Online and Distance Degrees > Degree Programs > EdS in Educational Psychology – School Psychology

Educational Specialist (EdS) in
Educational Psychology (School Psychology)

Hybrid

Program Overview

The EdS in Educational Psychology (School Psychology) program follows a scientist-practitioner model, emphasizing the integration of scientific inquiry with effective practice, and prepares students to become both skilled practitioners and dedicated researchers. Through comprehensive coursework, field experiences and research, the program equips students with the tools to contribute to the field of school psychology. Upon completion of all requirements, eligible students can earn an Alabama Class AA certification in School Psychology. Graduates may independently apply for the NCSP through the portfolio submission process with NASP.

Program Format
Hybrid
Credit Hours
36* Meet with advisor regarding possible prerequisites
Tuition Per Hour
$440

Fill a Growing Need for School Psychologists

Throughout the program, students will gain expertise in personality and social development, with a focus on multicultural approaches to counseling. The program fosters a learning environment that encourages intellectual freedom, critical debate and student-faculty interactions, helping students develop creativity and professionalism. They will develop advanced skills in behavioral and academic consultation, participating in hands-on learning through a counseling strategies course and a practicum in consultation and intervention. The curriculum also emphasizes foundational knowledge in educational research, preparing students to analyze and apply data effectively.

Graduates are equipped to deliver both direct and indirect interventions, addressing mental health and educational challenges while upholding inclusive and ethical practices. Their expertise is enhanced through extensive internship experiences, where they integrate their skills in practical, real-world contexts. Additionally, graduates demonstrate proficiency in crisis response, family-school collaboration and program evaluation, ensuring they can effectively support individual, group and systems-level needs with professionalism and expertise.

Application DeadlineMarch 1 for fall admission
Application Priority DeadlineJanuary 1 for fall admission
Fees$10 College of Education graduate fee (per credit hour)
Scholarships and Grants AvailableDiscover a range of scholarships and grants to support your educational journey
Teacher Salary ScheduleAccess the Alabama State Department of Education Salary Schedule to understand earning potential for educators
Completion TimeMost students earn their degree in approximately 2.5 years

Curriculum

The online EdS in Educational Psychology consists of 39-69 credit hours dependent upon a student’s previous graduate coursework and in consultation with their advisor and department. Please note that courses are subject to change.

The programs listed in the current UA Graduate Catalog that lead to Alabama Class A and Class AA professional certificates for service in the public schools may be altered to meet certification standards adopted by the Alabama State Board of Education. Check with the appropriate department head for information about current requirements.

Required Courses

BSP 601 Applied Pediatric Neuropsychology
BEP 565 Personality and Social Development
BCE 611 Multicultural Approaches to Counseling
BER 600 Survey of Educational Research
BSP 625 Behavioral Consultation and Interventions for School-Based Problems
- Note: Beginning Fall 2025, BSP 625 will be replaced with BSP 632.
BSP 635 Academic and Instructional Consultation and Intervention
- Note: Beginning Fall 2025, BSP 635 will be replaced with BSP 633.
BCE 652 Counseling Strategies for Adults and Children
BSP 686 Consultation and Intervention Practicum
BSP 687 Specialist Internship in School Psychology (12 credit hours)

Additional Requirements (must be taken if not fulfilled in a previous graduate program)

SPE 500 Introduction to Exceptional Children and Youth
BEF 534 Multicultural Education (or program approved educational foundations substitute)
BEP 541 Foundations of the Learning Sciences (or program approved educational psychology substitute)
BER 540 Statistical Methods in Education
BER 558 Introduction to Psychometrics Theory
BSP 500 Introduction to School Psychology
- Note: Beginning Fall 2025, BSP 500 will be replaced with BSP 501.
BCE 512 Counseling Theory Processes
BSP 515 Cognitive and Academic Assessment and Decision Making
BSP 516 Social Behavioral Assessment and Decision Making
BSP 588 Internship in School Psychometry
CRD 569 Introduction to Literacy Education (or approved curriculum/instruction substitute)

The UA Graduate Catalog is published annually. State-approved program checklists may be updated more frequently and are thus likely to provide the most up-to date information about requirements. Students should consult their advisors each semester before registering.

Admission

Admission to the Educational Specialist in Educational Psychology (School Psychology) degree program requires the following:

A master’s degree from an accredited institution
Official transcripts from all institutions attended
A valid master’s level professional educator certificate in school psychometry, school psychology or special education
Two years of acceptable, professional P-12 educational experience
Statement of purpose
Current curriculum vitae or resume
Completed UA Graduate School application
Completed requirements for fingerprinting/background clearance
Three letters of recommendation
- Recommendation letters must be from current and former professors and/or supervisory personnel knowledgeable of the applicant’s academic and professional capabilities for all College of Education programs that lead to professional certification

Students may begin the program in the fall.

Requirements for certification and licensure in school psychology vary from state to state. Students are expected to determine the requirements in the state or states in which they are interested in practicing before beginning the program. If you reside or intend to seek professional licensure outside of the state of Alabama, please review the requirements for that state prior to applying to this program.

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