Support Students. Strengthen Schools. Advance Your Career.

    Unlock your potential with our Sixth Year Certificate in School Psychology—a specialist-level program designed for professionals who have completed a Master’s in School Psychology and are ready to fulfill the requirements for Connecticut certification. Whether you're passionate about mental health, learning support, or school-wide intervention, this program prepares you to make a lasting impact on student well-being and academic success.  This advanced program includes one year of full-time coursework and a 700-hour practicum, followed by a 10-month, full-time 1,200-hour internship. Upon completion, candidates are eligible for the Connecticut Sixth Year Certificate and certification as a School Psychologist.

    Why Choose Our Program?

    Career Prospects

    According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of psychologists—including school psychologists—is projected to grow 7% from 2023 to 2033, faster than the average for all occupations [1]. As schools expand mental health services and learning supports, the demand for certified school psychologists continues to rise.

    Competitive Salaries

    School psychologists earned a median annual wage of $84,940 in 2024 [2], with higher earnings in public school systems and leadership roles. Certification through a Sixth Year program enhances your qualifications for school-based and district-level positions.

    Program Highlights:
    • Designed for candidates with a Master’s in School Psychology 
    • Leads to Connecticut Sixth Year Certificate and School Psychologist certification 
    • Includes one year of coursework, a 700-hour practicum, and a 1,200-hour internship 
    • Internship waiver not available; full completion required for certification 
    • No thesis or comprehensive exam required 
    • Accredited by the Connecticut State Department of Education 
    How This Certificate Enhances Your Career

    This Sixth Year Certificate is more than a credential—it’s a gateway to a meaningful, student-centered profession. Whether you’re assessing learning needs or leading mental health initiatives, this program will help you:
    • Strengthen Clinical and Educational Expertise: Gain advanced skills in assessment, intervention, and consultation. 
    • Advance Toward Certification: Fulfill the requirements for Connecticut certification as a School Psychologist. 
    • Improve Student Outcomes: Support academic, emotional, and behavioral development through evidence-based practices. 
    • Expand Your Role: Position yourself for leadership in school-based mental health, special education, or crisis response. 
    • Collaborate Across Systems: Work with educators, families, and community providers to support whole-child development. 
    Join a community of professionals committed to equity, inclusion, and student success. Your journey to becoming a certified school psychologist starts here.
    [1]: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics – Psychologists
    [2]: U.S. News – School Psychologist Career Overview
    Next Steps
         

         
    Contact Us
         
    schoolpsychologygrad@SouthernCT.edu
    College of Education
    Department of Mental Health Sciences
    Program Page

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    Application Requirements

    Application Submission
    Application Fee ($50)
    Official Transcripts
    Essay
    Two References
    Resume/CV
    PraxisCore, SAT, ACT, or GRE scores

    Essay Prompt

    Explain your reasons for wanting to enter the field of school psychology and the SCSU School Psychology program in particular. The typed/word processed essay should be approximately 250-500 words in length
    Curriculum

    Course Outline
    Cost of Program

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