Doctorate in Educational Psychology (EdPsyD)

In year 1 you will, on average, spend two days in university, two days on placement in a psychology service, school or specialist setting and a further one day for private study. During this year you will be introduced to key concepts and ideas critical to the work of Educational Psychologists and the contexts in which you will work. Whilst on placement you will be supervised by a UEA tutor and have access to an assigned supervisor in the service or setting that you are working. Here you will begin to integrate theory and practice. At university, you will cover a range of topics, including professional practice skills (i.e. consultation, assessment and intervention), working with children, young people and families, SEND and Children’s Services systems and an introduction to research.

In years 2 and 3 you will build on and return to concepts introduced in year 1, with a greater emphasis on developing your professional identity. You will spend a greater portion of your time in work placement which will be based at one of our partner psychology services. You will also begin your doctoral thesis supported by a supervisor based at the UEA.

Your doctoral research will take place across years 2 and 3, with support from your supervisory team. Your team will include research active members of UEA staff and, if appropriate, an educational psychologist from your placement. Data collection and analysis, plus the development and writing of your thesis is likely to be undertaken through independent research study as opposed to during the time on your practice placement. However, you should be flexible as the exact structure will depend on your topic and if relevant arrangements with your placement provider.

If you are considering applying for this course, you should be aware that along with being intellectually stimulating and a route to a rewarding profession, it will require commitment and will, at times, be demanding.

You will have to balance work placements, independent research and additional study. The course also follows the school year rather than a University academic year. Your placements will most likely run through the summer months of June, July and August. Periods of annual leave will be limited and will need to be agreed in consultation with practice placements and in line with University Regulations. Doctoral students do not follow the semester or term format and candidates for the degree of Educational Psychology will be expected to study on their course at all times except for agreed Annual Leave.