People who complete masters degrees in educational psychology can pursue a wide range of careers. The field of educational psychology focuses on studying how people learn. This knowledge can be applied to many different types of careers. Graduates can focus on jobs in education, research, or public policy. Typical settings where educational psychologists work include schools, health care facilities, business, and government offices. Some of the most common jobs for graduates with masters degrees in educational psychology are discussed below.
School Psychologist
Both public and private schools employ school psychologists. In this role, graduates with degrees in educational psychology work closely with administrators to create an environment in which students can learn and thrive. Their work often involves applying research to create school-wide policies, procedures, and protocols. School psychologists can help teachers address issues with student behavior. They also work with individual students and parents to address emotional and psychological factors that may affect learning.
College Counselor
Many educational psychologists work in university settings offering counseling services to students. Such counselors offer support to students who may be struggling with personal or academic difficulties. Some specialize in helping at-risk students, first generation college students, returning mature students, or students with disabilities. Educational psychologists may work as part of academic support services, within student health centers, or as part of specialized counseling centers.
Educational Researcher
After completing a masters degree in educational psychology, one can find employment as an educational researcher. One can do educational research in many different settings. Local, state, and federal government departments concerned with educational policy hire researchers. Non-profit foundations and NGOs focused on education often have educational researchers on staff and sponsor large-scale research projects. Companies involved in educational services such as those offering course management software, online learning platforms, or for-profit education may also employ researchers with masters degrees in educational psychology.
University Teaching
While teaching at a four-year university requires a doctoral degree, graduates with masters degrees can obtain positions teaching at two-year or community colleges. Also, graduates who have completed a masters degree may obtain paid research or teaching assistantships if they choose to continue on to their doctorates.
University and School Administration and Services
A masters degree in educational psychology may also be a path to work in academic administration and student services. In many universities, educational psychologists may work in areas such as assessment, disabilities, residential life, study skills centers, and other support services for students. They may also work with faculty to improve the quality of teaching and to assess teaching. Educational psychologists may also work in the area of online education, developing instructional strategies and guidelines or offering support to remote students.
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A masters in educational psychology can lead to a wide range of careers in both the for-profit and non-profit sectors. One can work in healthcare settings helping struggling students, in government departments concerned with educational policy, or in schools or universities. Positions can focus either on research and educational design or on working directly with individual students.
