Master of Cognitive Psychology and Educational Practice (1.5 years)

On completion of this course you will be able to:

1. critically read, analyse and synthesise current theory and research in the field of Cognitive Psychology and Educational Practice
2. relate theories and the findings from research studies and apply to authentic teaching-learning practices
3. critically reflect upon knowledge about theory, research, practice and policy to improve professional decision making
4. articulate scholarly views for informed, constructive debate increasing professional reflective practice in the field of Cognitive Psychology and Educational Practice
5. examine learners motivation, cognition and metacognition in relevant to them contexts
6. apply knowledge gained from reading, discussion and writing into educational practices in exploration of increased self-regulated learning
7. design, conduct, and evaluate an independent research project in the field of Cognitive Psychology and Educational Practice that is relevant to your personal or professional context
8. apply a range of understandings about research ethics and demonstrate high standards of academic literacy
9. generate recommendations for future practice, research, and policy in the field of Cognitive Psychology and Educational Practice
10. demonstrate high standards of academic literacy

This course prepares teachers, educators and leaders in schools, the community, workplaces, universities and training institution to develop an understanding of the cognitive psychology of learning and investigate how this can be applied to problems that arise in learning and teaching. There is an increased recognition from education sectors, of a need for a deeper teacher expertise about learning. The Master of Cognitive Psychology and Educational Practice is professionally-oriented and is intended for people currently employed in the field of education, those who would like to be so employed, and those who have an interest in developing their knowledge and practice, with a focus on understanding and innovating teaching and learning in a range of teaching and learning contexts (including distance/online education). It is designed to meet the increasing demand for professional education about teaching-learning issues such as motivation, cognition and metacognition.

Recommended study pattern

In the Master of Cognitive Psychology and Educational Practice you will study six core topics, and can select from a range of elective topics and minor programs of study to shape the degree according to your needs and interests.

The program provides educators with opportunities to examine their own teaching and to develop evidence‐based models for practice, and facilitates improved professional decision making in learning and teaching practice, experiences and outcomes.

Award requirements

To qualify for the Master of Cognitive Psychology and Educational Practice - 1.5 years, a student must complete 54 units with a grade of P or NGP or better in each topic

Exit points

Upon completion of 18 units a student may choose to exit with one of the following awards, subject to meeting the program of study for that award:

• Graduate Certificate in Cognitive Psychology and Educational Practice
• Graduate Certificate in Education
• Graduate Certificate in Gifted Education
• Graduate Certificate in Inclusive Education
• Graduate Certificate in International Baccalaureate Education
• Graduate Certificate in Leadership in Education
• Graduate Certificate in Wellbeing and Positive Mental Health in Education

Open Universities Australia is a not-for-profit organisation. You will not pay any fees for using our services.

Indicative total fee $33,099

The amount shown here is indicative for an Australian citizen studying full-time, which is typically 8 subjects per year.

Fees may vary depending on:

• the subjects you choose
• credit from previous work experience
• your eligibility for government funding loans or subsidies such as HECS-HELP or a Commonwealth supported place.

To learn more, go to Fees or contact a student advisor.

Flinders University is a globally-focused, locally-engaged institution with a reputation for excellence in teaching, learning and research. They offer world‐class education that develops the critical and creative thinking skills to support a student’s success. Their courses offered through Open Universities Australia span business, education and law. They are designed with flexibility in mind, while delivering the advanced qualifications to take careers to the next step.

Learn more about Flinders University.

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QS World University Ranking 2025, within Australia:

21

Times Higher Education World University Ranking 2025, within Australia:

20

Applicants must normally hold a bachelor degree or equivalent qualification in Education, Teaching or a closely related discipline.

Flinders University conducts an English Language proficiency check on applications submitted for consideration to its courses. 

This will be met in a number of ways, including if the applicants: 

• first language is English (i.e. citizenship is held for a country where English is the official language)
• completed secondary schooling in Australia
• completed prior study in English (e.g. a Certificate IV or higher from a recognised Australian training institution)
• completed one semester of full-time equivalent tertiary study at a higher education institution 
• completed a recognised Foundation Studies or bridging program 
• performance in the Special Tertiary Admissions Test (STAT) meets the University's admissions requirements 
• registered with an Australian professional registration body relevant to the applicant's proposed course (e.g. applicant holds current registration as a Registered Nurse, General Practitioner, Teacher, Physiotherapist, Occupational Therapist, Social Worker and such in Australia)
• achieved a score within an international English language proficiency test such as IELTS, PTE, TOEFL or Cambridge CAE that meets the minimum proficiency for the university
• completed an approved English language course from a registered English Language Intensive Course for Overseas Students (ELICOS) Provider

In some instances, applicants may be asked to provide evidence they meet the requirements if the information required is not available in their application. 

Credit transfer may be granted, on application, for prior study completed in a relevant honours, graduate certificate, graduate diploma or master degree; accredited professional development; or relevant work experience.

Applications for credit transfer are assessed on a case by case basis according to Flinders University policies. Students must be made an offer for entry into a degree before lodging their completed credit transfer application, along with all necessary documentation for formal assessment.