Armenian State Pedagogical University

Armenian State Pedagogical University (ASPU)

Founded in 1922, ASPU is one of the oldest and most respected pedagogical universities in Armenia. Located in Yerevan, it is well known for training teachers, psychologists, and specialists in special education and rehabilitation. While ASPU has a strong reputation in educational sciences, it is not a medical school and does not grant MD degrees.

Programs in Psychology & Rehabilitation

• Psychology (Bachelor’s & Master’s)
  • Clinical & Medical Psychology (non-medical track): Focus on mental health, counseling, trauma therapy, psychosomatic disorders, and child psychology.
  • Educational Psychology: Covers developmental psychology, learning disabilities, and inclusive education strategies.
• Rehabilitation & Special Education
  • Rehabilitation pedagogy for children and adults with disabilities.
  • Speech therapy and occupational therapy (education-focused).
  • Social work and inclusive education programs.
• Other Related Fields
  • Defectology (disability studies and corrective teaching methods).
  • Neuropsychology (in collaboration with medical institutions).

Key Features

• Strong focus on hands-on training in schools, rehabilitation centers, and clinics.
• Affordable tuition compared to medical universities.
• Programs taught in Armenian and Russian, with some courses available in English.
• Not a substitute for a medical degree (no MD or clinical psychologist license without further studies).
• Rehabilitation programs are more education/theory-based than medical/clinical.

Career Opportunities

• Schools – as special education teachers or school psychologists.
• Rehabilitation centers – supporting children with disabilities.
• NGOs & social services – mental health and disability support.
• Private counseling – requires additional certification.

For advanced clinical psychology or rehabilitation careers, further studies at Yerevan State Medical University (YSMU) or certification from Armenia’s Ministry of Health may be necessary.

Admission Requirements

• Bachelor’s: High school diploma + entrance exams (psychology basics, Armenian/Russian language).
• Master’s: Bachelor’s in psychology or education + interview.
• International Students: Must validate previous education and show language proficiency.