School Psychology
Become a school psychologist
Make a meaningful impact on the lives of children and adolescents by providing mental and behavioral health support in school settings.
School psychology is a rapidly growing field where you’ll design and deliver evidence-based interventions that help students thrive academically, socially, and emotionally. School psychologists are advocates for children, providers of behavioral and mental health care, specialists in the assessment of children, psychoeducational consultants who use effective strategies, and experts in the design and delivery of effective psychological and educational interventions at the individual, family, and systems levels.
UWL’s fully accredited School Psychology program blends rigorous coursework with early field and immersive practicum experiences in area schools. Graduates benefit from exceptional outcomes, including a 100% internship and job placement rate.
Students earn two graduate degrees over the course of the program:
- Master of Science in Education (M.S.Ed.) – Year 1
- Education Specialist Degree (Ed.S.) – Year 2 and 3
Earn your Master of Science in Education and Educational Specialist degrees, to be endorsed as a School Psychologist.
Program — at a glance
- Format: Full-time, in-person program with some blended instruction
- Program length: 33 months
- Start: September
- Program completion: June
- Credits: 71-73 semester credits
- Application deadline: First Friday in December
Career outlook
Why choose UWL’s School Psychology program?
Fully accredited by the National Association of School Psychologists (NASP) and the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction (DPI), ensuring high-quality preparation and adherence to state and national standards.
UWL's reputation for producing well-trained school psychologists has led to a 100% employment record for graduates. UWL graduates are sought after and typically have no difficulty finding an internship position within weeks of completing the second year of the program, and a permanent position after completing the internship.
Students work directly in school settings early in the program. Starting second semester, graduate students spend multiple days per week working in area schools under the supervision of experienced school psychologists and other K-12 professionals. Unlike most other programs in the country, the UWL school psychology program has three practicum semesters built into the curriculum.
UWL students complete their required internship during their third year of the program. Students generally receive a full salary during their internship and are considered employees of the district during this time.
Faculty and students cultivate a supportive, team-oriented environment that reflects the collaborative nature of school psychology. Graduates are ready to meet the needs of diverse learners and families through equitable practices.
Established in 1969, UWL’s program is built on decades of proven success and a strong professional reputation. The program practices regular multilevel assessment to stay current and meet the needs of K-12 schools, students and families.
Faculty integrate current research with real-world expertise. Their ongoing professional engagement ensures students receive relevant, up-to-date training.
The curriculum follows the 2020 NASP Model for Comprehensive and Integrated School Psychological Services (also known as the NASP Practice Model), as well as the Wisconsin Pupil Service Standards (PI 34.004), preparing graduate students for broad, multifaceted roles. The skills and competencies gained align with national expectations and support readiness for employment in Wisconsin and across the U.S.
Graduates leave ready to lead, innovate, and grow—embracing continuous professional development.
Top ten reasons
Why we believe this program could be a great fit for you.
Questions?
After you get to know us, if you still have questions, feel free to contact Dr. Adrienne Loh or one of our graduate assistants.
Important dates
First Friday in December.
Late February/Early March
