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Master of Arts in School Psychology

General Information

The Master of Arts program in School Psychology is a speciality program which prepares students to enter the profession of school psychology. The program is designed to address the academic, research and professional practice requirements for registration/licensing as a psychologist in provinces/territories where master’s level preparation is permitted. As well, the program is designed to enable participants to move to doctoral level programs.

The two-year full-time program balances research, theory and practice. It follows a holistic approach to children, youth, and young adults as key collaborators, along with their parents/guardians and other professionals, in addressing their individual strengths and needs within the context of home, school and community.

Admission Requirements

  1. Undergraduate degree in psychology, preferably an honours degree, including the completion of a thesis, in psychology or equivalent. A high academic standing (normally a minimum of B+ (GPA 3.3)) is expected.
  2. Related work/volunteer experience.
  3. Three letters of reference (two academic and one professional) attesting to academic and work experiences, and personal characteristics.
  4. Prior to admission the most promising applicants may be interviewed to evaluate their understanding of and motivation for entry into the field of school psychology.

Note to applicants regarding psychology and other possible registration/licensing/certification requirements: Applicants to the program should be aware that these requirements vary in each province/territory. Furthermore, some provinces do not permit school psychologists to work in the schools without an undergraduate degree in education in addition to their preparation in psychology. Applicants are advised to consult with the provincial/territorial registration/licensing boards and with potential employers to determine specific requirements.

Note: As part of its continuous review process, the School Psychology program updates program requirements to meet changing demands of the profession and registration requirements. Student programs will be devised in accordance with current requirements and may vary from the listed courses.

Program Requirements

Required Courses (10.0 units)
❏ GSPY 6801 0.5 unit
❏ GSPY 6817 0.5 unit
❏ GSPY 6819 1.0 unit
❏ GSPY 6820 0.5 unit
❏ GSPY 6822 0.5 unit
❏ GSPY 6824 0.5 unit
❏ GSPY 6840 0.5 unit
❏ GSPY 6841 0.5 unit
❏ GSPY 6842 1.0 unit
❏ GSPY 6843 1.0 unit
❏ GSPY 6844 0.5 unit
❏ GSPY 6845 0.5 unit
❏ GSPY 6846 0.5 unit
❏ GSPY 6847 0.5 unit
❏ GEDU 6130 1.0 unit
❏ GEPY 6608 0.5 unit

Program Policy Manuals

Students will be provided with copies of various program, practicum and internship policy manuals. These documents provide specific information governing professional practice, program and personal requirements. Practicum and internship placements may result in additional costs to students for materials and will necessitate travel which is the responsibility of the student.

Academic Note: This web-based calendar information is applicable for the 2024-2025 academic year which runs from September 01, 2024 to August 31, 2025.

For information on previous years, please consult the University Academic Calendars web page.

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