School Psychology

By Samira Flores

School Psychology is the practice of accommodating students, namely students with exceptionalities, for optimal learning within the school environment. Professional practice involves the dual application of psychological and educational principles in improving learning outcomes for children. School Psychologists work closely with students, parents, educators, mental health professionals, and other school personnel to provide effective service delivery. They conduct multifaceted assessments within the following contexts: cognitive development, academic standing, behavior, and emotional well-being. They also design and implement interventions, and monitor student progress.

A School Psychologist is the only professional psychological practitioner who is recognized by the American Psychological Association (APA) as a psychologist at the level of the Specialist degree. All other psychologists must hold a doctoral degree. School Psychology training programs may be offered within the departments of psychology or education.

Barry University offers training in School Psychology within the scientist-practitioner framework via the School of Arts and Sciences. Students acquire theoretical and practical applications of knowledge in areas of school psychology: psychological evaluation, diagnosis, intervention, research, consultation, and professional ethics, The program requires 71 semester-hours for completion and is accredited by national and state standards via the National Association of School Psychologists (NASP) and the Florida State Board of Education respectively. Students earn a Master’s degree in Psychology upon the completion of 30 semester-hours and a Specialist degree in School Psychology after an additional 38 semester-hours. The School Psychology program at Barry University is designed to meet the needs of full-time and part-time students. Full-time students engage in two years of coursework and one year of internship.

For more information, you may contact Dr. Agnes Shine, Associate Professor and Director of School Psychology at
AShine@mail.barry.edu.


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