Courtney Adams, a student in the online Master’s in Educational Psychology – Applied Cognition & Development program, is pursuing her dream of earning a degree from the University of Georgia…while living 1,200 miles from Athens. As a military spouse with a husband stationed at Camp Pendleton in Southern California, the flexibility of UGA’s online programs has been key.

“This online program has been a dream come true!” Courtney says. “Growing up in Georgia as a Dawg fan, UGA was my dream school. But being in Southern California and unable to attend in person, this program gave me the flexibility I needed.”

Though Courtney’s academic journey began at the University of Maryland Global Campus, where she earned her undergraduate degree in psychology, enrolling at UGA was a long-held goal, and the online program allowed her to balance her education with the demands of military life.

Even from afar, the program’s structure and support exceeded her expectations. “Every professor I have had has been absolutely wonderful, and every class has been amazing,” she says. “Dr. Ferster has been crystal clear with expectations and provided a great overview course at the beginning with time management tips that were so helpful.”

“My goal is for future educators to feel confident in their capacity to facilitate student learning,” says Dr. Amanda Ferster, who teaches in both the online Master of Education (M.Ed.) in Educational Psychology – Quantitative Methodology and the online Master of Education (M.Ed.) in Educational Psychology – Applied Cognition & Development programs, “for students to believe that, irrespective of their environment, they may lean on their knowledge and ingenuity to continuously improve upon their practice.”

And, despite her environment across the country, Courtney has found a strong sense of connection to the program. “I was surprised by how connected I feel to my peers and professors, even from 1,200 miles away,” she shares.

Collaboration with faculty and classmates has been a highlight, along with the program’s unique focus areas. “This program has covered every aspect of educational psychology and provided the chance to focus on gifted education with a gifted endorsement. That’s an opportunity I couldn’t find elsewhere.”

Offered online through the Mary Frances Early College of Education, the University of Georgia’s online M.Ed. in Educational Psychology, Applied Cognition, and Development program explores the impact of human cognitive, motivational, and developmental processes in education and practice. It is designed with a secondary area of focus in either learning with technology, learning across the lifespan, qualitative approaches to education, or development of high intellectual capability, depending on your personal subject matter interests. 

For Courtney, the coursework has not only prepared her for her final project but also revealed new interests. “I have undoubtedly become a better researcher,” she says. Looking ahead, she plans to conduct research in an educational setting and feels confident in the foundation this program has given her.

Her advice to others considering UGA Online? “Apply! I was so excited when I got accepted, and this program has far exceeded my expectations. Just make sure you know how to manage your time and don’t put things off until the last minute. Try to stay ahead if you can.”

Courtney’s experience highlights how online learning can make education accessible while still maintaining a meaningful connection to peers, faculty, and the program itself. For her, UGA Online has been more than just a way to earn a degree—it’s been a chance to achieve a lifelong dream and truly become a bulldawg.

Want to tell your UGA Online story? Contact us to share your experience!

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