Concurrent M.Ed./Ed.S. in School Psychology

3 Years On Campus Masters Program

Georgia State University

Program Overview

The Concurrent M.Ed./Ed.S. in School Psychology at Georgia State University prepares students to support children's academic, behavioural, social, and emotional development in school settings. The program combines education, psychology, research methods, psychological assessment, counselling, and supervised practical training, making it suitable for students aspiring to become school psychologists and educational mental health professionals.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1: Students build foundational knowledge of school psychology, learning theories, research methods, and counselling techniques. Courses such as Introduction to School Psychological Services (CPS 6040), Basic Counseling Skills (CPS 6410), and Methods of Research in Education (EPRS 7900) introduce essential professional and research skills.

Year 2: Students develop advanced skills in psychological assessment, academic interventions, and consultation with teachers and parents. Courses such as Individual Assessment I (CPS 7490), Individual Assessment II (CPS 7510), and Data-Based Decision Making for Academic Interventions in School Psychology (CPS 7520) strengthen their ability to evaluate and support students' learning needs.

Year 3: Students focus on advanced psychological interventions, professional ethics, and supervised field experience. Courses such as Child/Adolescent Psychopathology (CPS 8540), Intervention Strategies for Students with Learning Problems (CPS 8665), and Internship in School Psychology (CPS 8680) prepare them for professional school psychology practice.

Focus Areas

School Psychology, Child Development, Educational Psychology, Cognitive Assessment, Behavioural Assessment, Learning Disabilities, Psychological Interventions, Counselling, Multicultural Education, Educational Research.

Learning Outcomes

Psychological Assessment, Academic Intervention Planning, Behavioural Evaluation, Counselling Skills, Teacher and Parent Consultation, Child Development Analysis, Evidence-Based Practice, Research and Data Analysis, Ethical Decision-Making, Mental Health Support.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation)

The program is accredited by the National Association of School Psychologists (NASP), supporting professional preparation in school psychology. Graduates can pursue school psychology credentials, subject to applicable state certification and licensing requirements.

Reputation (Employability Rankings)

Georgia State University offers a NASP-accredited program with nationally recognized faculty and federally funded training grants. Students also have opportunities to participate in research teams, present at academic conferences, and contribute to professional research initiatives. Specific program-level employability statistics are not published in the official program information.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At Georgia State University, the Concurrent M.Ed./Ed.S. in School Psychology program is designed to provide students with a rich blend of theoretical knowledge and practical experience. This program emphasizes experiential learning, allowing students to develop essential skills through hands-on opportunities in real-world settings. With access to state-of-the-art facilities and resources, students are well-equipped to thrive in their future careers as school psychologists.

Here are some key aspects of the experiential learning opportunities available in the program:

- Practicum and Internship Experiences: Students engage in supervised practicum and internship placements in diverse school settings, allowing them to apply their knowledge and skills in real-life situations.

- Research Laboratories: The program offers access to dedicated research labs where students can collaborate on projects, conduct studies, and gain valuable research experience.

- Digital Tools and Software: Students utilize advanced software for data analysis and assessment, including tools like SPSS and various psychological assessment instruments, enhancing their technical proficiency.

- Collaborative Group Projects: The curriculum includes group projects that foster teamwork and communication skills, essential for working effectively in educational environments.

- Field Trips and Workshops: Students participate in field trips and workshops that expose them to current practices in school psychology, providing insights into the profession and networking opportunities.

- Access to Libraries and Resources: Georgia State's extensive library system offers a wealth of resources, including access to academic journals, books, and databases relevant to school psychology.

- Institute for School Psychology: The program is affiliated with the Institute for School Psychology, which provides additional resources, training, and networking opportunities for students.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Pursuing an Concurrent M.Ed./Ed.S. in School Psychology at Georgia State University opens the door to a rewarding career dedicated to supporting students' mental health and academic success. Graduates of this program are well-prepared for various roles in educational settings, including school psychologists, mental health counselors, and educational consultants. With a strong emphasis on practical experience and research, you’ll be equipped to make a significant impact in the lives of students and their families.

Here’s what you can expect from your journey at Georgia State University:

- University Services: The Career Services Center offers tailored support, including resume workshops, interview preparation, and job placement assistance specifically for education graduates. Additionally, the Counseling and Psychological Services provide hands-on experience through internships and practicum placements in local schools.

- Employment Stats and Salary Figures: According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, school psychologists earn a median salary of around $78,200 per year, with job growth projected at 3% over the next decade. Georgia State graduates have a strong employment rate, with many securing positions shortly after graduation.

- University–Industry Partnerships: Georgia State has established partnerships with local school districts and mental health organizations, providing students with invaluable networking opportunities and real-world experience through internships and collaborative projects.

- Long-term Accreditation Value: The program is accredited by the National Association of School Psychologists (NASP), ensuring that your degree meets high standards of quality and will be recognized by employers across the country.

- Graduation Outcomes: Graduates from this program have gone on to work in diverse educational settings, including public and private schools, universities, and community organizations, making a meaningful difference in the lives of students.

Further Academic Progression: After completing your Concurrent M.Ed./Ed.S. in School Psychology, you may choose to further your studies by pursuing a doctoral degree (Ph.D. or Psy.D.) in School Psychology or a related field. This advanced education can open doors to leadership roles in educational policy, research, or higher education teaching positions. Additionally, you could specialize in areas such as neuropsychology or behavioral analysis, enhancing your expertise and career prospects even further.