PROFESSIONAL DOCTORATE IN EDUCATIONAL PSYCHOLOGY

The Professional Doctorate in Educational Psychology (D.Ed.Psych.) at Maynooth University is a three-year full-time, postgraduate programme designed to develop highly skilled, ethical, and reflective educational psychologists. Jointly led by the Department of Psychology and the Department of Education, the programme is grounded in Maynooth University's core values, with a strong emphasis on equality, diversity, and inclusion.

This innovative programme integrates psychological and educational theory, research, and practice equipping graduates to integrate psychological knowledge effectively in educational settings, enabling them to positively impact children, young people and families.

Over the three years, trainees will develop expertise in the core skills of assessment, intervention, consultation, and research within a variety of educational and service settings. They will gain hands-on experience working with children, young people, families and professionals, ensuring they are well-prepared to support the learning, development, and emotional wellbeing of children and young people.

ACCREDITATION

The programme is designed to address two sets of standards relevant to the field of educational psychology. Drawing from its connection to professionals in the field and the research that guides policy, the programme is well positioned to respond to the soon to be released accreditation standards for education and training programmes set by the Health and Care Professional Council (CORÚ), Ireland’s multi-profession health regulator. Prior to their release, the programme has been designed to ensure that it meets the Psychological Society of Ireland (PSI) accreditation requirements.

ADMISSIONS PROCESS

A shortlist of applications will be developed based on initial entry requirements. Shortlisted candidates who meet eligibility criteria will be invited to an interview. The suitability of applicants will be assessed based on academic qualifications, professional experience, interpersonal and communication skills. Previous research experience and demonstrated potential for doctoral-level research will also be relevant considerations. Additionally, the selection process will evaluate overall suitability for the programme and the references provided. Successful candidates must complete Garda vetting before final acceptance into the course.

FUNDING

Successful applicants will be funded through a bursary scheme. This is currently valued at €40,000 per year to support payment of course fees and living expenses. Graduates of the programme will be guaranteed employment in National Educational Psychological Services (NEPS) for a period of at least three years

FAQ's : Please see here for Professional Doctorate of Educational Psychology FAQ's.

Applicants are required to have the following:

A first or upper second-class honours (2.1) degree in psychology or an equivalent qualification in psychology, recognised by the Psychological Society of Ireland (PSI) or equivalent, as conferring eligibility for Graduate Membership.

The equivalent of two year's relevant full-time experience working in the field of education, psychology or relevant healthcare settings.

Minimum English language requirements: please visit Maynooth UniversityInternational Office websitefor information about English language tests accepted and required scores. The requirements specified are applicable for both EU and non-EU applicants.

National University of Ireland Maynooth’s TOEFL code is 8850

FAQ's : Please see here for Professional Doctorate of Educational Psychology FAQ's.

IELTS : 6.5 with no less than 6.0 in each band

Duolingo English Test (DET) : The minimum requirement will be a DET score of 120 - with at least 110 in each individual subscore. 

Pearson Test of English : 63 with no less than 59 for each item in the Communicative Skills section

TOEFL internet-based test  : iBT: 90 with no less than 21 in writing and at least 19 in every other section

The Professional Doctorate in Educational Psychology (D.Ed.Psych.) at Maynooth University will prepare students to work as Educational Psychologists. Educational psychologists work in a variety of education support services including the National Educational Psychological Service (NEPS). Trainees who are in receipt of a NEPS bursary will be expected to adhere to the funding conditions which includes a commitment to work with the service for a specified period of time post qualification. Some educational psychologists opt to work in services in the UK, in private practice or teach on academic programmes.