty committee. Most full-time students complete the dissertation process in 1-4 years.

Paying for Your Online Doctorate in Educational Psychology Degree

The first step toward earning an educational psychology Ph.D. online is completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). The FAFSA connects eligible students with various kinds of financial support, including grants, loans, and work-study opportunities.

Students do not need to pay back federal grants or work-study wages, but they do need to repay loans. However, federal loans have relatively low interest rates, and the federal government may also forgive all or a portion of a loan if a student works in public service for a set period of time.

Many states and private organizations offer scholarships to students based on academic achievement, community service, or financial need. Teachers looking to transition to a career as an educational psychologist may also qualify for discounted tuition or tuition reimbursement, depending on the program and their employer.

Finally, students can apply for private student loans. While these loans can be helpful in financing a part of the total cost of education, students should avoid taking out private loans to cover the majority of their tuition and other expenses. Private loans typically have higher interest rates than federal loans, and private loan organizations usually do not forgive loans for public service.

Educational Psychology Jobs

A Ph.D. in educational psychology helps prepare graduates for a variety of careers. While many work directly as researchers or academics, a doctorate can also lead to opportunities as training and development managers, school psychologists, or student development directors.

Educational psychologists can also work in private practice or pursue roles in instructional design, educational coordination, or counseling. Learn more about the typical salaries and job outlooks for common educational psychology careers .

Training and Development Manager

Training and development managers oversee an organization’s human resources. They conduct assessments to determine training needs, design programs, and manage training and development specialists. They also evaluate programs and instructors, manage training budgets, and update current training programs. A background in educational psychology helps training and development managers create programs and instructional methods.

• Median Salary : $120,000
• Projected Job Growth (2022-2032): 6%

School Psychologist

School psychologists use their understanding of human behavior to support student learning. They may help students address emotional problems, design and implement plans to boost academic performance, or collaborate with teachers and administrators to develop broader teaching and learning strategies. Many school psychologists hold a doctoral degree like an online educational psychology Ph.D.

• Median Salary : $85,330

Postsecondary Teacher in Psychology

Postsecondary teachers instruct and advise students at colleges and universities. They also conduct psychological research or publish articles in educational psychology. While a master’s degree may be sufficient for jobs at community colleges, most 4-year schools require a doctoral degree.

• Median Salary : $80,840
• Projected Job Growth (2022-2032): 8%

Instructional Coordinators

Rather than working with individual students, instructional coordinators design, implement, and assess school curricula and teaching standards. Instructional coordinators often need an advanced degree, and online educational psychology Ph.D. programs can help students develop the skills and knowledge necessary to create strong learning experiences for students.

• Median Salary : $66,490
• Projected Job Growth (2022-2032): 2%

School Counselor

School counselors support the academic and social-emotional development of students. They evaluate a student’s abilities or aptitude through various assessments; work to address issues that affect school performance; and help administrators create programs and policies meant to curb bullying, drug use, or other problems. School counselors usually hold an advanced degree.

• Median Salary : $60,140
• Projected Job Growth (2022-2032): 5%

Behavioral Disorder or Mental Health Counselor

After earning an educational psychology Ph.D. online, some graduates may work exclusively with students with behavioral or mental health conditions. These professionals often collaborate with schools and educational organizations, but they may also work at treatment centers or in private practice. These positions typically require an advanced degree.

• Median Salary : $49,710
• Projected Job Growth (2022-2032): 18%

Frequently Asked Questions About Educational Psychologist

What do educational psychologists do.

Educational psychologists research how people learn new information and develop instructional methods. They conduct research and work with children, adults, and other education professionals.

How do you become an educational psychologist?

Educational psychologists often hold a doctorate in their field, which meets the requirements for roles as school psychologists, educational psychologists, and psychology professors.

What is the difference between school psychology and educational psychology?

School psychologists focus their training on working with children, while educational psychologists work with adults and children. Educational psychologists also approach learning from a broader perspective.

How many years does it take to become an educational psychologist?

Earning a Ph.D. in educational psychology typically takes at least 3-5 years. Depending on the dissertation process, earning a Ph.D. can even take up to 7-8 years.

How much money do educational psychologists make?

Educational psychologists earn a median salary of $85,330 , according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Those working for the government earn higher median salaries of around $106,690 per year.

Do you need a Ph.D. to be an educational psychologist?

Many advanced roles in educational psychology, including researchers and professors, require a doctorate. Though, some positions may hire candidates with a master’s degree and relevant experience.

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• PsyD vs PhD

6 Best Online Ph.D. Programs in Educational Psychology

The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports there will be a 14% increase in demand for all types of psychologists in the next several years, including educational, school, counseling and clinical psychologists. This demand is faster than average when compared to other fields. If you have an interest in educational psychology, you may want to think about earning your doctoral degree in this field. ( BLS.gov ).

Note that different universities offer different types of doctoral programs. Some offer a Ph.D. in Educational Psychology, while others have a Ed.D. in Educational Psychology . Which is the best option for you depends upon your precise career goals.

#1 Capella University

Capella University offers an online Ph.D. in Educational Psychology that is appropriate for students who want to obtain an educational leadership position in researching, teaching, developing or evaluating education in psychology programs. This four year, online program provides you with the chance to boost your knowledge of psychology learning theories, ethics and systems, as well as taking courses  that focus on specific educational psychology topics:

*Visit Capella University

• Teaching methods
• Program evaluation techniques
• Child development

Specialization classes cover:

• Psychological and social factors that affect teaching and learning
• Cognitive development
• Psychology in workplace and academic learning environments
• Instructional design methods
• Principles in adolescent and child psychology

Students receive strong mentor and peer support in the development and research of their dissertation. Concentration areas are program evaluation and measurement; psychology teaching and instruction; and child and adolescent development.

• Institution type : Private, for-profit
• Delivery method : Online
• Headquarters : Minneapolis
• Accreditation : Higher Learning Commission
• Degrees offered : D. in Educational Psychology
• Expected total tuition : $56,160
• Prerequisites : Master’s Degree in Psychology.

#2 Walden University

Walden University offers an online Ph.D. in Educational Psychology that explores best practices and theories in your area of interest in psychology; specializations in this doctoral, online program are: educational psychology, health psychology, social psychology, research in psychology, reaching in psychology or self-designed.

Graduates of this program will be skilled in the use of technology to boost learning outcomes of individuals and to support their organization’s productivity and sustainability. They also will have an excellent understanding of how both organizations and people learn, and become valuable assets in such fields as business, industry, education, government and nonprofit organizations.

Required courses for the doctoral degree are:

• Themes and Theories of Psychology
• Lifespan Development
• Culture and Psychology
• Research Theory, Methods
• Teaching of Psychology
• Quantitative Reasoning and Analysis
• Research Foundations
• Theories of Learning and Motivation
• Advanced Qualitative Reasoning and Analysis

To be considered for admission to this Ph.D. program at Walden University, these are the required elements: Official transcripts, Resume, Employment history, Writing samples, Three recommendation letters

• Degrees offered : Ph.D. in Educational Psychology
• Expected total tuition : $38,025
• Prerequisites : Master’s Degree in Psychology

#3 Texas Tech University

Texas Tech University offers an Online Ph.D. in Educational Psychology . This is a four-year program that allows students to focus their Ph.D. program of study on their specific interests. It also encourages an interdisciplinary way of performing doctoral work. Students can choose a practitioner-oriented track, such as school psychology or developmental and learning sciences, or come up with their own degree plan.

In the school psychology track, students will:

• Produce research that benefits, children, families, teachers, and schools
• Provide research that is viewed as credible by clinicians
• Be mentored in the school psychology field to engage in providing psychological services in educational settings

Required courses are:

• Human Development in Education
• Educational Psychology and Learning
• Assessment and Interventions in Schools
• Cognition and Instruction
• Exceptional Children and Youth
• Practicum in School Psychology
• Advanced Evidence-Based Interventions

Admission requirements are:

• Online application
• Post-secondary transcripts
• Three letters of reference
• Updated resume

#4 University of Georgia

The University of Georgia offers an online Ph.D. in Educational Psychology that is a good fit for students who want to be academics or researchers.

This online doctoral program offers several concentrations, including quantitative methodology and applied cognition and development.

Coursework is related to research and statistics. Students will select a minor concentration area such as statistics and measurement, pediatric psychology, children with chronic diseases, or early childhood education.

The four-year doctoral program has the following highlights:

• Education focuses on research
• Most graduates work in higher education
• Alumni make more contributions to journals than any other school psychology program
• Students have several opportunities to present their research and publish
• The doctoral curriculum prepares students to be highly competent in their concentration area with diverse populations

To be considered for admission, these materials are required:

• Bachelor’s and master’s degree transcripts
• Three letters of recommendation
• Statement of purpose

#5 Washington State University

Washington State University offers an Online Ph.D. in Educational Psychology . This is an excellent program for doctoral students interested in a career as in:

• College teaching in general educational psychology or educational measurement, evaluation and research design
• Public school service as a testing program director or coordinator of curriculum and program evaluation
• Industry job in research and testing companies
• Administration in research units

This is a hybrid program that builds your skillset to work as a researcher, administrator or educator in many roles. You are required to complete an internship in the state.

Sample classes include:

• Classical and Modern Test Theory
• Educational Measurement
• Meta-Analysis and Research Synthesis

Admission requirements include:

• Resume or CV
• Writing samples

*Indicates school is a Featured Partner.  Click here  for disclosure on Featured Partners. 

• Ph.D in Educational Psychology. (n.d.). Retrieved from  https://www.capella.edu/online-degrees/phd-educational-psychology/
• Educational Doctoral Degree. (n.d.). Retrieved from  https://www.thechicagoschool.edu/online/programs/edd-educational-psychology-technology/
• Psychologists. (2017). Retrieved from  https://www.bls.gov/ooh/life-physical-and-social-science/psychologists.htm
• Educational Psychology Ph.D. (n.d.). Retrieved from  https://www.waldenu.edu/online-doctoral-programs/phd-in-psychology/curriculum/educational-psychology
• Ed.D. in Educational Psychology. (n.d.). Retrieved from  https://www.regent.edu/program/ed-d-educational-psychology/
• Doctor or Education in Educational Psychology. (n.d.). Retrieved from  https://www.calcoast.edu/online-edd-doctor-education-educational-psychology-degree.html
• 8+ Online Psychology Ph.D. Programs 2020. (2019). Retrieved from  https://psydprograms.org/most-affordable-online-psychology-phd-programs/
• Online Ph.D. in Educational Psychology. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://coe.uga.edu/academics/degrees/phd-school-psychology
• Online Ph.D. in Educational Psychology. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://education.wsu.edu/graduate/edpsych/phd/

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

Best Ph.D. and PsyD Programs in Educational Psychology

2024 - best phd/psyd in educational psychology, 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.

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• Top 5 Online Doctorate in Educational Psychology

The demand for professional psychologists is on the rise. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of psychologists is expected to increase about 8% through 2030. Psychologists with specialized training usually have the best job prospects. Educational psychology is one popular area of specialization. Educational psychologists work in education settings, studying teaching and learning methods in the classroom and the cognitive development of their students. Earning an online Ph.D. or Ed.D. in Educational Psychology can give you the professional knowledge and skills needed to work in companies, schools and government organizations.

We created this ranking of the top online educational psychology doctorate programs to showcase some of the best programs in the country. Although the APA does not offer accreditation to online doctorate programs, the schools we selected do hold regional or national accreditation.

Featured Programs

We looked for programs with online courses and minimal residency requirements. We believe the best programs offer comprehensive coursework taught by expert faculty and hands-on learning opportunities. Finally, we looked for flexible programs for those with family and work obligations. We ranked the programs using a point system for student/faculty ratio and average graduate tuition rates. While ratios and tuition rates may be different for Ph.D. programs, we felt this was effective ranking criteria since the information was available on all the schools we considered.

Rating and Ranking Methodology

Student/Faculty ratio:

• 10:1 or less- 3 points
• 11:1 to 18:1- 2 points
• 19:1 and above- 1 point

Average Graduate Tuition Rate:

• Less than $15,000- 5 points
• $15,000 to $20,000- 3 points
• Greater than $20,000- 1 point

#5. The Chicago School of Professional Psychology – Chicago, Illinois

Ed.d. in educational psychology and technology.

School Profile

Average Graduate Student Tuition: $22,212/year Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 4:1 Points: 4 What’s Unique : The Chicago School of Professional Psychology offers an online EdD in Educational Psychology and Technology for part-time students. This three year degree program is guided by practitioner faculty who teach students how to apply educational and psychological theories to real-world situations. Concentrations are available in:

• Higher Education Learning and Technology
• K-12 Education Learning and Technology>
• Instructional Design

Students come to campus for two residency sessions focused on in-depth learning and face-to-face mentoring.

#4. Regent University – Virginia Beach, Virginia

Online educational psychology ph.d..

Average Graduate Student Tuition: $15,552/year Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 29:1 Points: 4 What’s Unique : Regent University features a PhD in Education in Educational Psychology in a flexible online format. This 67 credit hour program can help students take their career to the next level by expanding their career path. Students will align themselves with excellence, learning from some of the top faculty in the field. Courses include:

• Collaborative Research
• Culture, Communities, and Education
• Advanced Human Learning and Motivational Development

Students must present a research-based dissertation that demonstrates technical competence.

#3. Michigan State University – East Lansing, Michigan

Online ph.d. in educational psychology and educational technology.

Average Graduate Student Tuition: $18,858/year in-state and $37,056/year out-of-state Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 16:1 Points: 5 What’s Unique : The College of Education at Michigan State University features an online PhD in Educational Psychology and Educational Technology designed for students working in full-time positions. This part-time program allows students to enroll in four courses per year and complete their degree in about five years. Students who are able to take a leave of absence from their job may come to campus for one semester of face-to-face classes. Course offerings include:

• Teachers and Technology
• Cognitive Development Across the Lifespan
• Teaching School Subject Matter with Technology

Graduates are prepared for leadership roles in a variety of settings including community colleges and higher education institutions.

#2. Capella University – Minneapolis, Minnesota

Educational psychology specialization, ph.d. in psychology.

Average Graduate Student Tuition: $14,767/year Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 27:1 Points: 6 What’s Unique : Capella University features an online PhD in educational psychology focused on areas like learning and cognition. The program is designed for students who want to conduct research or advance the field. Both core and specialized courses from the comfort of their home. Students complete three dissertation in-person residency experiences that allow them to work on their dissertation throughout the program. Graduates have found employment in roles as psychology faculty and research.

#1. University of Alabama – Tuscaloosa, Alabama

Eds in educational psychology.

Average Graduate Student Tuition: $10,780/year in-state and $30,250/year out-of-state Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 20:1 Points: 6 What’s Unique : Our top choice for an online doctorate in educational psychology is offered by the University of Alabama. They offer an EdS in Educational Psychology focused on school psychology. The program is open to students with a current master’s level certification in in Special Education or Psychometry. Students who don’t meet this criteria must complete the MA in Educational Psychology first. All students complete a 150 clock hour practicum and a 1,200 field-hour internship in a public school setting. Course offerings cover a variety of areas including:

• Data-Based Decision Making and Accountability
• Consultation, Intervention, and Prevention
• Psychological and Diversity Factors

New students are admitted for the fall semester. Graduates may be eligible for state certification and licensure.

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