Pursuing a degree and career in school psychology can be one of the most effective ways to assist students with academic or behavioral difficulties and to enhance the education system. To become a school psychologist or to work in a comparable position, an advanced graduate education is required. Online master’s programs in school psychology provide a flexible and often more cost-effective option to acquire the fundamental skills and knowledge needed to succeed in this gratifying field.
This guide provides everything you need to know about pursuing a master’s in school psychology online, including a list of top-rated accredited programs, application expectations, career prospects, and salary information.
Top Online School Psychology Master’s Programs in 2024
The following rankings offer a concise overview of the top online school psychology master’s programs available. While numerous excellent campus-based programs exist, only four programs with online components have gained recognition due to their accreditation, flexibility, and cost-effectiveness. Consider if either of these programs is suitable for you.
College Ranking Methodology
Generate List of Eligible Schools and Programs
To be eligible for this ranking, schools were required to meet the following criteria based on government data provided by The Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS).
- Institutional accreditation from an organization recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.
- At least one program in the subject area offered partially or fully online.
- Career placement and academic counseling services.
Assign Weightings
After generating the list of eligible schools, the STEPS data team then assigned weights and ranked schools based on their performance in a variety of key categories. Affordability metrics received the heaviest weightings, followed by online learning and academic quality metrics (equally weighted).
Online Learning
- Number of online programs in subject area self-reported by school to the U.S. Department of Education.
- Percentage of graduate students at the school taking at least one class online.
Affordability
- Relative cost of attendance compared to peer schools on the list. Based on in-state tuition for graduate students per academic year.
Academic Quality
- Student-to-faculty ratio: Schools with lower ratios ranked higher.
- Percentage of students admitted. More selective schools ranked higher.
About Our Data
All STEPS rankings use the latest official data available from The Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS). Most recent data pull: August 2023
Accreditation Glossary
ABHE: Association for Biblical Higher Education, Commission on Accreditation
ABHES: Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools
ACCJC: Western Association of Schools and Colleges Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges
ACCSC: Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges
DEAC: Distance Education Accrediting Commission
HLC: Higher Learning Commission
MSCHE: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
NECHE: New England Commission of Higher Education
NWCCU: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
SACSCOC: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
TRACS: Transnational Association of Christian Colleges and Schools, Accreditation Commission
WSCUC: Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission
1
San Diego, California
Students in California looking for a convenient way to earn their master's and become a licensed school psychologist should consider Alliant International University's online Master of Arts in Education in School Psychology. The program is approved by the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing (CTC) and graduates are eligible to receive their California Pupil Personnel Services Credential (PPS). While all coursework is delivered online, students are required to complete an internship in-person at an approved K-12 school.
Program Highlights:
Master of Arts in Education in School Psychology with PPS Credential
- Credits: 60
- Length: About 3-4 years
- Cost: $792/credit
- Mode: Fully-online coursework with in-person internship
- Accreditation: WSCUC
2
Fresno, California
Fresno Pacific University offers the Master of Arts in School Psychology and School Counseling, designed for future licensed school psychologists seeking additional coursework in school counseling. Students can also select the Master of Arts in School Psychology. Graduates of both programs will obtain their California Pupil Personnel Services (PPS) Credential. Much of the coursework for both degrees can be completed online, with some in-person learning, including school psychology internships, required.
Program Highlights:
Master of Arts in School Psychology and School Counseling
- Credits: 90
- Length: 8-9 semesters
- Cost: $730.00/credit
- Mode: Partially online
- Accreditation: CCTC
Master of Arts in School Psychology
- Credits: 62
- Length: Varies
- Cost: $730.00/credit
- Mode: Partially online
- Accreditation: CCTC
3
Plymouth, New Hampshire
Plymouth State University offers the Master of Education Specialist and Master of Education in School Psychology program to students interested in becoming certified K-12 school psychologists. Students earn two master's-level degrees at the end of the program. Applicants who already have a master's degree in education (or similar field) can immediately begin their Education Specialist coursework. All other students must first complete 33 credits and earn their Master of Education degree before moving on to the remaining 36 credits of Education Specialist classes. Some classes are available online, and students must complete two practicums and one internship.
Program Highlights:
Education Specialist/Master of Education in School Psychology
- Credits: 69
- Length: Varies
- Cost: $570.00/credit (resident); $789.00/credit (non-resident)
- Mode: Partially online
- Accreditation: NASP
4
Cheney, Washington
What You’ll Study in an Online School Psychology Master’s Program
Although the mandatory curricula of school psychology master’s programs vary depending on the school, expect to receive instruction in educational and psychological theories, intervention methods, leadership skills, cultural sensitivity, and student evaluation techniques. In addition, you will develop robust interpersonal skills to prepare for working directly with students, parents, faculty members, and other educational professionals. Professionals with graduate-level training in school psychology become team players who work collaboratively to support student success both within and outside of school while enhancing educational practices and school policies.
Common Classes in Online School Psychology Master’s Programs
Every school offers foundational coursework reflecting the research and strengths of its faculty members. In this way, every school psychology master’s program online is different. Check your prospective schools’ curricula to determine what they offer. Below are some course descriptions of common classes for a master’s in school psychology:
Multicultural Counseling in School Settings
This course helps learners recognize how a person’s cultural background, ethnicity, sexual orientation, and gender affect their psychological development and behaviors. It covers the development of children and young adults, how life histories affect educational progress, and how counselors can best serve students in school settings.
Leadership and Advocacy as Counselors
School counselors often serve as leaders in student success efforts, which means knowing how to work with students, parents, faculty, and others. In this class, students learn how to advocate on behalf of students, communicate with school administrators, and make the most out of professional relationships with local community agencies.
Counseling Theories in School Settings
This class presents an in-depth analysis of various psychotherapy and counseling theories, including the most frequently used treatments in school settings. It also helps prepare for work with clients of diverse backgrounds based on strategies for selecting the best counseling intervention.
School Counseling Ethics and Legal Issues
Faculty help master’s students examine the latest issues and best ethical practices in the field. The class also covers how school counselors function in relation to other professionals in school settings. Students learn the legal history of the field, ethical standards, and negative trends.
Intervention and Assessment in Education
This class covers the history of intervention techniques used in the field, including the necessary procedures, collaborative methods, and referral systems involved in intervention and assessment strategies. Students also learn to assess special needs and develop intervention plans for those with learning disabilities and behavioral issues.
Accreditation for Online School Psychology Master’s Programs
Accreditation guarantees that any institution you choose to attend for your master’s in school psychology program will furnish you with valuable education and certification to advance your career. Respected higher education institutions hold either regional or national accreditation. Regional accreditation, which is considered the standard of excellence, is typically granted to academically-oriented schools that offer a wide variety of degrees. National accreditation is usually given to career-focused institutions, such as vocational or trade schools, that offer fewer programs and a limited range of credentials.
Some departments or programs have additional accreditation specific to that field, known as programmatic accreditation. For school psychology, a degree program should hold programmatic accreditation from the National Association of School Psychologists (NASP) or the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP).
FAQs About Earning Your School Psychology Master’s Online
How long does it take to complete a master’s degree in school psychology online?
The graduation prerequisites for online master’s programs in school psychology differ among universities. Students can anticipate requirements of 30-48 credit hours, as well as an internship and/or practicum with supervised hours. Full-time students can usually finish the program in two years, while part-time learners may take three to four years. For some students, the internship and hands-on training aspect of the degree can extend the completion time. If feasible, it is recommended to fulfill all degree requirements consecutively and adhere to the recommended course and requirements sequence provided by the school.
How much do online school psychology degrees cost at the master’s level?
While a master’s in school psychology online is only a two-year commitment, it still poses a significant financial hurdle for many students. Watch for programs offering excellent financial aid or funding opportunities. Some colleges and universities offer graduate student assistantships for your department or school as an assistant teacher or office worker in exchange for a stipend and/or free tuition. These programs are rare at the master’s level, especially for online programs, but they are worth exploring. Below is a look at what to expect in terms of total tuition cost for a school psychology master’s program online.
| School Name | No. of Credits or Units | Cost/Credit | Total Tuition Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Liberty University | 48 | $565 | $27,120 |
| Webster University | 48 | $625 | $30,000 |
| National University | 90 (quarter units) | $442 | $39,780 |
What are the admissions requirements for online master’s school psychology degrees?
The admission criteria for online master’s in school psychology programs are similar to other Master of Arts programs in the humanities and social sciences. Unless stated otherwise, having an undergraduate degree in a particular field is not required to be considered for a master’s in school psychology online. If you hold a degree in an unrelated field, use your personal statement and writing sample (if required) to demonstrate your relevant skills, interests, and potential for success in a school psychology master’s program. Most schools require the following for application:
- Competitive GPA (usually 3.0 or higher)
- Writing sample
- Personal statement
- Current resume or CV
- Admissions interview
- GRE scores (in some cases)
- Letters of recommendation
- Relevant work or volunteer experience
Can I earn my school psychology master’s completely online?
Online master’s in school psychology programs typically require in-person training opportunities for graduation. These requirements are often listed under course titles such as Practicum in Counselor Supervision, Field Experience, and Internships. These essential components give real-world experience in school counseling and classroom scenarios. These hands-on requirements also allow you to work with teachers, parents, school employees, and community agencies associated with school systems.
Do I need to take the GRE to get into an online school psychology master’s program?
GRE requirements for master’s in school psychology online programs vary among schools. Some programs require applicants to submit GRE scores while others make it optional. If you have a less than desirable undergraduate GPA, some school psychology master’s programs encourage submission of GRE scores as a supplemental component to bolster the strength of the application.
Will I learn the same skills in an online school psychology program as an on-campus program?
A master’s in school psychology online prepares you for a career just as well as a traditional on-campus program. While remote learning presents challenges for some students, the quality of education offered is the same as with in-person learning.
Earning your master’s in school psychology online may take more planning ahead and time management than you might be used to. You’ll need to hold yourself accountable for keeping up with coursework, which can be challenging when not meeting regularly in a physical classroom. Acquiring the knowledge needed comes from completing the assigned readings and homework and staying in regular contact with your professor.
Can I become a school psychologist with a master’s degree?
A master’s degree is a foundational component of becoming a licensed school psychologist. You’ll also need to meet your state’s requirements to become a psychologist in a public school system. Some states require you to earn a specialist degree (like an EdS) or a doctoral degree as well as earn national NCSP certification. Other requirements include completing the requisite hours of supervised internship experience and passing a school psychologist exam such as the Praxis II exam.
You can learn more about licensing requirements in your state from the National Association of School Psychology.
What Can You Do with a Master’s in School Psychology?
According to the National Association of School Psychologists, about 81% of school psychologists work in public school systems. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, school psychologists make an annual median wage of $78,200. Employment growth depends greatly on the specific position, but school psychologists can expect a 3% job growth by 2029.
Options beyond work in public schools include colleges and universities, clinics, hospitals, and community agencies. Specific, potential careers to consider after earning a master’s in school psychology include:
School and Career CounselorsProfessionals with a master’s in school psychology are valuable school employees as counselors. Their psychology-focused training, along with extensive higher education experience can position them to provide supportive advice regarding completing academic programs and pursuing careers.
Health Educators and Community Health WorkersThese educators promote wellness for individuals and groups in their communities. Professionals with training in psychology can serve important roles in serving particular populations, especially when it comes to general counseling for younger adults and students. Some employers require a Certified Health Education Specialist (CHES) credential.
High School Teachers Professionals attending a school psychology master’s program online also make great high school teachers. Specific requirements vary by state, and public school teachers need to possess state-issued certification or a teaching license, which comes by passing the Praxis exam.
Special Education TeachersWith training in psychology and counseling, some professionals with a master’s degree in school psychology make excellent special education teachers. This is especially true if you’ve spent time studying learning disabilities, academic problems, and behavioral issues. Public school positions require state licensure, while private employers often do not.
Instructional CoordinatorsIf you have excellent problem-solving skills and a drive to improve education at all levels, a career as an instructional coordinator could be a great fit. Coordinators looking to work in a public school system might need a state-issued license, but this is not always the case.
