Educational Psychology – Master of Arts (M.A.) in Educational Psychology
Research. Evaluation. Measurement. Learning & Cognition
We train students within educational psychology to develop strong methodological skills and a deep understanding of learning theory to work on challenging educational problems.
Recipients in this program are well prepared to continue doctoral level training if so desired. However, this degree also enables the recipient access to entry-level positions in this intriguing field that presents an ever-changing, challenging, and rewarding work environment. The work in such areas may be rewarded, for example, by the ability to make contributions to the improvement of educational settings (e.g., schools, universities), to have a direct influence on individuals through the development of programs, methods, and tools to meet their needs, or to provide information to individuals who shape policy. Thus, we seek individuals who will first meet challenging academic standards for entrance and show promise for success in the exciting field of educational psychology.
Our M.A. program is designed for those seeking entrance into one of the following professional fields:
- college or university teaching in the areas of general educational psychology and/or educational measurement, evaluation and research design
- public school service in the role of a testing program director or coordinator of curriculum and program evaluation
- industry positions in research and testing companies (e.g., ACT, ETS)
- research and/or administration in research units such as the Northwest Regional Lab, American Institutes of Research, or an office of institutional studies at a college or university
We train students within educational psychology to develop strong methodological skills and a deep understanding of learning theory to work on challenging educational problems. These students will have a deeper understanding of researchable topics, the ability to develop a research program, effectively communicate and work with a wide variety of professionals, and skills to understand nuance and ambiguity in the work environment. The work in such areas may be rewarded, for example, by the ability to make contributions to the improvement of educational settings (e.g., schools, universities), to have a direct influence on individuals through the development of programs, methods, and tools to meet their needs, or to provide information to individuals who shape policy. Thus, we seek individuals who will first meet challenging academic standards for entrance and show promise for success in the exciting field of educational psychology.
Student learning outcomes include:
- ability to think critically, evaluate, understand, apply, and communicate scientific research
- ability to evaluate and apply research designs
- ability to evaluate and apply statistical and measurement principles to their area of research
- aware and evaluate how diversity issues and protected populations influence research
- development of professional identity appropriate for future career plans
This is a two-year degree only offered on the WSU Pullman campus. While students at the master’s level in educational psychology complete a common core of courses, a substantial portion of each master’s degree program is composed of courses selected by the student and his or her advisory committee. This helps to tailor the program of study around the student’s personal interests and professional aspirations. The M.A. in Educational Psychology culminates with the writing and oral defense of a formal thesis.
Successful completion of the M.A. degree provides a basis for application to the Ph.D. program in educational psychology. For credit requirements for the M.A. degree program and a list of specific curriculum please refer to the handbook.
This program has a rolling admission process. However, to be considered in our priority review process, the priority deadline for Fall/August start is December 15th each year and for Spring/January start is July 1st each year. For application info please see our Apply page.
For more information, you can email us at edpsych.coe@wsu.edu or complete this short survey and a faculty member will contact you.