M.S.Ed. & Ed.S. School Psychology

Program FAQs

What is UW-Stout’s school psychology program like?

Each of the three years in the School Psychology program has a unique feel.

The first year is filled with coursework that allows students to learn the methods and assessments they will apply as school psychologists. Virtually every course has an associated field-based or application-based emphasis, where you will practice the skills you are learning in class. Examples include a shadowing experience with area school psychologists, conducting academic benchmarking in a local district, and providing reading intervention and progress monitoring for local school kids.

The second year in the program, students often feel a bit of a pull between the campus and the working world. This year, you will complete 600+ hours of school-based practicum where you will work two days per week under the supervision of a school psychologist, working directly in the field. As well, you will conduct assessments and see clients in your clinical services center, as part of clinical practicum. At the same time, you are taking advanced coursework in school psychology and continuing to build your skills.

The third and final year in the program, you will be working full time on Internship. This is typically associated with a first-year employment experience, in that most of our students obtain paid, full time jobs working as a school psychology intern, under the supervision of an experienced colleague in the field. This year, you will complete your internship hours (1200 hours) and conduct your EdS research, in anticipation of completion of your degree in the spring.

This is a challenging and supportive program. The work is intense but the time really flies!

How is UW-Stout’s school psychology program unique?

The UW-Stout program distinguishes itself in a number of ways. Embedded within our coursework is an emphasis on counseling, and skills one needs to be a comprehensive helper in the school setting. We work closely with our school counseling colleagues to enable our students with the interpersonal skills to collaborate and work with students, parents and colleagues in a professional and supportive manner.

UW-Stout's program also emphasizes development learning and assessment, with specific coursework dedicated understanding, assessing and intervening with early learners. This makes you highly attractive in the job market.

Finally, our program thrives in the culture of our campus, where the emphasis is truly on applied learning. While our formal practicums occur in year two of the program, our first year is filled with embedded course activities that promote application of knowledge and skills at the earliest stages of learning, with maximum support and supervision. We're proud of the program we’ve built and we send our graduates out into the working world, confident that they are the future leaders in their settings.

How many credits lead to the Master’s and the Educational Specialist degrees, and how do they work together?

You should think of degree completion sequence at UW-Stout as one program that includes two degrees. Most applicants will enter into and complete the Masters of Education (MSEd) degree, is awarded after coursework and culminating experiences that occur after approximately the first 30 credit hours of the program. Thereafter, all credits apply to the Educational Specialist (EdS) degree, which includes both formal practicum and internship experiences. This is the degree that is required to be licensed as a school psychologist in Wisconsin and Minnesota. 

Where can I practice with a degree from UW-Stout?

When you leave UW-Stout with your EdS degree, you are eligible for national certification as a school psychologist (NCSP). Graduates over the years have practiced in virtually all 50 states, as well as internationally. Please note that the UW-Stout program is designed to meet requirements specific to licensure in the State of Wisconsin. Students who desire to work in states other than Wisconsin following degree completion, will need to contact that state's board or licensing agency regarding school psychology licensure requirements. Students are also encouraged to connect with their program director to better understand licensing requirements for their state of choice. See the following website for additional information. 

General FAQs

What types of scholarships are available?

There are many scholarships that graduate students and distance education students can receive. Read the descriptions carefully to determine which scholarships you are eligible for. Scholarships for graduate programs can be found by browsing all foundation scholarships here.

What types of graduate assistantships are available and how do I apply?

Many students gain additional applied experience through an assistantship. There are a variety of assistantships available each semester, and opportunities vary from semester to semester. You can learn more about graduate assistantships here.

Can I take the program on a part-time basis?

It is not unusual for several of our students to be part-time. Students can progress through the program at their own pace, keeping in mind the university’s seven-year limit policy. Program planning and course sequencing is important and should be discussed with the program director. While there are some evening and weekend classes available, flexibility will be needed to take all the necessary coursework.

Where can I find information regarding commencement?

Any information about ticket distribution, the ceremony, request forms, or the graduation checklist can be found here.

Will I have access to the UW-Stout Library?

Students enrolled in the online program will have full access to UW-Stout library databases, online articles from professional journals, and other resources available through the library’s distance learning electronic services.

How do I register for online distance education courses (CI courses)?

Information on how to register for CI courses can be found here.

The Clinical Services Center counseling provides counseling and assessment services to children, adults, families and agencies. School psychology students have the opportunity to work clients in a supervised environment and receive feedback from faculty and peers as they further develop their counseling, consulting, problem solving and assessment skills.

The Play Therapy Lab provides an opportunity for students to conduct sessions with young children. The lab is fully-equipped with a wide array of play materials. Cameras and one-way mirrors which are used for observational purposes.

The School Psychology Resource Lab and Library has up-to-date assessment materials to assist you in all of your coursework.  These resources enable students to develop in-depth knowledge and skills necessary for professionals in the field of school psychology.

Advisory Committee Members