Educational Specialist in School Psychology in Saint Louis United States | University of Missouri-St. Louis

A three-year, cohort-focused program leading to a degree, state certification, and the National Certified School Psychologist qualification.
School psychologists receive specialized training in psychology and education. They apply their expertise to collaborate with teachers, families, and mental health professionals, creating safe and supportive environments that address students' academic, social-emotional, and behavioral needs. These professionals possess deep knowledge of school systems, effective teaching methods, and learning processes. Their services encompass assessments, academic and behavioral consultation, individual and group counseling, plus the design and assessment of prevention and intervention initiatives. For years, School Psychology has ranked among the top 10 professions, offering both rewarding work and strong job prospects due to higher retirement rates than graduation rates in recent years. This creates excellent opportunities, particularly for specialist-level practitioners and doctoral-level faculty members.
Missouri and most states require an Educational Specialist in School Psychology (Ed.S.) degree for certification. This 60-credit, three-year full-time program includes a yearlong internship. State certification through the Department of Education is mandatory for school-based practice, while independent practice requires a doctoral degree in Clinical or Counseling Psychology with state licensure. The UMSL Ed.S. program has maintained full NASP accreditation since 2009, with current approval extending through Fall 2030. Additional details are available in the Program Annual Report and Student Outcomes Data.