Frequently Asked Questions About Marist's Masters Degree in School Psychology

Are school psychologists the same as school counselors or school guidance counselors?

No. The professional identity, roles, and responsibilities of school psychologists differ from other school professionals. Potential applicants to the MA in School Psychology program are encouraged to visit the National Association of School Psychologists (NASP) website (www.nasponline.org) to learn more about school psychologists and a career in school psychology.

Where can I work as a New York State Certified School Psychologist?

New York State Certified School Psychologists are credentialed to work in K-12 schools. The NYS School Psychologist certification does not permit practice outside of the schools in the community.

Are graduate assistantships available?

Yes. A limited number of graduate assistantships are available. Candidates will be considered for these positions automatically during the program application process.

What is the schedule for classes?

Classes are held from 5:00pm to 9:00pm during the fall and spring semesters. The schedule for summer courses varies, but typically consists of online and evening classes.

Do I need to submit GRE scores when applying to the program?

No. The MA in School Psychology program does not require applicants to submit GRE scores as part of the admission process.

Can I transfer credits into the MA in School Psychology program?

Applicants to the MA in School Psychology program who have earned graduate credits in psychology short of a master's degree at other institutions will have their transcripts evaluated. Acceptance of credits will be determined using the Transfer Course Advisement Sheet. In addition to content and other requirements detailed on the sheet, a grade of B or better is required for acceptance of any transfer credits. A maximum of six (6) graduate credits can be transferred into the program from another accredited institution.

Is there a student organization for the MA in School Psychology program?

Marist College School Psychology candidates govern and participate in the Marist Student Association for School Psychology (MSASP). Members of MSASP work across program cohorts to foster a sense of community and to support fellow candidates. They have also extended their involvement beyond the college by raising funds and participating in local charity events. All candidates in the School Psychology Graduate Program are encouraged to join and participate in MSASP.

Why are two courses from the Teacher Education Department required for the MA in School Psychology program? I don't plan to be a teacher.

School psychologists routinely consult with teachers on class-wide and individual interventions. It is critical for the school psychologist to have an understanding of the teacher's perspective because the consultations and interventions must account for classroom dynamics, academic requirements, and the nature of learning. The two courses from the Teacher Education Department provide school psychology candidates with the teacher's perspective and increase the credibility of interventions that are offered to teachers by the school psychologist.

Can I split my Practicum or Internship between two different Supervisors, two different schools, two different school districts, or two different states?

No. All field placements must be supervised by one supervisor in one school and one school district that is in one state.

How do I find a Practicum or Internship site?

The School Psychology program has established placements with specific school districts and supervisors in the region. Candidates are recommended for Practicum and Internship placements by the program based on candidate skills, interests, and program requirements. After being recommended, the candidate interviews with the potential supervisor to determine if the site would be a good match.

Can I stop going to my Practicum site once I complete 300 hours?

No. Practicum students must complete the practicum from September through June (following the academic calendar of their internship district) and may not finish earlier even if they have reached the 300-hour requirement. Practicum students are expected to be on site for the full school day two days per week of the district's academic year, even after they complete the minimum requirement of 300 hours. If a practicum student is found to have stopped attending the internship before the end of the time specified above, the practicum student will not receive academic credit for that semester.

Can I stop going to my Internship site once I complete 1200 hours?

No. Interns must complete the internship from September through June (following the academic calendar of their internship district) and may not finish earlier even if they have reached the 1200-hour requirement. Interns are expected to be on site for the full school day every day of the district's academic year, even after they complete the minimum requirement of 1200 hours. If an intern is found to have stopped attending the internship before the end of the district's academic year, the intern will not receive academic credit for that semester.

Can I complete a Practicum or Internship outside of New York State?

No. All practicum and internship placements are in New York State.

Can I complete a part-time 600-hour internship at Marist?

No. That is not an option in the program.

Can I complete any part of my Practicum or Internship under the supervision of the school social worker or another professional who is not a school psychologist?

No. All components of the practicum and internship must be completed under the supervision of your specific internship supervisor, who is an NYS Certified School Psychologist.