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 many varieties of the family unit; application of knowledge regarding human development in the educational environment; research, measurement and statistics; assessment and evaluation of individuals in an educational environment; and the needs of special populations with regard to education, behavior, assessment and evaluation, and decision making.
Faculty in educational psychology work collaboratively toward high-quality intervention-based research that focuses on educational, developmental and social effectiveness outcomes. Four pillars provide focus, structure, fidelity and integrity to this central research theme: investigating the implementation and effectiveness of interventions; targeting exceptional and at-risk populations; applying rigorous scientifically-based research methods; and capitalizing on collaboration and collegiality to achieve synergy and maximum benefits from the collective experience and efforts of faculty and staff.