The School Psychology programs (PsyD and CAS) at the University are premised on an ecological perspective of human behavior and the provision of psychological services in schools. We view behavior as a complex result of interactions between various social and psychological systems within which children and adolescents develop. This philosophical position, which is supported by empirical research, requires that students in our program have a thorough understanding of individual, contextual, and environmental variables that affect children’s behavior. Effective assessment and intervention requires a thorough grasp of children’s ecologies and the ways in which schools and school personnel affect students academically, socially, emotionally, and behaviorally.
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The Program's philosophy is that preparation of school psychologists is dependent on: (a) a solid foundation in psychological and educational theory and research, and skill-based training in psychological assessment and intervention methods; and (b) opportunities for supervised application of theory, research, and reflective practice. The aim of the Program is the development of school psychologists who are well educated in both psychology and education. Using this knowledge, school psychologists are able to use a variety of skills to improve students' educational experiences and psychological well being. As such, these individuals provide a variety of services, including consultation, assessment, and direct intervention. Students admitted to the program are eligible for the MS in Educational Psychology and Methodology and students intending to apply for New York State certification as a school psychologist must receive the MS in addition to the CAS in School Psychology. This program is approved by the National Association of School Psychologists.
The Psy.D. program prepares 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. Specifically, the Program prepares graduates as life-long learners who engage in the issues of cultural and individual diversity. Students are involved in a systematic and reasoned, sequential plan of study which includes integrated course work in general psychology and professional school psychology, field training experiences, and opportunities to engage in research and evaluation of psychological practice. The sequential plan of study is designed to aid the students' attainment of the knowledge necessary to engage in and enhance psychological practice. This program is accredited by the American Psychological Association.
