Gladys L. Benerd School of Education

Ed.S. (Education Specialist) in School Psychology

About the Degree

Completion of the Ed.S. Program in School Psychology degree and credential allows one to practice as a school psychologist in the public schools of California. There is currently a state and national need for well-trained school psychologists.

School psychologists have specialized training in both psychology and education, and they apply this knowledge as they team with educators, parents, and other mental health professionals to help children learn in safe, healthy, and supportive environments. Core services provided by school psychologists include consultation, assessment, intervention, prevention, education, research and planning, and health care provision.

The program requires two years of full-time coursework with fieldwork, and it culminates in an additional third-year internship, which is usually well paid. Please note: The Ed.S. program is a full-time, day program, with corresponding fieldwork in local public schools.

Admission Information

• A completed application form should be sent to the  Office of Research and Graduate Studies.
• Applicant must hold the baccalaureate degree or equivalent.
• Applicant must take the General Test of the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) as well as the Advanced Test in Psychology of the GRE. The two highest scores combined (Verbal, Quantitative, Analytical) should not be lower than 900. In addition, there should be no score lower than 350 in either Verbal or Quantitative unless the individual has learned English as a second language and the low score occurs on the Verbal test. The GRE score for the Advanced Test in Psychology should not be lower than 500. For applicants whose native language or principle language of instruction is not English, the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) is required. Scores should not be lower than 550 on the TOEFL.
• Cumulative Undergraduate Grade Point Average (GPA) should not be lower than 3.0 overall (on a 4.0 scale). No graduate-level coursework lower than 3.0.
• In their Letter of Interest, the applicant should explicitly state an interest in becoming a school psychologist working in the public schools. The applicant should demonstrate the ability to express thoughts and ideas clearly.
• An interview is required before the applicant can be considered for admission. The applicant should demonstrate the following in the interview: (a) Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to listen, adapt, and address ambiguity; (b) a willingness to examine his/her own biases and assumptions as a graduate student and future professional; (c) communicate sensitivity and skill in recognizing his/her own characteristics; and (d) recognize and deal responsibly with personal strengths and weaknesses.

Course Requirements

Culminating Experience

Portfolio examination and review.

Credential Earned

Ed.S. Degree with a California Pupil Personnel Services: School Psychology Credential

Financial Aid Opportunities

The  Delta Regional Project provides training and funding opportunities for students in the Ed.S. program. In addition, there are other funding opportunities available for Pacific students.

Additional Information

For additional information, contact  Dr. Linda Webster, Department Chair.

Department of Educational and School Psychology
Gladys L. Benerd School of Education
University of the Pacific
3601 Pacific Avenue
Stockton, CA 95211

Phone: (209) 946-2559
Fax: (209) 946-3110