School Psychology
Master of Arts in Education/Educational Specialist
Looking to help students succeed in the classroom socially, behaviorally and emotionally? Turn to the School Psychology Program.
We strive to train practitioners who will become leaders in the practice of school psychology and advocates for all children and families by effectively linking multi-method assessment to evidence-based interventions. This program prepares you to serve as a professional, ethical practitioner who:
- Understands social, political and policy contexts
- Applies best practices derived from research and theory
- Commits to continuous professional growth and critical examination of both practice and literature
Currently accepting applications for Fall 2025
First-Year Employment
For more than 15+ years, meeting a continual statewide need
Hours of Practicum
Working under the guidance of a working school psychologist
NASP Approved
The best school psychology program in Iowa with distinguished accreditation
Interested? Request information
Tell us more and we'll send information on how you can succeed with a graduate degree in School Psychology from the University of Northern Iowa College of Education.
 | Nicki Skaar, Ph.D. School Psychology Program Coordinator |
 | Cheryl Meller COE Graduate Recruitment Coordinator |
Career Opportunities
School psychologists are in great demand and often work in K-12 public schools. Other settings include:
- Private and charter schools
- Preschools and other early childhood settings
- Area education agencies
- School district administration offices
- Colleges and universities
- School-based health and mental health centers
- Community-based day treatment or residential clinics and hospitals
- Juvenile justice programs
Courses & Curriculum
The School Psychology program is a full-time, three-year program that consists of two degrees which follow a scientist-practitioner model:
- Master of Arts in Education (MAE)
- Foundations of Instruction
- Individual Intellectual Assessment
- Psychological Consultation in Schools
- Learning & Behavioral Problems in Education
- Educational Specialist (EdS)
- Behavioral Interventions in School Settings
- Special Education Law and Policy
- Systems Level Consultation
- Counseling Interventions in School
Details about the program, the model, and classes can be found in our catalog and our Handbook.
Next Steps
Apply Now
Our application process is smooth and easy. You can apply now and pay your fee later or even get it waived, if you qualify. Current or former UNI students will also have their app fee waived.
Requirements for Admission
- Official transcripts from all institutions attended
- Most current resume or curriculum vitae
- Writing sample
- Personal statement of two to three pages
- Three letters of recommendation
- 2.75 is the minimum GPA to be accepted without provision; applicants with a GPA lower than 2.75 may still be admitted provisionally, at the discretion of the program and the Graduate College
- Application fee (this can be waived or deferred, see if you qualify).
Applications due on December 15 for full consideration for the following fall semester.
Requirements for International Applicants
Along with the basic application requirements, international applicants also need:
- Proof of English proficiency
- A copy of the personal data page of your passport
- A completed UNI Financial Statement and Certification form
- Non-refundable application fee.
Kenzie Heusinkvelt
"It was the best leap of faith I have ever taken."
Kenzie Heusinkvelt graduated from the MAE/EdS graduate program in school psychology in 2022. It fit with finding a career that supported her passion for working with kids with disabilities.
Dr. Stephanie Schmitz
"My hope is that students not only gain knowledge, develop an understanding of course content and have opportunities to learn how to apply their knowledge in working with students, educators and families; but also that they develop (or expand upon) a passion for working with students and helping them to succeed in the classroom, school, community and beyond."
Fund Your Degree
Get the opportunity to learn and fund your degree through hands-on experiences, earning monetary awards or a combination of both. Visit one of the following pages to learn about graduate assistantships, scholarships or additional details on School Psychology at University of Northern Iowa College of Education.
Interested? Check out:
Grow Your Own
A new, primarily online "Grow Your Own" school psychology degree option offered in partnership with the Central Rivers, Northwest and Great Prairie AEAs gives you the opportunity to help address needs in rural Iowa school districts.
Accepted students receive grant-funded reduced tuition and coverage for books, state and national association fees, national certification and initial Iowa licensing. The program is open to master's level practicing education professionals who, upon completion, can commit to three years serving one of the participating AEAs. New cohort begins June 24.
