Educational Psychology

The Master of Arts in Educational Psychology at The University of New Mexico offers a comprehensive program designed to prepare students for careers in research, teaching, and applied settings related to human learning and development within educational contexts. This program provides students with a strong foundation in psychological theories, research methodologies, and practical applications relevant to educational environments. The curriculum emphasizes both the theoretical understanding of cognitive, social, and emotional processes that influence learning, as well as the development of skills necessary to apply this knowledge effectively in schools, universities, and community programs.

Students in this program have the opportunity to customize their studies through various specialization areas, including instructional design, learning sciences, assessment, and developmental psychology. They engage in rigorous coursework covering topics such as learning theories, educational measurement, program evaluation, and statistics, enabling them to conduct meaningful research and analyze educational data. The program also emphasizes experiential learning, encouraging students to implement evidence-based strategies in real-world settings through internships, practicum experiences, and collaborative research projects with faculty members.

The faculty members are distinguished experts in fields related to educational psychology, with active research agendas focused on areas such as cognitive development, motivation, educational technology, and special education. Students benefit from a research-oriented environment that fosters critical thinking and innovative problem-solving skills. The program aims to prepare graduates for doctoral study, research positions in educational institutions, or roles in policy development and educational consulting.

Completion of this master's program also provides a pathway to licensure and certification in educational settings, depending on individual career goals. Graduates emerge equipped with a comprehensive understanding of the psychological principles underlying effective teaching and learning, as well as the analytical skills necessary to conduct research, develop educational programs, and support diverse learner populations. The University of New Mexico’s Educational Psychology program is committed to advancing both the science and practice of education, striving to improve learning outcomes and promote healthy development for learners of all ages.

A Masters of Arts (M.A.) degree in Educational Psychology is offered under both Plan I (30 credit hours required), and Plan II (33 credit hours required) as described in other sections of this Catalog. All students in either Plan I or Plan II are required to take a core of 15 credit hours as follows:

The “or” selections are made in consultation with the student’s advisor and Committee on Studies. Students who intend to go on to the Ph.D. should choose EDPY 505, 511, and 574. More advanced courses may also be substituted with permission.

• Completed international admissions application
• Must hold a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in the United States or its equivalent in another country.
• Generally, applicants must have a cumulative grade point average of at least 3.0 (B) or its equivalent in their last two undergraduate years and in their major field.
• $70.00 application fee
• Official English language proficiency results from either the TOEFL, IELTS, PTE-Academic, or Cambridge CPE or CAE
• Complete transcripts and degree certificates with official English translations, if necessary, from all post-secondary schools attended must be uploaded to the graduate application
• Official academic transcripts and degree certificates and with official English translations, if necessary, from all post-secondary institutions attended
• Financial Responsibility form and official bank statements

The University of New Mexico offers a comprehensive range of financial aid options for students pursuing a Degree in Educational Psychology. Prospective students are encouraged to explore federal, state, and institutional funding opportunities to support their academic goals. Federal financial aid programs such as the Federal Pell Grant, Federal Work-Study, and Federal Direct Loans are available to eligible students, providing necessary funding to cover tuition, books, and living expenses. Applicants must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) annually to determine their eligibility for these federal aid programs.

In addition to federal aid, the University of New Mexico offers institutional scholarships specifically aimed at graduate students in the field of Educational Psychology. These scholarships are awarded based on academic performance, financial need, and potential contributions to the university community. Graduate assistantships are also available, which typically provide a stipend and tuition remission in exchange for research, teaching, or administrative responsibilities within the department.

Students are encouraged to seek external funding sources, including private scholarships offered by educational foundations and professional organizations related to psychology and education. The university's Office of Financial Aid and Scholarships provides detailed guidance and resources to assist students in identifying and applying for these additional funding opportunities.

Loan options include federal Direct Stafford Loans and Grad PLUS Loans, which can be used to finance graduate studies. Loan eligibility and borrowing limits are determined through the FAFSA process and the university's financial aid policies. Repayment terms vary depending on the loan type, and students are advised to carefully consider their financial planning before borrowing.

The university also offers payment plans to help students manage tuition payments over a semester or academic year, making educational expenses more manageable. Students are encouraged to meet with financial aid advisors early in their academic planning to explore all available options and ensure timely submission of necessary applications.

International students seeking to study Educational Psychology at UNM should investigate specific visa and funding requirements, including potential scholarships designated for international students. It’s advisable to contact the university’s Office of International Admissions and Financial Aid early to understand available options.

Overall, the University of New Mexico is committed to ensuring that financial constraints do not hinder qualified students from pursuing their educational goals. By leveraging a combination of federal aid, institutional scholarships, assistantships, external scholarships, and manageable payment plans, students can create a tailored financial plan that aligns with their academic pursuits and personal circumstances.

The Educational Psychology program at The University of New Mexico offers students a comprehensive understanding of how individuals learn and develop within educational settings. The program is designed to prepare graduates for careers in educational research, teaching, counseling, and other roles that require a deep understanding of learning processes and psychological principles. Students engaging in this program have the opportunity to explore various topics including cognitive development, learning theories, motivation, assessment, and the social aspects of education. The curriculum incorporates both theoretical foundations and practical applications, enabling students to develop skills in designing, implementing, and evaluating educational programs and interventions. The program is suitable for those interested in advancing their careers in public education, research institutions, or policy development related to education and psychology. It often includes coursework in research methods, statistics, and pedagogical strategies, alongside supervised practica or internships that provide real-world experience. The faculty involved are typically experts in educational psychology, and they often engage in ongoing research that students can participate in. Graduates of the program are well-equipped to undertake doctoral studies or to enter professional roles that aim to improve educational outcomes for diverse populations. The program may also offer specializations or concentrations to allow students to focus on areas such as special education, school psychology, or counseling. Overall, the Educational Psychology program at The University of New Mexico is committed to fostering research, scholarship, and professional development in the field of education, aligning with the university's dedication to service, community engagement, and innovation in teaching and learning.