Degree Requirements for PhD Educational Psychology

Coursework Credit Hours: 76 Credits

Dissertation: 14+ Credits

TOTAL: 90+ Credits

Comprehensive Exams: Required three-part exam (on-campus written exam, take-home exam, oral exam)
Fieldwork: Required 3-credit, 180 hours experience
Dissertation: Required

Length of Program

The length of each student’s program may vary based on prior transferable graduate coursework.  A typical student, entering with a master’s degree, may be able to complete the doctoral coursework in 3+ years and a dissertation in 1-2 years.  The Graduate Psychology & Counseling Department requires students to complete all degree requirements within 7 years of beginning the program.  

Additional important information about being a doctoral student in the School of Education can be found in the Doctoral Handbook. Students are strongly encouraged to read this handbook carefully along with the University’s Academic Bulletin.  Degree requirements can also be found by viewing the Educational Psychology program located in the Academic Bulletin and the Program Handbook.

Master’s En Route

Students accepted into the PhD in Educational Psychology, without a prior master’s degree in that field, are eligible to apply for the MA in Educational Psychology and complete it en route to their PhD.  

Comprehensive Exams

In addition to required coursework, all students must pass the comprehensive exam.  The exams are held three times each year in March, June, and October.  Specific dates can be obtained from the Graduate Services Coordinator, or the department’s Administrative Assistant.