Program Overview

Master of Science in Education, Education Specialist

The University of Dayton's School Psychology program is designed to provide students with the knowledge and skills necessary to create positive environments and make a difference in the lives of children. The program has full Specialist Level (SL) approval from the National Association of School Psychologists (NASP) and meets all requirements leading to a School Psychologist Licensure with the Ohio State Board of Psychology (SBP).

Program Overview

The program is in-person, with the exception of a few fully or partially online courses. Classes begin no earlier than 4:30 p.m. to accommodate working professionals, and on-campus attendance is required 2-3 days a week, depending on the term and/or track. Students can choose from a full-time program or a part-time option to earn their degree.

• Full-time program: Two years of classes (starting in the fall semester), followed by a full-time (40 hours/week) internship for 10 months. Classes typically take place two to three evenings per week.
• Part-time option: Requires three years of part-time classes (starting in the fall semester), followed by a full-time (40 hours/week) internship for 10 months. Classes typically take place one to two evenings per week (depending on the semester).

Degree Information and Courses

Most classes are offered only once per year, and students are preferred to follow a precise sequence of coursework.

Transfer Credits

Each academic department determines if graduate transfer credit will be granted for courses that have not already been applied to another graduate degree. Generally, no more than nine credit hours are transferable into master's programs, and 15 into doctoral programs. Transfer credit must be from courses taken within the last 5 years, and for which the earned grade was a B or better. Course syllabi must be available for review and approval.

Thesis Requirement

A thesis is required for the Ed.S. degree, involving completion of an independent research project. During their first year, students explore areas of interest and commit to a topic by the beginning of their second year. This research experience is guided by program faculty and culminates in a written project and oral defense.

Experiential Learning

As part of this program, students participate in a practicum and internship. They can also choose from several extra-curricular activities, such as clubs and organizations, that cater specifically to their degree program.

Program Faculty

The program faculty includes:

• Elana Bernstein, Ph.D. (program coordinator)
• Susan Davies, Ed.D.
• Laura Miller, Ph.D.
• Jim Ayers, Ed.S., NCSP (adjunct)
• Nick DeGrazia, Ed.S. (adjunct)
• Liz Staley, Ed.S., NCSP (adjunct)
• Katie Weber, Ed.S. (adjunct)

Admission Requirements

Applicants to the UD School Psychology program should submit the following information:

• Official academic records of all previously attended colleges or universities
• Three letters of recommendation from professors or employers
• A personal statement: describing experiences, qualifications, and professional goals
• Resume
• Results from the GRE are optional; however, they are required for applicants with an undergraduate grade-point average below 2.75 on a 4.0 scale

Once the required admission criteria are met, there will be a faculty review. Following the review of these materials, applicants may be invited to interview with department faculty.

International Admission

International students must submit English Proficiency, Visa and Financial Documentation, and a WES credential evaluation, along with the items listed above.

Related Degrees and Programs

The University of Dayton offers several related degrees and programs, including:

• Clinical Mental Health Counseling (M.S.E.)
• Human Services (M.S.E.)
• School Counseling (M.S.E.)
• Clinical Mental Health Counseling (Graduate Certificate)
• Pastoral Counseling (Graduate Certificate)
• School Counseling (Graduate Certificate)
• Educational Leadership (M.S.E.)
• Educational Leadership (Ph.D.)
• Nonprofit and Community Leadership (Graduate Certificate)
• Pastoral Care (Graduate Certificate)

Tuition and Financial Aid

The University of Dayton offers graduate assistantships and financial aid to degree-seeking graduate students. Students can file the FAFSA to be considered for financial aid.