Online School Psychology Degrees: Finding the Program for You

Inside Different Types of Online School Psychology Degree Programs

Online degree programs for school psychology are offered in different formats, depending on the degree level and the school that offers them. Doctoral degree programs typically place the highest demands on students and require them to complete coursework, internships, a practicum, and a portfolio.

Some programs at the post-graduate level, including master’s and doctoral degree programs, might require in-person residencies. However, it’s often possible to earn certificates or other degrees – such as an associate degree or a bachelor’s degree – online, without the need to attend on-campus classes.

Undergraduate degree programs typically require more general education courses, while graduate degree programs tend to focus on building expertise in your intended specialization.

Graduate Certificate Programs

Graduate certificates in school psychology are designed for professionals who already earned a master’s degree in psychology but require additional specialized training to work in a school environment. These programs typically take one year or less to complete and consist of approximately 15 credits.

They provide learners with the necessary knowledge and skills to translate their advanced psychological education into this area of the field. Many universities offer these programs, and both online and in-person options are generally available.

STEPS Pick: Best Online Graduate Certificate Program

East Carolina University

If you already earned a master’s degree in counseling or psychology, you can take advantage of the School Counseling Certificate at East Carolina University. Students are prepared to support students in their communities with equitable and compassionate care.

All coursework can be completed online, and students work with program officials to identify a suitable placement site for a school-based internship.

Master’s Degree Programs

Students who hold a bachelor’s degree in psychology or a related field can enroll in a master’s degree program, which usually takes two to three years to complete. Coursework covers subjects like history of school psychology, fundamentals of behavioral theory and intervention, and multicultural counseling.

In addition to coursework, students are required to complete a three-semester practicum and a two-semester internship. Colleges typically take a holistic approach to admissions, although some schools might still require GRE scores as a potential predictor for your preparedness for the rigors of a master’s degree program.

STEPS Pick: Best Online Master’s Degree Program

Minnesota State University Moorhead

Minnesota State University Moorhead (MSUM) offers a Master of Science (MS) in School Psychology degree program. Graduates are well-equipped to enter the workforce as school psychologists.

The MS program requires completion of 30 credits to graduate. But, students can earn a Specialist degree as well after completion of 65 credits. They must complete fieldwork while building a strong knowledge base from coursework.

Specialized Degree Programs

Students can select from several school psychology specialized degree programs that are between a master’s degree and a doctoral degree program. Options include Specialist in Psychology (PsyS), Specialist in School Psychology (SSP), and Educational Specialist (EdS).

These specializations can help students stand out in the field without committing to a longer doctoral degree program. Some schools provide combined master’s degree and specialized degree programs that are offered with online or hybrid courses.

STEPS Pick: Best Online Bachelor’s Degree Program

Penn State World Campus

Students can start their pursuit of a psychology career with Penn State World Campus’ online Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Psychology degree program. They learn critical and creative thinking and a scientific approach to looking at psychology and behavioral situations.

Interested students can also complete an internship as part of the coursework to enrich their studies.

Doctoral Degree Programs

Doctoral degree programs in school psychology are offered in three different forms: PhD, PsyD, and EdD. A PhD program is most suitable for students who want to pursue research and/or academia. A PsyD program is designed for students who aim to work as clinical practitioners and offer psychological services.

An EdD program is a viable alternative for students who want to teach psychology courses or work in other educational settings. These programs differ in their coursework, graduation requirements, clinical experiences, and timelines.

STEPS Pick: Best Online Doctoral Degree Program

Loyola University Chicago

Students with a master’s degree can transfer up to 36 hours toward an EdD in School Psychology at Loyola University Chicago. EdD graduates typically want to become leaders in scholarship, research, or practice.

They are prepared to make a difference in the lives of individual students and positively affect educational systems on the micro, mezze, or macro level.

Answering Your FAQs about School Psychology Degree Programs

Are there licensing requirements for school psychologist roles?

Licensure and/or certification is a prerequisite for practicing as a school psychologist or a related profession. So, it is crucial that students choose a school that enables them to obtain such credentials.

If students intend to enroll in an online school psychology degree program outside of their state, it’s important to inquire with both the program administrator and the board of licensure to confirm whether the program is recognized in their area.

Requirements for receiving licensure and/or certification vary by state, but the National Association of School Psychologists (NASP) sets standards for what students need to complete in a program to qualify. For instance, if they’re working toward a specialist degree, they must complete a program that consists of at least 60 credits and an internship that lasts for at least 1,200 hours.

In addition to meeting required qualifications, students can gain optional certifications that help them stand out against other job seekers. For example, NASP provides a Nationally Certified School Psychologist (NCSP) credential.

What are online school psychology degree programs like?

Online degree programs for school psychology are available in different formats, depending on the degree level and the school that offers the program. Doctoral degree programs typically have the highest demands on students and require them to complete coursework, internships, a practicum, and a portfolio. Some programs at this level also mandate in-person residencies to fulfill degree requirements. However, it’s often possible to earn certificates online without the need to attend on-campus classes.

Successful completion of a school psychology degree program can equip students with the ability to assess learners and devise impactful interventions. It also provides a comprehensive grasp of data and research concerning school psychology methods and frameworks.

Graduates obtain the capacity to collaborate with educators and administrators to achieve common student outcomes. Advanced programs aim to cultivate leadership and consultancy skills that can be leveraged in high-level positions.

How important is accreditation of online school psychology degree programs?

Enrolling in an accredited online school psychology degree program is a crucial aspect of an academic path. Choosing an unaccredited program might pose obstacles to obtaining employment and licensure. Accreditation is available in two forms: institutional and programmatic.

When looking at institutional accreditation, students should try to find a school that holds regional accreditation, as it is more desirable than national accreditation. In terms of programmatic accreditation, the National Association of School Psychologists designed the Program Accreditation Board (PAB) to help students find top-tier programs.

What can I do with a school psychology degree?

Career opportunities in school psychology are determined by the level of degree that a student attains. While a master’s degree can provide access to some jobs, many roles require specialist and/or doctoral qualifications. Whether you choose to work in support, research, academia, or private practice, positions in this field typically offer salaries above the national average for all occupations plus potential growth and advancement opportunities over time.

Graduates are qualified to work as school psychologists or school counselors and might have other opportunities, depending on the requirements and needs for other roles.

Can I use financial aid to pay for an online school psychology degree program?

Yes; we compiled a comprehensive guide to financial aid, which students who attend an accredited university should be eligible for. Remember to fill out a FAFSA form as soon as you start the application process, so you can access federal student aid as you decide which school and program to enroll in.

Career Growth for School Psychology Graduates

Best-Ranked Online School Psychology Degree Programs

Finding the best online school psychology degree program can be time-consuming, as not all programs are created equal. We conducted extensive research to identify top programs based on proper accreditation, affordable tuition rates, and the flexibility that working students need.

Listed below are top online school psychology degree programs that can act as quality barometers in your search for the right choice for your needs.