An online master’s degree in school psychology is a specialized program designed to prepare students for careers as licensed school psychologists. These professionals work in schools and educational settings to support the emotional, behavioral, and academic well-being of students.

With a school counseling master's degree, you'll be well-equipped to work with students in K-12 schools. You'll most likely work in a public or private school, but other organizations also have jobs for school counselors. Some school psychologists end up in postsecondary institutions.

Graduating with a school counseling master's qualifies you academically to become a licensed school psychologist. You may provide general services for students, or you might specialize in a particular area. Special needs, childhood and adolescent development, behavioral issues, and social anxiety are a few options.

2025 Best Online Master's in School Psychology Programs

Looking for the best online master's in addiction school psychology programs? CounselingPsychology.org has ranked top programs to help you find the right fit. Online programs offer flexibility, making it easier to balance studies with work or personal life. They are great for those who need distance learning or prefer a virtual classroom. Learn more about how we rank these programs at https://counselingpsychology.org/rankings-methodology/.

#1

Fort Hays State University

Hays, KS - Public 4-Year - fhsu.edu

Master's - Online School Psychology Program

Online Learning - Visit Website

Fort Hays State University offers an Online School Psychology Program designed for those aiming to become school psychologists. This program stands out for its flexibility, allowing students to pursue either an MS or EdS degree entirely online, with the exception of a single five-day campus workshop. The curriculum is tailored to equip graduates with the skills needed to support K-12 students, educators, and families. Admission prerequisites include a bachelor's degree in psychology or education, a minimum 3.0 GPA, and GRE scores. Notably, the program is priced at $338.62 per credit hour, totaling $22,348.92 for the 66-credit requirement, making it an affordable option for many. It also offers the convenience of part-time enrollment, catering to working professionals.

  • Fully online degree program
  • MS and EdS tracks available
  • 66 total credit hours
  • $338.62 per credit hour
  • Nationwide student accessibility
  • One brief campus workshop
  • GRE required for admission
  • 3.0 minimum undergraduate GPA
  • Prepares K-12 school psychologists
  • Flexible part-time enrollment
#2

Loyola Marymount University

Los Angeles, CA - Private 4-year - lmu.edu

Master's - School Psychology, Ed.S. with Educational Psychology, M.A.

Online Learning - Visit Website

Loyola Marymount University offers an online Ed.S. in School Psychology alongside an M.A. in Educational Psychology, designed for those aiming to impact students' academic, social, and emotional well-being. This NASP-approved program blends rigorous coursework with practical experience, requiring 63 units, a 500-hour practicum, and a 1,200-hour internship. Focused on social justice, it prepares graduates for California licensure and national certification. The program, costing $1,632 per unit, supports a minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA for admission and offers flexibility with both online and in-person options, catering especially to California residents. Entrance exams are not explicitly mentioned as required.

  • NASP-approved program
  • 3-year cohort program
  • Online and in-person options
  • 500-hour practicum
  • 1,200-hour internship
  • 63 total course units
  • Minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA
  • California state credential eligible
#3

Southern Connecticut State University

New Haven, CT - Public 4-Year - southernct.edu

Master's - School Psychology, M.S.

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Southern Connecticut State University's hybrid Master of Science in School Psychology is a NASP-approved program that equips students with the skills needed for certification as school psychologists in Connecticut. This program uniquely combines online coursework with in-person requirements, catering to those seeking flexibility without compromising on the depth of training. Applicants must have a 3.0 undergraduate GPA, complete prerequisite psychology courses, and submit standardized test scores. The curriculum emphasizes psychological assessment and interventions to support students' academic and emotional well-being in diverse settings. Notably, this program also requires professional recommendations and a comprehensive exam for graduation, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for their careers.

  • NASP-approved program
  • Leads to state certification
  • 3.0 minimum undergraduate GPA
  • Hybrid program format
  • Multiple prerequisite course options
  • Professional recommendations required
  • Comprehensive exam for graduation
*Source: U.S. DOE National Center for Education Statistics, IPEDS 2023 collection.

What Will I Learn in an Online School Psychology Master's Degree Program?

An online master’s degree in school psychology provides students with the opportunity to delve into the complexities of childhood and adolescent development, and to gain a deep understanding of how to support students in educational settings. The program combines academic coursework with hands-on clinical experience (a practicum), giving students a chance to apply their knowledge and develop their skills in real-world settings.

Most programs are 60-70 semester credits in length and can be completed in 2 years if studying full-time. Some courses that you may take during a school psychology program include:

  • Developmental Psychology of Children and Adolescents
  • Assessment and Diagnosis in School Psychology
  • Cognitive and Learning Processes in Children
  • Behavioral and Emotional Disorders in Children
  • Instructional Strategies and Interventions in Schools
  • School-Based Consultation and Collaboration
  • Mental Health Services in Schools
  • Diversity and Cultural Competence in School Psychology

The practicum portion of a program allows you to employ what's learned in these classes, working in a highly supervised counseling setting.

Admissions Requirements for a Master's Degree in School Psychology

When you apply for an online master’s degree in school psychology program, you'll typically be required to submit several items to the admissions committee.

The exact requirements may vary between institutions, so it's important to review the specific requirements of each program you are interested in applying to. For an example, see Marist College.

Nevertheless, there are common elements that applicants usually have to submit:

  • A bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university
  • Official transcripts demonstrating a minimum GPA (typically 3.0-3.5)
  • A personal statement outlining your reason for studying school psychology
  • Recommendation letters from teachers or professionals in a related field
  • Relevant experience in the education or psychology fields
  • An interview with an admissions committee member
  • Scores from the Graduate Record Examination (GRE)

Make your interest in school psychology evident through your application. The personal statement, recommendation letters and interview all afford opportunities to discuss why you want to enroll in a master’s in school psychology degree. Of course, the other components of your application should be as strong as possible.

2025 Affordable Master's in School Psychology Program Options

Finding an affordable Master's in School Psychology is key for students across the USA. The right program balances cost with quality, offering a path to a rewarding career without heavy debt. In 2025, options vary by state, with some providing low-cost tuition and others focusing on cost-effective learning. These programs prepare graduates for vital roles in schools, supporting student mental health and learning. The table below helps compare choices by price and highlights, making it easier to find a program that fits your budget and goals.

School NameHighlightsAnnual Estimated Tuition & Fees
Fort Hays State University
  • Fully online degree program
  • MS and EdS tracks available
  • 66 total credit hours
  • $338.62 per credit hour
  • Nationwide student accessibility
  • One brief campus workshop
  • GRE required for admission
  • 3.0 minimum undergraduate GPA
  • $3,800 - $5,600 (Graduate In-State)
  • $9,600 - $14,500 (Graduate Non-Resident)
California State University-Fresno
  • 86-unit program.
  • Three-year full-time.
  • Includes practicum and internship.
  • Competitive admission.
  • Focus on school psychology.
  • Scientific problem-solving approach.
  • Cultural responsiveness training.
  • Intervention strategies for youth.
  • $6,700 - $10,100 (Graduate In-State)
  • $14,300 - $21,500 (Graduate Non-Resident)
The University of Texas at Tyler
  • Online 48-hour Master's program
  • 24-month completion time
  • 99% TExES pass rate
  • Total program cost $13,044
  • Texas State Board certified
  • Synchronous and asynchronous courses
  • Cohort program starting Summer
  • GPA requirement 2.75
  • $6,800 - $10,100 (Graduate In-State)
  • $13,900 - $20,900 (Graduate Non-Resident)
*Data obtained from: IPEDS 2023 survey (NCES).

2025 Shortest School Psychology Master's Program Options

Finding the shortest school psychology master's programs can help students start their careers faster. These programs are designed for those who want to complete their education quickly without sacrificing quality. The table highlights options across the USA, showing program details, graduation rates, and retention rates. Faster programs are ideal for students eager to enter the workforce by 2025. They offer a quickest path to earning a master's degree in school psychology. This is especially useful for those in larger cities or regions where demand for school psychologists is high.

School NameHighlightsRetention & Grad Rates
Tufts University
  • Three-year campus program
  • 73 total credits required
  • NASP and Massachusetts approved
  • Field experiences all three years
  • Social justice curriculum focus
  • 100% employment post-graduation
  • Prerequisites include psychology courses
  • Graduation Rate: 93%
  • Retention Rate: 96%
  • Student to Faculty Ratio: 10:1
North Carolina State University at Raleigh
  • Three-year NASP-approved program
  • Two years coursework, one year internship
  • Close faculty mentorship
  • Psychoeducational Clinic training
  • Multiple practicum experiences
  • Scientist-practitioner training model
  • School and clinical settings
  • State licensure preparation
  • Graduation Rate: 85%
  • Retention Rate: 93%
  • Student to Faculty Ratio: 15:1
University of Minnesota-Twin Cities
  • NASP accredited program.
  • No GRE required.
  • Focus on justice and equity.
  • 100% employment rate post-graduation.
  • Two years coursework plus internship.
  • Financial aid available.
  • Diverse fieldwork opportunities.
  • Innovative faculty research.
  • Graduation Rate: 85%
  • Retention Rate: 91%
  • Student to Faculty Ratio: 16:1
*NCES IPEDS database, 2023 release. Available at: https://nces.ed.gov/ipeds/

List of School Psychology Master’s Degree Programs

Find an online or campus-based master’s program in school psychology today – our state-by-state listings make it easy to find a great program near you.

Jump to City:

California

Fresno, CA

Fresno Pacific University
  • Master's - School Psychology, M.A. and PPS Credential

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • 62-unit hybrid degree program
    • Small class sizes
    • Synchronous online options
    • Current practitioners as faculty
    • Includes academic and field experience
    • Christian value-centered curriculum
    • BCBA coursework embedded
    • Multiple campus locations

Hayward, CA

California State University-East Bay
  • Master's - School Psychology

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • NASP accredited program
    • Three-year full-time program
    • Hybrid learning model
    • Eligible for NCSP and LEP credentials
    • Focus on social justice
    • Comprehensive fieldwork included
    • Master's and credential awarded
    • Prepares for diverse school settings

Irvine, CA

Concordia University-Irvine
  • Master's - Master of Arts in Education (MAEd): School Psychology

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Hybrid program format.
    • 60 units required.
    • 1200 hours field experience.
    • Accredited by CTC.
    • $695 per unit.
    • Financial aid available.
    • 2.75 GPA required.
    • Bachelor's degree needed.
University of Massachusetts Global
  • Master's - EdS in School Psychology and MA in Educational Psychology with PPSP Credential

    Online Learning - Website

    • Online program delivery
    • Prepares for California PPSP credential
    • Focus on mental health and academic needs
    • Comprehensive fieldwork support
    • 2.75 GPA admission requirement
    • California residency required
    • Rigorous curriculum includes special education law
    • Ethical practice and diversity focus

Los Angeles, CA

Loyola Marymount University
  • Master's - School Psychology, Ed.S. with Educational Psychology, M.A.

    Online Learning - Website

    • NASP-approved program
    • 3-year cohort program
    • Online and in-person options
    • 500-hour practicum
    • 1,200-hour internship
    • 63 total course units
    • Minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA
    • California state credential eligible

San Diego, CA

Northcentral University
  • Master's - Master of Science in School Psychology with Pupil Personnel Services Credential

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Hybrid online/in-person program
    • No GMAT/GRE required
    • Pupil Personnel Services Credential
    • 3-year average completion time
    • Year-round enrollment
    • Zero application fee
    • Aligns with NASP standards
    • Practicum and internship included

Connecticut

New Haven, CT

Southern Connecticut State University
  • Master's - School Psychology, M.S.

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • NASP-approved program
    • Leads to state certification
    • 3.0 minimum undergraduate GPA
    • Hybrid program format
    • Multiple prerequisite course options
    • Professional recommendations required
    • Comprehensive exam for graduation

Iowa

Cedar Falls, IA

University of Northern Iowa
  • Master's - School Psychology

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Three-year full-time program
    • NASP-approved curriculum
    • 515+ practicum hours
    • Master's and EdS degrees
    • Scientist-practitioner model
    • Multiple career setting options
    • Minimum 2.75 GPA required
    • Hybrid learning format

Idaho

Pocatello, ID

Idaho State University
  • Master's - M.Ed. in Human Exceptionality with a major in School Psychological Examiner

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Hybrid learning model
    • NASP-accredited program
    • Focus on rural communities
    • Evidence-based interventions
    • NCSP credential eligibility
    • Diverse faculty
    • Culturally competent services
    • Practicum courses required

Kansas

Emporia, KS

Emporia State University
  • Master's - School Psychology

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • 60-credit comprehensive program
    • Leads to school psychologist licensure
    • Combines MS and EdS degrees
    • Focuses on student learning support
    • Prepares professionals for K-12 settings

Hays, KS

Fort Hays State University
  • Master's - Online School Psychology Program

    Online Learning - Website

    • Fully online degree program
    • MS and EdS tracks available
    • 66 total credit hours
    • $338.62 per credit hour
    • Nationwide student accessibility
    • One brief campus workshop
    • GRE required for admission
    • 3.0 minimum undergraduate GPA

Maine

Portland, ME

University of Southern Maine
  • Master's - Educational Psychology

    Concentration: School Psychology - Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Hybrid learning format
    • 67 credit hours required
    • No GRE needed
    • December 1 application deadline
    • 100% job placement rate
    • State and national certification
    • 400 practicum hours
    • 1,200 internship hours

Minnesota

Moorhead, MN

Minnesota State University Moorhead
  • Master's - Master of Science & Specialist Degree in School Psychology

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Hybrid program format.
    • 65 semester credits required.
    • 1200-hour internship.
    • High job placement rates.
    • Competitive tuition rates.
    • In-state tuition for all.
    • 12 psychology credits needed.
    • Field-based practica included.

New Jersey

Lakewood, NJ

Georgian Court University
  • Master's - School Psychology, M.A.

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • NASP-approved program
    • 3-year average completion time
    • Hybrid delivery format
    • $985 per credit
    • 32-35 MA credits
    • 300-hour practicum
    • 1,200-hour externship
    • Full-time faculty instruction

Oklahoma

Weatherford, OK

Southwestern Oklahoma State University
  • Master's - MS in School Psychology

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Hybrid program format
    • Evening and weekend classes
    • Prepares for LPC eligibility
    • Requires bachelor's degree
    • Financial aid available
    • Focus on educational settings
    • Comprehensive psychological services
    • Accessible for working professionals

Pennsylvania

California, PA

Pennsylvania Western University
  • Master's - School Psychology, MEd

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Fully NASP accredited program
    • 30 MEd + 37 EdS credits
    • Hybrid and face-to-face options
    • Doctoral-level faculty
    • 1200-hour internship required
    • Scientist-practitioner training model
    • Two campus locations
    • Online and in-person courses

Saint Davids, PA

Eastern University
  • Master's - Master of Science in School Psychology

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Hybrid delivery format
    • 3-4 year program length
    • NASP fully accredited
    • Meets PDE certification requirements
    • Prepares LPC and LBS credentials
    • Expert clinical faculty
    • Data-based assessment training
    • Multiple start terms available

Tennessee

Henderson, TN

Freed-Hardeman University
  • Master's - Master of Science in School Counseling

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • 37 credit hours, shortest program
    • Hybrid learning format
    • Tennessee school counselor licensure
    • Web-conference and online options
    • Christian faith integration
    • Flexible scheduling
    • Cost per credit: $665
    • Two-year completion time

Nashville, TN

Lipscomb University
  • Master's - School Psychology

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • EdS Degree in School Psychology
    • 64 Total Credit Hours
    • Online Synchronous Format
    • 7-9 Semester Completion
    • NASP Model Curriculum
    • Hybrid Learning Approach
    • Minimum 3.0 GPA Required
    • Practicum Field Experiences

Texas

Lubbock, TX

Texas Tech University
  • Master's - Educational Psychology M.Ed.

    Concentration: School Psychology - Online & Campus Based - Website

    • 62-hour graduate program
    • Two years coursework, one year internship
    • Face-to-face with online options
    • Maximum 6 transfer hours allowed
    • Leads to LSSP licensure
    • Rural school partnerships
    • Growing job market
    • Mentored clinical experiences

Nacogdoches, TX

Stephen F Austin State University
  • Master's - Master of Arts in School Psychology

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • 63-hour comprehensive master's degree
    • Face-to-face and Zoom tracks
    • Two years coursework, one-year internship
    • No GRE requirement
    • National NASP program recognition
    • Practitioner-scientist training model
    • Practicum and internship experiences
    • Synchronous online learning option

Tyler, TX

The University of Texas at Tyler
  • Master's - Master of Arts in School Counseling

    Online Learning - Website

    • Online 48-hour Master's program
    • 24-month completion time
    • 99% TExES pass rate
    • Total program cost $13,044
    • Texas State Board certified
    • Synchronous and asynchronous courses
    • Cohort program starting Summer
    • GPA requirement 2.75

Wisconsin

Superior, WI

University of Wisconsin-Superior
  • Master's - Master of Science in Education — Counseling, School Counseling Track

    Online Learning - Website

    • 100% Online Degree Program
    • No Teaching License Required
    • $31,200 Total Tuition
    • 24-Month Completion Option
    • Wisconsin/Minnesota Licensure Prep
    • 600 Internship Hours
    • Designed for Teachers/Non-Teachers
    • Higher Learning Commission Accredited

West Virginia

Huntington, WV

Marshall University
  • Master's - Master of Arts in Psychology with School Psychology Emphasis

    Concentration: School Psychology - Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Hybrid program format.
    • Three years full-time.
    • Master's and Ed.S. degrees.
    • NASP accredited.
    • Focus on school psychology.
    • Competitive admission.
    • Requires writing sample.
    • Goals statement needed.
*Based on data from: IPEDS 2023, provided by the National Center for Education Statistics.

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