This degree is a Doctorate of Philosophy with Certification in the Department of Educational, School & Counseling Psychology with an emphasis in School Psychology.
The School Psychology PhD program prepares students to become leaders in research and professional practice while improving outcomes for children, families and schools. Through rigorous coursework, supervised field experiences and faculty-mentored research, students develop expertise in psychological assessment, intervention, consultation and data-based decision-making.
Grounded in a scientist-practitioner model, the program emphasizes the integration of research and practice to address academic, behavioral and mental health needs in educational settings. Students work closely with faculty to develop advanced skills in research, evaluation and applied problem-solving while gaining extensive experience supporting children and adolescents across diverse learning environments.
Graduates are prepared for careers in schools, universities, healthcare systems, research organizations and other professional settings. The program is accredited by both the American Psychological Association (APA) and the National Association of School Psychologists (NASP), reflecting its commitment to high standards in training, scholarship and professional practice. Through a combination of research, clinical experiences and mentorship, students develop the knowledge and skills needed to improve the well-being, learning and success of children and youth.
For a sample plan of study and course listing, go to the course catalog.
Concurrent Master of Arts (MA)
Students admitted to this degree program also complete a master of arts in school psychology as part of the program. The master’s program itself is not a terminal degree program. Students typically complete degree requirements (course work and comprehensive examination) for the master’s by the end of their second year in the program. Students who have already completed an advanced degree in school psychology or a related field, including completion of a data-based graduate-level research project, might not be required to complete the master’s.
Apply
Applicants are required to meet two sets of minimum qualifications for admission:
- Requirements of the doctorate in educational, school and counseling psychology program
- Minimum requirements of the Office of Graduate Studies
How to Apply
Apply online by submitting the following documents using the MU Office of Graduate Studies application by Dec. 1 for the next fall cohort:
Institution code: 6875
- Three letters of recommendation
- CV/resume
- Unofficial academic transcripts of all previous undergraduate and graduate work
- Minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0 from an accredited institution in psychology, education or a related major.
- Statement of purpose addressing the following:
- Describe interests and experiences with working with people from diverse backgrounds (e.g. ethnic, cultural, socioeconomic, religious, ability status, sexual orientation). How have these experiences influenced you? (250-word limit)
- Describe experiences that demonstrate your potential for leadership that you believe distinguish you as a candidate for graduate study. (250-word limit)
- Describe (1) your research interests that you hope to pursue in graduate school (2) how these interests match those of specific faculty. (500-word limit)
- Describe (1) your career objectives (2) how these career objectives have developed and (3) how being accepted into MU’s program will benefit your career aspirations and help you act upon your beliefs, goals and philosophy. (500-word limit)
- TOEFL for international students (preferred score of 580 for paper test, 92 iBT, IELTS 7 or higher)