School Psychology

The core curriculum of the programs provides a comprehensive foundation in child development, mental health, and school psychology. Students complete courses such as Advanced Assessment Techniques, Behavioral Interventions, and Consultation in Schools to develop essential skills in evaluation and intervention. Courses in Research Methods and Program Evaluation further enhance their ability to design studies, analyze data, and make evidence-based decisions.

In addition to coursework, students participate in field-based practicum and internships to apply their learning in real-world settings. The program culminates with a comprehensive exam and a thesis or applied project, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared to meet the demands of the school psychology profession.

PSY 840: Appraisal of Children

In this course, students will practice administration, scoring, and interpretation of a wide variety of diagnostic instruments. Emphasis on report writing, theory of intelligence testing, and best practices of assessment. Permission to enroll in this course is limited to graduate students in the school psychology and clinical psychology programs.

PSY 880: Methods in School Psychology

This course has an emphasis on the best practices, content, problems, philosophies, and current trends in the field of school psychology.

PSY 982: Legal Issues in School Psychology

Successful completion of this course will provide candidates with the knowledge and skills to complete problem-solving applications of law and professional ethics in the school setting and to identify and use resources that support the legal requirements in the provision of school psychological services. The course is designed to assist in preparing students to apply laws and ethics in the delivery of comprehensive and integrated services across general domains of school psychology practice.

Discover the full Master of Science in Psychology (School) and Education Specialist in School Psychology course listings by visiting the Academic Catalog.

Graduates are well-prepared for diverse and rewarding careers in school psychology. Upon completion, they become eligible for National Certification as School Psychologists (NCSP) and are qualified to work in a variety of educational settings. Their extensive training in assessment, intervention, and consultation enables them to effectively support students and make meaningful contributions to the field. The following are some of the career paths available to graduates:

School Psychologist

School psychologists in K-12 settings assess and support students’ cognitive, emotional, and behavioral needs. They develop evidence-based interventions and collaborate with teachers, parents, and administrators to create positive learning environments that promote student success.

Educational Consultant

Educational consultants advise schools and agencies on data-driven decision-making, program evaluation, and strategic planning. They assist administrators in improving academic programs, often specializing in special education, behavior management, or crisis intervention, and may provide teacher training and workshops.

Mental Health Specialist

Mental health specialists provide counseling and therapy to students with anxiety, depression, and behavioral challenges. They work closely with school counselors and special education teams to create tailored support plans.

University Instructor

University instructors teach undergraduate and graduate school psychology courses, develop curricula, and supervise research. They contribute to the field through research, presentations, and professional engagement, often specializing in assessment, intervention, or research methods.

The Master of Science in Psychology (School) and Education Specialist in School Psychology programs at Fort Hays State University seek applicants committed to making a positive impact on children’s lives within educational settings. The admissions committee evaluates applicants based on academic records, professional experience, and potential for success in the field of school psychology.

For fall admission, the priority deadline for the Master of School Psychology program is November 1st, with a final deadline of February 1st. For detailed information on application deadlines, required materials, and contact information, prospective students are encouraged to visit the Graduate Programs in School Psychology page. Below are the detailed admission requirements:

Degree Requirement

Applicants must possess a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution in psychology, education, or a related field. Degrees in other disciplines may be considered if the applicant completes prerequisite coursework, including 12 undergraduate credit hours in psychology and a course in research methods or statistics.

Undergraduate Grade Point Average (GPA)

Applicants must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 in the last 60 credit hours of undergraduate coursework. Those with a GPA below 3.0 may still be considered if they demonstrate substantial professional experience and provide strong recommendations.

Personal Statement

Applicants are required to submit a 1–2-page personal statement outlining their interest in school psychology and graduate studies. The statement should describe their goals for pursuing the master’s degree and explain how the program aligns with their career aspirations.

Letters of Recommendation

Applicants must submit two letters of recommendation, including at least one from a former professor or academic advisor familiar with their academic background. The second letter may be from a professional mentor or someone who can attest to the applicant’s leadership abilities, work ethic, and potential in the field of school psychology.

Graduate Record Examination (GRE) Scores

Applicants must submit a recent GRE General Test score taken within the past five years. The GRE requirement is waived for those who have already earned a master’s degree in a related field.

Prerequisite Courses

Applicants must have completed coursework in child development, abnormal psychology, and research methods. Those who have not fulfilled these requirements may be required to complete the necessary courses prior to starting graduate studies.

Interview Questionnaire

Applicants are required to complete an interview questionnaire that gathers information about their academic background and professional experiences.

With the exception of Kansas, Fort Hays State University has not confirmed whether this program meets licensure requirements in other states. Since licensure criteria vary by state and are subject to change, prospective students are encouraged to consult their state education department for the most up-to-date information. For guidance on evaluating licensure eligibility, students should contact their advisor, department chair, or licensure officer. Additional details can be found in the Licensure Disclosure.