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School Psychology

School Psychology Programs

The University of Memphis offers two degree programs in school psychology: the Master of Arts (MA) and Educational Specialist (EdS) program and the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) program. Three core faculty contribute to these programs. More information about school psychology research can be found on our Research Teams page.

NOTE: To apply to any of the Psychology Department Graduate Programs, familiarize yourself with the material at: 
Important Information for Applying to Psychology Graduate programs.

Here is a breakdown of each program's key features.

 

Master of Arts/
Educational Specialist

Doctor of Philosophy

Years to Complete

3 years,
including 1 school year of internship

Typically, 5 years (without prior graduate education), including 1 calendar year of internship

Credit Hours

60-66 hours

97-100 hours

Graduate Assistantships Awarded

Not typically awarded upon admission but, upon enrollment, most students secure graduate assistantships in the Department of Psychology or across campus. Most second-year students receive some funding.

Yes, in all cases while on campus. The graduate assistantship provides a stipend of $17,000 or $18,000 per year and a full tuition waiver for fall and spring semester courses.

Additional Support

Liability insurance, conference registrations, and Tennessee Association of School Psychologists membership fees are paid.

Liability insurance, conference registration, and Tennessee Association of School Psychologists membership, and practicum hour tracking fees are paid. Travel to present research at national conferences is reimbursed. Support is provided for travel to internship site interviews.

Practicum Placements

Yes. Two practicum experiences are completed under supervision by licensed school psychologists in school and community settings.

Yes. Four practicum experiences are completed under supervision by certified psychologists in school, clinic, community mental health, and hospital settings.

Internship

Yes. One school year, minimum 1,200 hours in length. All are paid and typically located in West Tennessee school districts and surrounding counties and states.

Yes. They are 1 year and 2,000 hours in length. All are paid and located across the United States.

Thesis and Dissertation

No

Yes. Both a research-based thesis and a research-based dissertation are program milestones.

Eligible for Tennessee Department of Education Licensure as a School Psychologist

Yes

Yes

Eligible for Licensure as a Health Service Provider

No, but can obtain certification as a Psychological Assistant to engage in supervised practice in non-school settings

Yes, as a Psychologist

Employment Opportunities

Most graduates practice as school psychologists in public schools.

Graduates practice in schools, clinics, hospitals, and private practice settings and are professors in university settings.

Approval and Accreditation

Full approval by the National Association of School Psychologists

Full accreditation by the American Psychological Association

Program Director

Dr. Ryan L. Farmer

Dr. Beth Meisinger

Application Deadline

March 1 (early admission) and May 1

December 15