Philadelphia Campus
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.
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 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.
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.
PCOM’s EdS program in School Psychology is designed to provide students with greater flexibility given the demands many students face regarding balancing work and school. 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.
