College of Health, Education and Social Transformation
School Psychology (Ph.D.)
College of Health, Education and Social Transformation
School Psychology (Ph.D.)
Shape Resilient Futures — Earn a Ph.D. in School Psychology
Transform student well-being and learning across diverse educational contexts with NMSU’s Ph.D. in School Psychology. Designed as a scientist-practitioner model, this rigorous, research-intensive program develops professionals equipped to assess, support, and advocate for children and families in schools, clinics, and community settings. You’ll master data-based decision-making, culturally competent assessment and intervention, consultation, and ethical leadership — all supported by hands-on practicum experiences, a substantial internship, and close mentorship from expert faculty.
Admission Deadlines
December 15
- Total credits: 120
Delivery Format
In-person
Career Pathways
Graduates holding a Ph.D. in School Psychology from NMSU emerge as highly qualified scientist-practitioners ready to make an impact in educational and clinical environments. You may pursue leadership roles as school district psychologist or director of psychological services, or work in hospital and mental health clinic settings delivering intervention and consultation. Others advance into academia or research, serving as university faculty, researchers, or policy analysts. With this degree, you’ll be positioned to shape mental health services, advocate for diverse learners, and transform school systems with evidence-based solutions.
- Licensed school psychologist (PK–12 settings)
- University professor or academic researcher
- Educational consultant or program evaluator
- Clinical psychologist (with appropriate licensure)
- Director of student services or special education
- Behavioral health program administrator
- Research scientist in educational or developmental psychology
- Policy advisor in education or mental health services
- Specialist in neuropsychological or psychoeducational assessment
- Crisis intervention coordinator or school-based mental health specialist
Degree questions, answered
Have questions about the Doctor of Philosophy in School Psychology? Fill out our inquiry form.
Why NMSU for Your Ph.D. in School Psychology?
Guided by APA and NASP standards, our program empowers scholars to drive mental health innovation and equity for learners from varied cultural backgrounds.
No GRE Required
We’re removing barriers to graduate education, which is why we don’t require the GRE.
American Psychological Association (APA) Accreditation
The PHD in School Psychology is on contingency accreditation until December 4, 2029.
Candidates will complete 81 credits of coursework, at least 450 clock-hours of practicum (9 total credits) and an 1800 clock-hour doctoral internship. Of the 1800 clock-hour internship, 750 will be expected to be in a school setting.
Take classes like:
- CEPY 5310 - Appraisal of Psychoeducational Achievement in a Diverse Society
- CEPY 5235 - Counseling Theory and Techniques for School Psychologists
- SPED 6170- School Intervention and Organization in a Diverse Society
- CEPY 6185 - Ethics, Law & Professional Issues in School Psychology
Integrated Behavioral Health Care
The minor in Integrated Behavioral Health Care, offered through the Counseling and Educational Psychology (CEP) department, is open to graduate students enrolled in CEP programs Clinical Mental Health Counseling, School Psychology, Counseling Psychology and to graduate students who are enrolled in Social Work, Public Health, Nursing and Marriage and Family Therapy programs. It was established in the interest of meeting the needs of graduate students in the health professions who are receiving or seeking training in interdisciplinary or interprofessional collaborations with other healthcare disciplines. Students will complete nine credits of coursework specific to this program of study in order to obtain a Minor in Integrated Behavioral Health Care.
Spanish Counseling
The Minor in Spanish Counseling, offered through the Counseling and Educational Psychology department is open to graduate students who are enrolled in CEP’s Counseling, School Psychology, and Counseling Psychology programs, and to graduate students who are enrolled in Social Work and Marriage and Family Therapy programs. In order to begin the Minor courses, students must currently be enrolled in a Mental Health program as described above. They must demonstrate intermediate level Spanish language skills as evidenced by the Spanish Placement Exam and an oral interview with the program coordinator. Students will successfully complete nine credits of coursework specific to this program of study in order to obtain a Minor in Spanish Counseling.
Application Deadline
December 15
Admission Requirements
Entry Level Requirements. The NMSU Graduate School sets as a basic entry-level requirement for the doctorate the holding of a bachelor’s degree and a minimum grade-point average of 3.0. Students who do not hold a master‘s degree may apply in their senior undergraduate year. Students who already possess the master’s/specialist degree should hold it in a closely related field, such as special education, educational diagnostics, school counseling, general counseling, or school psychology.
School Psychology Requirements
- An official transcript from every college or university attended.
- A professional statement (personal statement) or a statement of purpose/letter of intent addressing why they are pursuing a doctorate in school psychology, their professional experiences in teaching, research and community/public service, their professional experiences with school age populations (P-12), and their professional experiences with diverse populations and a statement regarding their multicultural/diversity philosophy.
- At least three current (i.e., less than 1 year old) letters of support from different individuals. Information and/or criteria can be found on the Application Checklist attached to the application form.
- A resume or curriculum vitae (CV) outlining your educational, professional, and other experiences, interests, etc. Your resume/CV must include current contact information.
- Additional optional materials include published research papers, special projects, licensure/certifications, grants, etc.
Ready to take the next step?
Request Information
Scholarships and Financial Aid
At NMSU, we strive to offer competitively priced tuition to keep your tuition costs affordable. If you need financial aid, we’re ready to work with you to determine the best ways to finance your education.
Financial assistance includes loans, grants, and scholarship opportunities. To apply, use NMSU’s convenient Scholar Dollar$ one-stop scholarship application, which serves all students in the NMSU system.
NMSU students are also eligible for loans and grants. The first step in applying for financial aid is to complete a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Learn more about financial aid opportunities at NMSU.
Contact Financial Aid
Phone: 1-888-729-6678
Email: financialaid@nmsu.edu
Accreditation
New Mexico State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, an institutional accreditation agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. Specialized accreditation from other accrediting agencies is also granted for some programs. NMSU’s accreditation ensures that your education meets high-quality standards and that your credits are transferable.