Become an expert in school and human service organizations with an advanced degree in counseling and psychology in education. You may pursue an M.A., Ed.S., or Ph.D. in human development and educational psychology. Our small class size allows you to develop one-on-one relationships with faculty as you gain the necessary skills to serve the educational and mental health needs of children. Learn more at usd.edu/cpe.
DELIVERY: On campus
Specialist in Education, Human Development and Educational Psychology
The specialist degree requires a minimum of 36 hours beyond the master’s degree in a related field. The requirements can be tailored to the student’s needs and career goals with the approval of their graduate committee.
Master’s Degree
Human Development and Educational Psychology Specialist core 21 credit hours
- As a culminating activity, students complete a six credit-hour research project EDER 888S or EPSY 898S 6 cr hrs. This project will be designed to meet individual interests and needs and is guided by the student’s advisor.
- Upon successful completion of nine credit hours of coursework, students will complete a preliminary examination.
- A final defense of the research project is required before graduation.
General Application Requirements
Completed application
$35 application fee
Official transcripts*
Letters of recommendation*
Statement of purpose
Resume/CV*
*Requirements for admission vary by program and may require different documentation and have different deadlines. This list is not all-inclusive, to view specific program requirements and submission deadlines, follow the “Admissions Information” hyperlink at the top of this page OR visit the specific program/dept. page found here: link.usd.edu/grad-catalog
State Authorization- It Matters Where You Live
If your learning placement course (internship, externship, clinical, rotation, practicum, independent study, study away, etc.) or your online course will be taken outside South Dakota, please reference USD’s State Authorization webpage.