Education Specialist (EdS) in School Psychology School Psychology courses

Education Specialist in School Psychology coursework overview

Coursework tailored to your learning preferences

  • Capella sets the deadlines
  • Weekly online interactions
  • Learn on your time
  • Online

Planning for your degree

  • total quarter credits: 59
  • Quarter length: 10 weeks
  • Course length: 10 weeks
  • Break: 3 weeks between quarters

Education Specialist course requirements

  • Core 8 courses
  • Residencies 1 residency
  • Practicum 1 course
  • Internship Minimum 3 courses

Example program course sequence

This example course sequence takes course prerequisites into account, so it can be helpful as a general guide when you register for courses. In GuidedPath, the number of courses you take in a quarter and time it takes to complete your program can vary. Your academic coach can help answer any course registration questions.

Show all descriptions
PSY5063 Core Data Based Decision Making 5 quarter credits Students in this course critically evaluate research in order to gain an understanding of the scientific methods of inquiry and the ethical considerations of research for school psychologists. Students develop and apply skills needed to become educated consumers and creators of research applicable to school psychology settings. Students also use their research design and statistics skills to analyze and apply research methodologies, validity, reliability, and other components of scientific research related to school psychology. 5 quarter credits
PSY7336 Core Organization and Operation of the School 5 quarter credits Students in this course focus on mastering the general education, special education, and other educational and related skills school psychologists need to be effective in their schools. Students conduct a systems analysis of schools and other settings to determine how best to collaborate with individuals and groups in developing and maintaining policies and practices that foster effective, supportive, and safe learning environments. 5 quarter credits
PSY8338 Core Child and Adolescent Development for School Psychologists 5 quarter credits Students investigate the development of children and adolescents from infancy through adolescence. Students apply a developmental framework to the process of designing, evaluating, and monitoring interventions to address complex school needs and apply information about developmental skills to evidence-based school- and district-level interventions. In addition, students analyze the impact of multiple complex and challenging family issues on student development and apply an understanding of student needs along a developmental continuum. 5 quarter credits
PSY8337 Core Legal and Ethical Issues in the School 5 quarter credits Students apply professional codes of conduct to the practice of school psychology. Students analyze federal laws governing school psychology practice and examine legal and ethical considerations of psycho-educational assessments, school-related interventions, and testing. Students gain an understanding of privacy, confidentiality, informed consent, duty to inform, and record keeping. 5 quarter credits
PSY8150 Core Exceptional Children in the Classroom 5 quarter credits In this course, students examine different disabling conditions in children and adolescents and study their theoretical perspectives, characteristics, etiology, assessment, and remediation. Students also explore recent trends in the field, research-based interventions, and the predominant special education law that impacts the practice of school psychology. Prerequisite(s): PSY8338. 5 quarter credits
PSY8335 Core Consultation and Collaboration in the School 5 quarter credits In this 5-credit graduate level course, students gain a comprehensive overview of consultation theory, research, and practice in school psychology and educational settings. Students investigate varied models and strategies of consultation and collaboration applicable to individuals, families, groups, and systems, emphasizing effective communication and teamwork across educational settings. Students develop evidence-based skills that support systematic, data-driven decision making and problem solving. Through readings, discussions, and case studies, students apply theory to practice, design collaborative interventions, and promote positive educational and behavioral outcomes. For EdS in School Psychology and PsyD in School Psychology students only. 5 quarter credits
PSY8235 Core Social, Emotional and Behavioral Assessment 5 quarter credits Students in this course demonstrate mastery of the diagnostic skills needed to assess the social-emotional functioning and personality of school-age children. Students conduct clinical interviews and behavioral observations; assess data from teachers, students, and parents; score and interpret assessment results into synthesized, written intervention recommendations and psychological reports; and self-report behavior rating scales and objective and projective techniques. For MS, EdS, and PsyD in School Psychology students only. Test kits are required and are available for loan at [email protected]. Cannot be fulfilled by transfer. 5 quarter credits
PSY7013 Core Treatment Planning and Report Writing 5 quarter credits Students build advanced skills in psychoeducational report writing, assessment interpretation, and treatment planning within a school psychology framework. Students synthesize assessment data into individualized, evidence-based interventions and develop reports that are legally compliant, ethically grounded, and accessible to a variety of audiences. Emphasis is placed on supporting multidisciplinary team decision-making through empirically informed recommendations and clear communication. Via synchronous sessions, students present and refine reports and treatment plans through peer review and team collaboration. Prerequisite(s): PSY8235. 5 quarter credits
PSY-R7004 Residency Professional Readiness in School Psychology 3 quarter credits Students apply the best practices of school psychology during an in-person residency, receiving structured feedback to support their development and readiness for practicum. In the accompanying online courseroom, students demonstrate mastery of the NASP Practice Model by completing the School Psychology Comprehensive Examination, designed to mirror the national licensure exam. For EdS and PsyD in School Psychology students only. Cannot be fulfilled by transfer. Prerequisite(s): PSY8235, PSY8335, PSY8337 and PSY7013 or PSY-V7003 3 quarter credits
PSY7120 Practicum School Psychology Practicum 4 quarter credits Students in this supervised practicum course complete 300 documented hours in a school-based setting during one academic quarter. Under a credentialed school psychologist¿s supervision, students engage in evidence-based practice across assessment, data-based decision making, intervention, and mental and behavioral health supports. Additionally, students collaborate with educators and families and reflect on services using ecologically aware, contextually responsive practice. For EdS in School Psychology students only. Special permission is required for registration. Grading for this course is S/NS. May be repeated for credit. Cannot be fulfilled by transfer. Prerequisite(s): A cumulative GPA of 3.0 or better. PSY8150, PSY8235, PSY8335, PSY8337, PSY8338, PSY-V7003 or PSY7013, and PSY-R7004 4 quarter credits
PSY7121 Internship School Psychology Internship 4 quarter credits Students in this supervised internship course complete 1,200 documented hours in a school-based setting during three academic quarters. Under a credentialed school psychologist¿s supervision, students engage in evidence-based practice across assessment, data-based decision making, intervention, and mental and behavioral health supports. Additionally, students collaborate with educators and families and reflect on services using ecologically aware, contextually responsive practice. For EdS in School Psychology students only. Special permission is required for registration. Grading for this course is S/NS. May be repeated for credit. Cannot be fulfilled by transfer. Prerequisite(s): PSY7120. 4 quarter credits
PSY7121 Internship School Psychology Internship 4 quarter credits Students in this supervised internship course complete 1,200 documented hours in a school-based setting during three academic quarters. Under a credentialed school psychologist¿s supervision, students engage in evidence-based practice across assessment, data-based decision making, intervention, and mental and behavioral health supports. Additionally, students collaborate with educators and families and reflect on services using ecologically aware, contextually responsive practice. For EdS in School Psychology students only. Special permission is required for registration. Grading for this course is S/NS. May be repeated for credit. Cannot be fulfilled by transfer. Prerequisite(s): PSY7120. 4 quarter credits
PSY7121 Internship School Psychology Internship 4 quarter credits Students in this supervised internship course complete 1,200 documented hours in a school-based setting during three academic quarters. Under a credentialed school psychologist¿s supervision, students engage in evidence-based practice across assessment, data-based decision making, intervention, and mental and behavioral health supports. Additionally, students collaborate with educators and families and reflect on services using ecologically aware, contextually responsive practice. For EdS in School Psychology students only. Special permission is required for registration. Grading for this course is S/NS. May be repeated for credit. Cannot be fulfilled by transfer. Prerequisite(s): PSY7120. 4 quarter credits

Total

At least 59 quarter credits

One or more courses in this program may require a prerequisite(s). Refer to the course descriptions for details.

Learners who do not complete all program requirements within quarter credit/program point minimums will be required to accrue such additional quarter credits/program points as are associated with any additional or repeat coursework necessary for successful completion of program requirements.

† The Education Specialist (EdS) in School Psychology degree program provides advanced preparation for learners who intend to pursue state licensure or certification as a school psychologist.

‡ Learners are required to take the Praxis Series tests concurrently with PSY7121. Learners are responsible for any costs associated with these examinations.

Applicants to the EdS in School Psychology degree program must have an MS in School Psychology from Capella University.

Please note that some courses within this program have prerequisites that are not listed as required courses, which may increase the total number of courses needed to complete this program.

Program availability varies by state and territory due to regulatory requirements. It is your responsibility to understand and comply with the applicable requirements in your jurisdiction. Refer to the How to Apply section on the specific program page for any state or territory enrollment restrictions.

Completion of Capella’s EdS in School Psychology degree will not meet the state requirements for professional licensure or certification as a school psychologist unless certain other conditions are fulfilled. For more information, see the professional licensure disclosure for this program on Capella’s website. Capella University cannot guarantee eligibility for licensure, endorsement, other professional credential, or salary advancement. State licensing regulations and professional standards vary; learners are responsible for understanding and complying with the requirements of the state in which they intend to work. State licensing boards review each applicant's completed education, exam scores, supervised experience, criminal history, and application materials at the time of license application to determine eligibility. Contact your Enrollment Specialist or Academic Advisor for more information.

Core course requirements

Complete at least 35 quarter credits.

Show all descriptions
PSY8335 Core Consultation and Collaboration in the School 5 quarter credits In this 5-credit graduate level course, students gain a comprehensive overview of consultation theory, research, and practice in school psychology and educational settings. Students investigate varied models and strategies of consultation and collaboration applicable to individuals, families, groups, and systems, emphasizing effective communication and teamwork across educational settings. Students develop evidence-based skills that support systematic, data-driven decision making and problem solving. Through readings, discussions, and case studies, students apply theory to practice, design collaborative interventions, and promote positive educational and behavioral outcomes. For EdS in School Psychology and PsyD in School Psychology students only. 5 quarter credits
PSY7336 Core Organization and Operation of the School 5 quarter credits Students in this course focus on mastering the general education, special education, and other educational and related skills school psychologists need to be effective in their schools. Students conduct a systems analysis of schools and other settings to determine how best to collaborate with individuals and groups in developing and maintaining policies and practices that foster effective, supportive, and safe learning environments. 5 quarter credits
PSY8337 Core Legal and Ethical Issues in the School 5 quarter credits Students apply professional codes of conduct to the practice of school psychology. Students analyze federal laws governing school psychology practice and examine legal and ethical considerations of psycho-educational assessments, school-related interventions, and testing. Students gain an understanding of privacy, confidentiality, informed consent, duty to inform, and record keeping. 5 quarter credits
PSY7013 Core Treatment Planning and Report Writing 5 quarter credits Students build advanced skills in psychoeducational report writing, assessment interpretation, and treatment planning within a school psychology framework. Students synthesize assessment data into individualized, evidence-based interventions and develop reports that are legally compliant, ethically grounded, and accessible to a variety of audiences. Emphasis is placed on supporting multidisciplinary team decision-making through empirically informed recommendations and clear communication. Via synchronous sessions, students present and refine reports and treatment plans through peer review and team collaboration. Prerequisite(s): PSY8235. 5 quarter credits
PSY5063 Core Data Based Decision Making 5 quarter credits Students in this course critically evaluate research in order to gain an understanding of the scientific methods of inquiry and the ethical considerations of research for school psychologists. Students develop and apply skills needed to become educated consumers and creators of research applicable to school psychology settings. Students also use their research design and statistics skills to analyze and apply research methodologies, validity, reliability, and other components of scientific research related to school psychology. 5 quarter credits
PSY8150 Core Exceptional Children in the Classroom 5 quarter credits In this course, students examine different disabling conditions in children and adolescents and study their theoretical perspectives, characteristics, etiology, assessment, and remediation. Students also explore recent trends in the field, research-based interventions, and the predominant special education law that impacts the practice of school psychology. Prerequisite(s): PSY8338. 5 quarter credits
PSY8235 Core Social, Emotional and Behavioral Assessment 5 quarter credits Students in this course demonstrate mastery of the diagnostic skills needed to assess the social-emotional functioning and personality of school-age children. Students conduct clinical interviews and behavioral observations; assess data from teachers, students, and parents; score and interpret assessment results into synthesized, written intervention recommendations and psychological reports; and self-report behavior rating scales and objective and projective techniques. For MS, EdS, and PsyD in School Psychology students only. Test kits are required and are available for loan at [email protected]. Cannot be fulfilled by transfer. 5 quarter credits
PSY8338 Core Child and Adolescent Development for School Psychologists 5 quarter credits Students investigate the development of children and adolescents from infancy through adolescence. Students apply a developmental framework to the process of designing, evaluating, and monitoring interventions to address complex school needs and apply information about developmental skills to evidence-based school- and district-level interventions. In addition, students analyze the impact of multiple complex and challenging family issues on student development and apply an understanding of student needs along a developmental continuum. 5 quarter credits

Total

At least 59 quarter credits

One or more courses in this program may require a prerequisite(s). Refer to the course descriptions for details.

Learners who do not complete all program requirements within quarter credit/program point minimums will be required to accrue such additional quarter credits/program points as are associated with any additional or repeat coursework necessary for successful completion of program requirements.

† The Education Specialist (EdS) in School Psychology degree program provides advanced preparation for learners who intend to pursue state licensure or certification as a school psychologist.

‡ Learners are required to take the Praxis Series tests concurrently with PSY7121. Learners are responsible for any costs associated with these examinations.

Applicants to the EdS in School Psychology degree program must have an MS in School Psychology from Capella University.

Please note that some courses within this program have prerequisites that are not listed as required courses, which may increase the total number of courses needed to complete this program.

Program availability varies by state and territory due to regulatory requirements. It is your responsibility to understand and comply with the applicable requirements in your jurisdiction. Refer to the How to Apply section on the specific program page for any state or territory enrollment restrictions.

Completion of Capella’s EdS in School Psychology degree will not meet the state requirements for professional licensure or certification as a school psychologist unless certain other conditions are fulfilled. For more information, see the professional licensure disclosure for this program on Capella’s website. Capella University cannot guarantee eligibility for licensure, endorsement, other professional credential, or salary advancement. State licensing regulations and professional standards vary; learners are responsible for understanding and complying with the requirements of the state in which they intend to work. State licensing boards review each applicant's completed education, exam scores, supervised experience, criminal history, and application materials at the time of license application to determine eligibility. Contact your Enrollment Specialist or Academic Advisor for more information.

Residency course requirements

Complete at least 3 quarter credits.

Show all descriptions
PSY-R7004 Residency Professional Readiness in School Psychology 3 quarter credits Students apply the best practices of school psychology during an in-person residency, receiving structured feedback to support their development and readiness for practicum. In the accompanying online courseroom, students demonstrate mastery of the NASP Practice Model by completing the School Psychology Comprehensive Examination, designed to mirror the national licensure exam. For EdS and PsyD in School Psychology students only. Cannot be fulfilled by transfer. Prerequisite(s): PSY8235, PSY8335, PSY8337 and PSY7013 or PSY-V7003 3 quarter credits

Total

At least 59 quarter credits

One or more courses in this program may require a prerequisite(s). Refer to the course descriptions for details.

Learners who do not complete all program requirements within quarter credit/program point minimums will be required to accrue such additional quarter credits/program points as are associated with any additional or repeat coursework necessary for successful completion of program requirements.

† The Education Specialist (EdS) in School Psychology degree program provides advanced preparation for learners who intend to pursue state licensure or certification as a school psychologist.

‡ Learners are required to take the Praxis Series tests concurrently with PSY7121. Learners are responsible for any costs associated with these examinations.

Applicants to the EdS in School Psychology degree program must have an MS in School Psychology from Capella University.

Please note that some courses within this program have prerequisites that are not listed as required courses, which may increase the total number of courses needed to complete this program.

Program availability varies by state and territory due to regulatory requirements. It is your responsibility to understand and comply with the applicable requirements in your jurisdiction. Refer to the How to Apply section on the specific program page for any state or territory enrollment restrictions.

Completion of Capella’s EdS in School Psychology degree will not meet the state requirements for professional licensure or certification as a school psychologist unless certain other conditions are fulfilled. For more information, see the professional licensure disclosure for this program on Capella’s website. Capella University cannot guarantee eligibility for licensure, endorsement, other professional credential, or salary advancement. State licensing regulations and professional standards vary; learners are responsible for understanding and complying with the requirements of the state in which they intend to work. State licensing boards review each applicant's completed education, exam scores, supervised experience, criminal history, and application materials at the time of license application to determine eligibility. Contact your Enrollment Specialist or Academic Advisor for more information.

Practicum course requirements

Complete at least 4 quarter credits.

Show all descriptions
PSY7120 Practicum School Psychology Practicum 4 quarter credits Students in this supervised practicum course complete 300 documented hours in a school-based setting during one academic quarter. Under a credentialed school psychologist¿s supervision, students engage in evidence-based practice across assessment, data-based decision making, intervention, and mental and behavioral health supports. Additionally, students collaborate with educators and families and reflect on services using ecologically aware, contextually responsive practice. For EdS in School Psychology students only. Special permission is required for registration. Grading for this course is S/NS. May be repeated for credit. Cannot be fulfilled by transfer. Prerequisite(s): A cumulative GPA of 3.0 or better. PSY8150, PSY8235, PSY8335, PSY8337, PSY8338, PSY-V7003 or PSY7013, and PSY-R7004 4 quarter credits

Total

At least 59 quarter credits

One or more courses in this program may require a prerequisite(s). Refer to the course descriptions for details.

Learners who do not complete all program requirements within quarter credit/program point minimums will be required to accrue such additional quarter credits/program points as are associated with any additional or repeat coursework necessary for successful completion of program requirements.

† The Education Specialist (EdS) in School Psychology degree program provides advanced preparation for learners who intend to pursue state licensure or certification as a school psychologist.

‡ Learners are required to take the Praxis Series tests concurrently with PSY7121. Learners are responsible for any costs associated with these examinations.

Applicants to the EdS in School Psychology degree program must have an MS in School Psychology from Capella University.

Please note that some courses within this program have prerequisites that are not listed as required courses, which may increase the total number of courses needed to complete this program.

Program availability varies by state and territory due to regulatory requirements. It is your responsibility to understand and comply with the applicable requirements in your jurisdiction. Refer to the How to Apply section on the specific program page for any state or territory enrollment restrictions.

Completion of Capella’s EdS in School Psychology degree will not meet the state requirements for professional licensure or certification as a school psychologist unless certain other conditions are fulfilled. For more information, see the professional licensure disclosure for this program on Capella’s website. Capella University cannot guarantee eligibility for licensure, endorsement, other professional credential, or salary advancement. State licensing regulations and professional standards vary; learners are responsible for understanding and complying with the requirements of the state in which they intend to work. State licensing boards review each applicant's completed education, exam scores, supervised experience, criminal history, and application materials at the time of license application to determine eligibility. Contact your Enrollment Specialist or Academic Advisor for more information.

Internship course requirements

Complete at least 12 quarter credits.

Show all descriptions
PSY7121 Internship School Psychology Internship 4 quarter credits Students in this supervised internship course complete 1,200 documented hours in a school-based setting during three academic quarters. Under a credentialed school psychologist¿s supervision, students engage in evidence-based practice across assessment, data-based decision making, intervention, and mental and behavioral health supports. Additionally, students collaborate with educators and families and reflect on services using ecologically aware, contextually responsive practice. For EdS in School Psychology students only. Special permission is required for registration. Grading for this course is S/NS. May be repeated for credit. Cannot be fulfilled by transfer. Prerequisite(s): PSY7120. 4 quarter credits

Total

At least 59 quarter credits

One or more courses in this program may require a prerequisite(s). Refer to the course descriptions for details.

Learners who do not complete all program requirements within quarter credit/program point minimums will be required to accrue such additional quarter credits/program points as are associated with any additional or repeat coursework necessary for successful completion of program requirements.

† The Education Specialist (EdS) in School Psychology degree program provides advanced preparation for learners who intend to pursue state licensure or certification as a school psychologist.

‡ Learners are required to take the Praxis Series tests concurrently with PSY7121. Learners are responsible for any costs associated with these examinations.

Applicants to the EdS in School Psychology degree program must have an MS in School Psychology from Capella University.

Please note that some courses within this program have prerequisites that are not listed as required courses, which may increase the total number of courses needed to complete this program.

Program availability varies by state and territory due to regulatory requirements. It is your responsibility to understand and comply with the applicable requirements in your jurisdiction. Refer to the How to Apply section on the specific program page for any state or territory enrollment restrictions.

Completion of Capella’s EdS in School Psychology degree will not meet the state requirements for professional licensure or certification as a school psychologist unless certain other conditions are fulfilled. For more information, see the professional licensure disclosure for this program on Capella’s website. Capella University cannot guarantee eligibility for licensure, endorsement, other professional credential, or salary advancement. State licensing regulations and professional standards vary; learners are responsible for understanding and complying with the requirements of the state in which they intend to work. State licensing boards review each applicant's completed education, exam scores, supervised experience, criminal history, and application materials at the time of license application to determine eligibility. Contact your Enrollment Specialist or Academic Advisor for more information.

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