School Psychology Ph.D. Program

The UCSB school psychology program is a leading Ph.D. School Psychology program in the Department of Counseling, Clinical, and School Psychology (CCSP). Students successfully completing their doctoral degree are eligible to apply for California Pupil Personnel Services (PPS) Credential with advanced specialization in School Psychology.

The UCSB school psychology program emphasizes a training model focused on developing the research skills needed to conduct basic and applied research that informs school psychology best practices. In addition, students learn how to effectively communicate evidence-supported practices to schools by directly engaging in the role of school psychologists and developing the skills needed to be a qualified practitioner as defined by state (CCTC) and national (NASP, APA) standards and also as leaders/innovators in comprehensive support services to schools. It is our belief that this type of training is needed to prepare school psychologist scholars, faculty, and leaders to contribute research and knowledge that will advance science, practice, and policy relevant to respond to the challenges of educating diverse student populations.

The UCSB School Psychology Specialization is intensive and requires a full-time commitment. Many of the courses are offered during the day. A basic principle of the program is that learning does not take place only in the context of formal course work. The program seeks to develop a true community of learners who participate in the learning process and make a firm commitment to be involved in the continued improvement of the program.

The school psychology program is a five year, full-time program with structured research and fieldwork experiences. The practicum experiences of 450 hours during the second year are primarily in a public school setting. Students also engage in advanced doctoral fieldwork in public schools during their third year. The final year of the doctoral program is dedicated to internship (typically year 5 or 6; 1,500 clock hours).

The Credential is a central part of the doctoral training in the Department of Counseling, Clinical, and School Psychology, School Psychology emphasis. All students in the program are required to meet state (California Commission on Teacher Credentialing) and national (National Association of School Psychologists) standard requirements as a fundamental core of their training. Doctoral study in the CCSP Department also emphasizes in-depth study in research, professional issues in psychology, advanced practicum experiences, and advanced study in other areas (e.g., methodology).

The doctoral program is accredited by the American Psychological Association and approved by the National Association of School Psychologists and the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing.