Mercy offers three tracks to your career as a school psychologist
Serve the needs of children in today’s diverse schools and agencies.
-
M.S. in School Psychology
Degree:
M.S.School:
School of Social and Behavioral SciencesLocation:
Dobbs Ferry & BronxCredits:
66
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School Psychology M.S. Curriculum
The 66 - 72 credit Master of Science Degree Program in School Psychology is organized as follows:
Psychological Foundation Courses 21 Credits
Assessment Courses
15 Credits
Intervention Courses
15 Credits
Professional School Psychology Courses
15 Credits
Bilingual Extension Education Course
6 Credits
Total
72 Credits
66-
Completion of at least 51 credits including all assessment courses and the Field Experience course is required prior to registration for SCPY 771 I, II, internship in School Psychology.
Application Deadlines for Fieldwork/Intern Placement
Fieldwork in School Psychology and Internship in School Psychology must be applied for the semester prior to course registration. Recommended deadlines are October 15 and February 15 for Spring and Fall semesters respectively. Courses in the Assessment sequence (SPCY 718, SCPY 719, SCPY 720, SCPY 721 and SCPY 724), as well as SCPY 704 require a minimum grade of B in order to continue the sequence. Courses in the Assessment sequence in which the grade achieve is below B must be repeated before advancing to the next course in the sequence.
A 3.0 cumulative GPA is required to register for either the fieldwork or the internship. Please consult the School Psychology Student Handbook for information about course sequencing and prerequisites.
Psychological Foundation Courses
21 credits required for the General Program and the Bilingual Extension
- SCPY 610 Developmental Psychology
- SCPY 616 Stats & Rsrch Mthdlgy I
- SCPY 617 Stats & Rsrch Mthdlgy II
- SCPY 641 Nrlgcl Fctrs in Bhvr
- SCPY 652 Devlpmntl Psychopathology
- SCPY 704 Psychl & Educnl Assessment
- Elective
Assessment Courses
15 credits required
- SCPY 705 Dgns of Lrning Prblms
- SCPY 718 Indvdl Assmt: Cgntv I
- SCPY 719 Indvdl Assmt: Cgntv II
- SCPY 720 Indvdl Assmt: Soc/Emo/Beh Development I
- SCPY 721 Indvdl Assmt: Soc/Emo/Beh Development II
Intervention Courses
15 credits required
- SCPY 654 Bhvr Mgnt Apps Cldrn w/Spc Nds
- SCPY 657 Grp Cnslng in Multicltrl
- SCPY 658 Indvdl Cnslng in Multicltrl
- SCPY 703 Rmdtn of Lrning Prblms
- SCPY 710 Cnsltn in Schl Setting
Professional Practice Courses
15 credits required
- SCPY 670 Fldwrk in Schl Psych
- SCPY 771 Intrnshp in Schl Psych
Bilingual Extension Education Course
6 credits required
- EDUC 508 Thry & Prctc Blngl Ed (Bilingual Extension)
- SCPY 724 Asssessing Bilingual Children and Adolescents
Advisement
Students in the School Psychology program must meet with the program director to plan courses and review the plan of study prior to course registration. Students will choose the elective course in consultation with the program director and in consideration of individual interest.
Course Load
Students must consult with the program director regarding registration in School Psychology courses. Full-time students may register for up to 12 credits per semester. Part-time students may register for either three or six credits per semester.
Transfer Credits
Graduate courses taken at other institutions prior to admission at Mercy College may, if pertinent to the plan of study, be credited to the graduate degree. Permission to transfer credits must be requested at the time of admission and official transcripts and course descriptions must be submitted before those credits are transferred to Mercy College. Such courses may be used to meet program requirements provided the student requests transfer of credit in writing at the time of the application and the program director approves them as comparable to courses in the required program.
Transfer credit will be granted only for courses taken in the five-year period prior to acceptance in the Mercy College Program and for courses in which the student earned a grade of B or above. Students may request transfer credit for up to six credits. Courses with a grade of B- or lower are not acceptable for transfer.
Maintenance of Matriculation
It is expected that students will fulfill the requirements for their graduate degree by registering over successive sessions. Registration is required during summer session(s). Registration is accomplished by either enrolling in classes or maintaining matriculation. The Maintenance of Matriculation fee is $100 per session and is processed as a registration.
Students who have not maintained matriculation and wish to return to their program within one year after their last course will be charged the Maintenance of Matriculation fee of $100 for each missed session. Maintenance of matriculation without attending classes is limited to one year. Activated U.S. Military Reservists are not required to pay the Maintenance of Matriculation fee.
Capstone Advisement
It is expected that Capstone students shall make satisfactory progress with their program’s culminating activity. After the student registers for all sections of their Capstone requirement, they will be given one subsequent term to complete their work. The Maintaining Matriculation registration must be completed for this subsequent term if no other courses are taken. After this period, a Capstone Continuation fee (equal to the cost of one graduate credit) will be charged for each additional term required to complete the project. Students can only register for Capstone Continuation for two terms.
A student’s degree will not be released until all Maintenance of Matriculation and Capstone Continuation registration and fees are recorded appropriately on a student’s record.
Maintenance of Good Academic Standing
The cumulative GPA for both good academic standing and degree conferral is a 3.0. A student admitted as a Special Matriculant is required to achieve a 3.0 average or better after completing a certain number of credits as stipulated by their respective program. Grades are subject to review by the faculty advisor and program director at the end of each semester. If the academic average for the semester falls below 3.0 the student will be placed on academic probation. If the student fails to achieve a 3.0 GPA in two consecutive semesters, the student will be subject to dismissal from the program.
Academic Probation
All students who have a cumulative GPA of below 3.0 will be placed on academic probation. If a student will not be able to achieve a cumulative GPA of 3.0 within a reasonable time, the student will be dismissed from the program. If a student receives a grade of F or FW in any course the student will be subject to dismissal from the college.
For all students on probation, future registrations must be reviewed and approved by the Director of the student’s program as well as the school dean.
In all subsequent terms in which the student is on probation the student is required to achieve a term GPA of 3.0 or better. If the 3.0 or higher is not achieved the student will be dismissed. Students who receive a grade of less than B may be required to repeat the course. Students will be allowed to repeat a course only once.
Time Limit
Requirements for the Master of Science in School Psychology must be completed within five years from the date of the candidate’s admission (exclusive of time spent in the Armed Forces). Exceptions will be made only if a student requests in writing an extension of time in advance and receives the approval of the director.
Academic Program Sequence Map
Download a copy of the sequence map for:
- School Psychology MS - 3 Year Sequence Map
- School Psychology MS - 3 Year Bilingual Extension Sequence Map
- School Psychology MS - 4 Year Sequence Map
ARCHIVE
- 2019 - 2020 School Psychology MS - 3 Year Sequence Map
- 2019 - 2020 School Psychology MS - 3 Year Bilingual Extension Sequence Map
- 2019 - 2020 School Psychology MS - 4 Year Sequence Map
- 2019 - 2020 School Psychology MS - 4 Year Bilingual Extension Sequence Map
- 2018 - 2019 School Psychology MS - 3 Year Sequence Map
- 2018 - 2019 School Psychology MS - 3 Year Bilingual Extension Sequence Map
- 2018 - 2019 School Psychology MS - 4 Year Sequence Map
- 2017 - 2018 School Psychology MS - 3 Yea Sequence Map
- 2017 - 2018 School Psychology MS - 3 Year Bilingual Extension Sequence Map
- 2017 - 2018 School Psychology MS - 4 Year Sequence Map
- 2016 - 2017 School Psychology MS - 3 Year Sequence Map
- 2016 - 2017 School Psychology MS - 3 Year Bilingual Extension Sequence Map
- 2016 - 2017 School Psychology MS - 4 Year Sequence Map
- 2016 - 2017 School Psychology MS - 4 Year Bilingual Extension Sequence Map
How To Apply to the School Psychology M.S.
Program Application Requirements
- Baccalaureate transcript showing a major in psychology, sociology, behavioral science, or education. In special cases, other majors will be considered. Transcript review of individual course grades will also be conducted.
- Interview with the program director and completion of an on-site essay.
- Two letters of reference from instructors or appropriate professionals
- A current résumé.
Applicants should have completed undergraduate statistics with a grade of B or higher. Undergraduate Psychology majors must also have a grade of at least B in Experimental Psychology.
Application Deadlines for Fieldwork/Intern Placement
The Fieldwork in School Psychology and Internship in School Psychology must be applied for the semester prior to course registration. Courses in the testing sequence, including SCPY 704, SCPY 718, SCPY 719, SCPY 720, SCPY 721 and SCPY 724 require a minimum grade of B in order to continue the sequence. Courses in the testing sequence in which the grade achieved is below B must be repeated before advancing to the next testing course.
Spring Placements........................................................................October 15
Fall Placements...........................................................................February 15
A 3.0 GPA is required to register for either the fieldwork or the internship. Please consult the school Psychology Student Handbook for information about course sequencing and prerequisites.
Psychological Foundation courses (21 credits required for the General Program and the Bilingual Extension)
| COURSES | Credits |
|---|---|
| SCPY 610 Developmental Psychology | 3 |
| SCPY 616 Statistics and Research Methodology I | 3 |
| SCPY 617 Statistics and Research Methodology II | 3 |
| SCPY 641 Neurological Factors in Cognition and Behavior | 3 |
| SCPY 652 Developmental Psychopathology | 3 |
| SCPY 704 Psychological and Educational Assessment | 3 |
| Elective | 3 |
Assessment Courses (15 credits required for General Program; 15 credits required for
Bilingual Extension)
| Credits | Courses |
|---|---|
| SCPY 705 Diagnosis of Learning Problems: Students with Special Needs |
3 |
| SCPY 718 Individual Assessment: Cognitive I | 3 |
| SCPY 719 Individual Assessment: Cognitive II | 3 |
| SCPY 720 Individual Assessment: Personality I | 3 |
| SCPY 721 Individual Assessment: Personality II | 3 |
Intervention Courses (15 credits required)
| Credits | Courses |
|---|---|
| SCPY 654 Behavior Management: Application for Children with Special Needs |
3 |
| SCPY 657 Group Counseling in Multicultural Settings | 3 |
| SCPY 658 Individual Counseling in a Multicultural School Setting | 3 |
| SCPY 710 Consultation in Multicultural School Settings | 3 |
| SCPY 703 Remediation of Learning Problems: Students with Special Needs |
3 |
Professional School Psychology courses (15 credits required)
| Credits | Courses |
|---|---|
| SCPY 670 Fieldwork in School Psychology | 3 |
| SCPY 771 Internship in School Psychology I, II(cc) (6 credits per semester) | 12 |
Bilingual Extension Education Course (6 credits required)
| Courses | Credits |
|---|---|
| EDUC 508 Theory and Practice in Bilingual Education | 3 |
| SCPY 724 Assessing the Bilingual Children and Adolescents | 3 |
Total............................................................................................66–72 credits
What is the job market for school psychologists?
"The outlook is very promising for school psychology nationwide as we are facing a personnel shortage, as is most of special education. Many people hired in the mid '70s are retiring and our training programs are not graduating enough people to fill all those positions! There will be variability from one area to another, of course, and some states are undergoing some budget problems that might eliminate a few positions for a while, but many opportunities will be open within the next few years. In fact, School Psychology was recently named one of the top ten "hot professions" for 2002 by US News and World Report!" (www.nasponline.org). Also see a 2009 Article from US news and World Report Stating School Psychology as one of 2009’s hot professions: Best Careers 2009: School Psychologist
Is Mercy College a nonsectarian institution?
Yes. Qualified applicants are admitted without regard to race, religion, national or ethnic origin, gender, sexual orientation, marital status, age or physical disability.
What can I expect as a starting salary?
It varies. One example; For 2017 the NYC Department of Education Salary for a School Psychologist (for those with a Master’s degree) was $63,722.00 ***. The contract for the position of school psychologist in the NYC school system and most other districts is based on a ten month school year with July and August off. (***Psychologist and Social Workers Salary Schedule)
What does a School Psychologist do?
"School psychologists work with students in elementary and secondary schools. They collaborate with teachers, parents, and school personnel to create safe, healthy, and supportive learning environments for all students; address students' learning and behavior problems; improve classroom management strategies or parenting skills; counter substance abuse; assess students with learning disabilities and gifted and talented students to help determine the best way to educate them; and improve teaching, learning, and socialization strategies. They also may evaluate the effectiveness of academic programs, prevention programs, behavior management procedures, and other services provided in the school setting." (Occupational Outlook Handbook 2006-2007) For more information on the occupation of school psychologist visit www.nasponline.org
Jeffrey Cohen
Associate Professor, School Psychology
School Psychology Overview
At Mercy, the Master of Science in School Psychology Program offers 2 tracks to your Career as a School Psychologist:
- School Psychologist
- School Psychologist w/a bilingual extension
Students completing the 66-credit general program will be recommended for provisional certification as a school psychologist* to the New York State Education Department**. Qualified students may elect to pursue the 72 credit Bilingual School Psychology program.
*Provisional Certification in New York State can be transferred to Permanent Certification after two years of employment as a School Psychologist.
**Many of our alumni work in different states. Each candidate will be required to contact the state board for reciprocity, or other info needed to transfer a certification to another state. Most states do offer either reciprocity with NY or will provide information necessary on what needs to be completed for a certification in their state.
School Psychology FAQS
Yes. Qualified applicants are admitted without regard to race, religion, national or ethnic origin, gender, sexual orientation, marital status, age or physical disability.
"The outlook is very promising for school psychology nationwide as we are facing a personnel shortage, as is most of special education. Many people hired in the mid '70s are retiring and our training programs are not graduating enough people to fill all those positions! There will be variability from one area to another, of course, and some states are undergoing some budget problems that might eliminate a few positions for a while, but many opportunities will be open within the next few years. In fact, School Psychology was recently named one of the top ten "hot professions" for 2002 by US News and World Report!" (www.nasponline.org). Also see a 2009 Article from US news and World Report Stating School Psychology as one of 2009’s hot professions: Best Careers 2009: School Psychologist
Meet Jeffrey Cohen
Learn more about his story and explore School Psychology at Mercy College.
School Psychology Fast Facts
- 66-credit General Program and option to pursue the 72-credit Bilingual School Psychology Program
- Specific requirements for Fieldwork/Intern Placement
Career Opportunities
School psychologists work in public or private elementary, secondary schools and colleges to resolve student learning and behavioral problems, and promote a positive school climate. They collaborate with teachers, parents, and school personnel to assess students' academic and social needs, evaluate the effectiveness of academic programs, develop classroom management strategies, improve parenting skills and counter substance abuse. School psychologists also work with students who have disabilities or gifted and talented students, as well as work with teachers to improve teaching and learning strategies.
Purpose
The purpose of the Master of Science Degree Program in School Psychology is to prepare matriculated students to become school psychologists capable of serving the needs of children in today's diverse school and agencies.
Students completing the 66-credit General Program will be recommended for provisional certification as a school psychologist to the New York State Education Department. Qualified students may elect to pursue the 72-credit Bilingual School Psychology Extension Program. Successful completion leads to recommendation for provisional certification as a school psychologist and recommendation for the Bilingual Extension to the certificate.
For complete information regarding program requirements, courses, policies and procedures, please consult the School Psychology Handbook.
Handbook School Psychology
2017
Master's Degree Program in School Psychology 2016-2017 Handbook.
Admission Requirements
Please refer to the general requirements for admission and matriculation in the Graduate Admission section of the course catalog. The School Psychology Student Handbook also provides specific program related admissions information.
Program Application Requirements
- Baccalaureate transcript showing a major in Psychology, Sociology, Behavioral Science or Education. In special cases, other majors will be considered. Transcript review of individual course grades will also be conducted.
- Interview with the program director and completion of an on-site essay.
- Two letters of reference from instructors or appropriate professionals.
- A current resume.
Applicants should have completed undergraduate statistics with a grade of B or higher. Undergraduate Psychology majors must also have a grade of at least B in Experimental Psychology.
Degree Requirements
- Successful completion of at least 66 graduate credits, which includes course work, fieldwork, internship and required projects and assessments. The Bilingual Extension requires 6 additional credits.
- A 3.0 cumulative GPA.
- For students seeking the Bilingual Extension only, satisfactory completion of EDUC 508 Theory and Practice in Bilingual Education and SCPY 724 Assessing the Bilingual Children and Adolescents.
- Prior to graduate, taking the PRAXIS II examination in School Psychology, created and administered by the Educational Testing Service (ETS). Scores must be reported to the School of Social and Behavioral Sciences Graduate Office. Information about the test and registration can be found at www.ets.org/praxis or at 1-800-772-9476. Additional information is available at www.nasponline.org.
- Demonstrating through professional behavior in class and in field-based experiences, a commitment to school psychology ethical and legal codes of conduct, which include APA and NASP ethical standards. Students are also expected to adhere to the Mercy College policy on Academic Integrity found in the Graduate Catalog.
School Psychology Objectives
Graduates of the Master of Science in School Psychology Program will be prepared to assume the role of the school psychologist in school and agency settings. Graduates are expected to:
- Demonstrate knowledge of major concepts, theories and historical developments in School Psychology
- Demonstrate knowledge and skills in consultation, assessment, intervention and prevention practices related to the role of school psychologist
- Understand and apply research methods in school psychology including research design, data analysis and interpretation as well as effectively evaluate evidence based research to develop, recommend and implement effective interventions
- Apply the practice of school psychology consistent with the ethical guidelines of the American Psychological Association and the National Association of School Psychologists and consistent with State and Federal Law
Program Outcomes
By the end of this program, students should be able to:
- Demonstrate mastery of major concepts, theories and factual information related to the cognitive, academic, behavioral, social/emotional and adaptive development of school aged children from different backgrounds and cultures
- Identify the diverse learning and developmental characteristics of school-aged students and the factors (including biological, psychosocial and cultural) that shape the development of individual abilities and disabilities
- Demonstrate the skills to assess the cognitive, academic and social/emotional development of school–aged children, develop goals based on assessment outcomes, design and implement multi-tiered evidence based interventions which address those goals and evaluate the effectiveness of the strategies employed
- Demonstrate the oral and written communication skills to interact effectively with professional colleagues and articulate their understanding of school-aged children’s learning and developmental processes
- Demonstrate understanding of the ecological relationship between the child and the school culture, and how this “child system” interaction impacts academic and affective development, imparts meaning and context to behavior, and with the support and advocacy of the school psychologist, catalyzes the system to accommodate the diverse needs of individual children and provide equal access to its educational resources
- Acquire the skills to develop multi tiered, evidenced based intervention strategies which impact the child, classroom, school, district and community
- Utilize data collection skills to evaluate programs, assess student outcomes and improve school services
- Demonstrate the ability to critically evaluate relevant literature
- Identify, support and engage in school psychology practice consistent with prevailing ethical statutes, and in compliance with Federal and State laws and regulations
- Demonstrate a commitment to lifelong professional development and continuing enhancement of their knowledge base and professional skills
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