School Psychology
Virtual Open House - Tuesday, May 5, 2026: 5-6:30 p.m.
Join us at one of our upcoming virtual Graduate School Open House events on Zoom! You'll have the opportunity to learn more about Ìð¹ÏÊÓƵapp, understand the Graduate School application process, and meet key program representatives.
This program assists interested students in becoming licensed through the N C Department of Public Instruction (NCDPI).
The school psychology graduate program is approved by the National Association of School Psychologist (NASP), and accredited by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE), and the North Carolina State Department of Public Instruction (NCDPI).
Specialist in School Psychology Program
What You'll Learn
Degree earned upon completion of the program is the Specialist in School Psychology (SSP) and a Master’s (MA) degree in General Psychology with a concentration in school psychology is earned upon completion of 50 credit hours on the way to the SSP degree. The program is cognitive-behavioral and based on a child advocacy model. In this model, the needs of the child are at the center of all activity engaged in by the school psychologist. Our students are trained to facilitate growth in development, behavior, and learning of children and youth.
Where You'll Go
School Social Workers engage in a variety of tasks that intersect directly with students, their families, school personnel, community stakeholders, and with policy at the school, local, and state levels. School Social Work draws on all of one’s social work skills for the purpose of enhancing a student’s ability to succeed in school, regardless of the barriers confronting them. School Social Workers are needed in our schools, and we hope you will consider applying to Western’s School Social Work Licensure Program.
Next Steps
The SSP degree clearly reflects the fact that the requirements for graduation from the School Psychology Program at WCU are more intensive than would be expected for a Masters degree. The program is 71 hours long and requires 3 years of course work, research work (option for thesis or applied research project), practicum experiences, and internship experiences.
More Ìð¹ÏÊÓƵapp Our Specialist in School Psychology (SSP) Program
The SSP program prepares students for careers as licensed school psychologists. This intensive 3-year program combines coursework, practicum, and internship experiences, providing hands-on training in assessment, intervention, and consultation in school settings. Learn more about program requirements, licensure, and unique opportunities for graduate students.
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