Program Overview

School Psychology PhD Program

The School Psychology PhD program at Temple University follows a scientist-practitioner model, emphasizing that a school psychologist's basic skills are derived from a thorough understanding of the science of psychology. This approach enables school psychologists to adapt to changing professional demands and contribute to the future of the profession.

About the Program

The program is designed for students who have completed a bachelor's degree and can earn an MEd after completing 30 credits of qualifying coursework toward the PhD. The program requires a minimum of 7 years to complete, with students completing one year of full-time residency. Both day and evening classes are required.

Accreditation

The doctoral program in School Psychology is fully accredited by the American Psychological Association (APA), the National Association of School Psychologists (NASP), and the Pennsylvania Department of Education.

Areas of Specialization

The program offers an optional concentration in Applied Behavior Analysis.

Job Prospects

Graduates are employed in various settings, including universities, public and private schools, hospitals, research facilities, government and state agencies, and private practice.

Licensure/Certification

Certification in School Psychology is awarded after completing the internship and passing the examinations required by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. Some states certify without the examinations. Licensing as a psychologist in most states requires an additional post-doctoral year of supervision and passing the Examination for the Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP) and a state licensure exam.

Non-Matriculated Student Policy

Students may take up to 9 credits of graduate study in the program before being admitted. These credits can be transferred into the program if the student is admitted.

Financing Opportunities

Financial support opportunities may include assistantships, fellowships, scholarships, tuition remission, graduate student employment, and other financial aid such as grants, loans, and federal work-study.

Admission Requirements and Deadlines

• Application Deadline: December 1 for the Fall term.
• Letters of Reference: 2 letters are required, preferably from college/university faculty.
• Master's Degree: Not required.
• Bachelor's Degree: Required, with a minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale.
• Transcripts: Official undergraduate and graduate transcripts from all accredited institutions attended must be submitted.
• Statement of Goals: A statement explaining interest in pursuing a doctoral degree in education, including research focus and how the program fits individual interests and goals.
• Standardized Test Scores: GRE scores are required, with optional GRE Subject Test in Psychology. International applicants must also submit English proficiency test scores (TOEFL, IELTS, or PTE).
• Resume: A current resume is required.
• Interview: An interview with the faculty admissions committee may be required.
• Writing Sample: An academic writing sample, such as a paper written for a class or an op-ed piece on an educational issue, is required.

Program Requirements

• General Program Requirements: 99-108 credits are required, depending on the internship type.
• Required Courses:
  • Core courses include Effective Teaching Strategies and Academic Interventions, Ethical and Legal Issues, Multicultural Counseling, Quantitative Analysis, and more.
  • Advanced statistics and research courses are also required.
• Internship: A minimum of 1,500 hours must be completed in an approved setting, with at least 600 hours in a school setting.
• Culminating Events:
  • Portfolio Review: A portfolio of professional work is submitted for review during the internship year.
  • Preliminary Examination: An essay examination covering key areas of Psychology and School Psychology.
  • Proposal with Oral Defense: A dissertation proposal demonstrating knowledge and ability to conduct proposed research.
  • Internship Evaluation: The internship experience is evaluated for successful completion.
  • Dissertation with Oral Defense: An original piece of scholarship making a significant contribution to the field of School Psychology.

Optional Concentration in Applied Behavior Analysis

The concentration allows students to meet the Behavior Analyst Certification Board's educational requirements to become a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA). Required courses include Concepts and Principles of Behavior Analysis, Single Subject Research Design, and more.