华盛顿州立大学

The M.A. degree with specialization in educational psychology are a concentration in research, evaluation, psychometrics, and cognition. While students at the Master’s level in educational psychology complete a common core of courses, a portion of each Master’s degree program is composed of courses selected by the student and his/her advisory committee to tailor the program of study around the student’s personal interests and professional aspirations. M.A. recipients in educational psychology are well prepared to continue doctoral level training if so desired. However, an M.A would give access to entry level positions in this intriguing field that presents an ever-changing, challenging, and rewarding work environment. The M.A. does require the completion of a written thesis and is encouraged if a student is considering the pursuit of a doctoral degree.

Student Learning Outcomes:

All graduates will be able to:

Ability to think critically, evaluate, understand, apply, and communicate scientific research.
Ability to understand and apply research designs.
Ability to understand and apply statistical, measurement, evaluation, principles to their area of research.
Awareness and understanding how diversity issues and protected populations influences research.
Development of professional identity appropriate for future career plans.

Student Opportunities:

The work in such areas as research, evaluation, and measurement may include for example: the opportunity to make contributions to the improvement of educational settings (e.g., schools, universities), to have some influence on individuals through consultation on programs, methods, or to provide information through analysis to individuals who shape policy. Other opportunities may include positions in the testing industry; researcher at national firms studying educational issues; assessment specialist at national foundations.

Career Opportunities:

Experienced individuals in this profession can expect to earn a good salary and maintain an interesting and fulfilling career in employment in private firms, at school districts or university settings, business, industry, or state agencies as program evaluators or student assessment coordinators, research technicians, or data analysts, as examples.