Master’s in School Psychology
Online

<a href="https://www.onlinemasterscolleges.com/masters-in-school-psychology-online/">Master's in School Psychology Online</a>

College Name & Address	Tuition	Graduation Rate
#1 University of Georgia Administration Building, Athens, Georgia 30602	$8,878	87%
#2 University of Wisconsin, Madison 500 Lincoln Dr, Madison, Wisconsin 53706	$10,728	88%
#3 Florida State University 222 S. Copeland Street, Tallahassee, Florida 32306	$9,684	83%
#4 Texas A&M University, College Station JKW Administration Building, Suite 200, College Station, Texas 77843	$6,677	82%
#5 University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign 601 E John Street, Champaign, Illinois 61820	$14,997	85%
#6 Marist College 3399 North Rd, Poughkeepsie, New York 12601	$15,300	84%
#7 The University of Tennessee, Knoxville 527 Andy Holt Tower, Knoxville, Tennessee 37996	$11,468	72%
#8 The University of Alabama 739 University Blvd, Tuscaloosa, Alabama 35487	$10,780	71%
#9 Temple University 1801 North Broad Street, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19122	$16,956	74%
#10 Ball State University 2000 University Ave, Muncie, Indiana 47306	$8,850	67%
#11 Rutgers University 249 University Avenue, Blumenthal Hall, Newark, New Jersey 07102	$17,736	69%
#12 University of North Texas 1501 W.Chestnut Ave., Denton, Texas 76203	$5,900	56%
#13 Northern Arizona University 1900 S Knoles Dr, Babbitt Administrative Center, Room 200, Flagstaff, Arizona 86011	$10,305	57%
#14 University of Memphis Southern Avenue, Memphis, Tennessee 38152	$9,216	53%
#15 University of Northern Colorado Carter Hall – Rm 4000, Greeley, Colorado 80639	$10,867	52%

Source – Integrated Post Secondary Education Data System & University Data
*Tuition rates are for in-state and per year. Program specific rates may apply.
**NA – data not available

Prospective students should prioritize thoroughly understanding school psychology programs before committing to enrollment. This involves carefully examining the program’s structure, curriculum, and overall objectives. Graduates are encouraged to delve into the fundamental components of the school psychology curriculum, considering foundational courses, potential specializations, and practical experiences such as internships.

Furthermore, understanding the program’s educational philosophy, teaching approach, and faculty expertise is crucial for informed decision-making. Evaluating whether the program emphasizes theoretical knowledge or practical application and assessing its alignment with personal career goals ensures a well-matched educational experience. This section will break down the Master’s in school psychology programs.

Curriculum and Skills Gained in the Masters in School Psychology Program

One of the primary things that School psychologists do is to study how students learn. These practitioners review and aim to optimize the teaching process by testing learning approaches to student results. They consider students’ unique needs, including gifted learners and those with developmental disabilities, and their needs and work towards bettering students’ lives.  Educational psychologists combine clinical, developmental, and social psychology to understand best practices in the field truly. A typical online master’s in school psychology program will require 30-36 credits for graduation. The programs can take up to two years for graduation. 

A master’s in school psychology online exposes psychology students to psychology, trains them for field coursework, and opens vocational doors to public entity employment opportunities such as caseworkers, advocates for mental health, and neighborhood educators.  These two-year modular programs specialize in developing communication skills for students, research, critical thinking, ethics, and concepts in personal, group, family, and organizational psychology.

The curriculum for a Master’s in School Psychology program typically encompasses a well-rounded blend of theoretical knowledge, practical skills, and experiential learning. While specific courses may vary between institutions, the following is a general overview of the critical components commonly found in such programs:

Foundations of School Psychology

This course lays the groundwork for school psychology, introducing students to the profession’s historical, theoretical, and ethical foundations. It explores the evolution of school psychology, ethical considerations, and the development of professional standards. Emphasis is placed on understanding school psychologists’ pivotal role in educational settings and the broader community.

Child and Adolescent Development

In this course, students delve into the intricate cognitive, social, emotional, and physical development stages in children and adolescents. Focused on the latest research and theories, the curriculum equips them with a nuanced understanding of developmental milestones, potential challenges, and the implications for educational practices. Practical applications for fostering healthy development are emphasized.

Learning Theories and Educational Psychology

This course explores various learning theories and their applications within educational psychology. Students examine the psychological principles that underlie learning and memory, motivation, and the impact of socio-cultural factors on educational outcomes. Practical insights are gained into integrating psychological theories into effective teaching and learning strategies.

Assessment and Testing

Providing a comprehensive overview of psychological assessments, this course equips students with the skills needed to identify academic, behavioral, and emotional challenges in students. They learn to administer, score, and interpret assessments, enabling them to formulate targeted intervention strategies. The ethical use of assessments and considerations for diverse populations are emphasized.

Intervention and Counseling Techniques 

This course focuses on evidence-based intervention strategies for addressing academic and behavioral challenges in educational settings. Students develop proficiency in individual and group counseling techniques, emphasizing the application of psychological principles to promote positive outcomes. The course integrates practical skills with ethical considerations, preparing them for the dynamic role of a school psychologist.

Some other courses under Master in School Psychology programs include:

• Ethics and Dispositions
• Special Education and Law
• Behavior and SEL Interventions
• Introduction to Research
• Academic Interventions
• Cognitive Assessments
• Developmental Milestones
• Individual and Group Counseling
• Mental Health and Crisis Response
• Academic and Processing Assessments
• Special Population Assessments
• Childhood Development Disorders

By the time students graduate from an online master in school psychology program, they develop several skills, including the ability to: 

• conduct comprehensive evaluations to identify academic, behavioral, and emotional challenges in students;
• implement evidence-based intervention strategies to address academic and behavioral issues;
• apply individual and group counseling approaches for diverse student populations;
• collaborate with teachers, parents, and other professionals to develop and implement support plans;
• provide timely and appropriate mental health support during challenging situations;
• understand the impact of diversity and culture on educational and psychological services;
• apply research methodologies relevant to the field of school psychology;
• provide educational support and resources to parents, teachers, and administrators;
• adhere to ethical guidelines and professional standards in the field of school psychology;
• navigate complex ethical dilemmas with sensitivity and professionalism;
• adapt to changing educational environments and evolving student needs.

Difference between School Psychology and Educational Psychology

Education Psychology and School Psychology are used interchangeably in most places, and this guide. They both are very similar. Although there are various overlapping interests between Educational Psychology and School Psychology, there are some subtle differences ^[2].

Educational Psychology	School Psychology
Educational Psychology studies human learning (development, performance, motivation, assessment, and instruction). The primary aim of a master’s in educational psychology online is to train students at higher learning institutions or academic consortiums for careers in teaching and research.	In contrast, a school psychologist is a practitioner-based role. It involves using an academic environment, such as classrooms, parents, and teachers, and school psychologists use it to identify and meet students’ learning needs. By getting a master’s in school psychology online, students can create a healthy schooling environment for children and youth.  Advocates of this psychology discipline integrate its values with behavioral, developmental, and clinical psychology.
The target populations of educational psychologists are people of all ages, and they work within and outside traditional school settings.	The target populations of school psychologists are children of school age within traditional school settings.

Types of Masters of School Psychology Programs

There are two common graduate degrees in the United States, including Master of Arts in School Psychology and Master of Science in School Psychology. The distinction between a Master of Arts (M.A.) in School Psychology and a Master of Science (M.S.) in School Psychology often lies in the emphasis on coursework, practical experiences, and the program’s overall focus. However, it’s crucial to note that the differences can vary between institutions, and the terms may be used interchangeably in some cases.

Masters of Arts or MA in School Psychology

M.A. programs in School Psychology emphasize applied practices, focusing on the practical application of psychological principles in educational settings. These programs may integrate a broader educational perspective, addressing philosophy, policy, and inclusive practices, emphasizing developing counseling and communication skills.

Masters of Science or MS in School Psychology

M.S. programs in School Psychology typically showcase a stronger emphasis on research and analysis. They often delve into the scientific foundations of psychology, incorporating a research-oriented approach to understanding behavior and learning. M.S. programs may emphasize quantitative skills, equipping students with the tools necessary for evidence-based decision-making.

Specializations in Masters in School Psychology Online Programs

Masters in School Psychology programs often offer various specializations or concentrations that allow students to tailor their education to specific areas of interest or career goals. While the availability of specializations can vary between institutions, here are some common areas of focus:

Area of Focus	Description	Careers
Behavioral Interventions	Specializing in behavioral interventions equips students with advanced skills in assessing and addressing behavioral challenges in educational settings. This may include training in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) techniques.	Applied Behavior Analyst Therapist, School Psychologist, Behavioral Consultant, and more.
Early Childhood Psychology	Focusing on early childhood psychology, this specialization centers on the unique developmental needs of young children and interventions tailored to early educational experiences.	Early Childhood Psychologist, Child Development Specialist, Early Intervention Specialist, and more.
Special Education School Psychology	Specializing in special education integrates school psychology principles with the knowledge and skills required to support students with diverse learning needs.	School Psychologist in the Special Education Department, Special Education Coordinator, Inclusion Specialist, etc.
Neuropsychology and Learning Disability	This specialization delves into the intersection of psychology and neurology, addressing learning disabilities and exploring interventions to support students with neurological challenges.	Neuropsychologist, Clinical Psychologist with Neuropsychology Focus, Learning Disabilities Specialist, etc.
Trauma-Informed Practices	Specializing in trauma-informed practices equips school psychologists to understand and address the impact of trauma on students, fostering a supportive and sensitive educational environment.	Trauma Therapist, Crisis Intervention Specialist, Social Worker in Trauma-Informed Care, and more.
Crisis Intervention and Mental Health	Specializing in crisis intervention and mental health prepares students to effectively address and manage crises in educational settings, offering mental health support to students in need.

Timeline for graduation from Masters in Counseling Psychology Online Programs

Completing a Master’s in School Psychology offers a flexible journey tailored to diverse student needs. For those pursuing full-time enrollment, the typical duration spans two years, involving a comprehensive curriculum and practical experiences. Part-time options cater to individuals with work or other commitments, extending the completion timeline to approximately three to five years. Accelerated programs, designed for efficiency, may enable one to achieve their Master’s in School Psychology in as little as 18 months to two years, requiring an intensified focus on coursework and the potential inclusion of summer sessions. As completion times can vary between programs, prospective graduates are encouraged to consult with the admissions offices of their chosen institutions to understand specific timelines, program structures, and any opportunities for flexibility in scheduling.

 One-year Masters in School Psychology Online Programs

A one-year Master’s in School Psychology program is a relatively rare but intensive option designed for students who seek a quicker path to acquiring specialized knowledge and skills in school psychology. This accelerated format typically involves a condensed curriculum and may require students to dedicate significant time to coursework, practicum experiences, and potentially research or a thesis. Some universities providing a one-year graduate program in school psychology include:

• Rowan University^[3]
• National University^[4] 
• University of Massachusetts Amherst^[5]

Masters in School Psychology Online Admission Requirements

Admission requirements for a Master’s in School Psychology program may vary between institutions, but the following are common prerequisites that prospective students can expect:

For individuals seeking admission to Master’s in School Psychology programs without GRE requirements, the application process becomes more accessible. These programs place greater importance on factors like academic performance, letters of recommendation, personal statements, and relevant experiences instead of standardized test scores. The absence of the GRE as a mandatory component allows a more holistic evaluation of applicants, enabling a fairer assessment of their potential success in the program. Here is a list of schools that offer Online Masters in School Psychology No GRE programs:

• Ball State University^[6]
• University of North Texas^[7]
• University of Wisconsin, Madison^[8]
• Northern Arizona University^[9]

There are various educational psychology programs available online. Yet, students need to ensure that independent accreditation bodies accredit these programs. The accrediting bodies for school psychology programs are the American Psychological Association ^[10] (APA) and the National Association of School Psychologists (NASP) ^[11]. All the schools covered in this guide are APA or NASP-accredited school psychology programs.

NASP-Approved Online School Psychology Programs

The National Association of School Psychologists (NASP) is the U.S.’s central national professional body for school psychologists ^[10]. Its mission is to represent and encourage school psychology through leadership to strengthen children’s mental health and educational competence. These NASP-approved online school psychology programs are high-quality graduate-level program options for psychology majors.

APA-Accredited Online School Psychology Programs

American Psychological Association accreditation ensures consistent quality maintenance in the psychology of health and educational psychology ^[11]. These school psychology programs online accredited by APA offer future students many benefits and opportunities. A program certified by APA is a program that maintains high quality. Students can be confident about the degree’s value regarding recognition by future employers, certifications, and licensures.

While full-fledged free online Master’s in School Psychology programs may be limited, individual courses and resources cover various aspects of school psychology. These courses can provide valuable insights, skills, and knowledge. Here are some free online courses and resources in the field of school psychology:

Course	PennX: Understanding Classroom Interaction [16]
Provided by	Coursera
Description	In the course, participants will comprehensively understand various elements influencing classroom dynamics. Emphasizing the importance of effective communication and interaction, the course explores turn-taking patterns, shedding light on their functions in facilitating robust discussions.

Course	Positive Handling and Behavioural Training in Schools [17]
Provided by	Alison
Description	In this free course, participants will delve into the essential aspects of positive handling within school environments. They understand the ‘SCARF’ Model, comprehending its components—Status, Certainty, Autonomy, Relatedness, and Fairness—and understand their behavior management roles.

Course	Advanced Information Literacy [18]
Provided by	Coursera
Description	In the Advanced Information Literacy course, students will develop the skills to articulate specific information needs, a crucial aspect in navigating the complexities of an information-rich environment. Participants will be introduced to diverse, high-quality information sources, including scholarly databases, peer-reviewed journals, authoritative websites, and other reputable information repositories.

One of the essential aspects that students should consider before enrolling in an online master’s in school psychology program is how the career and salary outlook look for graduates of school psychology master’s programs. With a master’s in school psychology, graduates can become:

• school psychologists
• career counselors
• mental health counselors
• social workers
• consultant for school improvement
• education policy analyst
• program evaluator
• administrator in education
• school counselor
• behavior analyst
• special education coordinator 

Graduates with school psychology degrees will be periodically called to perform personality and aptitude tests. As a professional, one must explain one’s analysis of a client’s progress (typically, the clients are students). This table lists career opportunities with a degree needed to be a school psychologist:

Occupation	School and Career Counselors and Advisors  [19]
Skills	Analytical, compassionate, interpersonal, listening, and speaking skills.
Median Annual Salary	$60,140
Job Growth (up to 2032)	5% (faster than average)
Job Description	In the dynamic role of a school counselor, professionals undertake a multifaceted approach to support students in their academic journey and personal development. They address a spectrum of challenges by assisting students in understanding and overcoming social or behavioral obstacles. Through meticulous data analysis, counselors identify factors affecting academic performance, enabling targeted interventions.

Occupation	Counseling Psychologist [20]
Skills	Analytical, integrity, interpersonal, observational, patience, and problem-solving skills.
Median Annual Salary	$85,330
Job Growth (up to 2032)	6% (faster than average)
Job Description	Counseling psychologists engage in scientific inquiries to explore behavior and brain function, utilizing diverse research methods. This includes employing observation, interviews, and surveys to gather data on psychological aspects. Their responsibilities involve identifying and diagnosing various psychological issues, and their rigorous research yields valuable insights into behavioral and emotional patterns.

Occupation	Social and Community Service Managers  [21]
Skills	Analytical, communication, managerial, problem-solving, and time-management skills.
Median Annual Salary	$74,240
Job Growth (up to 2032)	9% (faster than average)
Job Description	Social and community service managers play a crucial role in fostering community well-being by actively engaging with community members and stakeholders. Their responsibilities span various areas, including collaborating with local communities to identify essential programs and services. With a keen focus on administrative oversight, these managers ensure that programs align with stakeholder objectives, overseeing budgeting, staffing, and resource allocation.

Occupation	Training and Development Specialists  [22]
Skills	Analytical, collaboration, communication, creativity, and instructional skills.
Median Annual Salary	$63,080
Job Growth (up to 2032)	6% (faster than average)
Job Description	Training and development specialists are integral to the growth and success of organizations by facilitating compelling learning experiences for employees. They begin by assessing training needs through surveys, interviews, and consultations, identifying areas for skill enhancement and professional development. Following this assessment, specialists design and create comprehensive training materials, including manuals and online modules, ensuring alignment with organizational goals.

To become a licensed and practicing school psychologist, students must complete a master’s in school psychology and clear the Praxis School Psychology test to receive the National Accredited School Psychologist (NASP) certification^[23]. The popular option for the NASP classification is to complete at least 60 graduate credits in school psychology, along with a 1,200-hour clinical internship.

All school psychologists must be licensed by the state where they wish to practice. The National Association of School Psychologists (NASP) is the premier institution providing certifications for school psychologists ^[24]. To be a licensed specialist in school psychology online, the licensing standards are similar, if not equivalent, to the NASP certificate requirements. To receive state licensure, individuals will only have to show confirmation of their NASP credentials. On the Praxis II School psychology test, graduates without the NASP credential must offer their graduate degree, internship experience, and a passing grade ^[25]. 

Other licenses and certifications available for educational psychology certificates online are:

• Licensed Specialist in School Psychology (LSSP) ^[26]: The Licensed Specialist in School Psychology (LSSP) is the credential that allows the practice of school psychology in the State of Texas. The LSSP certification online must provide school psychological services in Texas public schools by the Texas State Board of Examiners of Psychologists (TSBEP).
• The National Association of School Psychologists (NASP) ^[27]: This represents the body that supports the profession of school psychology by promoting effective practices to improve students’ learning, actions, and mental health and by upholding important ethical and practical expectations.

Throughout their workday, school and educational psychologists are charged with various tasks. From helping students set up and incorporate IEPs, assisting students with mental illness to manage their school lives, and delivering resources to students trying to deal with a tragic life experience, their tasks are aplenty.  To have a successful education and a career in School Psychology, students should network with other professionals via associations, communities, conferences, exhibitions, etc. Here are a few resources that will help students in the school psychology programs:

American Psychological Association ^[28]

For psychology majors, the leading site of the APA is a must-read guide, regardless of what specialization or degree level students seek to achieve. A vast archive of psychology papers, articles, interest pieces, and other publications valuable for students is stored on the APA website.

National Association of School Psychologists ^[29]

The NASP is a great resource that provides school psychologists with various services, including discussion boards, an educational learning hub, printable handouts, and many more. Most benefits are unrestricted, and a few are open to organization members.

Intervention Hero ^[30]

Intervention Hero provides various free, reproducible tools for school counselors, including RtI schedules, transition resources, projects for counseling and mentoring, and many other valuable items. For those in the Ohio area, there are also details about local workshops and educational activities.