School Psychology

The School Psychology program at the University of Cincinnati is a comprehensive and rigorous graduate training program designed to prepare students for a career as a school psychologist. This program combines theoretical knowledge with practical application, ensuring graduates are well-equipped to support the educational and psychological well-being of students in diverse school settings. The curriculum covers a broad range of topics including psychoeducational assessment, evidence-based interventions, mental health support, special education law, and ethical practices. Students gain hands-on experience through supervised field placements in local schools and community agencies, allowing them to apply their learning in real-world contexts. The program emphasizes a collaborative approach, fostering skills in consultation, crisis intervention, and culturally responsive practices to address the needs of students from various backgrounds. Faculty members are experienced practitioners and researchers dedicated to mentoring students and advancing the field of school psychology. Upon completion, graduates are eligible for certification as school psychologists and are prepared to work in public, private, and charter schools, as well as in research and policy roles. The program also encourages ongoing professional development and lifelong learning to stay current with developments in psychology, education, and policy. Overall, the School Psychology program at the University of Cincinnati aims to develop highly competent professionals committed to enhancing student success and promoting equitable educational opportunities for all children.

Year 1

• SPSY7040 School Organization an dthe Role of the School Psychologist, 3
• SPSY8010 Applied Behavior Analysis I, 3
• SPSY8020 Theories of Measurement for School Psychology, 2
• SPSY8024 Academic Assessment and Intervention, 3
• SPSY9000 Doctoral Colloquium in School Psychology, 1
• EDST7011 Intermediate Statistics, 3
• Student will select PSYC7021 or PSYC7031., 3
• SPSY8011 Applied Behavior Analysis II, 3
• SPSY8030 Behavioral Consultation, 3
• SPSY8025 Family Intervention and Early Intervention, 3
• SPSY8022 Cogntive Assessment, 2
• SPSY9000 Doctoral Colloquium in School Psychology, 1
• Student will select PSYC7033 or PSYC7035., 3
• SPSY7041, Ethics for Behavioral Practice and Research, 3
• SPSY7042, Working with Cultural and Linguistic Diversity in Schools, 3
• SPSYxxxx, Student will select SPSY7045., 3
• SPSY7043 Child Development, 3

Year 2

• SPSY8012, Behavioral Research and Accountability Methods, 3
• SPSY8027, School-Based Behavioral Counseling and Mental Health Interventions, 3
• SPSY8015, Functional Behavioral Assessment, 3
• SPSY8061, School Psychology Practicum, 3
• SPSY9000 Doctoral Colloquium in School Psychology, 1
• Student will select PSYC7021 or PSYC7031., 3
• SPSY8061 School Psychology Practicum, 3
• SPSY8031, Systems-level Consultation and Program Evaluation in Schools, 3
• SPSY9010, Advanced Behavioral Theory and Practice, 2
• SPSY9012, Advanced Behavioral Research Methods and Designs, 2
• SPSY9000 Doctoral Colloquium, 1
• PSYCxxxx, Student will select PSYC7050., 3
• PSYCxxxx, Student will select PSYC7035 or PSYC7033., 3

Year 3

• SPSY9061, Advanced Practical Experience in Schools and Community Agencies, 1 - 6
• SPSY9000 Doctoral Colloquium in School Psychology, 1
• SPSY9015, Pre-Dissertation Research in School Psychology, 1 - 6
• SPSY8070, Best Practices in Teaching in Human Services, 1 - 6
• EDST8041, Multivariate Data Analysis, 3
• SPSY9061 Advanced Practical Experience in Schools and Community Agencies, 3
• SPSY9000 Doctoral Colloquium in School Psychology, 1
• SPSY8040, Professional Seminar in School Psychology, 3
• SPSYxxxx, Student will select SPSY9015., 3
• Student will select a Free Elective., 3

Year 4

• SPSY9090, Doctoral Dissertation Research in School Psychology, 1 - 12
• SPSY9065, Internship in School Psychology: Doctoral Level, 1 - 10
• XXXXxxxx, Year 5 Students will complete SPSY9065 as they complete the required full year internship., 2 - 12

• GRE
• Transcripts and a minimum GPA of 3.2
• Vita / Resume
• Goal Statement
• 3 Letters of Recommendation submitted through the online system

Scholarships

• Graduate Assistantships
• Graduate Incentive Award

The School Psychology program at the University of Cincinnati is designed to prepare students for a professional career as a school psychologist, focusing on promoting the learning and mental health of students within educational settings. This program emphasizes a comprehensive understanding of psychological theories, assessment techniques, intervention strategies, and consultation skills necessary for supporting children and adolescents in schools. The curriculum typically includes coursework in child and adolescent development, psychoeducational assessment, behavioral interventions, ethical and legal considerations, and collaboration with educators, parents, and other stakeholders. Students engage in practicum experiences early in the program to apply their knowledge in real-world school environments, gaining hands-on experience in individual and group interventions, diagnosing learning difficulties, and developing individualized education programs (IEPs). The program often culminates in a supervised internship or practicum that provides significant fieldwork experience, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for certification and employment.

Graduates of the program are eligible for state certification as school psychologists, which often includes certification for working with students with disabilities and mental health needs. The program aligns with national standards for school psychology training, ensuring graduates are equipped with the skills necessary to function effectively in diverse school settings. Collaborations with local schools and districts serve as a foundation for practical training and employment opportunities for students. The faculty comprises experienced professionals in the field of school psychology, offering mentorship and research supervision that allows students to engage in scholarly activities, contribute to ongoing research, and stay current with developments in the discipline.

Additionally, the University of Cincinnati's program promotes a multicultural and inclusive perspective, emphasizing culturally competent assessment and intervention practices to serve diverse student populations effectively. Research opportunities are available for students interested in advancing knowledge in areas such as behavioral interventions, speech and language issues, or early childhood psychology. The program also provides a pathway for those interested in pursuing doctoral studies or further specialization within school psychology or related fields. Overall, the UC School Psychology program aims to produce competent, ethical, and compassionate professionals dedicated to improving educational and mental health outcomes for children and youth.