Program Overview

The master of arts (MA) in applied educational psychology is an advanced degree program for practicing educators and other professionals working in educationally related services who are seeking to expand their knowledge, skills and professional effectiveness to improve the academic and social outcomes for school-aged children, adolescents and their families. The field of educational psychology provides a significant source of scientific insights into teaching, learning, motivation and maturation. Educational psychology coursework develops knowledge and skills in several areas including assessment of learning differences, developmental processes, recognition of human diversity, effective instruction, evidence-based decision-making, research and program evaluation, and technological applications.

Students in this program are encouraged to be self-reflective, to develop good communication skills and to work cooperatively with others. Graduates of applied educational psychology know how to identify learners' strengths and needs, to individualize instruction, to conduct research investigations, to facilitate creative problem-solving, to promote well-being and resilience, and to develop psychoeducational curricula and interventions to foster life competencies. In keeping with the mission of Webster University, MA students in applied educational psychology are encouraged to gain "international perspectives" and to develop "a lifelong desire to learn and a commitment to contribute actively to their communities and the world."

This program is not designed for individuals pursuing licensure in clinical psychology, counseling psychology or professional counseling.

Learning Outcomes
Graduates of this program are able to:

• Demonstrate and apply knowledge of psychology to education in order to facilitate and inspire student learning and creativity, and to promote social-emotional well-being of students.
• Use assessment and progress data collected in classrooms, schools or community settings to make evidence-based decisions regarding effective instructional and curricular interventions and practices for individual students and groups of students.
• Understand, apply and conduct educational research.
• Demonstrate respect for diversity through responsive teaching that values individual differences in cultural, socioeconomic, ethnic, linguistic and national/international backgrounds, as well as abilities and disabilities.
• Promote and model global/digital age citizenship and responsibility.
• Develop self-assessment skills and the ability to reflect on roles educators can take as leaders of change in the 21st century.
• Engage in professional growth and leadership.
• Collaborate effectively with others in designing, developing and guiding decision-making at the individual, class-wide, school or community level.