Program Overview

Specialist in School Psychology

The Specialist in School Psychology program is designed to prepare students to work as licensed school psychologists, making a lasting impact on students and families. The program is nationally accredited by the National Association of School Psychologists, affirming its commitment to rigorous professional training standards.

Program Overview

The Specialist in School Psychology (SSP) program is a graduate program that combines online and face-to-face courses with a yearlong internship, providing students with real-world experience helping children and adolescents succeed academically, socially, and emotionally. Graduates of the program meet the academic requirements for the Texas Licensed School Psychologist (LSP) credential, allowing them to practice as school psychologists in K-12 public or private schools across the state. They are also eligible to apply for the Nationally Certified School Psychologist (NCSP) credential from NASP, expanding their opportunities nationwide.

At-A-Glance

Highlights of the Specialist in School Psychology program include:

• Format: Hybrid (mix of online and face-to-face classes)
• Location: Katy Campus
• Completion time: Typically 3 years (with full-time enrollment)
• Semester start: Fall
• GRE: Not required (waivers available)

What You'll Learn

Through coursework, field experiences, and mentorship, students gain the knowledge and hands-on skills to become confident school psychology professionals. The 63-hour program emphasizes best practices, cultural competence, and real-world application, preparing students to meet the diverse needs of today's schools. Students build expertise in:

• Assessment — conducting psychological and educational evaluations to identify student strengths and needs
• Intervention — designing academic, behavioral, and counseling strategies that promote student success
• Counseling — supporting children and youth through individual and group services
• Collaboration — consulting with families, teachers, and administrators to improve outcomes
• Professional practice — applying ethics, school law, and culturally responsive approaches
• School climate & crisis response — fostering safe, supportive environments and responding to challenges

Career Opportunities

School psychologists are in high demand, with strong job growth expected throughout Texas and the country. With the SSP degree and LSP credential, graduates are ready to serve as licensed school psychologists in over 1,200 districts and numerous private schools across Texas. The average salary for school psychologists in the Southeast region is more than $65,395.

Credentials

The program leads to the following credentials:

• Licensed School Psychologist (LSP), required for school-based practice in Texas
• Nationally Certified School Psychologist (NCSP), to bolster job prospects across the U.S.
• Licensed Psychological Associate (LPA), after completing additional requirements post-graduation

Why Choose UH?

The University of Houston offers the only NASP-accredited Specialist in School Psychology program in Greater Houston that offers online learning. Students benefit from the rigor of a nationally recognized program paired with flexible course delivery. The program features experienced faculty who actively connect research to practice and have direct experience working in schools. The university's location in one of the nation's largest, most diverse metropolitan areas provides access to over 1,200 school districts and charter schools across Texas, offering unmatched opportunities for training and career advancement. The program aligns with state and national standards, preparing students for licensure in Texas and the opportunity to seek school psychology opportunities across the U.S.