Educational Specialist in School Psychology 
EdS Program

The EdS program is committed to preparing school psychologists who are thoroughly prepared for service and practice in the 21st century.

With a commitment to excellence, this practitioner-based program prepares highly competent graduates who are uniquely committed to providing high-quality, effective, and ethical school psychological services in educational and mental health settings. The program is also dedicated to preparing students to promote social justice through culturally responsive practice and advocacy to ensure equity for all children.

Few other programs provide a standardized client program, which provides simulated but authentic clinical learning experiences. Students will also engage in field work early on in the program in a variety of settings. In addition to eligibility for school psychology certification, the EdS program at PCOM incorporates a behavior analytic course sequence approved by the Association for Behavior Analysis International (ABAI) to pursue certification as a board certified behavior analyst (BCBA).

An Educational Specialist degree is a postgraduate program designed for those seeking certification in the field of school psychology.

PCOM EdS students study interventions based on the principles of applied behavior analysis, cognitive behavior therapy, assessment techniques, academic consultation and more to enhance the learning environment in their schools and classrooms.

Highlights of PCOM's EdS program include:

NASP-Accredited

The 3-year EdS program in School Psychology is fully accredited by the National Association of School Psychologists. Students completing this program are eligible for certification as a school psychologist. The EdS program at PCOM also incorporates a behavior analytic course sequence approved by the Association for Behavior Analysis International (ABAI) to pursue certification as a board certified behavior analyst (BCBA).

School Psychology Program Pathways

Students with a bachelor's degree in psychology or a related field can apply to the EdS program. Students with a master’s level degree in psychology or a related field may also apply separately to the EdS program.

EdS Degree Completion

The EdS degree can be completed in three years (two years of coursework and a one-year internship). Students in the EdS program will also receive a master’s of science in school psychology following completion of coursework in their second year. Classes meet in the evening hours two to three nights per week. Field experiences take place during the day on a flexible schedule. However, in the third year, the required internship experience must be completed during typical school hours.

Applications to the Educational Specialist (EdS) program in School Psychology will be considered throughout the year. Visit our application requirements page to learn about course prerequisites, program requirements, the application process and more.

PCOM is committed to helping students maximize funding sources and minimize student debt. Visit our Office of Financial Aid section to learn about cost of attendance, types of aid available and how to apply for financial aid.

The EdS program is approved by the Pennsylvania Department of Education (PDE) as an approved Institute of Higher Education (IHE) for the school psychology certification program. The MS/EdS is fully accredited by the National Association of School Psychologists (NASP).

The MS program is also approved by the Association for Behavior Analysis International (ABAI) to provide the course content required for the Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) credential.