School psychology programs teach people how to treat behavior and social growth problems in schools. School psychologists learn how to identify students who are at risk or discouraged. They learn to counsel, guide, and encourage students.
As part of their education, all teachers and school administrators study some psychology. But schools also need people who are trained in psychology at an advanced level. When you are a school psychologist, you use skills from a number of different branches of psychology.
A teacher may come to you thinking that a student has a learning disability; your job is to administer the right tests and interpret the results correctly. Another teacher may report that a student has a problem of uncontrolled outbursts; your job is to teach the student anger management techniques. A teacher may consult with you about the individualized education plan for a student with a disability. Another teacher may ask for tips on how to reduce chatter in the classroom.
To do this job, you must be certified or licensed by your state. Requirements vary, but the most common requirement is a specialist's degree (such as "educational specialist," Ed.S.). This is a graduate degree, so before you enter the degree program you need a bachelor's degree. That usually takes four years of full-time study beyond high school. Your undergraduate major should include courses in psychology and statistics.
More than 100 universities offer graduate programs in school psychology. (Some programs are offered in departments other than psychology.) Some programs grant a master's degree but are the equivalent of a specialist's program. The program should take three years and include one year of internship. Programs approved by the National Association of School Psychologists are widely accepted and even required by 21 states. Many states require you to pass a licensing exam.
In your studies you learn a wide range of skills and principles of psychology. You learn how to diagnose and gather facts by interviewing and administering psychological tests. You study theories about how to prevent behavioral problems and intervene when problems arise. You learn the basic theories of behavior, testing, and education. You also learn the laws and ethical standards that govern what you can and cannot do as a professional.
You may choose to pursue a doctorate in this field if you are mainly interested in research or college teaching. (There is a great shortage of college teachers in this field.) About 45 graduate schools offer this degree. The doctorate takes two or three years beyond the master's or specialist's degree. That time may be divided between studying and assisting with research or teaching. Your work on your doctorate concentrates on research and leads to a research project that results in a dissertation.