Educational Psychology University of California, Riverside

Overview

The Educational Psychology programme at the University of California, Riverside provides students with a sophisticated understanding of human development and educational assessment. This curriculum is specifically designed to prepare graduates for influential roles in research, school district leadership, or advanced doctoral studies.

Students benefit from an integrative training environment that emphasises both quantitative and qualitative research methods. The faculty members are deeply involved in interdisciplinary efforts across the institution, conducting vital research directly in classrooms to improve modern educational practices and student outcomes.

Why Educational Psychology at the University of California, Riverside?

The School of Education offers a distinctive teaching environment where research is translated into transformative action. Students have access to specialised centres and labs that focus on cognitive development and STEM learning, ensuring they remain at the forefront of pedagogical innovation.

A significant advantage of this programme is the seamless pathway it provides toward doctoral qualification. All credits earned during the Master of Arts can be transferred to a Ph.D. in Education at the university, potentially shortening the time required to achieve a doctorate by a full academic year.

The programme is structured to accommodate diverse professional schedules, with classes typically meeting once per week in the late afternoon. This flexibility allows students to progress at their own pace while engaging with a curriculum that balances theoretical knowledge with practical research applications.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

• International fee: USD 12005 per semester
• National fee: USD 12005 per semester
• Local fee: USD 4490 per semester

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The curriculum offers two distinct pathways: Plan I, which focuses on a research thesis, and Plan II, which culminates in a comprehensive examination. Modules and research areas may include:

• Cognition
• Quantitative Methods
• STEM Teaching and Learning
• Teacher and School Evaluation and Improvement
• Student Learning and Development
• Measurement and Assessment
• Programme Evaluation
• Qualitative Methods
• Cognitive Development

Careers with Educational Psychology

Graduates are well-equipped for diverse professional roles across the public and private sectors. Many alumni secure positions within government agencies, such as the U.S. Department of Education or the California Department of Education, focusing on policy and school improvement.

The programme also prepares individuals for careers in high-level assessment and testing organisations, including Pearson and ETS. Common job titles for graduates include educational researcher, assessment technician, school improvement facilitator, and science content specialist within various educational settings.

Furthermore, many students transition into roles within higher education or join prominent non-profit research institutions like RAND and WestEd. The rigorous training in research methodology ensures that graduates are highly competitive in the global job market for educational specialists.