The mission of the PsyD Program is to prepare life-long learners who engage in the reflective practice of school psychology by integrating psychological theory, research, and practice to contribute to the development of human potential in children and families while respecting issues of cultural and individual diversity. We are committed to a practitioner-scientist model of training, to the use of evidence-based practices, and to the promotion of skillful and ethical behavior in the provision of psychological services to children, youth, and families.

The PsyD Program is integral to the missions of the University and the SOE. Specifically, the University has a broad mission of excellence in undergraduate and graduate education, research, and public service (The Mission Statement and Statement of Principles of the University at Albany, State University of New York). Consistent with this broad mission, the SOE fosters enhanced learning and human development for diverse individuals and groups across the lifespan in and out of the classroom. The SOE's contribution to the University's mission of excellence in graduate education is evidenced by its consistent ranking as one of the best in the U.S.

The philosophy of the PsyD Program at University at Albany is to prepare school psychologists to integrate psychological theory, research, and established methods of scientific inquiry into effective practice, and to engage in research and evaluation activities that contribute to the science and practice of psychology. Within this philosophy, preparation of professional psychologists is dependent on:

a)	A solid foundation in psychological theory and research, established methods of scientific inquiry, educational theory, and skill-based training in psychological assessment and intervention methods
b)	Opportunities for supervised application of theory, research, and methods of inquiry and practice
c)	Opportunities to engage in research and evaluation of psychological practice

The following goals and objectives have been identified for the PsyD Program:

GOAL #1:
To prepare school psychologists with a solid foundation in the theoretical and scientific bases of professional psychology and education needed to provide services to diverse children, adolescents, and adults within a variety of systems and organizations.

Students will demonstrate knowledge of theories and current research issues in:

	a.	The breadth of scientific psychology
	b.	The scientific, methodological, and theoretical foundations of practice
	c.	Educational foundations

Goal #2:
To prepare school psychologists to integrate psychological and educational theory, research, and established methods of scientific inquiry to engage in effective practice.

Students will demonstrate knowledge and competence in:

a.	Professional roles
b.	Culturally responsive practice with diverse individuals and groups
c.	Legal and ethical practice and professional development
d.	Professional collaboration