School Psychology EdS

Prepare to support students’ behavioral, emotional and learning needs with the Educational Specialist (EdS) in School Psychology in the College of Education and Human Development at Temple University. Our National Association of School Psychologists (NASP)-approved program equips you with the practical skills and knowledge to address developmental challenges and meet the demands of school psychology in diverse educational settings.

Full-time students complete the degree in three years, with two years of coursework and field work, followed by a yearlong full-time school psychology internship. The EdS program provides comprehensive coursework and clinical training through multiple school-based practicum placements, a clinic-based practicum and a ~1,200-hour internship in a school setting. Our on-campus psychoeducational clinic offers hands-on experience working with families in an urban environment, sharpening your clinical skills. Graduates are highly sought after for their expertise in academic, intellectual, social-emotional, assessment and intervention. Dedicated to promoting social justice, diversity and inclusion, the school psychologist program fosters a collaborative learning environment where students are encouraged to challenge and improve best practices in the field.

Certification

The School Psychology EdS meets requirements for certification as a school psychologist in Pennsylvania, New Jersey and most other states as well as eligibility for the National Certification (NCSP) through NASP.

Concentrations

You’ll have the opportunity to join research teams and collaborate with faculty, and the option to tailor your studies through one of two concentrations: Applied Behavior Analysis or Counseling. Those pursuing board certification in behavior analysis can complete the additional 12 credits in the optional Applied Behavior Analysis concentration; students aiming for licensure as a professional counselor can elect the optional 12-credit Counseling concentration.

What sets apart the School Psychology EdS in the College of Education and Human Development?

• Emphasis on social justice and multicultural awareness
• NASP-accredited program
• Clinical school-based practicum experiences in local schools beginning in the first year and continuing throughout the program
• On-campus psychoeducational clinic training experience during the program
• Program focus on training all students across NASP’s 10 domains of school psychology
• Focus on multidisciplinary faculty and expertise who offer a broad perspective and specialties within school psychology
• Integrated scientist-practitioner model
• Two optional concentrations to further customize your degree to align with your goals

Learning Outcomes

Students are supported through their field experiences and in exploring career opportunities. In the program, School Psychology EdS graduates will do the following.

• Utilize evidence-based practices: Demonstrate proficiency in evidence-based assessment, consultation and intervention techniques, ensuring that they can effectively address the diverse needs of students and schools.
• Integrate and apply research: Apply research findings to the practice of school psychology.
• Understand and appreciate diversity: Exhibit a deep understanding of and sensitivity to diverse populations, with the ability to implement culturally responsive practices in school psychology.
• Adhere to professional standards: Operate at the highest levels of professional, ethical and legal standards, ensuring the integrity and efficacy of their practice.
• Engage in social justice: Actively pursue social justice within the field of school psychology, working to address and rectify systemic inequities within educational settings.

Licensure

After completing an internship and passing the exams required by the commonwealth of Pennsylvania, students may become nationally certified school psychologists.

Related Graduate Degrees

The School Psychology EdS is a practitioner degree for students who wish to pursue careers in school-based settings. If you are interested in pursuing a career as a faculty member or researcher, you might consider the School Psychology PhD.