This Online Master’s In Education Isn’t Just For Teachers

When you think of an online master’s in education, you may immediately picture a program designed for teachers. However, The University of Alabama’s Master of Arts in Educational Psychology, with a concentration in Learning and Assessment, goes beyond traditional classroom teaching. 

This degree equips professionals with valuable skills that can be applied in various fields such as assessment and testing, curriculum design, government agencies, corporations, nonprofits, youth ministries, and counseling. 

Let’s explore how this program is relevant to a wide range of careers.

What is Educational Psychology?

Educational psychology focuses on understanding how people learn and retain information. It involves studying human behavior, cognition, motivation, and development to design effective learning experiences. 

In the context of this program, educational psychology is paired with learning and assessment, helping professionals create and evaluate educational and training programs in diverse environments.

Applications Beyond the Classroom

While this degree is beneficial for educators, its practical applications extend far beyond schools. Here’s how graduates can leverage their skills in various sectors:

• Assessment and Testing Services: The program equips you to design and implement testing tools for educational institutions, corporations, and even certification programs.

• Curriculum Design: Graduates can develop training programs, courses, and educational tools not only for schools but also for corporations, government agencies, and nonprofits.

• Government Agencies: Educational psychologists play a crucial role in public policy, designing and evaluating programs aimed at improving educational outcomes and workforce development.

• Corporate Training: Many corporations hire experts in learning and assessment to develop employee training programs that enhance productivity and retention.

• Nonprofits: Organizations often need experts to create and evaluate programs that serve diverse populations, ensuring they meet educational and social goals.

• Youth Ministries and Counseling: The degree is also applicable in ministries and counseling services, where understanding behavior, motivation, and development is essential for guiding and mentoring young people. Although it should be noted that this degree does not lead to certification or becoming a school psychologist.

What You’ll Learn in the Program

The curriculum is designed to give you a deep understanding of the principles of learning, assessment, and psychology. Here’s a breakdown of some key courses:

• BER 500 Introduction to Education Research: You’ll learn how to conduct research, which is essential for evaluating educational programs and interventions.

• BER 540 Statistical Methods in Education: This course focuses on statistical analysis, helping you interpret data to improve learning and performance outcomes.

• BEP 500 Advanced Educational Psychology: Deepen your understanding of how psychological principles influence learning and behavior.

• BEP 505 Motivation and Self-Regulation: Learn how to foster motivation and self-regulation in various environments, from classrooms to corporate training.

• BER 660 Evaluation I: Theory and Practice: Gain expertise in evaluating programs and learning outcomes, a skill crucial for roles in testing services, corporate training, and more.

The program also includes a capstone project, where students apply their knowledge in a real-world setting, offering hands-on experience that is highly valued in the job market.

Career Opportunities and Salary Ranges

This degree opens doors to numerous career paths across various industries. Here are some potential roles and their salary ranges based on real data:

1. Educational Assessment Specialist

• Job Description: Develops, implements, and analyzes tests and assessments in educational or corporate settings.

• Salary Range: According to Payscale, the average salary for an Educational Assessment Specialist is around $63,108 per year.

2. Curriculum Designer

• Job Description: Designs and develops educational materials and training programs for schools, businesses, or nonprofits.

• Salary Range: Payscale estimates the average salary for a Curriculum Designer to be around $59,715 annually.

3. Corporate Trainer

• Job Description: Creates and delivers training programs to improve employee skills and knowledge within a company.

• Salary Range: Corporate Trainers can expect to earn an average of $63,120 annually, according to Payscale.

4. Program Evaluator (Government or Nonprofit Sector)

• Job Description: Evaluates the effectiveness of educational and social programs, often working for government agencies or nonprofit organizations.

• Salary Range: The average salary for a Program Evaluator is $67,420, as per Salary.com.

Conclusion

The online Master’s in Educational Psychology, with a concentration in Learning and Assessment from The University of Alabama, is much more than a degree for teachers. 

It equips professionals with the tools needed to excel in diverse industries such as government, corporate training, nonprofits, and more. By focusing on how people learn and how to assess their progress, graduates are prepared to design, evaluate, and improve educational programs across various settings. 

Whether you're looking to advance your career or pivot to a new field, this degree provides the skills and knowledge to make a meaningful impact.

Click here for more information about UA Online’s Master of Arts in Educational Leadership.