Educational psychology is the study of how people learn within the context of different educational settings. Earning a Master’s in Educational Psychology online is a great choice for students and professionals interested in studying the cognitive, emotional, and social dynamics of different types of people. An affordable online Master’s in Educational Psychology can give students the knowledge and skills they need to be successful in a variety of settings including education, social service and government.
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See Also: 10 Most Affordable Online School Psychology Degree Programs
We created this ranking of the top online Master’s in Educational Psychology to showcase some of the best programs in the country. We used information provided by the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) to find our initial list of schools, searching for accredited schools with online Educational Psychology master’s programs. From that list, we applied criteria to rank them based on faculty-student ratio and average tuition cost for one year of graduate study. This information was also obtained from the NCES. We applied the points system below to our criteria. Where there are ties, the school with the lower in-state graduate tuition rate is favored.
What follows is out list of the top online educational psychology programs in the United States.
Student-to-Faculty Ratio
- 15:1 or less= 5 Points
- 16:1 to 20:1= 3 Points
- Greater than 20:1= 1 Point
Average Graduate Tuition
- Less than $10,000 per year= 5 Points
- $10,000 to $15,000 per year= 4 Points
- $15,001 to $20,000 per year= 3 Points
- $20,001 to $25,000 per year= 2 Points
- Greater than $25,001 per year= 1 Point
25. Capella University – Minneapolis, Minnesota
Master’s in Educational Psychology
Average Graduate Tuition: $14,767/year
Student to Faculty Ratio: 27:1
Points: 5
Students looking for a budget-friendly online master’s in education psychology that they can immediately put into practice will appreciate the program offered by Capella University. Students gain a theoretical and practical skill set that includes problem solving and critical thinking skills. Courses include:
- Quantitative Design and Analysis
- Lifespan Development
- Program Evaluation
Courses are taught by faculty with top credentials in their field. They share their professional experience with their students to highlight unique perspectives and situations. Using the self-guided FlexPath format, students can earn their degree in just 14 months.
24. Rutgers University – New Brunswick, New Jersey
Ed.M. in Learning, Cognition, and Development
Average Graduate Tuition: $17,736/year in-state and $30,144/year out-of-state
Student to Faculty Ratio: 16:1
Points: 6
The high-quality master’s in educational psychology from Rutgers University focuses on human learning, cognition, and development in relation to education. Courses are offered 100% online, giving working students the flexibility they need to succeed. Course offerings include:
- Cognition and Motivational Learning Strategies
- Cooperation and Collaborative Learning
- Motivation in the Classroom
Students planning to continue on to doctoral study are expected to complete a research project. New students are admitted during the fall, spring, and summer semesters.
23. Marist College – Poughkeepsie, New York
Master of Arts in Educational Psychology
Average Graduate Tuition: $15,300/year
Student to Faculty Ratio: 16:1
Points: 6
Marist University offers a high value online master’s in educational psychology through the School of Social and Behavioral Sciences. The program offers two program tracks including:
- Childhood Education
- Adolescent Education plus Middle School Extension
Both tracks require 36 credit hours of coursework. Students complete, submit, and defend an electronic portfolio as their capstone project. The program meets the requirements for New York State Professional Teacher Certification.
22. Florida State University – Tallahassee, Florida
Master’s in Educational Psychology: Learning and Cognition
Average Graduate Tuition: $9,684/year in-state and $24,116/year out-of-state
Student to Faculty Ratio: 21:1
Points: 6
The College of Education at Florida State University offers a budget friendly online master’s in educational psychology that provides students with a highly individualized experience. The program is focused on learning and cognition with core courses covering areas like:
- Group Processes in Instruction
- Family Support for Learning
- Motivation and Emotion
All students develop their own area of specialization while working with an advisor. Students can choose to complete a master’s thesis or pursue a coursework-only master’s track. Graduates are reflective researchers and practitioners who are successful in a variety of settings including:
- organizations
- nonprofits
- education.
21. Purdue University Global – West Lafayette, Indiana
Online Master of Science Degree in Educational Psychology
Average Graduate Tuition: $8,766/year in-state and $9,740/year out-of-state
Student to Faculty Ratio: 24:1
Points: 6
Purdue University Global, a leader in online education, offers a low cost online master’s in educational psychology. This 52 credit hour program focuses on the latest instructional techniques, technologies, and learning behaviors. Courses are taught by faculty with experience in both education and psychology. Course offerings include:
- Perspectives on Diversity
- Learning and Behavior
- Neuropsychology
Students begin the program by taking six, six week education courses before moving on to complete five, 10-week psychology courses. Graduates are successful as both educators and administrators.
20. Texas A&M University – College Station, Texas
Online Masters in Educational Psychology
Average Graduate Tuition: $6,775/year in-state and $19,048/year out-of-state
Student to Faculty Ratio: 21:1
Points: 6
Texas A&M University offers an inexpensive online educational psychology master’s degree with an emphasis in creativity and cognition. This 36 credit hour program equips students with the knowledge and skills needed to promote creativity and effective learning in their students. Elective course offerings include:
- Personal Creativity and Giftedness
- Program Evaluation
- Creative Problem Solving
Students can choose to complete a field practicum to gain additional hands-on experience. New students are admitted during the fall, spring, and summer semesters.
19. University of North Texas – Denton, Texas
Master’s of Science in Educational Psychology: Research and Evaluation (R&E)
Average Graduate Tuition: $6,350/year in-state and $13,712/year out-of-state
Student to Faculty Ratio: 26:1
Points: 6
The affordable educational psychology master’s online from the University of North Texas College of Education is focused on research and evaluation. Students can complete their degree in 15 months or go at a slower pace that fits their lifestyle. Required concentration courses include:
- Educational Statistics
- Foundations of Psychoeducational Measurement
- Survey Research Methods in Education
There are five different starting points throughout the year so students can begin the program when it is most convenient. Students can choose to complete supervised research or a program evaluation as their capstone experience.
18. University of Missouri Saint Louis- Saint Louis, Missouri
Online Master of Education in Educational Psychology
Average Graduate Tuition: $12,283/year in-state and $30,154/year out-of-state
Student to Faculty Ratio: 19:1
Points: 7
The University of Missouri at St. Louis features a top value MEd in educational psychology online that takes just 12 to 18 months to complete. The program can be customized to meet unique interests and professional goals. Students can take elective courses from areas like educational evaluation methods and educational technology. Course offerings include:
- Educational Program Development and Evaluation
- Advanced Studies in Child and Adolescent Development
- Mental Health and Development of Children and Youth
Students can choose from a variety of different capstone experiences including an internship, thesis and advanced educational program development and evaluation.
17. Kent State University – Kent, Ohio
Master of Education in Educational Psychology
Average Graduate Tuition: $11,766/year in-state and $21,952/year out-of-state
Student to Faculty Ratio: 20:1
Points: 7
Kent State University features a best value online educational psychology Master of Education through the College of Education, Health and Human Services. The program is a great choice for classroom teachers and other professionals who want to study educational psychology Course delivery is 100% online and there are no on-campus residency requirements. Students can choose to complete an optional specialization in gifted education. This 30-credit hour program includes courses in:
- Child and Adolescent Development
- Educational Motivation
- Educational Psychology
Program graduates have the skills needed to maximize student learning by using industry best practices.
16. The University of Tennessee – Knoxville, Tennessee
Master of Science Degree in Educational Psychology
Average Graduate Tuition: $11,468/year in-state and $29,656/year out-of-state
Student to Faculty Ratio: 17:1
Points: 7
The Educational Psychology and Counseling Department at the University of Tennessee offers an affordable online educational psychology master’s degree for working professionals. Students can choose to focus their studies on adult education or applied educational psychology. Courses are delivered online, in a synchronous format. Students log in to their online classroom at set times schedule during the evening or on weekends to participate in lectures and engage with faculty and peers. Students complete 36 credit hours of non-thesis coursework and must pass a comprehensive examination. New students are accepted into the program for the fall, spring, and summer semesters.
15. The University of Alabama – Tuscaloosa, Alabama
MA in Educational Psychology – Learning and Assessment
Average Graduate Tuition: $10,780/year in-state and $30,250/year out-of-state
Student to Faculty Ratio: 20:1
Points: 7
The University of Alabama College of Continuing Studies features a budget friendly educational psychology master’s online focused on learning and assessment. This 30-credit hour program gives students a strong foundation in educational assessment and evaluation process. Students will explore how different psychological theories are involved in learning. Course offerings include:
- Social and Cultural Foundations of Behavior
- Development of Self-Regulation
- Evaluation of Classroom Learning
All students complete a capstone project during the final semester, showcasing their knowledge and skills. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis.
14. University of Wisconsin – Madison, Wisconsin
Master of Science in Educational Psychology- Professional Educator
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Average Graduate Tuition: $10,728/year in-state and $24,054/year out-of-state
Student to Faculty Ratio: 17:1
Points: 7
The University of Wisconsin-Madison features a low cost online educational psychology master’s for the professional educator. This rigorous online master’s was created for practicing educators who need the flexibility of an online program. Online courses are taught by the same quality faculty who teach the on-campus program. The 30-credit hour program includes courses like:
- Legal Rights and Responsibilities for Teachers
- Engaging with Education Research
- Collaborative Teamwork for Inclusive School Reform
New students are admitted during the summer term.
13. Northern Arizona University – Flagstaff, Arizona
Master of Education in Human Relations
Average Graduate Tuition: $10,309/year in-state and $18,630/year out-of-state
Student to Faculty Ratio: 19:1
Points: 7
The Department of Educational Psychology at Northern Arizona University offers a high value human relations Master of Education online for students who want greater understanding of human behavior and the learning process. The 30-credit hour program includes courses in:
- Educational Psychology Applied to Learning
- Development Perspectives of Human Diversity
- Personality Adjustment
Students will study research design and statistical methods needed to assess human behavior in a variety of settings. Graduates are prepared for leadership roles in areas like education and consulting.
12. Northcentral University – La Jolla, California
MEd in Adult Learning and Workforce Education
Average Graduate Tuition: $16,983/year
Student to Faculty Ratio: 3:1
Points: 8
The cost-effective online master’s in educational psychology from Northcentral University is a unique program specializing in adult learning and workforce education. The program is relevant to a variety of industries including education and workforce development. Specialization courses include:
- Human Performance and Improvement
- Evaluating Training Programs
- Leading Change and Organizational Renewal
The 30-credit hour program takes just 15 months to complete and there are no on-campus residency requirements. Courses are taught by doctoral faculty who have years of industry experience.
11. University of Northern Colorado – Greeley, Colorado
M.A. program in Educational Psychology Online
Average Graduate Tuition: $10,867/year in-state and $19,620/year out-of-state
Student to Faculty Ratio: 17:1
Points: 8
The low-cost educational psychology online master’s from the University of Northern Colorado is a flexible program that takes just 19 months to complete. This unique program features an emphasis in teaching applications and utilizes problem-based learning methods. This innovative approach allows students to use their own classroom as the context while they study learning and teaching. Course offerings include:
- Educational Assessment
- Motivation in Education
- Cultural Issues in Educational Psychology
Interactive online courses encourage students to build relationships with faculty and peers. All students complete a master’s project in psychology and a comprehensive exam to complete their degree.
10. University of Missouri – Columbia, Missouri
Online Master of Education in Educational Psychology
Average Graduate Tuition: $9,478/year in-state and $25,946/year out-of-state
Student to Faculty Ratio: 17:1
Points: 8
The College of Education and Human Development at the University of Missouri features an innovative educational psychology MEd online through their Department of Educational, School and Counseling Psychology. This program track is offered 100% online and emphasizes student learning and well-being in the context of educational psychology. The 33-credit hour curriculum includes courses in:
- Advanced Human Learning
- Cognition and Emotion
- Motivation
Students must complete a four-hour comprehensive exam at the end of the program to complete their degree. New cohorts are admitted for the fall semester.
9. The University of Georgia – Athens, Georgia
MEd in Educational Psychology
Average Graduate Tuition: $8,878/year in-state and $25,186/year out-of-state
Student to Faculty Ratio: 17:1
Points: 8
The low-cost online master’s in educational psychology from the University of Georgia is a specialized program focused on applied cognition and development. Students move through the program in a cohort of 10 students. The two-year program includes courses like:
- Foundations of Human Development for Education
- Nurturing Independent Learners
- Action Research
Focus areas are available in:
- Learning with Technology
- Learning Across the Lifespan
- Qualitative Approaches to Education
- Development of High Intellectual Capability
Graduates have been successful in non-clinical educational, training, or research support settings in a variety of different areas.
8. University of Nevada – Las Vegas, Nevada
Online M.S. in Educational Psychology
Average Graduate Tuition: $5,675/year in-state and $21,328/year out-of-state
Student to Faculty Ratio: 20:1
Points: 8
The top educational psychology online master’s degree at the University of Nevada Las Vegas is a flexible program that meets the needs of students in a variety of educational and business settings. Students can choose to complete a thesis or non-thesis program track. Course offerings include:
- Psychometrics
- Human Growth and Development
- Foundations of Learning and Cognition
Students who select the non-thesis program plan must pass a comprehensive exam. Graduates are prepared for a variety of exciting career possibilities including program evaluators and research analysts.
7. Eastern Michigan University – Ypsilanti, Michigan
Master of Arts in Educational Psychology
Average Graduate Tuition: $14,868/year in-state and $26,442/year out-of-state
Student to Faculty Ratio: 14:1
Points: 9
The cost-effective online master’s in educational psychology from Eastern Michigan University gives students the tools they need to be more effective educators. Students gain a deeper understanding of human development and learning through courses like:
- Motivation to Learn
- Students’ Emotional Wellness in Educational Environments
- Basic Concepts of Educational Psychology
The culminating experience is an intensive research project in educational psychology or a thesis. There are multiple start dates throughout the year, so students can choose a date that best fits their schedule.
6. Miami University – Oxford, Ohio
Master of Arts in Instructional Design and Technology
Average Graduate Tuition: $12,554/year in-state and $30,646/year out-of-state
Student to Faculty Ratio: 13:1
Points: 9
The low cost online master’s in instructional design and technology from the College of Education, Health and Society at Miami University is for students working in areas like:
- business
- higher education
- government
Core courses include:
- Diversity, Learning and Technology
- Trends in Learning Design and Analytics
- Blended and Online Learning Design
Courses allow students to gain experience working with state-of-the-art tools and educational media. Students complete a capstone experiential learning project. New students are admitted for the spring, summer, and fall semesters.
5. University at Buffalo – Buffalo, New York
Educational Psychology and Quantitative Methods, MA
Average Graduate Tuition: $11,310/year in-state and $23,100/year out-of-state
Student to Faculty Ratio: 14:1
Points: 9
The high-quality master’s in educational psychology online offered through the Department of Counseling, School and Educational Psychology at the University at Buffalo prepares students to address problems in different educational settings. Students benefit from rigorous preparation in quantitative research methods including statistics and measurement. Required courses include:
- Psychology of Learning and Instruction
- Psychometric Theory in Education
- Human Growth and Development
The 34-credit hour program can be completed in just three to four semesters. Students can choose to complete a thesis or project as their capstone experience.
4. Ball State University – Muncie, Indiana
Master of Arts in Educational Psychology
Average Graduate Tuition: $9,328/year in-state and $25,542/year out-of-state
Student to Faculty Ratio: 14:1
Points: 10
The 18-month inexpensive online master’s in educational psychology from Ball State University is aimed at professionals working in the field of learning and human development. The program is customizable to help students meet their career goals. Students can choose to create their own specialization from elective course offerings or select a pre-approved specialization like:
- Gifted and Talented
- Applied Behavior Analysis
- Institutional Research
Asynchronous courses are taught by the same nationally recognized faculty who teach the traditional on-campus program. Since there are no set meeting times, students can complete courses whenever and wherever it is most convenient. Graduates are prepared for a variety of career paths in:
- education
- research
- training.
3. University of Memphis – Memphis, Tennessee
Master’s of Science in Educational Psychology
Average Graduate Tuition: $9,216/year in-state and $12,672/year out-of-state
Student to Faculty Ratio: 15:1
Points: 10
The University of Memphis created a cost-effective online master’s in educational psychology that meets the needs of busy professionals. The flexible online curriculum allows students to complete their degree around their busy schedule. Students come from a variety of educational and professional backgrounds, adding diversity to the classroom and sharing unique perspectives. Course offerings include:
- Culturally Diverse Students
- Psychology of Aging
- Life-Span Human Development
Students complete a research project in their own professional field as their culminating experience. Applicants are admitted for the fall and spring semesters.
2. University of Southern Maine – Portland, Maine
Master of Science in Educational Psychology: Applied Behavior Analysis concentration
Average Graduate Tuition: $7,776/year in-state and $21,348/year out-of-state
Student to Faculty Ratio: 13:1
Points: 10
The University of Southern Maine offers a low-cost online educational psychology master’s degree that’s flexible and emphasizes personal contact. Students attend class online during the late afternoon and evening hours and engage with professors and peers. The 12-course curriculum includes a concentration in applied behavior analysis.
Applied behavior analysis course sequence is approved by the Association for Behavior Analysis International and meets the coursework requirements needed by students who plan to take the Board Certified Behavior Analyst examination. Courses are taught by experience faculty to offer guidance and mentorship to their students. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis and new students are admitted in the fall, spring, and summer.
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1. Texas A&M University-Central Texas – Killeen, Texas
Master of Science in Educational Psychology with emphases on Experimental Psychology
Average Graduate Tuition: $5,515/year in-state and $12,877/year out-of-state
Student to Faculty Ratio: 15:1
Points: 10
Our top choice for an affordable online educational psychology master’s degree is offered by Texas A&M University Central Texas. This 36-credit hour program includes an emphasis in experimental psychology and is a great choice for students planning to work in research-based fields or continue to doctoral study. Courses include:
- Social Psychological Processes
- Assessment and Evaluation
- Theories of Learning
Students complete quantitative thesis research project supported by a faculty mentor. New students are admitted for fall, spring, and summer semesters.
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