Work where it matters most
School psychologists work directly with students, parents, teachers and communities. They support the improvement of academic and social-emotional environment of school communities. It is meaningful, complex work and SFA's school psychology program prepares you to do it well.
You’ll build a wealth of applied experiences while learning to interpret scientific literature and employ research methods. Our curriculum prepares you to excel in the essential areas of functional assessment, consultation and intervention.
An online program with dedicated faculty members
Distance is not a barrier to enrolling in SFA's specialist-level school psychology program. All courses are taught online via Zoom in a synchronous format. This means you will attend classes at their designated day and time, meeting with your professor and classmates via Zoom live-stream. Complete details are available in the program's student handbook.
Real-world experience
You’ll gain essential hands-on experience through required practicum hours and a 1,200-hour internship. These experiences ensure you are fully prepared to meet the professional standards of the field and serve diverse student populations.
Quality you can trust
This 63-hour program is fully approved by the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board. It is accredited by the National Association of School Psychologists through Feb. 1, 2033 and includes two years of coursework and a one-year full-time internship.
Licensing and certification
Upon graduation, you’ll be eligible to apply for state licensure. You also will be eligible to apply to become a Nationally Certified School Psychologist.
See curriculum
Curriculum requirementsIs this program fully online?
Yes. You'll attend class by joining a live-stream via Zoom.
How long will it take to complete?
63 semester credit hours completed in three years.
Does this program help me become licensed?
Yes. You'll become eligible to:
- earn your state credential
- and become nationally certified
Is the program accredited?
Yes, it is accredited by the NASP.
What is the application deadline?
Jan. 31
Program Highlights
Career prospects
Recent data from the Texas Association of School Psychologists found that, on average, a Texas school psychologist earns $78,213.86 annually.
Whether in public or private school systems, you'll support students from different backgrounds with a wide range of academic, behavioral and social-emotional needs. The paid internship in your third year gives you a running start in the field before you even graduate.
Applying to the school psychology master's program
The GRE is not required. Specific undergraduate degree or coursework is not required.
Requirements for admission
To be eligible for consideration into the program, you must:
- meet the SFA Graduate School requirements
- achieve an undergraduate 2.75 GPA or higher overall
- and hold a completed bachelor's degree or equivalent from a regionally accredited higher institution.
Note: If you don't meet the minimum requirements, you may be admitted on a provisional basis under the guidance of the program coordinator.
Ready to complete your application?
Apply to the Graduate School by Jan. 31 for Fall semester enrollment. You will submit the following with your application:
- current résumé
- transcripts from all attended higher institutions
- essay describing your view on the role of a school psychologist and how your background will impact your effectiveness in the field
- and three letters of professional reference.
To complete your application, apply to the Graduate School.
Questions about the program?
If you have questions about the Master of Arts in school psychology, contact the graduate program coordinator.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, you're required to have your camera turned on and be engaged in course discussion during class time.
As a graduate-level program, there are specific expectations regarding your environment when live-streaming class. You should not be driving, caring for others, relaxing in bed, or engaging in similar unprofessional activities. Read the program's distance education policy in the School Psychology, MA student handbook.
- Fall and Spring Semesters: Classes meet once per week, with sessions offered from 4:30 to 7 p.m. and/or 7:15 to 9:45 p.m.
- Summer Terms: Classes are typically held during the day, Monday through Thursday.
Yes. You must attend campus one-to-two days per semester during your first year to demonstrate assessment competency.
You also attend at least one (off campus) professional school psychology convention.
You can work during parts of the program, but keep in mind that academic standards remain the same regardless of your personal responsibilities or work circumstances.
Here is a breakdown of work expectations by year:
- Year 1: Working is generally possible.
- Year 2: You must dedicate approximately 19 hours per week to practicum work (300 hours each in the Fall and Spring).
- Year 3: You complete a full-time, 1,200-hour internship, which is typically a paid position.
Your practicum can be in the same district, but not the same campus. You cannot earn practicum hours in tandem with duties assigned as an employee for your district.
Transfer Credit Overview
- Maximum Credit: You may transfer up to 12 semester hours.
- Grade Requirement: You must have earned a grade of B or better.
- Time Limit: The course must have been taken no more than six years before your application.
- Degree Applicability: The course cannot have been used to fulfill requirements for a prior degree (with the exception of hours earned in an SFA certificate program, which are eligible for transfer).
Required Documentation for Request
To initiate a transfer request, you must submit the following materials:
- A memo formally requesting the course transfer.
- The official syllabus for each course under consideration.
- Official transcripts documenting the course credit.
Approval Process
Your request must be approved by three distinct levels:
- Program faculty member(s)
- Department chair
- Academic dean’s office
Important Note: Any accepted transfer credits will count toward your total degree hours, but they will not be factored into your SFA grade-point average. Additionally, if you do not complete your SFA degree within the six-year window, your transfer credit will no longer apply.
SFA's School Psychology, MA annual report is available in compliance with NASP accreditation requirements.
Department of Allied Health Studies
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