School Psychology
Educational Specialist (Ed.S.)
Quick Facts
Main Campus (Tucson) & UA Chandler (Phoenix area)
In Person
January 15
The School Psychology Ed.S. program provides a comprehensive and integrated curriculum that prepares students to become Nationally Certified School Psychologists (NCSPs). With this educational specialist degree, an individual can practice school psychology in the great majority of school systems in the United States. The program, which leads to Arizona certification, is available in two locations: Tucson (Main Campus) and Chandler (UA Chandler).
Accreditation and Recognition
The EdS program is approved/nationally recognized by the National Association of School Psychologists (NASP). Information on student admission, outcomes, and other details for the NASP program can be found in the Program Annual Report and Student Outcomes Data. The Tucson program is also APA accredited.
The Scholar-Practitioner Model
The program philosophy is guided by the "scholar-practitioner" training model. By necessity, a psychologist practicing in this manner is capable of applying many psychological principles, theories, and research findings, as well as evidence-based assessment and intervention procedures. These are often applied in school settings but might be applied elsewhere when school-related social, emotional, and learning problems are present.
Study techniques for assessing cognitive, academic, social, and emotional functioning.
Learn about school violence and crisis prevention, intervention, response, and recovery in school and community settings.
Gain experience delivering psychological services in a school setting under supervised training.
Learn more about the Arizona MTSS Community of Practice professional development opportunities and links to high-quality, free resources for MTSS work in your school or district.
Graduates of the program are typically employed in PreK-12 schools to provide direct and indirect psychological, behavioral, and academic support to students. Students may also go on to apply to the PhD School Psychology program, though admission is not guaranteed.
SERP 559: Diversity in School Psychology
SERP 677: Personality and Social Emotional Assessment
SERP 679: Educational & Psychological Assessment of Children
SERP 693B: School Psychology Internship
Which Campus Should I Choose?
Both our Tucson and Chandler campuses offer a world-class education that will help you meet your educational and professional goals. However, there are some key differences. Ensure that you apply to the program that best fits your lifestyle and goals by reviewing our campus decision tree.
Is an EdS or a PhD Right for Me?
If you are unsure if you wish to pursue an EdS or a PhD in School Psychology, please review our degree decision tree to help guide your decision-making process.
Admission Requirements
- A graduate college application.
- Unofficial transcripts of all previous coursework required at time of application. Official transcripts of all previous coursework required at time of admission.
- Three letters of recommendation from professionals who can adequately address your ability to be a successful graduate student and professional. Applicants should request letters from people who have known the applicant in a supervisory capacity (e.g., faculty/instructor, work supervisors, and volunteer supervisors). Personal references will not be considered (e.g., friends, relatives, clergy). Individuals writing letters of recommendation are encouraged to use letterhead if available.
- International applicants must meet acceptable English proficiency credentials as outlined by the Graduate College.
- A resume or curriculum vita that summarizes your educational and employment history and any relevant professional accomplishments (including publications, presentations, honors, awards, and other significant activities).
- A statement of professional goals.
Ready to learn more?
We recommend reading our student handbook to get started. Additional information can also be found on the Graduate College website. For questions about the Chandler program, contact Marsha Spencer. For questions about the Tucson program, contact Jennifer Kirkpatrick.