Our School Psychology (SP) program in the Department of Teaching & Learning Sciences prepares graduates to have careers in School Psychology across a broad range of education, mental health and research settings. Our program embraces ecological and social justice orientations. This means we provide training that advocates for the well-being of all children in all of the settings that impact their daily lives.
Our program is based on a scientist–practitioner model with a hands-on, graduated approach to field experiences. Independent field experiences occur every year, with EdS and PhD School Psychology Licensure degree students completing a final year-long internship, which provides additional supervised experience.
We value research, advocacy and service at local, state, national and international levels for the benefit of families, children and youth. There are multiple opportunities to engage in collaborative research projects that offer in-depth expertise and exposure to critical issues in the field.
The curriculum provides a strong foundation in interpersonal relations and diversity; developmental, psychological, and learning theories; general and special education; and legal, ethical and professional standards of practice. Professional skills and advanced training are required in research, measurement, program evaluation, assessment, prevention, intervention, and consultation with family, school and community professionals.
The School Psychology EdS program is accredited by the National Association of School Psychologists. It prepares students to be mental health professionals with in-depth knowledge of schools and school systems. Optional concentrations include Early Childhood and Addictions. Graduates from this program are eligible to pursue national certification from the National Association of School Psychologists and licensure as a school psychologist in the state of Colorado. The University of Denver has not yet determined whether the program meets licensure requirements states other than Colorado or in any U.S. protectorates. Students seeking licensure in a state other than Colorado should contact the state’s Departments of Education to determine whether the program meets licensure requirements.
Our School Psychology Rural Hybrid EdS program allows students to take part in the practical experiences, research opportunities, and coursework you'll need to work with children of all developmental abilities and their families as a school psychologist within rural Colorado communities. This program is designed for people living in rural Colorado communities who want to pursue a graduate degree in school psychology without relocating to a university campus. The program’s hybrid modality enables students to engage in virtual coursework during the school year and attend class on campus in the summers before and after the first year of the program. Practical experience and rigorous coursework will help prepare graduates to solve problems and make decisions to support diverse students, families, and schools within their community.
The School Psychology PhD and licensure program is accredited by the American Psychological Association and the National Association of School Psychologists. It prepares students to be health service providers with specialized knowledge of school psychology practice, as well as leaders in the field of school psychology with experiences in research, teaching and service. Graduates from this program are eligible to pursue national certification from the National Association of School Psychologists, and licensure as a school psychologist or psychologist in the state of Colorado. The University of Denver has not yet determined whether the program meets licensure requirements in states other than Colorado or in any U.S. protectorates. Students seeking licensure in a state other than Colorado should contact the state’s Departments of Education to determine whether the program meets licensure requirements.
Our graduates are practitioners, administrators, researchers and national leaders in School Psychology. Through real-world, practical experience and instruction from our nationally-recognized faculty, students are prepared to embark on their careers in School Psychology with the tools to support children, families, schools and communities across diverse ethnic, cultural and geographic settings.
The Student Affiliates in School Psychology (SASP) is an organization formed under the auspices of the Division 16 Executive Committee. Currently, it is the only student affiliation of its kind within this discipline. This organization is designed to keep graduate students apprised of issues pertaining to school psychology as well as participating in activities that will further strengthen the discipline in the future.