Program Description
The mission of the 60-hour specialist-level NASP-approved School Psychology M.S. Program at the University of Central Arkansas is to prepare entry level school psychologists to apply scientifically-based psychological and educational principles and practices in all dimensions of their professional work. Graduates of the program are expected to be reflective and competent professionals committed to the increased understanding of human behavior, continuing professional development, best practices in school psychology, cultural respect and diversity, and ethical standards of professional practice as articulated by the American Psychological Association (APA) and the National Association of School Psychologists (NASP).
Housed within the Department of Psychology and Counseling in the College of Health and Behavioral Sciences, the program emphasizes the professional identity of school psychologists within the broader field of psychology, a breadth and depth of professional training that prepares candidates to competently perform a variety of school psychology functions, and an education that values and respects cultural diversity among candidates, faculty, and service recipients.
Highlights of the program include:
- 60-credit-hour program including 1,200 hour internship (3 years total)
- Graduate Assistantship positions available – apply through UCA Graduate School
- Close working relationships with School Psychology faculty members
- Opportunities for leadership in departmental graduate student association and as student representatives to Arkansas School Psychology Association and National Association of School Psychologists
- Typically, 6-8 students admitted each year
Related Links
- Program Competencies & Objectives
- Course sequence
- Practicum and Internship Information
- Certification & licensure in Arkansas
- Gainful employment information
Prospective Students
- Deadline for application is March 15
- Admission Information and Application Form
- Program Costs and Financial Aid
- Diversity
- List of Current UCA Student Organizations
- Links to information on Conway, Central Arkansas
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In order to become a licensed professional in school psychology in Arkansas or elsewhere, students must complete the entire 60-hour Post-Master's certificate program. After 45 hours, students will be awarded a Master's degree and then they continue for another 15 hours (which includes internship experience) in order to finish the program. In accordance with Federal regulations, the following Gainful Employment information is provided for the graduates of our program.
Current Students
School Psychology Faculty and Students, Fall, 2013
School Psychology Faculty & Students, Fall, 2012
- Specialist-level M.S. School Psychology Handbook 2014-15
- Specialist-level M.S. School Psychology Handbook 2013-14
- Specialist-level M.S. School Psychology Handbook 2012-13
- Specialist-level M.S. School Psychology Handbook 2011-12
- Thesis or Dissertation Committee Selection Form
- Post-Masters Certificate (Petition and Certificate of Completion Information)
- Spring 2014 Newsletter
- Masters Annual Self-Assessment Form
- Practicum/Internship Forms
Professional Information
- American Psychological Association
- APA Division 16 – School Psychology
- Arkansas School Psychology Association
- Arkansas Psychology Board
- Arkansas Department of Education / Special Education
Research
- Use of Human Research Participants
- Use of Animal Research Participants
- Sponsored Programs Website
- STOPS database - contains information on scholarships, fellowships, internships, grants, travel internships and awards for students at all levels including undergraduate and graduate
- APA Grants