Do you have a passion for education but a deep interest in psychology? School psychology combines both education and psychology to foster and support a positive learning environment for students across educational settings. And now more than ever, school and educational institutions are seeking well-rounded school psychologists to help students’ mental, social, emotional and behavioral needs.

There is currently a high demand for school psychologists due to staffing shortages across the country. The recommends one school psychologist for every 500 students. On top of that, educational settings are seeing a rise in mental health needs among students and there are not enough school psychologists available, especially in rural areas.��

It’s important for school psychologists to receive proper education and training to address the workforce shortage and identify challenges students and institutions may face. Furthermore, understanding the requirements needed to become a school psychologist can also help you decide if this is the career for you.

What is School Psychology?��

School psychology is a field that combines psychology and education to help students succeed academically, socially, emotionally and behaviorally. School psychologists typically work with students, families, teachers and school administrators to identify challenges that may be affecting a student’s learning or well-being and determine what kinds of support could help.

It’s important to note that school counseling often provides broader academic and social guidance to students, while school psychology is more focused on psychological assessment, intervention, consultation and data-based decision-making.��

What Does a School Psychologist Do?��

So, what does a school psychologist do? A school psychologist’s work may involve assessing students, developing interventions, consulting with educators, supporting families and contributing to schoolwide programs. Their responsibilities can vary from day to day depending on the needs of their students and school community, but several common tasks for a school psychologist include:��

• Offer personalized mental and behavioral health support to struggling students
• Conduct student assessments to evaluate a student’s academic, cognitive, behavioral and social needs
• Develop academic and behavioral interventions by collaborating with teachers and families to improve student outcomes
• Support special education services by evaluating and determining if students meet the requirements for special education and help review Individualized Education Programs (IEP)
• Foster positive school environments by helping design initiatives relating to bullying prevention, social-emotional learning and school safety��

Some professionals may serve one school, while others work across multiple campuses within a district. Others may work in colleges, community-based organizations or private practices. The work environment can influence a school psychologist’s responsibilities. Someone working directly within a school may spend more time conducting assessments and consulting with teachers, while a professional working at the district level may have greater involvement in program development or policy.

According to the , school psychologists earn on average $91,990, or $44.22 per hour, while the median annual wage is $84,940. Earnings can vary based on experience, location and work setting, with the top 10% of school psychologists earning $131,470 or more annually.��

How Do You Become a School Psychologist?��

Requirements for becoming a school psychologist can differ by state and position, but generally require education beyond a bachelor’s degree.��

The first step to becoming a school psychologist is earning a bachelor’s degree in psychology or a related field. A bachelor’s degree is important because it provides the academic foundation needed to pursue the graduate-level education required to become a school psychologist. Students can use their undergraduate studies to build knowledge in areas such as psychology, human development, learning, research, and behavior so they can further their education in psychology.��

Ģ����ý (Ģ����ý) offers a fully online B.S. in psychology degree where students can explore topics such as cognition and learning, developmental and social psychology, counseling, psychological research and abnormal psychology while developing skills in communication, observation and analysis. The program’s flexible curriculum can prepare graduates for opportunities across fields such as human services, business, research and community organizations, while also providing a foundation for graduate study in psychology, counseling or social work.

After receiving a bachelor’s degree, school psychologists earn a specialist-level graduate degree in school psychology, while others pursue a doctoral degree. Graduate programs in school psychology may cover subjects such as:

• Human development
• Learning and cognition
• Psychological assessment
• Behavioral interventions
• Counseling
• Research methods
• Special education
• Ethics and professional practice

Programs may also include supervised field experiences, practicums and internships that allow students to apply what they have learned in educational settings.

After completing the required education and supervised experience, aspiring school psychologists typically need to meet their state’s credentialing or licensure requirements. Because these requirements vary, prospective school psychologists should research the specific standards in the state where they plan to work.

Ģ����ý offers experienced educators and school-based professionals a pathway to meet Texas licensure requirements with a designed retraining model program and specialized coursework. The Certificate for Advanced Graduate Studies in School Psychology is an online graduate certificate program that equips students with practical knowledge and skills through coursework and residency to ensure they’re able to receive licensure and practice professionally.����

What Skills Does a School Psychologist Need?

Because school psychologists work with students, families and professionals from a variety of backgrounds, the career requires a combination of technical knowledge and interpersonal abilities.

Communication is particularly important. School psychologists must often explain complex assessment results or psychological concepts in ways that students, parents and educators can understand.

Other valuable skills may include:

• Critical thinking and problem-solving
• Active listening
• Collaboration and teamwork
• Data analysis
• Observation
• Organization and time management
• Empathy and patience
• Cultural awareness and responsiveness
• Decision-making

School psychologists also need to manage multiple responsibilities while maintaining careful records and adhering to ethical and professional standards.

Pursue an Education in School Psychology at Ģ����ý

Understanding what a school psychologist does is an important starting point if you’re considering a career in the field. From conducting assessments and developing interventions to collaborating with families and supporting student mental health, school psychologists can serve many important functions within educational communities.

Preparing for this career begins with building a strong foundation in psychology, human development and related subjects. Your undergraduate education can help you develop foundational knowledge and skills while preparing you to pursue the graduate-level training typically required for school psychology.

Ģ����ý (Ģ����ý) offers flexible online undergraduate programs designed to help you pursue your goals while balancing life’s other commitments. You’ll be able to expand your skills as an educator or school professional to uplift students struggling to thrive academically, behaviorally, socially and emotionally. To learn more about the Advanced Graduate Studies in School Psychology certificate and how it can help you start a career in school psychology, visit our website.��

Common FAQs about School Psychology

What’s the Difference Between a School Psychologist and a School Counselor?��

School psychologists and school counselors both support students, but their training and responsibilities are typically different.

School counselors often focus on students’ academic planning, social-emotional development and college or career preparation. Depending on the grade level, they may help students select courses, explore careers, prepare for college or work through personal challenges.

School psychologists generally receive more specialized training in psychological assessment, learning and behavior. They may spend more time evaluating students, developing interventions, consulting with educators and participating in special education processes.

There can be overlap between the professions, and both may collaborate as part of a broader student support team.

Is School Psychology a Good Career?

Whether school psychology is a good career depends largely on your interests, strengths and professional goals. The field may appeal to people who enjoy working with children and adolescents but also want to use psychology, research and data to address educational challenges. It can also be a good fit for professionals who enjoy collaboration because school psychologists frequently work as part of multidisciplinary teams.

The profession can involve complex cases and challenging situations, so patience, adaptability and strong interpersonal skills are valuable. At the same time, school psychologists may have opportunities to make meaningful contributions to students’ educational experiences and long-term development.

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Ģ����ý (Ģ����ý) is expanding its portfolio of online undergraduate programs with the launch of a Bachelor of Science in Education Studies, a faith-driven degree designed to prepare aspiring educators to make a meaningful impact in classrooms, schools and communities.

Created for those looking to begin a career in education or to advance from a paraprofessional to a teacher, this fully online program combines educational theory, instructional practice and leadership development to provide graduates with the knowledge and skills to serve diverse learners. Through seven-week courses and a flexible online format, students can earn their degree while balancing work, family and other commitments.

“At Ģ����ý, we’re dedicated to creating programs that meet the evolving needs of today’s learners while preparing graduates to lead with purpose,” said Dr. Stephen Johnson, chief executive officer of Ģ����ý Dallas. “This new program reflects our commitment to deliver accessible, Christ-centered education that empowers students. Whether they’re preparing for the classroom or another educational setting, graduates will leave equipped to serve with excellence and compassion.”

The curriculum provides students with a strong foundation in educational leadership, child development, communication and instructional practices. For students interested in becoming classroom teachers, the program also offers an educator certification pathway through the Texas Institute for Teacher Education (). As part of the Bachelor of Science in Education Studies, students can complete their teacher certification through TXITE, a faith-based, fully online educator preparation program dedicated to equipping future educators with EC-6 certification and the practical wisdom needed to serve elementary students across Texas.

“The need for exceptional educators has never been greater,” said Dr. George Saltsman, provost and vice president of academic affairs. “This program prepares students not only with the academic and practical skills needed to succeed in education but also with the Christian values that inspire servant leadership. We believe our graduates will positively influence students, families and school communities for years to come.”

Graduates of the program will be prepared for a variety of careers in education, including instructional support, educational leadership, nonprofit organizations, community education and youth-serving agencies.��

The online Bachelor of Science in Education Studies is accepting applicants for its inaugural cohort beginning this fall, with classes starting on August 25, 2026. Learn more or apply for the program today.

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Ģ����ý (Ģ����ý) and the (TCWSE) are announcing a new partnership to extend educational opportunities to their employees. This partnership will provide a tuition discount to employees who meet admission requirements. The tuition discount will apply to any online degree or certificate programs offered by Ģ����ý. Ģ����ý will also waive all application fees for TCWSE employees.��

The TCWSE is a professional organization founded in 1984 that supports and creates opportunities for women in educational leadership across Texas. Through networking, leadership development and statewide conferences, the TCSWE provides women educators with the resources needed to flourish in administrative and executive roles. There is also a focus on renewal, coaching and leadership advancement by building spaces for women educators to learn from experienced leaders. One of the largest TCSWE events is the held alongside the , where members discuss leadership challenges, share ideas, and build professional relationships.��

“The TCWSE is committed to creating opportunities that encourage women educators to thrive as leaders,” said Jessica Manning, Chief Enrollment and Partnerships Officer. “Partnering with Ģ����ý allows us to connect their members with flexible, career-focused programs that align with their values and professional goals. We look forward to seeing the impact this partnership will have on educators, schools and communities throughout the state.”

Ģ����ý is committed to helping communities with affordable, flexible education grounded in faith and purpose. Designed for working adults, Ģ����ý’s online programs combine industry-relevant coursework with a Christ-centered approach that supports career growth and personal calling. Students can pursue degrees in fields such as healthcare, education, ministry and marketing while balancing work, family and everyday responsibilities. Through accessible, career-focused programs and meaningful partnerships, Ģ����ý continues to equip students to serve and strengthen their communities.

Ģ����ý’s online programs are administered through its branch location in Dallas and include 18 bachelor’s degrees, 20 master’s degrees, five doctoral degrees, five undergraduate certificate programs and eight graduate certificates. For more information about our programs, visit acu.edu/online.

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Ģ����ý (Ģ����ý) is proud to announce a new partnership with Region 20 Education Service Center (), expanding access to affordable, flexible educational opportunities for employees across South Central Texas. Through this collaboration, Region 20 ESC employees will receive a tuition discount on all fully online degree and certificate programs offered by Ģ����ý, as well as a waived application fee.

The Region 20 ESC is one of 20 regional education service agencies established by the Texas Education Agency (TEA) to support school districts and charter schools across South Central Texas. Based in San Antonio, Region 20 ESC serves more than 500,000 students across 58 school districts and 31 charter schools by providing resources and services in areas such as curriculum and instruction, professional development, school improvement, technology, leadership support and more. The Region 20 ESC collaborates with educators and administrators to improve student performance and enhance the effectiveness and efficiency of school operations across the region.

“Region 20 ESC plays an essential role in supporting educators and school communities throughout South Central Texas, and we are honored to partner with an organization that shares our passion for education and professional growth,” said Jessica Manning. “Through this partnership, Ģ����ý can provide Region 20 ESC employees with flexible and affordable pathways to continue their education and strengthen their leadership skills to advance their careers.”

Ģ����ý’s online programs are designed to help working professionals advance their education while balancing career, family and personal responsibilities. With fully online programs in fields such as ministry, marketing, healthcare and education, students can advance their education while balancing work, family and personal commitments. Through partnerships like this, Ģ����ý continues to make higher education more accessible, empowering individuals to pursue their calling through flexible, career-focused online programs.

Ģ����ý’s online programs are administered through its branch location in Dallas and include 18 bachelor’s degrees, 20 master’s degrees, five doctoral degrees, five undergraduate certificate programs and eight graduate certificates. For more information about our programs, visit acu.edu/online.

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