Master's degree in school psychology is a graduate program designed to help you learn how to examine the problems of students and find out how to help them get over those issues. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), to apply for school psychologist position, students need to complete a master’s, specialist or doctoral degree program.
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Overview
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Degree Focus Areas
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Admission Requirements
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Coursework
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Career Outcomes & Job Titles
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Licensing and Continuing Education Information
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A master’s degree can be suitable for those of you who are interested in preparing for entry-level positions in the field of school psychology. You will learn how to engage in a problem solving approach and evaluate students on all dimensions of development as well as how to create programs that support healthy learning environments.
In addition to traditional degree programs, online master’s in school psychology programs are also offered. Individuals, who are already working or those who cannot make it to traditional programs due to personal commitments, can take the online track.
Master’s students are required to complete classroom based studies as well as field trainings and spend one year in residence. The program training experiences are built around:
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Data analyses and data-based decision making
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Prevention, crisis intervention and treating psychopathology
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Comprehensive mental health services
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Research and program evaluation
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Ethical practice and professional psychology
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Interventions to develop cognitive and academic skills
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Diversity in learning and development
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System organization, policy development, and climate
The program is designed to prepare students to serve as leaders in scholarship and practice, engage in diverse experiences both in and out of the classroom. Furthermore, it is designed to promote knowledge and scientifically-based practices that recognize classrooms, homes, and communities as critically important settings effecting outcomes for children and youth.
To enroll in a master’s program in school psychology, students must hold an undergraduate degree in psychology. Some programs may accept students without an undergraduate degree in psychology. But applicants must have completed courses in introductory psychology, experimental psychology, and statistics. Applicants must also provide their statement of intent as well as letters of recommendation, in addition to providing GPA details.
Ranging from psychological assessment to child and adolescent counseling, psychology master’s degree provides instruction in a variety of topics. You will explore needs and behaviors of students in educational environments and look into their issues in addition to learning how to solve these problems. Some of the course of study may include:
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Ethics and professional conduct
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Psychological and educational research methodology
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Intermediate statistics
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Research design
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Emotional and psychological data analysis
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Creative thinking development
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Gifted and talented teaching strategies
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Program development for gifted and talented students
Upon completion of the program, you would learn how to:
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Apply theoretical and research findings in professional and educational activities.
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Apply ethical principles and standards of psychology to educational and professional activities.
Practicing psychologists need a certification or license to practice. Graduates of a master’s degree in school psychology may be eligible to take such an exam. Those who find employment in the field may work as school psychologists in public schools. Some of these professionals also work in private schools, universities, hospitals and clinics. Bedside, some school psychologists are employed by community treatment centers, and independent practices. In addition to becoming a school psychologist, graduates may apply for relevant positions of school and career counselors. School psychologists may also work in:
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Crisis services
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Special education
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Youth services
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Government
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Nonprofit organizations
According to the BLS, employment of school psychologists is likely to grow by 11%, which is about as fast as the average for all other occupations between 2012 and 2022. Career outlook for school and career counselors also look positive with 12% expected employment growth during the same time period, the BLS noted.
The requirements for practicing psychologists may vary by state but in all states holding a degree in school psychology (a master’s or PhD degree) and passing an examination, remains the main prerequisite.
If you already hold a master’s degree in school psychology, you can build on your knowledge by enrolling in the continuing education programs such as certificate courses. In addition, you may enroll in a PhD program in psychology that provides an opportunity to engage in more extensive research and experience to prepare for the challenges of school psychology.