A master's in educational psychology prepares students for careers in education and provides them with a thorough understanding of the theories and practices of educational psychology.
Educational psychologists are professionals who use psychological theories and methods to improve educational practices and support the learning and development of children and young people. Key responsibilities and duties of educational psychologists include Assessment and Diagnosis, Supporting Learning and Development, Research and Policy and Practice Development.
A typical educational psychology degree covers various topics, including child development, learning theories, motivation, assessment, and educational research methods. Students in these programmes may also study the application of psychological principles to real-world educational problems and participate in practical experiences.
Upon completing an educational psychology degree, graduates may pursue careers in various settings, such as schools, universities, research institutes, and policy organisations.
Learn more about three of the best educational psychology degrees in the UK below and begin your application by arranging a free consultation with SI-UK today.
What does an Educational Psychologist do?
Once an educational psychologist degree has been completed, you will:
- Assess the learning and emotional needs of a child
- Develop, design and support behaviour and therapeutic management programmes
- Support parents, teachers and guardians involved in the educational rearing of children
- Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to develop the best approaches and provisions to support a child's learning and development
- Discuss and develop ideas to meet adolescents' and young adults' social, behavioural, emotional and learning needs
- Conduct active research
- Promote psychological well-being and emotional, social and behavioural development to raise educational standards by developing and applying effective interventions
The salary of a fully qualified educational psychologist who has completed their master's in educational psychology and clinical training will begin at £38,000 gross per annum. To practise as a certified educational psychologist, candidates must be registered with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC), which includes training at the PG level.
Becoming an Educational Psychologist
Becoming an educational psychologist in the UK typically begins by studying for an undergraduate psychology degree, such as a Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Psychology or a Bachelor of Education (BEd) (with a psychological component).
After obtaining an undergraduate degree, you must complete a postgraduate qualification in educational psychology. This is typically a two-year Master of Education (MEd) in Educational Psychology program recognised by the British Psychological Society.
After completing a master's in educational psychology, you will need to apply for professional registration with the HCPC. This involves passing the HCPC's registration assessment, including a written examination and an oral assessment. In addition to the above, you will also need to gain practical experience working as an educational psychologist. This typically involves working as a trainee educational psychologist under the supervision of a registered educational psychologist.
Popular UK Universities for Masters in Educational Psychology
University College London
The MSc in Developmental and Educational Psychology at University College London (UCL) is a postgraduate education psychology course that focuses on the scientific study of human development and learning.
Students will study child development modules, educational psychology, neuropsychology, and social and emotional development. This kind of degree in educational psychology will provide students with a strong foundation in the field, preparing them for careers in academia, research, or various applied settings, such as education, healthcare, or social work.
- Course to consider: Developmental and Educational Psychology MSc
- International fees: £29,000
University of Bristol
The MSc Psychology of Education at the University of Bristol provides a variety of modules on topics such as:
- Psychological Theories of Learning and Development
- Education and Social Justice
- Assessment and Evaluation in Education
- Research Methods in Educational Psychology
While the modules offered can vary from year to year, the Bristol degree in educational psychology is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of educational psychology and its applications in various contexts.
- Course to consider: MSc Psychology of Education BPS
- International fees: £25,200
University of Manchester
Whilst completing a master's degree in educational psychology at the University of Manchester, a student will be encouraged to explore the core areas of psychology specifically related to education and develop critical skills to evaluate and analyse ongoing research, theories and practices.
The Manchester course typically requires one or two years of full-time study and may be taken full-time or part-time. Coursework includes lectures, seminars, and practical work, and students may also have opportunities to participate in fieldwork and educational placements.
- Course to consider: MEd Psychology of Education
- International fees: £24,000
Study Masters in Education Psychology in the UK
Contact SI-UK London today if you want to learn more about studying master's in education psychology in the UK and book a free consultation to begin your application for the upcoming intake.
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