Students in PCOM’s Educational Specialist (EdS) program in School Psychology seek to bring the best of the discipline and practice of school psychology to understanding and enhancing the development of all children—working at the forefront of care in order to make our communities healthier. The EdS program is committed to preparing school psychologists who are thoroughly prepared for service and practice in the 21st century.
APPLY ONLINEWith 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 designed to meet the Board Certified Behavior Analyst® exam Pathway 2 coursework requirements. Applicants will need to meet additional requirements to qualify for BCBA® credential.
PCOM’s EdS program in School Psychology also offers a hybrid learning model that includes in-person and online courses to provide students with greater flexibility given the demands many students face regarding balancing work and school.
An Educational Specialist degree is a postgraduate program designed for those seeking certification in the field of school psychology.
PCOM EdS degree 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:
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 incorporates a behavior analytic course sequence verified by the Association for Behavior Analysis International (ABAI) to apply for the Board Certified Behavior Analyst® (BCBA®) examination.
PROGRAM ANNUAL REPORT AND STUDENT OUTCOME DATAStudents 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.
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. The program offers a hybrid learning model that includes in-person and online courses. Classes meet in the evening hours, and 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.
DOWNLOAD PROGRAM BROCHUREApplications 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.
Tuition CalculatorThe 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 EdS program is fully accredited by the National Association of School Psychologists (NASP).
PCOM school psychology programs have been designed to meet the BCBA® exam Pathway 2 coursework requirements. Applicants will need to meet additional requirements to qualify for BCBA credential. Current and prospective students must submit an approvable application by December 31, 2026, to be eligible under the current (2022) coursework requirements. Effective January 1, 2027, new eligibility requirements will take effect for students applying via Pathway 2. Please review the BACB website for details about certification requirements and contact Dr. Jessica Kendorski if you have questions about your coursework and eligibility requirements.
For more information, please contact:
PCOM Office of Admissions
Email: admissions@pcom.edu
Phone: 215-871-6700 | Fax: 215-872-6719
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