MS & Specialist in School Psychology Careers & Outcomes

MSUM School Psychology alumni are well-equipped to enter the workforce and continually find success in the field. Upon completion of the program, you will be eligible for certification in Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota, and other states. Graduates are also eligible for certification through the Nationally Certified School Psychologist System. Our graduates enjoy 100% job placement with average salaries around $78,780/year. You can complete the 68-credit program in three years (2 years + 1 year paid internship) or four years (3 years + 1 year paid internship). 

There is a national, as well as regional, shortage of school psychologists, so the job outlook is excellent. U.S. News has listed school psychology as No. 2 in best social services jobs and No. 44 in overall best jobs.

The demand for school psychologists is anticipated to continue growing as the need for support for students with academic, mental health and behavioral challenges is increasingly recognized. The Bureau of Labor Statistics has predicted the need for school psychologists will grow by 14 percent per year between 2016 and 2026. This is an excellent time to enter the career field.

MSU Moorhead graduates tend to work in public schools in rural and urban areas in Midwestern states including in Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota, Iowa, Wisconsin and Michigan. However, our graduates have worked in many other states from Alaska to Florida. Graduating from a NASP Approved program like MSU Moorhead opens the door to positions in every state in country. For more information on individual state licensure requirements check out the NASP School Psychology Credentialing Resources page.

Student Learning Outcomes

Students will show evidence of knowledge and skills in the following domains which are consistent with the Professional Practice Model of the National Association of School Psychologists (NASP).

  1. Data-Based Decision Making
  2. Consultation and Collaboration
  3. Academic Interventions and Instructional Supports
  4. Mental and Behavioral Health Services and Interventions
  5. School-Wide Practices to Promote Learning
  6. Services to Promote Safe and Supportive Schools
  7. Family, School, and Community Collaboration
  8. Equitable Practices for Diverse Student Populations
  9. Research and Evidence-Based Practice
  10. Legal, Ethical, and Professional Practice