Doctorate of Psychology (Psy.D.) in School Psychology
Description of Program
The Doctor of Psychology (Psy.D.) degree program in school psychology at Minnesota State University, Mankato trains students to attain certification to practice as school psychologists and/or pursue other doctoral level employment such as university teaching. The program is designed to meet the doctoral-level accreditation standards of the National Association of School Psychologists. The program consists of 106 semester credits typically completed over five years. Some students who have completed master’s or specialist’s training are admitted with advanced standing. The program is housed in the psychology department and emphasizes (a) data-based decision making, (b) multiculturalism, (c) mental health, and (d) prevention.
Goals of the Program
- Students develop basic skills required to practice as school psychologists
- Students understand and apply data-based problem-solving and conduct assessments that inform interventions
- Students learn to appreciate and incorporate considerations of culture, ethnicity, disability, gender, language, socioeconomic status, and sexual orientation into quality school psychological services
- Students learn to be ethical decision-makers
- Students learn to apply the rigor and quality of scientific methods to school-based services
- Students develop the interpersonal skills and awareness of school organization and school culture necessary to function effectively as mental health professionals in the school
- Students learn to advocate for the rights of school-age students with and without disabilities
- Students develop expertise in both psychology and education in order to support school-age students’ social-emotional and academic growth
- Students learn to how to work within school, family, and community systems to improve outcomes for children
- Students learn to provide services across all levels of prevention
- Students learn to develop, implement, and analyze empirical research
- Students develop advanced skills in school psychology appropriate to the doctoral level of practice
If you have an questions reguarding the program, please contact Dan Houlihan, Ph.D.
