Frequently asked Questions ahout the Ph.D. Program

How do I apply?

Applications may be downloaded or submitted online

Admission to the Ph.D program in Educational Psychology is a two-step process. First, the applicant must apply to the UNC Graduate School. Upon evaluation for the minimum admission criteria by the Graduate School, the candidate's application is forwarded to the Educational Psychology Program for faculty review. Reviews by the program faculty are conducted once during the middle of each semester. Offers of financial assistance, however, are made on April 15th each year.

Applications must include the following before review by the program faculty:

As required by the Graduate School: Graduate Record Examination (GRE) score (less than five years old), transcripts of all previous undergraduate and graduate work, and three letters of recommendation. In addition the EPSY program requires that you submit a curriculum vita or resume and a two-page statement describing your career goals and your intended area of specialization.

Applications are evaluated case by case with the following preferences: GPA of 3.5 or higher; combined GRE score of at least 1200 with an analytical writing score of at least 4.0; recommendations that indicate high potential for success in a doctoral research program; and goals that fit well with our program.

How many students are admitted each year?

There is no set number of students admitted.

When do I need to apply?

Decisions regarding admission are communicated to the applicant before the beginning of the next semester. Although students may enroll any semester following admission, they are strongly encouraged to begin their program in either the summer or fall term in order to enter the proper sequencing of courses.

How much will it cost?

Current tuition rates are available online.

Can I complete an M.A. Degree en route to the Ph.D.?

Yes. Students may apply for admission to the Ph.D. in Educational Psychology and complete their M.A. in Educational Psychology on the way to the doctoral degree. The application process and the admission criteria are the same as for the Ph.D. program. Once admitted, students will complete the 30-credit MA program. Students must complete all program requirements (including Comprehensive Examination) for the M.A. in addition to the minimum 67 credit hours required for the Ph.D. Students must be conferred with the M.A. degree prior to admission to doctoral candidacy.

Are courses taught online?

Some courses are taught online, but not all.

Are courses taught in the Denver Metro area?

Some courses are taught in the Denver Metro area, usually in a condensed format over several weekends. Timing of these courses often varies with time of year and instructor availability.

NOTE:  The program does not include K -12 teaching certification or counseling certification. 

For other questions, please contact the Graduate School at 970-351-2831.