Ph.D. in School Psychology at KU

Program Overview

Using a scientist-practitioner training model, the Ph.D. program in School Psychology at the University of Kansas aims to develop lifelong learners who are competent, ethical, culturally sensitive, and are prepared to work in the field of health service psychology with a specialty in school psychology as field-based practitioners, university faculty, or researchers. Students are expected to acquire and demonstrate competence in professional school psychology, psychological foundations, research skills, and appreciation/sensitivity to individual, ethnic, and cultural diversity. The Ph.D. program in School Psychology includes four years of full-time study, followed by a one-year internship in professional psychology. The Ph.D. program in school psychology is coordinated by faculty from the Department of Educational Psychology, who are devoted to teaching and advising the school psychology program. The Ph.D. program in School Psychology is accredited by the American Psychological Association and approved by the National Association of School Psychologists.

Contact Information for the American Psychological Association: Office of Program Consultation and Accreditation, American Psychological Association, 750 First Street, NE, Washington, DC 20002; Website: https://www.apa.org/ed/accreditation; Office Phone: (202) 336-5979; Office Fax: (202) 336-5978

Career Outcomes in School Psychology

Students pursue a Ph.D. in school psychology at KU with varying career goals in mind. Most program graduates assume public school or academic teaching positions. Other positions held by school psychology doctoral program graduates include consulting positions, working as licensed psychologists at medical centers, private general hospitals, clinics, and academic positions. Potential position titles after graduation could include:

• Licensed Psychologist
• Licensed or Certified School Psychologist
• Assistant Professor

The Kansas Behavioral Sciences Regulatory Board regulates psychologist licensure. Individuals interested in pursuing psychologist licensure must complete a doctoral degree program in school psychology. The Ph.D. in school psychology at KU meets this requirement. Please visit the Kansas Behavioral Sciences Regulatory Board website for more information on Kansas professional psychology licensure requirements.