If you’re planning a career as a school psychologist, choosing a program accredited by the National Association of School Psychologists (NASP) is a smart first step. NASP accreditation signals that a graduate program meets high standards for training and professional readiness—something employers and licensing boards take seriously.
In this guide, you’ll explore the benefits of NASP-accredited programs, the differences between online and on-campus options, and how accreditation can shape your career path. Whether you’re just starting your journey or looking to advance, this resource will help you find a program that fits your goals and supports your future in school psychology.
What Is NASP?
The National Association of School Psychologists (NASP) is the leading professional organization for school psychologists in the United States. With over 25,000 members across the U.S. and beyond, NASP sets national standards for graduate preparation, credentialing, professional practices, and ethical conduct in the field.
NASP’s mission is to promote the mental health, learning, and behavior of children and youth by supporting effective practices and advancing professional standards. One of the ways NASP accomplishes this is by offering graduate program accreditation—a voluntary, peer-reviewed process that recognizes programs committed to preparing school psychologists at the highest level.
Key Functions of NASP:
- Develops and maintains professional standards for school psychology
- Advocates for student mental health and well-being
- Provides professional development and training resources
- Oversees the NASP program approval and accreditation process
- Supports members with certification pathways like the NCSP (Nationally Certified School Psychologist) credential
Earning a degree from a NASP-accredited program ensures your training aligns with national best practices and prepares you for licensure, certification, and impactful work in K–12 education.
NASP Accreditation Process
NASP’s graduate program accreditation is a voluntary, rigorous process that recognizes programs meeting national standards for training school psychologists. Programs are evaluated based on their ability to prepare candidates for effective practice in schools and related settings.
Beginning with the 2020 NASP Standards (still the most current as of 2026), all accredited programs are expected to follow the most current guidelines covering curriculum, practicum, internship, faculty qualifications, and more.
How the NASP Accreditation Process Works
- Application & Self-Study Report
- Programs submit a detailed self-study outlining how they meet NASP standards, including coursework, clinical experiences, and assessment data.
- Programs submit a detailed self-study outlining how they meet NASP standards, including coursework, clinical experiences, and assessment data.
- Peer Review
- A team of trained reviewers evaluates the program’s documentation, ensuring alignment with NASP’s standards across 10 domains of practice.
- A team of trained reviewers evaluates the program’s documentation, ensuring alignment with NASP’s standards across 10 domains of practice.
- Program Approval Decision
- The Program Accreditation Board (PAB) makes one of the following decisions:
- Full Approval (valid for up to 7 years)
- Conditional Approval (program must submit a Response to Conditions within 2 years)
- Not Approved (significant gaps in meeting standards)
- Full Approval (valid for up to 7 years)
- The Program Accreditation Board (PAB) makes one of the following decisions:
- Ongoing Monitoring & Reaccreditation
- Even after receiving full approval, programs must submit periodic data and undergo reaccreditation to ensure continued compliance and improvement.
- Even after receiving full approval, programs must submit periodic data and undergo reaccreditation to ensure continued compliance and improvement.
What Programs Must Demonstrate
To receive NASP accreditation, a program must show:
- A minimum of 60 graduate credits in school psychology
- Structured learning across the 10 NASP Domains of Practice
- Completion of a 1,200-hour supervised internship
- Emphasis on diversity, equity, and access
- Evidence of data-driven program evaluation and improvement
Choosing a NASP-accredited program gives students confidence that their training meets nationally recognized standards—and that they’ll be well-prepared for licensure and certification after graduation.
What NASP Accreditation Means in 2026
As of 2026, NASP accreditation signals more than just academic rigor—it reflects a program’s commitment to preparing school psychologists to meet today’s most urgent educational and mental health challenges.
With the implementation of the 2020 NASP Standards, graduate programs are expected to provide training that is not only evidence-based but also responsive to evolving school environments, diverse student needs, and increasing demands for mental health services.
Why It Matters Now More Than Ever
In today’s schools, school psychologists are called on to:
- Support student mental health amid rising anxiety, depression, and trauma
- Promote equity and inclusion for students from all backgrounds
- Collaborate with families and educators to drive system-wide change
- Address challenges such as chronic absenteeism, learning gaps, and behavioral concerns
Programs accredited by NASP in 2026 are held accountable for preparing candidates to lead in these areas—not just participate in them.
What Accreditation Tells You About a Program
A NASP-accredited program today means:
- Training is grounded in real-world school psychology practice
- The curriculum addresses social justice, cultural responsiveness, and data-based decision-making
- Faculty are active contributors to the field through research and service
- The program is regularly evaluated and improved to keep pace with national trends
In short, NASP accreditation in 2026 is a mark of relevance, leadership, and impact.
State Licensure vs. NCSP Certification: What’s the Difference?
To work as a school psychologist, you’ll need to meet state licensure requirements—but you may also choose to pursue national certification through NASP. Here’s how the two credentials compare:
State Licensure
- Required to practice in any public school setting
- Each state sets its own licensure rules (coursework, internship hours, exams)
- Typically administered through the state Department of Education
- Often includes background checks and ongoing continuing education
- Must be renewed based on state-specific timelines
NCSP Certification (Nationally Certified School Psychologist)
- Voluntary national certification offered by NASP
- Recognized by over 30 states as part of or equivalent to state credentialing
- Requires:
- Graduation from a NASP-approved program
- Completion of a 1,200-hour supervised internship
- Passing score on the Praxis School Psychologist Exam
- Graduation from a NASP-approved program
- Can improve job mobility and credibility across state lines
- May qualify you for salary incentives or quicker licensure in some states
Key Takeaway
While state licensure is mandatory, the NCSP certification can enhance your professional profile, especially if you plan to move across states or want to show commitment to national standards of excellence.
Specialist vs. Doctoral Degree Paths: What’s the Right Fit?
When pursuing a career in school psychology, you’ll typically choose between a specialist-level degree (like an Ed.S.) or a doctoral degree (Ph.D., Psy.D., or Ed.D.). Both can lead to licensure, but they differ in depth, duration, and long-term career opportunities.
Specialist-Level Degrees (Ed.S., MA/CAGS, etc.)
- Minimum degree level required to practice in most states
- Usually takes 3 years to complete, including a 1,200-hour internship
- Common titles: Ed.S. (Education Specialist), MA + CAGS (Certificate of Advanced Graduate Study)
- Focused primarily on practical training for school-based roles
- Typically leads to roles in K–12 schools
- Accepted for NASP accreditation and state licensure
Doctoral Degrees (Ph.D., Psy.D., Ed.D.)
- Take 5–7 years to complete
- Include original research and dissertation components
- Prepare students for expanded roles:
- University teaching
- Research and policy
- Private practice or consulting
- University teaching
- May be required for licensure as a psychologist (vs. school psychologist) in some states
- Often include more in-depth clinical training
Admissions Requirements: What to Expect
While exact requirements vary by program, here’s what most admissions committees look for:
| Requirement | Specialist Programs | Doctoral Programs |
| Bachelor’s degree | Required | Required |
| GPA | 3.0+ (competitive: 3.3–3.5) | 3.3+ (competitive: 3.7+) |
| Letters of recommendation | 2–3 | 3+ |
| Statement of purpose | Yes | Yes (often more research-focused) |
| GRE scores | Optional in many programs | May still be required |
| Relevant experience | Helpful | Often expected (e.g., research, schools) |
Key Takeaway
Choose a specialist program if you want to become a licensed school psychologist and work in K–12 settings. If you’re interested in research, teaching, or clinical practice beyond schools, a doctoral path may be the better long-term investment.
How to Become Licensed as a School Psychologist: Step-by-Step
If you want to become a licensed school psychologist, your path will include graduate education, supervised experience, and certification or licensure—depending on your state. Here’s a general step-by-step guide to help you understand the process.
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Earn a Bachelor’s Degree
Start with a bachelor’s degree in psychology, education, or a related field. Some programs may require specific prerequisite coursework (e.g., developmental psychology).
2. Enroll in a NASP-Accredited Graduate Program
Choose a specialist (Ed.S., MA/CAGS) or doctoral (Ph.D., Psy.D., Ed.D.) program that meets NASP standards. These programs include:
- At least 60 graduate credits
- Coursework across the 10 NASP domains
- Required practicum and internship experiences
3. Complete a 1,200-Hour Internship
Most states—and NASP—require a supervised, full-time 1,200-hour internship, with at least 600 hours in a school setting.
4. Pass the Praxis School Psychologist Exam
The ETS Praxis II Exam (Test Code 5402) assesses core competencies. Many states and the NCSP certification require a passing score.
5. Apply for State Licensure or Certification
Each state has its own licensing board and application process. You may need to:
- Submit transcripts and internship documentation
- Provide Praxis exam scores
- Complete a background check
- Show proof of supervised experience
6. Optional: Apply for NCSP Certification
Consider applying for the Nationally Certified School Psychologist (NCSP) credential through NASP. It can support cross-state mobility and strengthen your résumé.
7. Maintain Licensure and Stay Current
Most states require ongoing continuing education (CE) or professional development hours. Stay up to date with state requirements to renew your license regularly.
Pro Tip:
NASP-accredited programs often guide students through the licensure and certification process, so don’t hesitate to ask your advisor for help.
Online NASP-Accredited School Psychology Programs
Many NASP-approved school psychology programs are now available in flexible online or hybrid formats, making it easier than ever to pursue a graduate degree—no matter where you live.
Online programs are designed to meet the same rigorous standards as on-campus programs, including coursework, practicum, and internship components. Choosing an online NASP-accredited program means you can access high-quality training while balancing work, family, or other responsibilities.
Key Benefits of Online NASP-Accredited Programs:
- Remote access to top universities nationwide
- Flexible scheduling with asynchronous or evening classes
- Opportunities to complete internships locally in your community
- Full alignment with NASP’s 2020 Standards, including all 10 practice domains
While the learning format may be virtual, your training, supervision, and professional outcomes remain just as comprehensive as those in traditional settings.
School Psychologist vs. School Counselor: What’s the Difference?
School psychologists and school counselors both support students’ well-being—but their roles, training, and areas of focus are quite different.
School Psychologists
- Hold specialist or doctoral degrees in school psychology
- Trained to assess and address mental, emotional, behavioral, and learning challenges
- Provide psychological evaluations, design behavioral interventions, and consult with families and teachers
- Often involved in special education services and crisis response
- May diagnose conditions such as ADHD, autism spectrum disorder, or learning disabilities, depending on state and district guidelines
School Counselors
- Typically hold a master’s degree in school counseling
- Focus on helping students with academic planning, social skills, and career readiness
- Provide short-term support for personal or social issues
- Help students navigate college applications, class scheduling, and conflict resolution
- Not trained or licensed to conduct psychological assessments or provide clinical interventions
Key Distinction
Think of it this way:
- Counselors help students plan and cope
- School psychologists help students learn and heal
Both roles are essential, but if you’re interested in working at the intersection of education, mental health, and behavior, school psychology may be the better path.
Benefits of a NASP-Accredited School Psychology Program
Choosing a NASP-accredited program gives you confidence that your education meets national standards and prepares you for real-world success. It also ensures your training aligns with the latest research, ethical practices, and professional expectations in school psychology.
Why Accreditation Matters
- Recognized Quality
Accreditation means the program has been reviewed and approved by experts in the field. - Meets Licensure Standards
Most state licensure boards and the NCSP credential require completion of a program aligned with NASP standards. - Up-to-Date Curriculum
NASP-accredited programs must follow the most current training standards—including topics like equity, mental health, and data-driven practices. - Stronger Career Opportunities
Employers often prefer—or require—candidates from NASP-accredited programs.
Additional Advantages (Especially for Online Learners)
- Flexibility
Learn at your own pace with asynchronous classes and remote access to coursework. - Customizable Path
Choose electives and specializations that match your career interests. - Built-In Support
Accredited programs typically offer guidance on internship placement, licensure, and NCSP certification.
You’ll Be Prepared To:
- Monitor academic and behavioral progress
- Design and implement interventions
- Support student motivation and engagement
- Work collaboratively with families and educators
- Promote inclusive practices in diverse school communities
What You’ll Learn: Online School Psychology Curriculum
NASP-accredited school psychology programs—whether online or in person—cover a broad range of coursework designed to prepare you for licensure, certification, and professional practice.
Here’s a sample of the subjects you might study:
Core Coursework
- Educational Psychology
Theories of learning, motivation, and cognitive development in educational settings. - Psychopathology
Mental health disorders in children and adolescents, including diagnostic criteria. - Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA)
Behavior assessment and intervention strategies using reinforcement techniques. - Exceptional Populations
Supporting students with disabilities or unique learning needs through inclusive practices. - Crisis Intervention
Strategies for responding to school-based crises and supporting student mental health. - School Refusal & Attendance Issues
Understanding and managing school avoidance behaviors and related legal considerations. - Neuropsychology
Brain-behavior relationships and how neurological conditions impact learning. - Research Methods
Foundations in qualitative and quantitative research relevant to school psychology practice.
School Psychologist Salary and Career Outlook
Salary Expectations
As of May 2024, the median annual wage for school psychologists was $86,930, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). Actual salaries vary depending on location, experience, and workplace setting.
While school psychologists typically earn less than clinical or I/O psychologists, their salaries are competitive within the education field—and often include benefits like pension plans, tenure, and summers off.
Job Outlook
Employment for school psychologists is expected to grow modestly by 1% from 2024 to 2034, with about 500 new positions projected.
Although slower than the average for all psychologists, demand remains steady due to:
- Increased focus on student mental health and well-being
- Rising needs related to learning differences and behavioral support
- Ongoing efforts to improve school safety and crisis preparedness
Across all psychology roles, about 12,900 job openings are expected each year, largely from retirements and career transitions.
NASP-Accredited Online School Psychology Programs: FAQ
Are online school psychology programs hard to get into?
Admissions standards vary, but NASP-accredited programs typically require:
- A bachelor’s degree
- Minimum GPA (often 3.0+)
- Letters of recommendation
- A personal statement
Some may require relevant experience or GRE scores, though GRE requirements are becoming less common.
How long does it take to finish a school psychology degree?
It depends on your program and schedule:
- Ed.S. or specialist programs: Around 3 years
- Doctoral programs: 5 to 7 years
- Part-time formats take longer, while some schools offer accelerated paths
All licensure paths require at least 60 graduate credits and a 1,200-hour internship.
How much do online school psychology programs cost?
Tuition varies:
- Ed.S. programs: $30,000 – $60,000
- Doctoral programs: $60,000 – $120,000+
Additional fees may apply (tech, books, travel), but financial aid and employer tuition support may help.
Do online school psychology programs require internships or practicums?
Yes. Nearly all NASP-accredited programs include:
- Practicum hours during coursework
- A 1,200-hour internship, often completed in your local community
This hands-on training is required for both licensure and NCSP certification.
Do I have to write a dissertation?
Only if you’re pursuing a doctoral degree (Ph.D., Psy.D., Ed.D.). Specialist-level programs (Ed.S., MA/CAGS) generally do not require a dissertation, though they may include a capstone or final project.
Can I complete a school psychology program fully online?
Many programs offer fully online coursework, but in-person fieldwork is usually required for practicum and internship experiences. Some programs may also include brief campus residencies—be sure to check each program’s format.
Is a school psychologist considered a doctor?
Only if they hold a doctoral degree (Ph.D., Psy.D., etc.). You do not need a doctorate to become a licensed school psychologist, but the title “Dr.” applies only to those who’ve earned that degree.
What’s the difference between school psychologists and educational psychologists?
- School psychologists work directly with students, families, and educators to address mental health, learning, and behavioral challenges in schools.
- Educational psychologists typically focus on research and theory related to learning and cognition, often outside of K–12 settings.
Start Your Path in School Psychology
Becoming a school psychologist is a meaningful way to support students’ mental health, learning, and well-being—and choosing a NASP-accredited online program ensures you’re prepared to do it well. With flexible learning options, rigorous training, and a clear path to licensure, the right program can help you build a rewarding career in a growing field.
Take the next step toward your future by exploring NASP-approved programs that match your goals, schedule, and passion for helping students thrive.