»Ed.S. in School Psychology Admission Requirements
Chapman University I Attallah College of Educational Studies
Acceptance into the graduate programs in school psychology is based on multiple criteria.
These criteria include:
Previous academic achievement: Candidates are expected to hold a baccalaureate degree
from an accredited university.
Commitment to the program mission: Candidates are required to submit an autobiographical
statement that describes the life experiences that have shaped their choice of school
psychology as a profession and their commitment to the program mission as described
below:
The mission of Chapman University is to provide a personalized education of distinction
that leads to inquiring, ethical and productive lives as global citizens.
The school psychology program at Chapman University builds on this mission by preparing
knowledgeable, skilled and reflective school psychologists who are effective change
agents for individuals, families and communities. Graduates of the school psychology
program have strong interpersonal and collaborative skills and are prepared to be
advocates for youth of varying abilities, cultural heritages and socioeconomic backgrounds.
It is important that graduates are capable and committed to being leaders in the field
of school psychology.
Knowledge of the profession.
Experience working with children and families: Candidates must submit a current resume
outlining their experiences working with children and families. The program has a
special interest in candidates who have experience in multilingual and multicultural
settings.
Experience in public schools.
To be considered for admission to the Ed.S. in School Psychology program, all candidates
must submit the documents listed below:
Graduate Application Online graduate application.
Supplemental Application Supplemental application part of the online application.
Official Transcripts Official transcripts from the undergraduate degree granting institute of higher education.
Letters of Recommendation Two letters of recommendation. Both letters should be accompanied by Chapman University
recommendation forms. At least one recommendation must be from someone who has experience
with the candidate in an academic setting and knowledge of the candidate’s academic
potential. A second recommendation must be from someone who knows the candidate in
a work setting, preferably one where the candidate works with children. Information
from the recommendations is used to help make judgments regarding a prospective candidate’s
suitability and potential for professional success in the field of school psychology,
including the appropriate personal characteristics.
Personal Essay Submit an autobiographical statement outlining your life experiences that have shaped
your approach to working with children and how you have arrived at this point in your
career development. Your essay should be approximately 750 words in length, double-spaced.
Resume A current resume or vita that includes information outlining experiences working with
children and/or families.
*The GRE is NOT required for admission to the Ed.S. in School Psychology program but
is considered, if submitted, and may enhance the overall evaluation of your application
file.
After initial screening of the application materials, selected prospective students
will be invited for an in-person interview with faculty.
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Program at a Glance
Cohort model: Students pursuing the Ed.S. in School Psychology and/or the LPCC emphasis
option begin their studies each summer semester.
Low student-to-faculty ratio, with close collaboration between students and faculty
on professional training, research, publications, and presentations.
Study abroad opportunities
Tuition assistance and scholarships are available.
Most students finish the Ed.S. program in 3 years. There is also an option to extend
the program to 4 years of study.
Students in the school psychology program must complete a minimum of 600 hours of
practicum fieldwork (CSP 534,CSP 535) and 1,200 hours of internship/final fieldwork (CSP 622,CSP 623). The majority of these hours must be completed in a K-12 public school setting.
All hours must be under the supervision of an experienced professional with a Pupil
Personnel Services Credential in School Psychology.
Demonstration of Mastery
Faculty members review students each semester to determine if they demonstrate the
skills, knowledge and professional attitudes necessary to be successful school psychologists.
Additionally, students must maintain a minimum 3.25 GPA. Students who demonstrate
these qualities will be invited to continue in the program. If faculty members have
concerns about students in any of these areas, they will be asked to meet with an
advisor and may be dismissed from the program. Candidates can earn the M.A. in Educational
Psychology after completing 54 credits and obtaining a score of 155 on the ETS Praxis
examination in school psychology. Students earn the Educational Specialist degree
in School Psychology and the Pupil Personnel Services Credential in School Psychology
after completing 69 credits, preparing a professional portfolio and passing an oral
interview.
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor
The Attallah College of Educational Studies has tracks that allow students in School
Counseling and School Psychology to meet the educational requirements to become a
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC).
What Are the Benefits of an LPCC License?
LPCC license holders can practice counseling and psychotherapy outside the schools
in private practice or clinic settings. The license in professional clinical counseling
is a master's level license regulated by the Board of Behavioral Science Examiners
(BBSE), the same state agency that controls licensing for Marriage and Family Therapists
(MFTs) and Licensed Clinical Social Workers.
