Department of Educational Psychology

Learning, Behavior, and Human Systems

We are invested in applying the science of learning, behavior, and development to professional practice in educational, community, and mental healthcare settings. Graduates from the Department of Educational Psychology become compassionate and ethical clinical mental health and school counselors, counseling and school psychologists, behavioral health professionals, and community leaders who make an impact every day.

The Department of Educational Psychology includes nationally accredited programs recognized by APA, CACREP, and NASP across key counseling and psychology pathways. NAU’s Combined Counseling/School Psychology PhD is the only APA-accredited combined program in Arizona and one of just three in the country. These distinctions affirm that our accredited programs meet rigorous national standards and prepare graduates for licensure, certification, and professional practice.

Why study Educational Psychology and Helping Professions at NAU

At NAU, students explore the science of learning, behavior, and development through collaborative coursework that connects theory to real-world practice. With undergraduate and graduate programs in counseling, human and community relations, behavioral health, and related helping professions, students build the knowledge and skills needed to support individuals, organizations, and communities.

Graduate programs in School Psychology, Combined Counseling/School Psychology, Clinical Mental Health Counseling, and School Counseling combine strong theoretical training with field-based experience in schools, community mental health settings, and NAU’s counseling clinics located in Flagstaff, Phoenix, Tucson, and Yuma. Flexible scheduling, including daytime and evening programs, makes these pathways accessible across statewide campuses. The Human and Community Relations M.A. program, offered fully online, helps develop expertise in human behavior, leadership, communication, and community engagement, preparing you for a career in education, business, nonprofit organizations, and public service.

As a transfer undergraduate student, the Applied Human Behavior 90-30 program gives you a flexible, affordable pathway to finishing your bachelor’s degree and preparing for careers in behavioral or mental health support, or for graduate study.

How our Programs Prepare Students

Our programs prepare students to:

• support learning and development across settings
• foster mental health and well-being
• lead and serve in educational and community contexts
• apply ethical and evidence-based practices
• address individual and systemic human needs
• become license-eligible in their chosen field, where applicable

Career readiness

Graduates of Educational Psychology are collaborative, responsive, and evidence-based practitioners. Supervised practica, counseling clinics, internships, and faculty-guided research projects ensure you graduate not just with credentials, but with the confidence and clarity to step into impactful careers. Whether working in K–12 schools, higher education, nonprofit agencies, or health care, you can be a change agent—prepared to foster resilience, promote learning, and champion well-being in diverse communities.

Dedicated support

Support here is personal, purposeful, and built to evolve with every student’s journey. Faculty mentorship, peer networks, licensure preparation, and professional seminars keep students connected and ready for what’s next. Workshops and guest lectures expand learning beyond the classroom, while student counseling clinics provide both hands-on training and a vital resource for the community. With a community invested in your success, you’ll find the encouragement, challenge, and resources to thrive.

Intentional mentorship

Learn from faculty who are not only experienced educators but also licensed professionals and active researchers, with extensive experience in their fields. With small class sizes and personalized advising, faculty create a learning environment that centers around curiosity, care, and professional growth. With a community committed to your development, you’ll find guidance and encouragement at every step.