Master of Science and Ed.S in School Psychology

Education Specialist

Hours: 66 On-Campus Online

About

The Master of Science and Ed.S in School Psychology at Fort Hays State University equips students with the skills to become effective and compassionate school psychologists. The program emphasizes practical training through on-campus and online coursework, preparing graduates to address children's psychological and educational needs in schools.

Students engage in rigorous coursework, fieldwork, and internships that build assessment, intervention, consultation, and collaboration competencies. Our program is recognized for its comprehensive curriculum, which provides students with a strong foundation for pursuing various career paths in school psychology.

Why pursue a Master of Science and Ed.S in School Psychology at Fort Hays State University?

Fort Hays State University's program stands out for its flexible modality options, allowing students to take courses online or on campus. Unlike other programs, FHSU offers a unique blend of comprehensive coursework and hands-on training through field experiences and internships in schools.

Moreover, the program is designed to prepare students for National Certification as School Psychologists (NCSP). Faculty members stay up-to-date with the latest advancements and trends, ensuring that students are well-prepared to meet the needs of today's diverse student populations.

Who is this program for?

The Master of Science and Ed.S in School Psychology program at Fort Hays State University is designed for individuals passionate about positively impacting children's lives in educational settings. Whether you're looking to transition into the school psychology field or advance your current career, this graduate program offers the comprehensive training needed to succeed as a licensed school psychologist. The program accommodates on-campus and online learners, providing flexibility for out-of-state students and working professionals.

This program is ideal for:

Aspiring school psychologists seeking national certification
Current educators wanting specialized training in assessment and intervention
Mental health professionals aiming to work in a school setting
Individuals passionate about improving children's lives and pursuing careers in school psychology
Out-of-state students interested in flexible learning options
Those looking to transition into the school psychology profession

Learning Outcomes

The Master of Science and Ed.S in School Psychology program at Fort Hays State University prepares students to become effective and compassionate school psychologists. Our curriculum emphasizes comprehensive assessment, intervention, and consultation training to support students' learning and well-being. Upon completing the program and passing the Praxis School Psychologist exam, graduates are eligible to apply to become nationally certified school psychologists (NCSP).

The program combines rigorous graduate coursework with field-based practicum and internships, ensuring students gain the practical skills needed to excel in school psychology. Below are four key learning outcomes that guide our graduates toward becoming highly qualified professionals.

Conduct Comprehensive Assessments

Graduates will be skilled in conducting comprehensive assessments using various tools and techniques to evaluate school-aged children's cognitive, social, emotional, and behavioral functioning. With a strong foundation in psychological foundations and research design, students will learn to tailor their assessment strategies to diverse educational settings and individual student needs. Understanding the learning process and prerequisites for success, they will accurately identify challenges and develop effective intervention plans.

Develop Evidence-Based Interventions

The program emphasizes evidence-based practices in developing, implementing, and evaluating behavioral and mental health interventions. Students learn behavior therapy, social-emotional learning strategies, and crisis intervention techniques that support students facing school violence and social justice issues. Graduates will be adept at designing culturally responsive interventions that enhance students' lives and promote a positive school setting.

Collaborate with Educational Stakeholders

Graduates will develop practical consultation skills with teachers, administrators, school counselors, and parents to address student needs. Through a practicum in school psychology and supervised fieldwork, they will understand how to navigate the complexities of educational systems and build collaborative partnerships that support students' successful learning and well-being. This collaboration ensures that students receive comprehensive support from all stakeholders in their academic journey.

Advocate for Children and Communities

Graduates will be prepared to promote social justice and human diversity within the school psychology profession. They will learn how to address issues related to special education, cultural responsiveness, and equitable access to resources. By completing the graduate program, students can advocate for policies and practices that support diverse learners and create inclusive educational environments.

Real-World Applications

The Master of Science and Ed.S in School Psychology program at Fort Hays State University offers extensive field experiences that immerse students in the practical aspects of their future roles. Students complete practicum placements and internships in public schools, collaborating with local educational agencies to collect data and evaluate programs. This hands-on training helps them apply theoretical knowledge to real-world challenges like designing interventions, conducting assessments, and consulting with educational stakeholders.

Moreover, students gain valuable experience by presenting their research at professional conferences and working on projects tailored to real case studies. These opportunities enable them to hone their assessment, intervention, and consultation skills while making meaningful contributions to school psychology.

Stay Ahead of the Curve

Our faculty members stay up-to-date with the latest advancements and trends in school psychology, ensuring that the curriculum reflects current practices. Evidence-based techniques are integrated into coursework, emphasizing recent developments in mental health, diversity, and crisis intervention. Students learn to implement these strategies effectively, preparing them to address today's diverse student populations.

Additionally, the program encourages active participation in professional organizations like the National Association of School Psychologists (NASP). This involvement helps students network with professionals in the field and gain insights into emerging trends, policy changes, and best practices that will shape the future of school psychology.

Hands-on Activities

Students engage in experiential learning through practicum placements and school internships, assessing and intervening in real-world cases under supervision. They collaborate with teachers, administrators, and families to address students' educational and mental health needs. These field-based experiences are complemented by simulated case studies and research projects tailored to contemporary issues in education.

Moreover, participation in professional conferences allows students to present their research findings, receive feedback from experts, and refine their skills. These hands-on activities give students the practical knowledge and confidence to excel as school psychologists.

What You’ll Learn:

Advanced assessment and intervention techniques
Evidence-based consultation and collaboration strategies
Comprehensive understanding of child development and mental health
Hands-on practice with assessment tools
Culturally responsive practices

How You’ll Learn:

Field-based practicum and internships in school settings
On-campus and online courses taught by experienced faculty
Real-world application through simulated and actual case studies
Collaboration with local schools for applied experiences

Courses

The program's core curriculum provides a comprehensive understanding of child development, mental health, and school psychology. Students take courses like Advanced Assessment Techniques, Behavioral Interventions, and Consultation in Schools to develop critical skills in evaluation and intervention. Research Methods and Program Evaluation courses build their ability to design studies and analyze data, enabling them to make evidence-based decisions.

In addition to coursework, students complete field-based practicum and internships to apply what they have learned in real-world settings. The program culminates in a comprehensive examination and a thesis or applied project, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared to address the challenges of school psychology.

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 following 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 and Ed.S in School Psychology course listing by visiting the Academic Catalog.

Career Prospects

Graduates of the Master of Science and Ed.S in School Psychology program at Fort Hays State University are well-prepared to pursue various rewarding careers. Upon completing the graduate program, they are eligible to become nationally certified school psychologists (NCSP) and can work in different educational settings. Comprehensive training in assessment, intervention, and consultation equips them to support students and make meaningful contributions to the profession of school psychology. Below are five career paths that our graduates can pursue:

School Psychologist

School psychologists work in K-12 settings to provide assessment, intervention, and consultation services. They evaluate students' cognitive, social, emotional, and behavioral functioning and develop evidence-based interventions to support students facing academic, behavioral, or mental health challenges. Collaborating with teachers, parents, and administrators helps create positive learning environments that promote student success.

Educational Consultant

Educational consultants advise schools and educational agencies on data-driven decision-making, program evaluation, and strategic planning. They work with administrators to identify gaps in academic programs and develop strategies to enhance student outcomes. Consultants often specialize in special education, behavior management, or crisis intervention. They may also provide teacher training and workshops.

Mental Health Specialist

Mental health specialists provide counseling and mental health services to children and adolescents in schools. They design and implement therapeutic interventions for students facing anxiety, depression, and behavioral challenges. In a school setting, they work closely with school counselors and special education teams to create comprehensive support plans that address students' unique needs.

University Instructor

University instructors teach undergraduate and graduate coursework in school psychology and related fields. They develop curricula, deliver lectures, and supervise research projects. Instructors also contribute to the field through research publications, conference presentations, and participation in professional organizations. They may specialize in psychological assessment, behavioral interventions, or research design.

Admission Requirements

The Master of Science and Ed.S in School Psychology program at Fort Hays State University seeks candidates committed to positively impacting children's lives in educational settings. Our admissions committee considers applicants' academic backgrounds, professional experiences, and potential for success in the school psychology field. Below are the detailed admission requirements:

Degree Requirement

Applicants must hold a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution in psychology, education, or a related field. Degrees in other disciplines may be considered if applicants complete prerequisite coursework, including 12 undergraduate credit hours from a psychology department and a research methods or statistics course.

Undergraduate Grade Point Average (GPA)

A minimum cumulative undergraduate GPA of 3.0 in the last 60 credit hours is required. Applicants with a GPA below 3.0 may still be considered if they demonstrate significant professional experience and strong recommendations.

Personal Statement

Applicants must submit a 1-2 page personal statement detailing their interest in school psychology and graduate studies. The statement should include their goals for pursuing the school psychology master's degree and how the program aligns with their career aspirations.

Letters of Recommendation

Two letters of recommendation are required, with at least one from a former professor or academic advisor familiar with the applicant's educational background. The second letter can come from a professional mentor or individual who can vouch for the applicant's leadership skills, work ethic, and potential in the school psychology profession.

Graduate Record Examination (GRE) Scores

Applicants must have a recent GRE General score – from the past five years. If a student has completed a master’s degree in a related field, the GRE is not required.

Prerequisite Courses

Applicants must have completed coursework in child development, abnormal psychology, and research methods. Those who still need to complete these courses may be required to take them before beginning graduate coursework.

Interview Questionnaire

Applicants will complete an interview questionnaire to provide information about their academic and professional experiences.

Licensure Disclosure

The Best Value in Higher Education Anywhere

Fort Hays State University prides itself on quality education at an affordable price. Students in this program can expect to pay approximately $2,475.09* (on-campus) or $3,047.58* (online) per semester.

*Estimated cost based on 9 credit hours at the Graduate resident/regional tuition rate ($275.01/credit hour) for on-campus courses, or the FHSU Online Graduate tuition rate (338.62/credit hour) for online courses. Actual price may vary depending on course load and location. Tuition and Fees are subject to change as they are approved by the Kansas Board of Regents each year.

Ready for the next step?

Our faculty would be excited to talk to you about how our department programs can help you explore your interests and prepare you for a variety of rewarding careers.

Apply

Related Programs

Fort Hays State University offers several related programs for those interested in complementary fields within psychology and education. Whether considering graduate coursework in special education or seeking a doctoral program, these programs provide specialized training that enhances your ability to support students.

Related programs include:

M.S. in Clinical Psychology
M.S. in Counseling
Ed.S in Special Education
M.S. in Education Specialist Level

FAQ

How long does it take to become a school psychologist?

Typically, the Master and Ed.S program takes about three years to complete, followed by a 1-year internship.

What are the requirements for becoming a school psychologist?

You must earn a graduate degree with at least 60 graduate credit hours in school psychology, complete supervised internships, and obtain licensure.

What is the hardest part of being a school psychologist?

While it can be challenging, the rewards of balancing the diverse needs of students, families, and school staff are immense. The impact you can make in these roles is truly rewarding.

Can I pursue this program online?

Yes, the program offers both on-campus and online options for maximum flexibility. The online program is delivered almost exclusively in virtual format, with the exception of one week on campus and some online synchronous time for applied courses.

Is your program NASP accredited?

Currently, our programs are not NASP accredited. However, FHSU is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. Additionally, students complete a portfolio as part of the Ed.S program, and this (in addition to Praxis-II scores) may be submitted to NASP to apply for national certification. You can learn more about this process at: http://www.nasponline.org/certification/ncsp/app/index.aspx

Does this program meet state requirements, and which state will I be able to practice in?

Our program meets state requirements and prepares students to practice in Kansas. If you live or will work in a different state, it is your responsibility to research the state's requirements to determine if our program will work for you. A good place to start your research is the following site: http://www.nasponline.org/certification/state_info_list.aspx

I live in a state other than Kansas. Does the online program work for me?

Yes. Our alumni have lived in states across the country and have obtained licensure as a result of our online program. If you have questions regarding the program's fit with your state's licensing requirements, please visit the NASP website.

I have another master’s degree. Can I begin with the EdS program?

First, compare your master's coursework to the coursework required for our master’s program. If there is substantial overlap, you can be considered for the Ed.S. However, unless you have taken courses in test administration, it is unlikely you will be able to begin directly at the EdS.

Information about the Department of Psychology

The Department of Psychology at FHSU offers innovative experiential learning opportunities that allow students to explore psychology theory and understand the human mind. Committed to excellence in education and research, the department prepares students to contribute to local and global communities as knowledgeable citizens and lifelong learners. With award-winning faculty, the department provides high-quality education, fostering strong student-faculty relationships and offering meaningful internships through local partnerships.

Students engage in collaborative research, participate in scholarly activities, and gain practical experience in dedicated research labs and community settings. Graduates of the psychology programs are well-equipped to pursue rewarding careers, having developed professional skills and a deep understanding of psychological science. The department offers both undergraduate and graduate programs, on-campus and online, ensuring students receive the necessary support and resources to succeed.

Student Organizations

School Psychology

Education Specialist

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