Doctor of School Psychology (PsyD)

PsyDDoctoral

a psychologist speaking to a student as they go through papers together

Montclair State University’s Doctor of School Psychology (PsyD) prepares professionals to support the academic, behavioral, and emotional success of children and adolescents in school settings. Designed for individuals committed to improving student outcomes, this program emphasizes evidence-based assessment, intervention, consultation and collaboration across diverse educational environments.

Through doctoral-level coursework, supervised field experiences, and applied training, graduates develop the skills needed to lead and deliver services across educational and child-focused settings. Doctoral-level school psychologists can pursue credentialing by state agencies and work in a range of environments, including PreK–12 schools, hospitals, residential facilities, and higher education

The program offers two entry pathways to meet students at different stages in their careers. A five-year pathway is available for students entering with a bachelor’s degree in psychology or a closely related field, while a three-year advanced standing option is designed for certified school psychologists seeking to complete their doctoral degree. Students in both pathways will meet the coursework requirements for licensure as a psychologist in New Jersey. Students in the five-year pathway will also meet requirements for New Jersey Department of Education School Psychologist Certification and earn a graduate certificate in Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS), strengthening their preparation to support comprehensive school-based services.

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Licensure

Upon successful completion of the PsyD program, you will have met the coursework requirement for licensure in the state of New Jersey. You will complete a year-long internship that will allow you to complete many of the hours toward the supervised practice requirement.

Two Flexible Entry Pathways

Choose a five-year pathway if you are entering with a bachelor’s degree or a three-year advanced standing option designed for certified school psychologists.

Preparation for School Psychologist Certification

The five-year pathway prepares you to meet requirements for the New Jersey Department of Education School Psychologist Standard Certificate.

Embedded MTSS Graduate Certificate

Students in the five-year pathway earn a graduate certificate in Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS), strengthening their ability to implement school-wide academic and behavioral support systems.

Practitioner-Focused Training Model

Coursework emphasizes applied learning in assessment, intervention, consultation, and collaboration within real-world school settings.

Hybrid Program Format

A hybrid structure supports professional flexibility while maintaining meaningful interaction with faculty and peers.

Designed for Both New and Experienced Professionals

The program supports students beginning their professional journey as well as practicing school psychologists seeking advanced credentials and leadership roles.

Admission Requirements

  • (5-year track) Equivalent of a U.S. bachelor’s degree in psychology or a minimum of 12 undergraduate credits in psychology, including a course in statistics and an experimental/research methodology course. Please note: an introductory course in psychology does not count toward the minimum credit requirement, though it might be needed as a pre-requisite to other psychology courses.
  • (3-year track) Masters Degree and a Copy of School Psychologist Certification
  • Applicants with non-U.S. degrees: Please visit the international applicants page to review U.S. degree equivalency information.
  • *F1/J1 seeking students are not eligible for this program.

Application Checklist

  • Application Deadline: Rolling for Fall 2026 Only*
  • Online Application: Submit application and $60 non-refundable fee (or waiver if applicable).
  • Deposit Required: An enrollment deposit is required upon admission and will be applied to your first semester’s tuition.
  • Transcript: One from each college attended.
  • Resume or CV
  • Letters of Recommendation: 2
  • Interview: All applicants who are selected to proceed to the next stage of the admissions process following review of their applications, must complete an admissions interview with program faculty.
  • Essay: Required (2 pages, APA style)
    • Prompt:
      • Why do you want to pursue a doctoral degree in school psychology
      • Why would attending Montclair State University’s program be instrumental or important to you
  • GRE Subject Test (Psychology): Optional

Career Outcomes

Graduates of the Doctor of School Psychology (PsyD) program are prepared to support the academic, behavioral and social-emotional development of children and adolescents in educational settings. Through advanced coursework and applied training, you will develop the skills needed to assess student needs, implement interventions, collaborate with educators and families, and contribute to supportive learning environments.

Graduates are prepared to pursue professional roles that focus on improving student outcomes, strengthening school systems and supporting diverse learners across educational settings.

Career Paths

Graduates of this program may pursue roles such as:

  • School Psychologist
  • Lead School Psychologist
  • Educational Consultant
  • Behavioral Specialist
  • Child Study Team Member
  • School-Based Intervention Specialist
  • District-Level Support Specialist
  • Program Coordinator or Supervisor
  • Educational Services Specialist
  • University Faculty

Industries Where Graduates Work

Graduates of the PsyD program typically work in:

  • Public school districts
  • Private and independent schools
  • Charter school systems
  • Educational service agencies
  • Early childhood education programs
  • Behavioral and mental health support programs
  • Educational consulting organizations
  • Community-based child and family services
  • Hospitals
  • Mental health facilities
  • Colleges or universities

Professional Certification

Graduates of the five-year pathway are prepared to meet requirements for the New Jersey Department of Education School Psychologist Standard Certificate, supporting entry into professional school psychology roles.

Graduates of both the three-year and five-year pathways will meet the coursework requirements for licensure as a psychologist in the state of New Jersey. They will complete a year-long internship that will allow them to complete many of the hours toward the supervised practice requirement for licensure as a psychologist in the state of New Jersey.

Questions? Find the right contact below.

Connect with our enrollment teams for personalized guidance on admission requirements, the application process, key dates, and your next steps toward enrollment.

Office of Graduate Admissions

Get guidance on every step of the application process, from admission requirements and deadlines to transcripts, test scores and next steps toward enrollment. The Office of Graduate Admissions provides the information and resources needed to put forward a strong application.

Program Coordinator: Dr. Theresa Brown

Explore the curriculum, faculty, research and outcomes. The Program Coordinator can help you connect the program to your goals.

Next Steps

Wherever you learn—on campus or online—Montclair State University offers the programs, community and support to help you reach your goals. Take the next step today.

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