School Psychology, MA and Certificate of Advanced Study

Graduate Program Coordinator:
Dr. Kimberly Daniel
 

The School Psychology program prepares candidates to become competent and caring practitioners in the field of school psychology to assist schools in obtaining high levels of academic achievement among diverse student populations. School psychologists partner with school personnel, parents, and community agencies to improve supports for children at the individual, classroom, and school systems level. The program’s curriculum provides a strong foundation in the specified areas: legal, ethical, and professional practice; cultural proficiency and diversity; research and program evaluation. Candidates who graduate from the program will be required to demonstrate proficient knowledge and skills in the following areas: (a) consultation and collaborative processes; (b) evaluation and assessment; (c) implementation of prevention and intervention strategies; and (d) use of counseling and crisis supports. In addition, candidates who are successful in this program must demonstrate professional qualities such as a positive disposition, responsibility, initiative, perseverance, critical thinking ability, and self-reflection. Candidates are expected to complete sixty (60) credit hours to obtain the master’s degree and Certificate of Advanced Study. Candidates must plan their program of study in consultation with an assigned advisor from the school psychology faculty. Graduates of the program will be eligible to apply for certification in the state of Maryland and eligible to apply for certification at the national level based on successful completion of the master’s and certificate programs as well as the Praxis Exam in School Psychology. 

Admission to the Program

The school psychology program typically admits candidates once a year. Applicants are asked to submit all materials on or prior to April 1 to be considered for admittance for the upcoming fall semester. Early admission into the program is possible for applicants who submit applications by February 15 and ensure all supporting documents are submitted by March 1. We admit approximately ten (10) students per cohort; however, we keep additional applicants on a reserve list. If an opening becomes available, we offer it to the next eligible applicant on the list. Applicants who apply for the program must submit the following:

1. Completed Graduate Application Form with the non-refundable application fee

2. Proof of a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution

3.  Proof of completion of at least fifteen (15) undergraduate credits in psychology/or related area (grade of B or higher preferred). Undergraduate coursework in general psychology, human development, behavior analysis, brain and behavior, school safety, cognitive and learning theory, personality theory, research and statistics, educational psychology, abnormal psychology, social psychology, child, or adolescent psychology, and multi-cultural or cross-cultural psychology is helpful.

4. Proof of an overall undergraduate GPA of at least 3.0*

5. Submission of three letters of recommendation (with one to two references from instructors if applicant has recently attended an undergraduate or graduate program). Instructor letters should address both your academic experiences, professional dispositions,  and/or your experiences working with children and/or adolescents (if applicable). Professional references from employers/supervisors should address your professionalism, work ethic, relevant experiences, interest in the field, and work with children (if applicable).

6. Submission of a copy of a resume/vita outlining professional work and/or volunteer experiences

7. Submission of a two to three page typed written statement of interest to include the following:

   • Background information about yourself 

   • Your goals for the program as well as future goals five years from now 

   • Strengths you would bring to the program and the profession 

   • Reasons for pursuing graduate studies in the Bowie State University School Psychology program 

Applicants whose undergraduate GPA falls below 3.0 may be considered if they obtain a B grade or above by taking additional undergraduate or graduate coursework prior to entry into the program.
Application materials are initially screened through the graduate admissions office. Materials from eligible applicants are then sent to the program. All eligible applicants are interviewed by program faculty. Successful applicants are admitted into the master’s program.  

Admission to the Certificate of Advanced Study (CAS) Program (Currently open to BSU Master of Arts degree candidates only) 
In accordance with university procedures, all mastered degree candidates who wish to obtain their Certificate of Advanced Study (CAS) must reapply for admissions and be accepted by faculty. Most candidates are admitted to the CAS program, unless there is evidence that candidate lacks sufficient ability and/or dispositions to move forward in the program. 

Program Objectives 

1. To provide a clear understanding of the various knowledge bases inherent in school psychology.

2.  To enhance candidates’ recognition of the importance of embracing social justice and diversity and engaging in relevant practices as well as professional development to ensure equitable application of services and supports for p-12 students and families.

3. To prepare candidates to use a “holistic” approach to understanding children and consider the critical roles that family, school, and community play in the development of children and adolescents.

4. To prepare candidates to practice the highest ethical principles related to the field of school psychology.

5. To develop candidates’ sensitivity toward individual differences as important elements in decision-making regarding academic, behavioral, and mental health

6. To provide information on the organization and operation of schools and school systems.

7. To prepare candidates to be effective consultants and collaborators with school personnel and families.

8. To prepare candidates to collect data, consult research, and use evidence-based practices in their work.

9. To develop the ability of candidates to engage in practices that promote prevention and early intervention support at all levels (i.e., individual, grade, school, system) in schools.

10. To develop the ability of candidates to function as examiners who can evaluate psychological, educational, and social-emotional-behavioral functioning of individuals and groups.

11. To develop the ability of candidates to promote safe schools but prepare for crises intervention and support.

12. To encourage candidates to engage in professional development, lifelong learning, and keep abreast of technological advances in the profession.

Program Requirements

While many of the courses are taught in the evening, occasionally courses will be taught during the day and on Saturdays. Candidates will be expected to complete field experiences during the day. In addition to course requirements, students must demonstrate competencies associated with the earning of a master’s degree. At the completion of 15-18 credit hours in the program, students are required to apply for Advancement to Candidacy (see program guidelines). Unsuccessful candidates have the right to appeal to the Graduate Council. At the completion of 30 credit hours of selected courses in the program, students are eligible to take the Comprehensive Examination. This examination is designed to assess students’ mastery of the program objectives. It must be completed successfully before a student receives a master’s* degree or begins internship.

*All Master’s degree candidates must re-apply for admission to the CAS program.

Transfer Credit

Up to six (6) credits may be transferred into the MA/CAS program. The courses for which transfer is sought must have been completed with a grade of ‘B’ or better and must be related to courses and degree requirements offered in the program. Courses accepted for transfer credit can only be viable for use to satisfy program requirements seven (7) years from the date of completion.