The Department of Educational Psychology (EPSY) addresses themes of cognition, behavior, and emotion within our society by generating research, disseminating knowledge, and preparing a diverse body of scholars who take leadership in their fields while enhancing the development and effective functioning of individuals, schools and families. We aspire to be regionally, nationally and internationally recognized for excellence in producing knowledge, providing service, and preparing scholars and professionals who will be leaders within educational and community settings.

Degree programs in educational psychology focus on physical, cognitive and social-emotional growth and change across the lifespan with regard to developmental norms; investigation of interpersonal relationships both inside and outside the family unit; application of knowledge regarding human development and exceptionalities in the educational environment; research, measurement, statistics and program evaluation; assessment of individuals in educational settings; and the needs of special populations with regard to education and intervention.

Admission process/requirements for master’s degrees

The Department of Educational Psychology application includes a two-step process: the graduate school application and the departmental application.

Step 1, Toulouse Graduate School application

Apply through the Toulouse Graduate School at www.applytexas.org. Submit application fee and official transcripts from all schools attended to their office. If the minimum GPA requirements are met, the packet will be forwarded to the department for review. You must meet the admission requirements of the Toulouse Graduate School, including a minimum 3.4 GPA on a master’s degree work (if applying with a master’s degree), 2.8 on bachelor’s (if applying without a master’s degree), or (alternatively) GPA of 3.0 on the last 60 credit hours you took if applying with a bachelor’s degree.

Step 2, Departmental admissions process/requirements

1. Submission of official GRE scores is required: verbal, quantitative and analytical writing. The department views high GRE scores as positive indicators of potential success in the programs; however, low GRE scores do not exclude a candidate who shows positive indicators in other areas. GRE scores must be sent electronically from ETS, institutional code 6481.
2. At least two written letters of recommendation from individuals who can give evidence of the candidate’s reading, critical thinking, writing and mathematical skills. These letters can be sent from the reference, signed and on letterhead.
3. Resume or vita that includes the candidate’s previous work and/or educational experiences.
4. A personal statement (1–3 pages) is required, stating your goals and rationale for applying to the desired degree concentration. In this statement, please make sure to include a brief description of your job experiences. For example, if you have teaching experience, or if you have experience working with special populations, please summarize these experiences, and explain how they are linked to your educational aspirations. Also, if you have any research and/or evaluation experiences, please summarize them and link to your current degree application.
5. All program application materials, including official GRE scores, must be received within two months of the submitted application.

Note: Educational Diagnostician Concentration also requires a copy of your teaching certificate and two years experience as a fully licensed teacher.