What it is
School psychology supports students' learning, behavior, and mental health in educational settings — assessing learning and developmental needs, supporting special education, and helping students, teachers, and families. It sits at the intersection of psychology and education.
What you'll study
The standard credential is a specialist-level degree (EdS) or doctorate:
- UndergraduatePsychology (or education) core
- Specialist (EdS) / DoctorateAssessment, learning and behavior, counseling, consultation, and law/ethics
- InternshipA supervised school-based internship is required
Concentrations & focus areas
- Assessment & EvaluationLearning and developmental testing
- Behavioral InterventionSupporting behavior
- Special Education SupportIEPs and services
- Counseling & CrisisStudent mental health
- ConsultationWorking with teachers/families
- Research / AcademicAdvancing practice
Skills you'll build
- Psychological assessmentEvaluating learning & behavior
- Intervention designSupport plans
- Counseling skillsHelping students
- ConsultationCollaborating with educators
- Knowledge of education lawIEPs, special ed
Careers & job titles
- School psychologistK–12 schools (most common)
- District / special-ed specialistSystem-level roles
- Behavioral consultantSchools and clinics
- University faculty / researcherWith a doctorate
- Private practice (assessment)Independent evaluation
- Educational consultantAdvising
Job outlook & demand
The BLS projects school psychologists to grow with increased awareness of the link between mental health and learning, though school-age demographic shifts can moderate demand. There are ongoing shortages of school psychologists in many districts.
Pay: median, range & trajectory
Per the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (May 2025), school psychologists had a median around $95,990, with strong job security and a school-calendar schedule that many find appealing.
Degree levels it's offered at
Offered across these levels — click a level to learn about it:
The specialist (EdS) degree is the standard entry credential (a doctorate is also accepted); both require a supervised internship and state licensure/certification.
Is it right for you?
You might thrive here if you want to help children and adolescents succeed, enjoy assessment and problem-solving, and like working in schools with a stable schedule.
Good to know: unlike clinical psychology, school psychology is reachable with a specialist (EdS) degree rather than a full doctorate, and demand is strong with widespread shortages.
Explore further
Keep exploring:
Key facts
- FocusStudents' learning, behavior & mental health
- DegreeSpecialist (EdS) or doctorate + internship
- SettingK–12 schools (shortages in many districts)
- OutlookFaster than average (BLS)
- Pay$95,990 median (BLS)
Where to learn more
Authoritative sources for careers and pay: