The Ph.D. degree program in School Psychology at the University of South Florida is offered through the College of Education’s Educational and Psychological Studies. The Program has been designed specifically for training in school psychology and has been developed to meet all relevant national accreditation standards. The Ph.D. program is fully accredited by the American Psychological Association and fully approved by the National Association of School Psychologists and the Florida Department of Education. Students who complete the School Psychology Training Program at USF automatically meet the academic and field training requirements for certification as a Nationally Certified School Psychologist (N.C.S.P.).
The Ph.D. program in School Psychology is committed to training professionals who have expertise in the depth and diversity of both psychology and education. This training is accomplished within a scientist-practitioner model that emphasizes comprehensive school psychological services using a social and cognitive behavioral learning theory orientation that recognizes the impact of children’s individual differences and the importance of multicultural awareness and skills. Graduates of the Ph.D. program move to positions of employment as university faculty and researchers, as psychologists in school, hospital, and agency settings, and as program leaders in applied settings. The program also offers professional development opportunities for practitioners in the field.
Accreditation
Accredited by the American Psychological Association, and Approved by the National Association of School Psychologists.
Major Research Areas
Pediatric School Psychology, Organizational Development and Consultation, Academic Assessment and Intervention, Problem-Solving and Response to Intervention, Multi-Tiered System of Supports, School-Based Mental Health Services, Positive Psychology, Professional and Practice Issues in School Psychology, Behavioral Interventions.
Admission Information
Must meet University Admission and English Proficiency requirements as well as requirements for admission to the major, listed below.
The School Psychology program admission only occurs in the fall. This is a limited access program, which means that only a limited number of students are able to be accepted each year. Students are considered for this degree on a case-by-case basis. Please contact the Graduate Coordinator prior to applying.
Required Admissions Materials
A complete application includes the following:
If invited for an interview, present self professionally in an oral interview with two or more faculty members and graduate students.
- GRE Scores (Note: Verbal, Quantitative, and Analytical Writing scores are required)
- Statement of professional goals. In a 2-3 page statement, explain your immediate, intermediate, and long term goals, as well as your research interests. Professional goals and research interests must be compatible with the School Psychology Program.
- Three letters of recommendation from professionals who are familiar with your scholarship and work history.
- Demonstrate the ability to write professionally by submitting a scholarly paper completed as part of your prior coursework.