School Psychology, MSEd

The graduate program in School Psychology at Queens College is cast in the scientist-practitioner model. This model seeks to integrate theoretical knowledge and applied skills in all coursework as well as in practica and internships in order to promote educationally and psychologically healthy environments for all children and youth. The goal is to prepare psychologists with high levels of ethical and professional competencies to provide sound educational and psychological services in the school and other educational settings. We are committed to training school psychologists who embrace principles of fairness, equity, and social justice in their personal and professional lives and who will provide exemplary, culturally responsive services to the diverse constituencies we are privileged to serve.

This 61-credit specialist-level program provides the skills necessary for the professional preparation of school psychologists. It meets the academic and internship requirements for New York State Certification in School Psychology and is approved as a training institution in School Psychology by the New York State Department of Education and the National Association of School Psychologists (NASP). The program leads to a Provisional Certificate in School Psychology and a degree of Master of Science in Education. It can be completed in three years of full-time study, including a one-year internship, or in four years on a part-time basis, with three years of part-time study and a final year of full-time internship. Furthermore, candidates may enroll in either a Bilingual or Multicultural Specialization. The Bilingual Specialization leads to a Bilingual Extension (provided by the New York State Education Department to bilingual candidates meeting the states’ bilingual requirements). The Multicultural Specialization is for non-bilingual students who wish to obtain additional expertise in working with students from diverse cultural backgrounds. Both specializations require additional coursework (6 additional credits) and a special internship experience.

The curriculum is sequenced, with the first year focused on theoretical foundations and skill development, followed by more experiential components in the later years. The sequence is designed to introduce complex concepts slowly, building upon the basics. The coursework is designed to cover the 10 Domains of School Psychology Training and Practice that are part of the NASP Standards for Training and Field Placement experience and practica. Close supervision of skills is followed by an internship, where students are given the opportunity to integrate these experiences in a practical, professional environment, both in school and clinical settings. All students follow the same basic sequence of coursework, with program modifications made to meet individual needs.

A graduate of the School Psychology program has expertise in both psychology and education, as well as a knowledge of the contributions of related disciplines. Using an ecological perspective, our graduates work with general education as well as special education students, teachers, administrators, parents, and with others in the community to develop greater understanding of all children and to contribute to constructive change in a variety of environments—including the classroom, school, and home. Particular attention is given to serving the needs of children of diverse cultural and linguistic backgrounds. As a member of the school faculty, the school psychologist shares with faculty members and with other professionals the responsibility for delivering services that prevent problems and maximize learning and personal growth in the child. The role of the school psychologist as a member of a team is addressed in training.

Academic Advisor

Marian Fish

marian.fish@qc.cuny.edu

Requirements for Matriculation

These requirements are in addition to the general requirements for matriculation.

1. Undergraduate study: Completion of a satisfactory undergraduate program of study in psychology or a related major with a minimum cumulative average of 3.0, and an average of 3.0 in all courses in psychology and education.
2. Prerequisite coursework: There are 9 prerequisite courses for the Graduate Program in School Psychology. All candidates are required to have a course in each of the following areas of Psychology and Education, and all courses must have been taken at an accredited college or university for a minimum of 3 credits:
   • General Psychology
   • Statistical Methods in Psychology
   • Psychological Testing and Measurement (Psychometrics)
   • Experimental Psychology
   • Abnormal Psychology
   • Physiological Psychology (e.g., Behavioral Neuroscience)
   • Developmental Psychology (e.g., Lifespan Development)
   • Foundations of Education (e.g., Philosophy of Education)
   • Literacy Education (e.g., Teaching Beginning Reading and Writing)

     Applicants must have completed (received final grades in) at least 5 of the 9 prerequisite courses by the March 1 admissions deadline in order for their application to be reviewed. Courses in progress are not considered completed.

     At the time of matriculation into the School Psychology program a minimum of 7 of the 9 prerequisites must have been satisfactorily completed. No student may matriculate without completing Psychological Testing and Measurement (Psychometrics). Once enrolled in the program, any outstanding prerequisites must be completed before the beginning of the second year of the program

3. Personal Statement: A personal statement should address the following topic: “Why I want to be a school psychologist and why I would like to attend the Queens College School Psychology Program.” Provide relevant experiences and qualities that you will bring to the profession of school psychology.
4. Recommendation Letters: Three written recommendations are required. At least two letters must be from undergraduate or graduate instructors in psychology and/or education or college advisors. All reference letters should be on the instructors’ stationery. Additional letters of recommendation are also appropriate from a current job or from a recent job related to education and/or psychology
5. Resume: All students must submit a resume that includes educational history and work experiences
6. Personal Interview: A personal interview will be required for qualified applicants
7. Writing Sample: A writing sample will be required at the time of interview

Deadline for Completed Application:
The deadline to submit the application for admissions is March 1. All supporting materials (e.g., transcripts, recommendation letters) must be received by March 14th. Incomplete applications with missing documentation will not be reviewed if they are not complete by March 14th.

Requirements for Non-Matriculation

Students are to follow the college’s requirements for non-matriculation​.