Thanks to advances in online education, the world is now your learning oyster! Not only can you pursue a doctorate in educational psychology online, but there are plenty of accredited programs available. Please note that some programs may feature in-person elements such as orientations and internships. It’s best practice to fully understand a program’s curriculum before applying. Any aspect that seems unclear can be easily resolved by contacting the institution. We’ve compiled a list of excellent online doctorates in educational psychology. Keep reading to learn more!
Article Navigation: Top Online Doctorates in Education Psychology | Program Overview | How To Choose | Salary
Top 14 Online Doctorate in Educational Psychology Programs
The comprehensive list below comprises institutions providing top educational psychology doctoral programs.
University of West Georgia
Degree: Doctor of Education in Professional Counseling & Supervision / Advanced Standing
Total Cost (In-State): $12,528
Total Cost (Out-of-State): $Are you a counselor who wants to make positive change? University of West Georgia will help you grow your abilities in evaluation, leadership, and advocacy. It offers the most affordable online psychology program on our list. Their EdD in Professional Counseling and Supervision is a fully online asynchronous learning experience. In fact, the only in-person element of this accredited program is the summer orientation.
They offer a two-year pathway for applicants who already hold an Education Specialist (Ed.S.) in Counseling. Doctoral students build on foundational skills from their previous education. These include technical writing, advanced therapeutic techniques, quantitative research, and ethical leadership. The program’s faculty, coursework, seminars, internship, and dissertation experience are invaluable. Graduates can become a leader-practitioner. They will learn how to improve programs and interventions of their existing work settings. In addition, UWG prepares graduates to support underserved and marginalized populations.
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Doctor of Education in Professional Counseling & Supervision / Advanced StandingUniversity of West Georgia
Degree: Doctor of Education in Professional Counseling and Supervision
Total Cost (In-State & Out-of-State): $19,260The University of West Georgia provides an online Doctor of Education in Professional Counseling and Supervision to eligible graduate students. Via this program, graduates are equipped with the abilities required for success in counseling-based roles. The curriculum enhances graduates’ expertise by focusing on program assessment, administrative and clinical supervision, advocacy, and leadership, while also building on the knowledge and competencies gained via earlier degrees in counseling. Before completing the program, candidates will defend an advanced practice doctoral thesis designed to improve and evaluate pertinent issues in professional counseling. Students will sharpen many skills with classes including; Ethical Leadership in Education, Program Evaluation, and Qualitative Research Methods.
This three-year program is for applicants who don’t hold an EdS in Counseling. Doctoral candidates benefit from a learning experience that is 100% online. The asynchronous format allows students to study at their convenience.
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DoctorCalifornia Coast University
Degree: Doctor of Education in Educational Psychology
Total Cost (In-State): $21,195
Total Cost (Out-of-State): $California Coast University offers an online doctorate in educational psychology. In this program, candidates must thoroughly grasp the theories, industry standards, empirical findings, and postulations of past professionals in the field. Through this, they can have an advanced view of education and proffer solutions that have a far-reaching impact on society.
Curriculum areas in this doctorate educational psychology program comprise:
-Public Policy
-Group Dynamics
-Learning and Motivation
-Legal Aspects of Education
-Educational Measurement
-Advanced Educational Psychology
-Analysis of Current Problems in Education
-Adaptive Leadership and Organizational BehaviorAfter completing the curriculum for this educational psychology doctorate online, graduates will be able to analyze course content regarding ethical considerations, global citizenship, social responsibility, and civic participation. Additionally, students will have the opportunity to examine significant theories and concepts connected to the program’s curriculum, and utilize academic writing and critical thinking abilities. Lastly, students will utilize quantitative theory techniques alongside research methods to evaluate, gather, and carry out educational research.
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Doctor of Education in Educational PsychologyNational University (formerly Northcentral University)
Degree: Doctor of Education / Social Emotional Learning
Total Cost (In-State): $31,200
Total Cost (Out-of-State): $National University offers a flexible and quality online EdD. In fact, new classes begin each Monday! Students have the option of taking classes online or in person. It offers specializations in Social-Emotional Learning (SEL). This program is ideal for professionals who wish to become educational leaders and experts in research. Relevant coursework and the dissertation take approximately 33 months to complete.
Social-Emotional Learning candidates will strengthen knowledge of CASEL core competencies such as responsible decision-making and relationship skills. They will apply these skills across many settings. These include schools and home environments.
Foundation competency courses include Effective Communication, Leadership for Improvement, and Statistics. Graduates will become competent in areas like recommending policies with an equity and social justice lens. They will also be prepared to use theoretical constructs and practice to become a capable leader. Students will gain the skills to address complex issues with theory-based decisions. Lastly, they will learn how to create effective strategic plans for your respective organization.
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Doctor of Education / Social Emotional LearningNational University (formerly Northcentral University)
Degree: Doctor of Education / Trauma-Informed Educational Practices
Total Cost (In-State & Out-of-State): $19,260National University brings us an online EdD educational psychology that caters to the schedule of its students. In approximately 36 months, students can earn this degree with a specialization in Trauma-Informed Educational Practices. It offers weekly class start dates and a fully online curriculum. The program consists of foundational competency courses such as Advanced Graduate Study and Research. It provides 12 units of specialization courses including; Social Emotional Learning and the Ethic of Care in Trauma-Sensitive Environments and Relating Educator Dispositions to Learning in Trauma-Sensitive Environments.
With this practice-based degree, graduates can work with diverse populations and in broad educational settings. Students will learn about how trauma manifests in different populations, trauma-informed strategies in the classroom, and ways of implementing restorative practices for students or teachers. Program outcomes include developed leadership skills, becoming an advocate for improved policies, and being able to address complex issues.
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Doctor of Education / Trauma-Informed Educational PracticesLiberty University
Degree: Doctor of Education in Curriculum and Instruction -Educational Psychology
Total Cost (In-State): $33,724
Total Cost (Out-of-State): $Liberty University offers a Doctor of Education in Curriculum and Instruction with Emphasis on Educational Psychology. The program is designed to provide students with the knowledge and abilities they need to enhance teaching methods and foster educational achievement in their institution. In this curriculum, candidates will learn about crucial facets of human psychological growth and how to use that knowledge in their work as an educator. Additionally, learners will be able to strengthen their research skills to tackle numerous issues in the industry.
To create a robust approach to instructional design and curriculum development, graduates will study a variety of coursework which comprise:
-Advanced learning theory
-Advanced educational psychology
-Survey of educational research
-Cognition and motivation and cognition in learning
-Research and theories in developmental psychology
-Strategies for enhancing student achievement
-Research techniquesFind Out More:
Doctor of Education in Curriculum & Instruction / Educational PsychologyUniversity of Memphis
Degree: Doctorate in Educational Psychology & Research
Total Cost (In-State): $35,424
Total Cost (Out-of-State): $Here is another of our excellent educational psychology PhD programs online. University of Memphis offers a PhD in Educational Psychology and Research (EDPR). Students choose between virtual or in-person learning. This program is for students who are dedicated researchers. Its core competencies are research methods, human development, plus learning and cognition.
This program uses a “research apprenticeship” design. Students are encouraged to collaborate and seek mentorship from faculty. The Residency Project brings mentorship and research into one place. It allows students to incorporate knowledge gained into one thorough research paper. Students can expect to learn how to contribute to a professional setting via research, be prepared for academic roles in higher education settings, and develop skills to become a leader in a professional organization.
The dissertation, the Residency Project, and coursework like Learning & Cognition and Qualitative Methods Education, prepare graduates for rewarding careers. Through this educational psychology PhD online, students will become competitive candidates for many roles. These include educational researchers, educational policy analysts, or university faculty.
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Doctorate in Educational Psychology & ResearchNational University (formerly Northcentral University)
Degree: Doctor of Philosophy in Education / Social Emotional Learning
Total Cost (In-State & Out-of-State): $39,000National University offers a PhD in Education with a specialization in Social-Emotional Learning (SEL). If you are an experienced K-12 educational professional, this online doctorate educational psychology is for you. It will enhance your expertise in the Collaborative for Academic, Social, and Emotional Learning (CASEL) framework. This fully online degree has weekly start dates.
This online PhD educational psychology program deepens student’s understanding of CASEL principles and how they can be applied into a K-12 environment. Foundational courses include The Research Process and Academic Writing, Conceptual, and Theoretical Frameworks. Additionally, students will take 12 credits related to the specialization and eventually defend a dissertation.
With this PhD in educational psychology online, graduates will be able to apply skills immediately into their workplace. This PhD dives deeply into theoretical frameworks related to CASEL. You’ll learn about educational systems, how to be an advanced researcher, and gain skills to positively contribute to your educational community.
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”DoctorNational University (formerly Northcentral University)
Degree: Doctor of Philosophy in Education / Trauma-Informed Educational Practices
Total Cost (In-State): $39,000
Total Cost (Out-of-State): $National University offers a PhD in Education with a concentration in Trauma-Informed Educational Practices. Students will follow a sequence of courses that expand their knowledge of statistics, theory, research practices, and data analysis. This specialization offers easily transferable knowledge into the real-world. It’s ideal for education professionals who want to instill positive changes in their workplace. This educational psychology doctorate online is in a fully virtual format and classes start each week.
Coursework for this specialization will expand on different theories that relate to trauma-informed education. The doctorate in educational psychology online gives students an in-depth perspective through various educational settings and experience with diverse groups of people.
Candidates can complete the program in approximately 45 months. Each course serves as a stepping stone to their dissertation defense. Courses include; Linking Theory and Practice to Design Trauma-Sensitive Environments, Social-Emotional Learning and the Ethic of Care in Trauma-Sensitive Environments and Applied Qualitative Analysis.
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Doctor of Philosophy in Education / Trauma-Informed Educational PracticesUniversity of the Southwest
Degree: Doctor of Education in Educational Psychology
Total Cost (In-State): $47,940
Total Cost (Out-of-State): $University of the Southwest features a practitioner EdD in Educational Psychology. This means that material can be immediately incorporated into a student’s existing profession. The four domains for the program are Leadership Foundations, Organizational Dynamics/Change, Strategic Planning, and Research. The goal of this online doctorate in educational psychology is to develop effective education leaders and administrators. Full-time students can finish the program in three years. All aspects of the degree are online. Example courses for this EdD are; Psychology of Learning, Study of Motivation – Theory, Research, & Application, and Advanced Study of Brain Research.
Students of this online EdD educational psychology will learn how to develop effective programs that foster learning. They will gain an understanding of how youth and adults retain information. Postgraduates can use this expertise to improve education systems.
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Doctor of Education in Educational PsychologyRegent University
Degree: Doctor of Education / Educational Psychology
Total Cost (In-State & Out-of-State): $55,300Regent University has an EdD in Educational Psychology. This degree magnifies student’s research and analytical skills to gain a deeper understanding of learning concepts. Examples include cognitive strategies for learning and faculty roles. Those who study full-time may complete the program in four years. All elements of the degree are online. Coursework includes; Advanced Study in Educational Psychology, Research Design & Analysis, and Collaborate Research.
Students will be able to understand major developmental psychology theories, perform effective research that improves the knowledge of educational organizations, and analyze factors that influence education. Not only does this EdD in educational psychology online prepare candidates for successful careers, it also instills positive habits to create lifelong learners. Graduates will be qualified for roles as university professors, curriculum & instruction specialists, or even school district administrators.Find Out More:
”DoctorThe University of Findlay
Degree: Doctor of Education in School Psychology (Bachelor to EdD)
Total Cost (In-State): $55,440
Total Cost (Out-of-State): $The University of Findlay offers a unique EdD in educational psychology online. This program accepts applicants with only a bachelor’s degree. The mission of this EdD is to develop change agents who serve children and families from all backgrounds. Graduates can become effective school psychologists who improve the mental health of our younger populations.
Unlike most educational psychology doctoral programs online, the University of Findlay imbeds the dissertation into coursework. Additionally, students will gain hands-on experience through the Summer Institute program and internship. Besides these two elements, the degree is fully online. This degree provides a wide range of studies. Coursework ranges from Educational Law, Counseling Theories and Techniques, to Collaboration: Education and Community. The broadness of the program gives students the tools to succeed in many different work environments. Candidates who already hold a school psychologist license can finish the program in as little as four years.
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Doctor of Education in School Psychology (Bachelor to EdD)Alliant International University
Degree: Doctor of Psychology in Educational Psychology
Total Cost (In-State): $57,200
Total Cost (Out-of-State): $Alliant International University has an online PsyD in Educational Psychology designed for working professionals. This program caters to students who are already licensed or certified to practice psychology. Highlighted in this program is a School Psychology Track. Studies divide into three areas: coursework, research/applied work, and the final PsyD dissertation. All components are online which gives students flexibility and convenience. Students will receive a balanced education that covers topics like organizational psychology, leadership, student services, psychopharmacology, and system management. The program’s pillars are social justice, ethics, and leadership. Core outcomes for this PsyD include leading change in educational organizations as well as developing a deeper understanding of education systems. Students will also learn to model personal and professional ethics, justice, fairness, and integrity.
Graduates advance their knowledge to become more effective in their existing professional roles. They also will become qualified to work as faculty in higher education settings.
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Doctor of Psychology in Educational PsychologyThe University of Tennessee-Knoxville
Degree: Doctor of Philosophy in Educational Psychology & Research
Total Cost (In-State & Out-of-State): $59,500The University of Tennessee in Knoxville Degree offers a comprehensive PhD as part of their Vols Online academic programs. Their doctorate in educational psychology online emphasizes Educational Psychology and Research. Students may choose an Adult and Continuing Education pathway. Coursework for this program is available fully online. Graduates will be prepared for roles as researchers, educators, or practitioners in settings where there are adult learners. The Adult and Continuing Education concentration has three focus areas: self-directed learning, transformative learning, and reflective practice.
For example, some of the foundational courses are; Introduction to Qualitative Research in Education,Advanced Study of Adult Learning and Development, and Methods of Action Research.
The program offers a broad education through core classes, research methods, seminars, and finally a dissertation. This concentration gives candidates job-ready skills for settings like schools, government offices, and businesses. Candidates who apply to the concentration do not need a master’s degree to be eligible for admission.
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”DoctorRegent University
Degree: Doctor of Philosophy in Education / Educational Psychology
Total Cost (In-State): $60,750
Total Cost (Out-of-State): $Regent University provides an online PhD in Education / Educational Psychology for eligible applicants. The curriculum prepares learners to apply and produce the most relevant and up-to-date research and theories to enhance their and others’ behavioral and academic success. Coursework areas in this program include Advanced Human Learning and Communities, Culture, and Education. Other courses students take are Practice, Issues, and Theories in Educational Psychology as well as Collaborative Research.
After finishing the program, students will be able to teach and research at the collegiate level. Additionally, graduates will have the skills to publish and conduct vital research. Regent University offers its program in a completely online format. Students can complete coursework and dissertation within seven years. The program’s broad curriculum strengthens graduate’s ability to lead in educational settings.
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Doctor of Philosophy in Education / Educational Psychology
An Overview of Online Doctorate Educational Psychology Programs
What is the Difference Between a PhD and an EdD in Educational Psychology?
At first glance, a PhD and EdD in educational psychology can look exactly the same. For instance, both degrees can have the same accreditation, duration, classes, and usually accept applicants already working in the educational field.
There are, however, some differences. First, the emphasis of each degree may be different. For example, an online doctorate in educational psychology typically involves substantial research. Therefore, students will take more classes involving investigation like Methods of Action Research. EdDs often are practitioner degrees. This still involves research, however it will often get applied to actual practice. An example course is Organizational Design and Management.
Career goals should influence whether you choose an EdD or a PhD. An EdD is excellent for curriculum specialists, counselors, administrators. Likewise, a PhD graduate may consider becoming a professional researcher, university professor, or school psychologist.
There is a perception that a PhD is harder than an EdD. Employers may view an EdD for admins-only while PhD are strictly for research. The programs on our list are equally as challenging. They can qualify students for similar if not the same positions. Nonetheless, this labeling may force job seekers to expand on their educational background if their doctorate appears unrelated to a position they’re applying for.
Doctorate Educational Psychology Online Courses
Many educational psychology doctoral programs online have three terms: Fall, spring, and summer. Because each course requires substantial commitment, students can expect to take around six credits per semester.
The beginning of a doctoral pathway may involve a combination of online classes and seminars. Depending on the focus of the degree, students may learn about research methods, human development, or therapeutic theories. Students will gain critical thinking, communication, analytical, and leadership skills.
As students advance through their degree, the program may include practicum and an internship. At the mid-point of their studies, greater emphasis will be directed towards the final dissertation. The final year of an online educational psychology doctorate involves mostly dissertation research, writing, and defense. Alongside their degree coursework, students may choose certain electives on topics of their interest.
Below is a sample curriculum for an EdD in Professional Counseling and Supervision:
- Doctoral Seminar: Professional Issues Ethical Leadership in Education
- Professional Research Writing
- Quantitative Research Methods
- Directed Doctoral Research
- Qualitative Research Methods
- Program Evaluation
- Doctoral Practicum in Supervision
- Advanced Therapeutic Techniques in Counseling
- Doctoral Internship
- Doctoral Seminar: Advocacy for Marginalized and Underserved Populations
- Dissertation
Admission Requirements
To be admitted into a Ph.D. in educational psychology program, applicants must have:
- A Master’s in Educational Psychology or any other related field. Examples of relate fields include (but not limited to): Counseling, marriage and family therapy, school psychology, or clinical social work. In certain programs, applicants with a master’s in an unrelated field may qualify for admission. In these cases, a PhD program may use the Letter of Intent, academic writing samples, GRE scores, work experience, recommendation letters, and interview to determine a candidate’s eligibility. Furthermore, an applicant’s Letter of Intent should highlight goals that align with the program’s mission.
- Minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale
- Letters of recommendation (not applicable in some institutions)
As we brushed on earlier, other notable requirements may include GRE scores, a Letter of Intent, academic writing samples, related work experience, or an interview.
Acquired Skills
In this program, doctoral candidates will gain skills to analyze and comprehend complex educational concepts, solve problems, consistently make conclusions, and use judgment to make well-informed decisions. Also, they will acquire the leadership abilities required to understand, develop and lead projects as organizations or institutions need. In addition, students will gain the research skills necessary to identify a problem, set procedures, identify beneficial resources, cite the academic work of others, and offer solutions.
How Long Does it Take to Earn a Doctorate in Educational Psychology Online?
Depending on the student’s level of commitment, It takes between 3 years (full-time students) to a maximum of 8 years for graduates to obtain their doctoral degree in educational psychology. A large factor that influences a doctorate’s length is time needed to research, write, and defend a dissertation. A dissertation is the generally the final piece needed to complete the postgraduate degree puzzle.
How To Choose the Right Psychology Doctorate Online
Before you enroll in any institution, students must consider the following factors before paying the program’s application fee.
Cost
It is important to consider cost when selecting an online educational psychology program. You want to be sure that the career opportunities that will open up to you after graduation will return your investment into your education. The cost of an educational psychology doctorate depends on the cost-per-credit of the respective institution. While some colleges charge as low as $550 per credit hour, others charge as high as $1200 per credit. However, your tuition cost will be less if you qualify for financial aid.
Admission Requirements
When selecting a program to attend, it is vital to consider the admission requirements. It takes time to gather all the appropriate information from letters of recommendation to official transcripts. If you don’t have all the required information, you can contact the programs admission office to see if there are alternatives you can submit. Thus enabling you to pursue the degree of your choice.
Most institutions offering Ph.D. in educational psychology programs require applicants to hold a master’s degree. Although, a few of them accept candidates with merely a bachelor’s degree. In addition, applicants must maintain a cumulative Grade Point Average (GPA) of 3.0 or higher in their Bachelor’s or Master’s degree.
Program Format
Most online doctorate in educational psychology degrees are available in hybrid and online learning formats. It is crucial to know if the program you are applying to is 100% online or mostly online. If it is mostly online, then knowing what the in person learning requirements are is important. Overall, online degrees give learners a chance to complete their coursework on their schedules. This makes them ideal for non-traditional applicants such as those with family or work obligations.
Location
Location is another crucial factor to consider when choosing psychology doctorate online programs. Location plays a factor into both the cost of a program and the ease of completing in person learning requirements, if applicable. Schools located in higher cost of living places like Los Angeles typically have higher tuition rates. If the program requires in person learning, then it generally will be your responsibility to pay for travel and lodging. This could add up if you live far away from where the in person learning will take place.
Accreditation
Accreditation is a credible indicator of a college’s academic reputation. It ought to be an unnegotiable consideration in your decision-making process. The institution’s accreditation status validates the worth of your doctorate and the standard of your education, which also facilitates your eligibility for government financial aid. Therefore, it’s advisable for candidates to only enroll in recognized and accredited institutions.
Here are some prominent accrediting organizations:
- Higher Learning Commission: The HLC accredits post-secondary programs related to education. Accreditation depends on factors like a school’s quality of education, ethics, mission, support services, quality of education, quality of learning environment, student learning outcomes, resources, and ability to fulfill its mission.
- WASC Senior College & University Commission: The WSCUC is a regional accrediting organization that recognizes schools and programs in the western part of the country. Their standards for recognition include student success, institutional effectiveness, continuous development, accountability, and the quality equitable student learning.
- The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges: The SACSCOC accredits southern universities and colleges. Similar to its counterparts, their framework involves its mission, integrity, resources, and educational objectives.
PhDs and EdDs may hold accreditation from any of these organizations. Also, programs may have multiple recognitions. An example is accreditation from WSCUC and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA).
Certification Opportunities
Almost all 50 U.S States require an independent psychologist to hold a valid license. Although the requirements differ by state, to become licensed, most applicants must have a Ph.D., complete an internship, and accumulate the ideal hours of supervised practice. Additionally, graduates can obtain their certification through the American Board of Professional Psychology (ABPP), which certifies most practicing psychologists in different specialty areas within the field of psychology. Check whether the institution you choose offers certification options during the program. It will cost less to obtain such a certificate during the doctoral program.
Is an Online Doctorate in Educational Psychology Worth It?
Yes, a Ph.D. in Educational Psychology online is worth the time and effort. By obtaining a doctorate in this field, graduates are better equipped to produce new scientific information/facts about psychological factors that influence human growth, performance, and learning.
According to BLS, the median annual wage for Educational Psychology graduates working in secondary and elementary schools is $78,830 as of May 2021. In this field, the top 10% make above $133,890 per year, while the lowest 10% earn below $47,850
Start an Online Doctorate in Educational Psychology Today
The need for educational psychology specialists continues to skyrocket. Because of this, it is an excellent idea for students to obtain their doctorate in educational psychology online within the shortest possible time. At GetEducated.com, you can further explore our educational resources to access up-to-date degrees in other academic disciplines.