Educational Psychology - Research

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 meet the Accreditation Standards for Professional Doctoral Training in Educational Psychology in Ireland (PSI, 2022) and the process for gaining accreditation is currently underway. In parallel, the programme is designed to comply with the Health and Care Professional Council (CORÚ) Standards of Proficiency and Criteria for Education and Training Programmes for educational psychologists (2025).



Structure

The D.Ed. Psych. will equip trainees with the necessary competencies to work autonomously and collaboratively in a range of professional roles that are performed by educational psychologists (EPs), across a variety of contexts and with a diversity of student and client groups. Learning will be structured using a spiral curriculum framework, developing core skills and competencies over the three years, marked by increased independence, confidence, professional and ethical practice.



Professional placements are a key component of the programme, providing a minimum of 300 days of practical experience across a range of educational settings, including mainstream schools, alternative learning centres, specialist provision and other service environments.



Programme participants will hone their research skills and conduct an independent research project that makes an original contribution to knowledge. The overall aim of the D.Ed. Psych programme is to enable students to effectively integrate theory, research and practice, becoming highly skilled, ethical and critically reflective professional practitioners.



Particularly distinctive features of the Maynooth Professional Doctorate in Educational Psychology include an emphasis on social inclusion, trauma informed services, the use of digital technologies, mental health and the skills of dynamic assessment. We are also the only programme in the State to be run between both departments of education and psychology as equal partners in research, policy and practice.

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. This must be completed prior to application.



Minimum English language requirements: please visit Maynooth University International Office website for information about English language tests accepted and required scores. The requirements specified are applicable for both EU and non-EU applicants. View https://www.maynoothuniversity.ie/study-maynooth/how-apply/english-language-requirements/

National University of Ireland Maynooth's TOEFL code is 8850

Applications for this programme will be opened between 13th and 27th February 2026. Late applications will not be accepted. Candidates are required to apply online via MU Apply - link above.



Interviews will be held week beginning 23rd March 2026. Applicants who are called for interview must be available to attend in person.



Entry into this programme will be competitive and we would urge you to prepare well in advance of applying. To assist we have developed a suite of frequently asked questions - view course webpage - link above.



View "How to Apply" via course webpage link above for information about documents required and vetting.



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.

3 years full-time

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.