School Psychology M.A./School Psychology Credential

Program Director: Eileen Whelan, Ph.D., BCBA-D

School Psychology

School psychology is a dynamic field that blends principles of psychology and education to support the academic, social, emotional, and behavioral well-being of students. School psychologists apply their expertise in assessment, evidenced-based intervention, and consultation to collaborate with educators, families, and communities, ensuring that all students—particularly those with diverse learning needs—have access to an equitable and supportive learning environment. Graduates in this field are prepared to work in a variety of educational settings, advocating for student success through a holistic, best practices approach.

Fresno Pacific University Education Unit's Mission 

Fresno Pacific University's Education Unit seeks to prepare educators to be scholars, peacemakers, professionals, and leaders who carry out the beliefs of the Fresno Pacific University Idea in their diverse educational settings. 

The Fresno Pacific Idea 

The Fresno Pacific Idea reflects the university's interpretation of what it means to be a community of learners committed to a distinctive vision of Christian higher education. The Idea serves as a center for reflection and action and as a guide for forming a vision of the future. Rooted in the past and continuously re-shaped by the present, the Idea provides a foundation for the university's understanding of itself and of the mission to which it is called. 

Program Overview

The school psychology credential/Master of Arts in School Psychology degree authorizes an individual to work as a credentialed school Psychologist in a public school setting and requires a minimum of 62 units of coursework in the advanced component listed below. A sequence of courses is determined by the program director. In addition to the 62 units, there are three prerequisites. (Please note, if you have obtained your bachelor's degree in psychology from FPU, a UC, or a CSU all prerequisites will be waived).

Students will be required to obtain liability insurance before school site-based work can begin.

Up to 9 units of credit from an accredited graduate program in counseling, psychology or a related area may be transferred into the school psychology program, where such courses are judged by the School Psychology Program Director to be equivalent to those required in the graduate program. All other provisions of the general graduate policy on transfer of credit shall apply.

The following additional program requirements must be met to be recommended to the CTC for a School Psychology Credential:

1. A master's degree in school psychology or a related area.
2. A passing score of 155* on the NASP PRAXIS exam. This exam will serve as the program's comprehensive exam and follows most of the credential coursework. *(PPP 787 Praxis Tutorial - 1 credit must be completed after two failed attempts at passing PRAXIS.)
3. Successful passing of the Program Exit Oral Examination and Portfolio Review.
4. Once the internship, program exit exam and master's degree requirements are completed the individual may apply for the Pupil Personnel Services (PPS) Credential in School Psychology.

Accreditation

State of California
Commission on Teacher Credentialing 1900 Capitol Avenue
Sacramento, California 95814-4213

Admissions Process and Requirements

Admission to the Fresno Pacific University Master of Arts in School Psychology program is based on a review of each applicant's academic achievements, work experience, and personal statement by the admission committee.

Application Process

To be considered for admission to the MA in School Psychology program, please submit the following items:

• Completed Application for Admission and $45 non-refundable application fee.
  • Fpu.edu/applygrad
• Official college/university transcript(s) verifying receipt of a bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited institution and any post-baccalaureate work.
  • If you are currently finishing up your degree, please submit current transcript.
  • A final transcript will need to be submitted before you may enroll in classes.
  • Transcripts can be sent electronically by your institution to trans.evaluator@fresno.edu or via mail in an enveloped sealed by your institution to:

Fresno Pacific University

Office of the Registrar

1717 S. Chestnut Ave

Fresno, CA 93702

• If your cumulative GPA for your bachelor's degree is below a 3.0 (4.0 scale), a letter of explanation is required.
• Reference Forms – Two references are required for the MA in School Psychology program. These references should attest to your professional qualities and your academic qualifications, noting your ability to complete graduate-level work.
  • Forms can be found at fpu.edu/graduate-reference
• Statement of Intent – Provide a written statement explaining your interest in the program, long-term goals, and your experience in the field.
• Program Interview – After submitting your application materials including transcripts, a representative will contact you to schedule an interview.
  • Program applicants will be required to submit an impromptu writing sample, one page in length, during the interview time.
• Evidence of application for a Certificate of Clearnce for a valid California Teaching Commission credential.

Prerequisite classes for the M.A. in School Psychology program

FPU requires students to have the following courses (all with a grade of "C" or better) before starting the M.A. in School Psychology program: Child Growth and Development, General Psychology, Introduction to Statistics and Research Methods. Please contact your admission counselor about your options if you don't have one of the pre-requisite classes.

Notification of acceptance will be sent as soon as all necessary documents are on file and have been reviewed by the admissions committee.

Please view other admission policies and information in the Admissions Policies and Requirements section of the catalog.

View our State Professional Licensing and Certificate Disclosure at fpu.edu/about/disclosure-documents.

Program Student Learning Outcomes (PSLO)

1: Candidates Demonstrate Data-based Decision Making and Accountability

2: Candidates Demonstrate knowledge of varied methods of consultation, collaboration, and communication. 

3: Candidates demonstrate direct interventions and instructional support to develop academic skills for children and families.

4: Candidates demonstrate behavior interventions and mental health services to develop social and life skills for children and families.

5:  Candidates demonstrate direct and indirect services school-wide practices to promote learning.

6:  Candidates demonstrate school-wide practices to promote behavioral and mental health.

7:  Candidates demonstrate principles, research, and strategies for family-school collaboration.

8:  Candidates demonstrate knowledge of human diversity in service delivery.

9:  Candidates demonstrate foundational knowledge in research and in program evaluation.

10:  Candidates demonstrate legal, ethical, and professional practice & disposition.

Locations Offered

North Fresno, Visalia, Merced, Bakersfield, and Synchronous Online.

Program Length/Semester Starts

The program ranges from 9 semesters, determined by the academic plan chosen. Cohorts begin in Fall and Spring.

Degree Pathway

School Psychology M.A. Degree Pathway