PCOM's NASP-approved Educational Specialist Degree in School Psychology (EdS) is an innovative, applied professional psychology program designed for students with a master's degree in school psychology or a related field (e.g., education, counseling, social work, etc.) who are seeking certification in the field of school psychology. The program trains students from a cognitive-behavioral framework to conceptualize issues and to develop a coordinated system of service that promotes and integrates wellness and learning for all children.
The EdS program's progressive curriculum designed to prepare practitioners in various aspects of school psychology including:
- Assessment
- Consultation
- Academic and Behavioral Intervention
- Counseling
- Crisis Intervention and Prevention
The educational specialist degree is geared toward working professionals. The EdS degree can be completed in 3 years (two years of coursework and a one year internship) and requires 45 credits beyond the master's degree. While the program is full-time, it is conveniently structured for full-time professionals, with all classes meeting in the evening hours one to two nights per week. However, once students reach the third year, it will not be possible to maintain daytime employment as the required internship experience must be completed during typical school hours.
Completion of this certification fulfills the requirements for certification as a school psychologist in Pennsylvania and other states and for eligibility to apply for the Nationally Certified School Psychologist (NCSP) credential. For more information on this credential, visit the National Association of School Psychologists page.
Read about PCOM's School Psychology Program from students' perspectives:
School Psychology Students
Read PCOM's Psychology Faculty Blog:
Psychology Faculty
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"The support, guidance and expert training I received from my professors throughout the EdS program helped me grow as both a graduate student in school psychology and as an individual."
~Megan Haggarty, EdS ‘11 |
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