Help students, teachers, administrators, and parents overcome obstacles to learning and personal development.
The Chicago School's Ed.S. School Psychology program establishes a firm foundation for those interested in becoming licensed school psychologists who treat and empower students, families, and communities to bring about positive change.
Our philosophy embraces the premise that the creation of humane and effective learning environments requires the application of professional judgment acquired through the integration of educational and psychological theory, scholarship, and professional practice. Further, The Chicago School endorses a deep commitment to understanding and respecting individual and cultural differences, while considering the systems in which the individual functions. The expected outcome of this method is consistent with the role of the “master” school psychologist who is able to treat and empower students, families, and communities to bring about positive change, plan preventive services, and enhance both educational and psychological problem-solving at all levels.
Guided by practitioner-scholar faculty, you will gain experience and exposure in a wide variety of areas, including:
- Essential diagnostic, therapeutic, and consultative skills
- Prevention and crisis practice and theory
- Research and program evaluation methodologies
- Impact of diversity and cultural issues in the field
- Legal, ethical, and professional guidelines of school psychology
With a solid foundation in psychology, you will be qualified to pursue licensure and help children and adolescents succeed academically, emotionally, and socially.
The Chicago School’s Ed.S. School Psychology program is accredited by the National Association of School Psychologists (NASP).
Admissions Requirements
Students applying to the Ed.S. School Psychology program must submit the following:
- Application
- Apply Online
- Application fee: $50
- Resume or curriculum vitae
- Successful work history after completion of the baccalaureate degree
- Admission essay
- Three letters of recommendation from academic professors or professional or volunteer supervisors
- Generally, an undergraduate GPA of 3.2 or higher on a 4.0 scale is required
- Previous Coursework
- Earned grade of C or better in the following courses:
- Psychology
- Statistics or research methods
- Earned grade of C or better in the following courses:
Accreditation & Licensure
Accreditation
The school psychology Ed.S. program is fully accredited by the National Association of School Psychologists (NASP).
Licensure
For information on whether a program at The Chicago School meets or does not meet licensure eligibility requirements for the state in which you wish to be licensed, please visit our licensure disclosures page.
Fieldwork Opportunities
Practicum and Internship
The Chicago School requirements for school placements exceed the NASP Standards for Training and Field Placement Programs in School Psychology.
Three field experiences are required and earn a total of 12 academic credits:
- First-year service beginning practicum: 160 hours (embedded in professional development seminar)
- Second-year practicum (third year for students in the blended programs): 600 hours total (6 credits)
- Third-year internship experience (fourth year for students in the part-time blended programs): 1200 hours, full-time (4 credits)
Students registered in this program incur a one-time $195 Experiential Learning Technology Fee.
Sample Courses
Consulting in Schools
This course focuses on the application of consultation theory to school-based consultation. The course emphasizes understanding the various stages of successful consultation and applying these skills to solving school and home problems.
Professional Development and Beginning Practicum I
The Professional Development Group is a two-course series in which candidates explore issues of professional and career development in school psychology; become oriented to the organization of school systems; examine APA and NASP ethical guidelines; plan for progression through the program; develop skills in self-evaluation and reflection; learn effective presentation techniques; and complete their first practicum field experience.
Clinical and Diagnostic Interviewing
Techniques of clinical and diagnostic interviewing will be presented. Students will learn several techniques for conducting single and multiphase interviews with children and adults. Students will be introduced to the use of these techniques within the context of teacher consultation and counseling. Consideration of issues of diversity in establishing a relationship and conducting an interview is integral to this course.
Career Pathways
The vast majority of school psychology graduates go on to work as school psychologists in elementary and high schools, where they use specialized skills and knowledge to impact their work with children, families, and schools.
Career Outcomes
The Chicago School prepares you to make an impact in a variety of high-demand careers. Below, you will find possible career options and salaries associated with this degree.
Data is pulled by a third-party tool called Lightcast, which includes data from sources including the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the U.S. Census Bureau, online job postings, and other government databases. The information below represents a regional and national career outlook related to this degree program*. The Chicago School is dedicated to assisting you in achieving your career goals.
*Many degree programs are intended to fulfill licensure requirements in specific states. The data shown here may not represent the state where you currently reside. For more information on how this program is applicable to the requirements of your state, please speak with your admissions representative.
Financing Your Education
The Chicago School is dedicated to keeping our professional degree programs accessible to anyone regardless of financial status. In addition to the scholarships that may be available, our Financial Aid Department will provide you with information to determine what financial arrangements are right for you.
FAQs
Ed.S. School Psychology FAQs
What is an Ed.S. degree?
An Ed.S. degree, short for an Education Specialist degree, is a specialized post-master’s qualification designed to deepen your knowledge in educational fields like school psychology. It’s perfect for those who want advanced expertise without the longer time commitment of a doctoral program.
What are the benefits of an Ed.S. degree in school psychology?
Earning an Ed.S. degree in school psychology takes you beyond what is covered in a master's program. It prepares you for high-level roles within educational settings, allowing you to conduct thorough assessments, design impactful interventions, and advise school staff. This degree gives you the tools to make a difference in the educational and psychological development of students.
Can I transition from the Ed.S. to the Psy.D. School Psychology program?
Yes, students enrolled in the Ed.S. School Psychology program can apply to The Chicago School's Psy.D. School Psychology program. This is ideal for those aiming for even greater professional growth and specialization.
What skills will I gain in the Ed.S. school psychology program?
In the Ed.S. School Psychology program, you can gain the skills needed to thrive as a school psychologist. You'll develop diagnostic, therapeutic, and consultative techniques, tackle prevention and crisis scenarios, and evaluate educational programs. The program also dives deep into how diversity affects education, and you’ll learn to navigate the legal and ethical challenges in school psychology.
What practical experience does the Ed.S. school psychology program offer?
At The Chicago School, we believe in learning by doing. Our E.D. School Psychology program includes a variety of fieldwork opportunities that go above and beyond the National Association of School Psychologists standards. You'll start with a first-year service practicum, followed by a more intensive second-year practicum, and culminate with a third-year full-time internship. These experiences are designed to let you apply what you've learned directly to real-world school settings, ensuring you’re well-prepared for professional challenges.
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