Consider Your Future Goals
The programs on our list approach educational psychology from various perspectives, so you can start your search by choosing a focus area within the field. By pursuing your educational psychology master’s online, you can apply to programs all over the U.S., giving you a wider selection of specialization options. This allows you to shop around for a program that targets your particular needs and goals.
Consider your plans for life after graduation. Do you aim to use your degree for professional development within your current job, to qualify for a new position or to apply to a doctoral program?
If you plan to start job-hunting right away, you might prioritize programs with strong career support services and networking opportunities.If you’ve set your sights on an advanced credential, like a doctorate, seek out programs with thesis requirements and other strong research components.
Pro Tip
Consider staying within the same institution for both your master’s and doctoral degrees. Doing so can get you acceptance priority and may even save money or shave some time off of your program.
Understand Your Expenses and Financing Options
Distance learning has a budget-friendly reputation, but cost of attendance can vary widely. Among the programs on our list, per-credit tuition rates vary from the mid-$400s to over $1,000, and some schools charge hefty distance-learning fees.
Tuition prices for online programs typically align with their on-campus counterparts, but some schools set lower online rates, and state schools may extend in-state rates to out-of-state distance learners. Institutions may also waive or discount facilities fees and other charges related to on-campus resources.
Consider each potential program holistically, remembering that you may not know the exact final cost until after you’re accepted and learn what institutional aid you qualify for.
To establish eligibility for federal student aid, complete the FAFSA® as early as possible. Other sources of funding include graduate assistantships; institutional, governmental and private grants, scholarships and fellowships; military education benefits; employee tuition benefits; and federal and private student loans.