10 Affordable Online Master's in Educational Psychology Degrees 2026

Educational psychology focuses on understanding how people learn and how teachers, schools, and educational programs can best support that process. It applies psychological principles to areas like motivation, memory, classroom behavior, and instructional strategies, all factors that help educators create effective learning environments for students of all ages.

Earning a master’s in educational psychology online can prepare you for a variety of career paths. Graduates often work in schools as instructional coordinators or assessment specialists, contribute to research that shapes education policy, design training programs for organizations, or provide consulting services to improve teaching and learning outcomes.

Studying online offers the flexibility to learn from home, balance coursework with work or family responsibilities, and often complete your degree at your own pace. This article highlights inexpensive online master’s programs in educational psychology, so that you can find an option that meets your career goals, learning style, and budget.

What Is an Online Master’s in Educational Psychology?

An online master’s in educational psychology is all about understanding how people learn and what helps them succeed. You’ll explore topics like learning theory, student motivation, assessment methods, and program evaluation. 

Along the way, you’ll learn how social, cultural, and emotional factors affect learning, and how to create programs and strategies that really make a difference. You’ll also develop important skills like analyzing data, communicating clearly, and solving problems, which prepare you for roles such as instructional coordinator, educational researcher, curriculum developer, or consultant. With this knowledge, you can help schools, organizations, and communities improve learning experiences and support students’ growth.

Can You Earn an Educational Psychology Master’s Online?  

Yes, many accredited schools now offer an educational psychology online master’s, so you can complete most or all of your coursework from home. You’ll take classes in learning theory, research methods, educational assessment, and program development. 

Some programs are fully online, while others may include a short in-person component, like a practicum or internship, especially if you’re focusing on hands-on practice. Studying online gives you the ability to balance school with work, family, or other commitments, making it easier to reach your goals without relocating.

How Long Does an Online Educational Psychology Master’s Take?  

The time it takes to earn an online master’s in educational psychology can vary depending on the program and your schedule. Most full-time students finish in about two years, which is a typical timeline for a standard program. If you want to move faster, some schools offer accelerated options that let you complete your degree in as little as 12 to 18 months. 

On the other hand, if you need to balance school with work or family, part-time programs allow you to spread out your coursework over three or more years. Keep in mind that the number of required credits, the pacing of online courses, and any in-person components like practicums or internships can also affect how long it takes you to graduate.

How Much Does an Online Master's in Educational Psychology Cost? 

The cost of an online master’s in educational psychology can vary widely, but most programs fall between $10,000 and $40,000 in total tuition. Several factors can affect the price, like the number of credits required to complete the degree, whether you qualify for in-state tuition, and any additional fees for technology, textbooks, or program materials. Some programs may also charge for practicum or internship placements, especially if you need supervision hours in your community. 

Choosing an affordable program can make it easier to earn your degree without taking on excessive debt. Financial aid, scholarships, and employer tuition reimbursement programs can also help reduce costs.

Most Affordable Online Master's in Educational Psychology Degrees

We’ve ranked these master’s in educational psychology programs based on affordability, accreditation, and overall program quality to help you find an option that fits your budget and meets your career goals. 

1. Fort Hays State University  

Fort Hays State University (FHSU) offers an online Master of Science (MS) in school psychology designed for students seeking flexibility without sacrificing academic rigor. Delivered fully online, the program allows part-time or full-time study and mirrors the structure of FHSU’s on-campus option. Students travel to campus only once for a five-day summer workshop focused on child appraisal, while all other coursework is completed virtually. 

The curriculum follows a science-practitioner model, preparing graduates to apply both theory and research to practical challenges in K-12 schools. With additional opportunities to continue into the educational specialist (EdS) doctoral degree program, FHSU provides a clear pathway to careers supporting students, teachers, and families in diverse educational settings.

• Estimated tuition cost: $349 per credit hour
• Financial aid: FHSU offers loans, grants, scholarships, and employment opportunities through federal, state, and university sources.
• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)

2. University of Georgia

At the University of Georgia (UGA), you can pursue an online Master of Education (MEd) in educational psychology, applied cognition, and development. This program is for educators and professionals who want to understand how people learn and develop over time. 

You’ll explore topics like cognitive development, learning theories, memory, motivation, and research methods. Plus, you get to choose a secondary focus, such as learning with technology, learning across the lifespan, qualitative approaches to education, quantitative methods, or development of higher intellectual capability, to align with your career goals.

• Estimated tuition cost: $645 per credit hour
• Financial aid: UGA provides federal and state grants, scholarships, and work-study opportunities. Completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) helps determine your eligibility.
• Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)

3. Florida State University  

Florida State University’s (FSU) online MS in educational psychology with a specialization in learning and cognition helps you understand how students think, process information, and develop learning strategies. There are two tracks in this program: thesis and coursework only.  The coursework-only track requires 30 total credit hours, including 15 in core psychology, six in specialization, and nine to 10 in research. It skips the thesis, making it better suited for terminal master’s students.

The thesis track emphasizes original research, requiring 12 core psychology hours, six in a chosen specialization, nine to 12 in research methods, and six thesis hours. Students develop a research proposal, conduct independent studies, and complete a thesis under faculty guidance, which is ideal preparation for doctoral study.

• Estimated tuition cost: $444 per credit hour (in-state); $1,139 per credit hour (out-of-state)
• Financial aid: FSU offers federal and state grants, scholarships, and work-study programs. Completing the FAFSA helps you determine eligibility.
• Accreditation: SACSCOC

4. Ball State University

Ball State University (BSU) provides an online Master of Arts (MA) in educational psychology for students interested in human development and learning. The program covers cognitive and social development, learning theories, assessment, and research methods. 

The program offers a highly customizable plan of study. Students can tailor electives or select specializations in the following areas:

• applied behavior analysis
• gifted and talented
• human development
• institutional research
• neuropsychology for teaching and learning

Online certificates in related fields can also be applied toward the degree to expand career opportunities in schools and beyond. Bear in mind that this is not a program that leads to licensure. You'll have to enroll in the on-campus program for that.

• Estimated tuition cost: $464 per credit hour
• Financial aid: BSU provides federal and state grants, scholarships, and work-study opportunities. Completing the FAFSA helps determine eligibility.
• Accreditation: HLC

5. University of Alabama

At the University of Alabama (UA), you can earn an online MA in educational psychology with a focus on learning and assessment. This program is perfect if you want to understand how students learn, how to measure learning effectively, and how to apply psychological principles to educational settings. 

You’ll study learning theory, assessment strategies, motivation, and research methods. Graduates leave prepared for roles in schools, educational research, instructional design, or consulting, but are not eligible for licensure as a school psychologist.

• Estimated tuition cost: $480 per credit hour
• Financial aid: UA offers federal and state grants, scholarships, and work-study opportunities. Completing the FAFSA helps you determine eligibility.
• Accreditation: SACSCOC

6. Oklahoma State University

Oklahoma State University (OSU) provides an online MS in educational psychology designed for professionals who want to understand human learning and development. While taking the required 36 credit hours, you’ll explore topics like cognitive and social development, learning theory, assessment, and research methods. You also have the option to enroll in the thesis or non-thesis track.

The program offers both in-state and out-of-state tuition options and is delivered entirely online. Graduates are prepared to work in schools, training programs, research, or educational consulting.

• Estimated tuition cost: $489 per credit hour (in-state); $530 per credit hour (out-of-state)
• Financial aid: OSU offers federal and state grants, scholarships, and work-study opportunities. Completing the FAFSA helps determine eligibility.
• Accreditation: HLC

7. University of North Texas

The University of North Texas (UNT) offers an online MS in educational psychology with a concentration in learning and development through its College of Education. This 33-credit program gives you the chance to study human development across the lifespan, from infancy through adulthood, while also building a strong foundation in educational psychology. 

You’ll explore how physical, cognitive, social, and emotional factors shape learning and motivation across different contexts. The flexible degree plan includes four electives, letting you customize your studies to match your career goals. Graduates are prepared for roles in schools, community programs, nonprofits, government, and research organizations that support individuals and families.

• Estimated tuition cost: $466 per credit hour
• Financial aid: UNT provides federal and state grants, scholarships, and work-study opportunities. Completing the FAFSA helps determine eligibility.
• Accreditation: SACSCOC

8. University of Missouri 

At the University of Missouri (MU), you can pursue an online MEd in educational, school, and counseling psychology degree with an emphasis in positive coaching and Athletic leadership. The program blends sport psychology, positive coaching, and athletic training to empower educators, coaches, trainers, and administrators. Delivered online in eight-week sessions, the flexible schedule allows part-time completion in about 2.5 years or full-time in one year. 

The curriculum covers 21 hours of core courses, including Sport and Applied Coaching Psychology, Positive Psychology, Applied Positive Coaching, Coaching for Inclusive Excellence, and Positive Leadership in Sport. This is alongside nine hours of electives covering topics like student-athlete wellbeing, resiliency, ethics, and motivation. 

• Estimated tuition cost: $590 per credit hour
• Financial aid: MU provides federal and state grants, scholarships, and work-study opportunities. Completing the FAFSA helps determine eligibility.
• Accreditation: HLC

9. University of Northern Colorado 

The University of Northern Colorado offers an online MS in educational psychology with a concentration in teaching applications, built specifically for teachers who want to strengthen how they approach learning in the classroom. The program uses problem-based learning methods so you can use your own classroom as a living lab for studying student motivation, diversity, and teaching strategies. 

Assignments are practical and allow you to revise lesson plans, test new programs, and design assessments while getting feedback from peers and instructors. You’ll also study brain science, culture’s role in learning, and how to develop student confidence. This flexible program helps you apply research to real challenges and grow into a more effective educator.

• Estimated tuition cost: $668 per credit hour
• Financial aid: UNC’s Office of Financial Aid supports students with scholarships, grants, and federal aid options
• Accreditation: HLC

10. Texas A&M University

Texas A&M University offers an online MEd in educational psychology with an emphasis in developmental sciences, designed for students interested in how people grow and learn across the lifespan. The program explores biological, psychological, and cultural factors that shape behavior, personality, relationships, and learning from infancy through adulthood. 

This degree prepares you to serve children, youth, and families in diverse communities. Graduates pursue careers in schools, nonprofits, higher education, and human services, working as academic advisors, data analysts, family educators, or youth service coordinators. 

• Estimated tuition cost: $787 per credit hour (in-state); $1,314 per credit hour (out-of-state)
• Financial aid: TAMU offers federal and state grants, scholarships, and work-study opportunities. Completing the FAFSA helps determine eligibility.
• Accreditation: SACSCOC

How We Rank Schools

Our rankings are based on practical factors that help you choose a program that’s both high quality and a smart investment. We look at the following criteria:

• Accreditation: Accreditation ensures each program meets recognized academic standards and provides the quality you need for career advancement.
• Affordability: Affordability reflects tuition rates and required fees, highlighting programs that offer strong educational value without overwhelming costs.
• Program reputation: Program reputation is based on faculty expertise, student success, and professional partnerships that strengthen both learning and career outcomes.

What To Expect in an Online Educational Psychology Master’s Program

In an online educational psychology master’s program, you’ll explore how people learn and what influences learning outcomes. Typical coursework includes learning theory, educational measurement, assessment methods, cognitive and social development, and research methods. 

Many programs also offer classes on motivation, program evaluation, and the application of psychological principles in diverse learning environments. Sometimes you may need to complete a practicum or fieldwork component so that you have hands-on experience in schools, training programs, or other educational settings. Through these experiences, you’ll develop practical skills such as analyzing learning challenges, designing effective instructional strategies, conducting assessments, and applying evidence-based interventions. 

You’ll also strengthen critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication abilities, which are essential for collaborating with teachers, administrators, and students. By the time you graduate, you’ll be ready to apply your knowledge and skills in real-world educational settings, helping learners achieve their full potential.

Career Paths With an Educational Psychology Degree 

Graduates with a master’s in educational psychology can pursue a variety of rewarding careers. Many become instructional coordinators, designing curricula and implementing learning strategies in schools or districts. Others work as educational researchers, studying how students learn and evaluating programs to improve outcomes. 

Training and development specialists apply educational psychology in corporate or organizational settings, creating employee learning programs and professional development initiatives. Academic advisors and student support specialists help guide learners in higher education. Work environments include K-12 schools, colleges and universities, research organizations, nonprofit organizations, and corporate training departments. 

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, instructional coordinators earn a median salary of $74,720 per year, while training specialists and educational researchers earn around $65,000 depending on experience and location. Job growth in these fields is strong, reflecting ongoing demand for skilled professionals who can improve learning and educational programs.

Where You Can Work With a Master's in Educational Psychology 

With a master’s in educational psychology, you can work in a variety of settings that support learning and development. Many graduates find positions in K-12 schools, helping design curricula, assess student progress, and support teachers in creating effective learning environments. 

Universities and colleges offer opportunities in research, academic advising, and student support services. Government agencies and nonprofit organizations often hire educational psychology professionals to evaluate programs, develop training initiatives, and improve educational outcomes. 

Private education companies also employ graduates to design instructional materials, conduct training programs, and develop educational technologies. Across these settings, your knowledge of learning theory, assessment methods, and program evaluation allows you to positively impact learners of all ages and contribute to the success of educational programs.

FAQs About Online Master's in Educational Psychology Degrees

Below, we answer some of the most common questions about earning an online master’s in educational psychology, including program structure, online study, and potential career paths.

Is an Online Master's in Educational Psychology Worth It?

Educational psychology master’s programs online can be a smart investment if you’re looking to advance your career in education, research, or training. While tuition varies, the degree opens doors to higher-paying roles, leadership positions, and specialized opportunities in schools, universities, nonprofits, and corporate learning environments.

Are Online Educational Psychology Degrees Respected by Employers? 

Yes, accredited online educational psychology programs are recognized by employers and professional organizations. They equip you with practical skills in learning theory, assessment, and program evaluation, ensuring you’re prepared to contribute effectively in schools, research settings, or training roles. Employer recognition focuses on both your credential and your demonstrated abilities.

Can You Work in a School With an Educational Psychology Master's?

Graduates can work in various school-based roles, including instructional coordinators, student support specialists, academic advisors, or school psychologists (with proper licensure). These positions involve designing curricula, assessing student needs, and supporting teachers and learners, giving you the chance to directly improve educational outcomes in K-12 settings.

What Are the Admission Requirements for an Educational Psychology Master's? 

Most programs require a bachelor’s degree in education, psychology, or a related field, a minimum GPA around 3.0, and submission of transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a personal statement. Some programs may also request standardized test scores or relevant professional experience, depending on the school and specialization.

Do Online Educational Psychology Programs Require the GRE? 

Many online educational psychology programs do not require the GRE, especially for applicants with relevant experience or a strong academic record. Some schools may request test scores but often offer waivers if you meet GPA thresholds, have professional experience, or hold an advanced degree, making admission more accessible.

Can I Specialize Within an Educational Psychology Program?

Yes, many programs offer concentrations that let you focus on your interests. Common areas include learning analytics, gifted education, instructional design, or assessment and evaluation. Specializing allows you to develop expertise in a particular area, tailoring your studies to your career goals and enhancing your qualifications for specific roles in education or research.

Discover More Affordable Online Psychology Degrees 

If you’re interested in educational psychology, you might also explore other affordable online master’s programs in related fields. By using Learn.org, you can compare programs to help you find the right fit for your goals, budget, and schedule. Take the next step in your professional journey and discover the programs that match your interests and career ambitions.