Graduate Catalog 2021-2022

School Psychology Ph.D.

The doctoral program focuses on training health service providers in the area of school psychology who possess the following profession-wide competencies: research, ethical and legal standards, individual and cultural diversity, professional values and attitudes, communication and interpersonal skills, assessment, intervention, supervision and consultation and interprofessional/interdisciplinary skills. Doctoral students in School Psychology are expected to engage in scholarly work throughout their program of study to gain skill as a researcher. They are expected to work with an approved faculty member for five hours per week for a minimum of four semesters (summers excluded). The program is based on the student entering with a bachelor's degree. Students with advanced graduate degrees in an area of professional psychology may be able to waive some coursework and should meet with their advisors to develop a specific plan of study. A course in abnormal psychology is a prerequisite to the program and must be completed in the first year of study.

The Ph.D. program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of the American Psychological Association. Questions related to the program's accredited status should be directed to the Commission on Accreditation: Office of Program Consultation and Accreditation, American Psychological Association, 750 1st Street, NE, Washington, DC 20002, Phone: (202) 336-5979 / E-mail: apaaccred@apa.org, Web: www.apa.org/ed/accreditation. The Ph.D. program in School Psychology is also approved by the National Association of School Psychologists.

Doctoral graduates are eligible for licensure as psychologists through the state Department of Regulatory Agencies (DORA) and as school psychologists through the state Department of Education. Graduates are qualified to assume positions as school-based practitioners, university professors, consultants, educational researchers, and psychologists (after obtaining DORA licensure). 

For degree and program requirements, see:

School Psychology Ph.D.