Educational Psychology

Educational psychology applies the theories and methods of psychology to the contexts of education, examining how people learn, what supports or hinders development and achievement, how individual differences in cognition, motivation and social behaviour affect educational outcomes, and what kinds of interventions and environments best promote the flourishing of children and young people. It is a discipline that bridges psychological science and educational practice, and it is the foundation for the professional training of qualified educational psychologists who work in schools, educational authorities and multi-agency teams.

At the University of Manchester this programme provides a strong grounding in educational psychology across its breadth, covering cognitive development, learning theory, social and emotional development, special educational needs, inclusive education, measurement and assessment in education, and the psychological dimensions of teaching and school organisation. The programme runs full time over three years within one of the UK's leading research universities. Manchester's dual strengths in psychology and education create an intellectually rich context for the study of their intersection.

You will develop skills in psychological theory, educational research methods, quantitative and qualitative data analysis, critical evaluation of evidence and professional communication. The British Psychological Society-accredited programme provides the Graduate Basis for Chartered Membership, which is the essential foundation for further professional training as an educational psychologist.

Graduates from educational psychology programmes typically progress to doctoral training in educational psychology, which is the route to qualification and registration as an Educational Psychologist with the Health and Care Professions Council. Others move into roles in educational research, school improvement, special educational needs coordination, learning support, educational assessment and child development services. Postgraduate study in educational psychology, clinical psychology, special education or a related field is a common next step.