School Psychology, Ed.S.

Preparing tomorrow’s school psychologists to meet the diverse academic, mental, social, and emotional needs of today’s students.

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The School Psychology program will prepare you for an impactful, fulfilling career playing a crucial role in the academic, social, and emotional development of students facing such challenges as learning disabilities, autism, behavioral issues, and emotional distress.

Empowering You to Excel in Your Chosen Profession

The program’s distinctive focus on diversity and social justice means you’ll be uniquely prepared to advocate for and implement equitable practices designed to create safer and more supportive learning environments.

You’ll find graduates of the School Psychology thriving and bringing positive change to the lives of their students in schools and districts throughout our region, including:

  • Monterey Peninsula Unified School District
  • Salinas City Elementary School District
  • Sweetwater Union High School District
  • Santa Rita Elementary School District
  • North Monterey County Unified School District
  • Alisal Union School District

As a student in the program you’ll gain the knowledge, skills, and training to embark on your career as a school psychologist supporting K-12 students' academic, social, and emotional well-being within the school environment.

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Dalia Contreras-Hernandez

With my passion working with diverse students and the skills I have learned here at CSUMB, I know I will be able to support students, feel seen, and valued, and supported.

Many students who have successfully completed the EdS program have decided to pursue other advanced degrees, and have been accepted at such acclaimed institutions as Arizona State University, UNLV, UC Santa Barbara and the University of Oregon.

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Public University Price, Private University Experience

A Lifetime of Value

School Psychology, Ed.S.

The School Psychology program is NASP approved and will instill in you competencies in all 10 NASP domains, as well as all CTC standards, covering a wide range of competencies including data-based decision-making, consultation, academic and social-emotional interventions, and family-school collaboration. 

 

Educational Objectives

Our focus on multilingual learners and migrant youth will deepen your learning experience and equip you with a broader perspective on how to effectively implement equitable practices within schools and districts.

Our NASP accreditation ensures that you’re entrusting your education and future career in a school and program that has achieved the highest standards of excellence as mandated by the National Association of School Psychologists. 

Our emphasis on the development of practical, hands-on skills means you’ll gain field experience beginning in the first year, as well as a 450-hour practicum in the second year and a 1,200-hour internship in the third year. 

Our Clinic for Educational Supports will enrich your preparation and training even further, providing affordable psychoeducational assessment and speech language services to local families with whom you’ll work to sharpen your skills.

For more information, please visit the Program Catalog

Located on California’s Central Coast, Cal State Monterey Bay offers a unique learning environment shaped by natural beauty, economic diversity, and proximity to global innovation hubs. The campus provides a practical and inspiring setting where classroom learning connects directly to real-world applications.

Faculty & Staff

Our faculty members pride themselves on the extensive individual advising, mentoring, and guidance they provide students, as well as an abundance of research opportunities that often include presentations at regional and national conferences.

Cathi Draper Rodriguez

Cathi Draper Rodriguez

Professor

Tara Kulkarni

Tara Kulkarni

Associate Professor

Jillian Talley

Jillian Talley

Assistant Professor

Darlene Moitoso

Darlene Moitoso

Administrative Support Coordinator

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Questions? We’re Here to Help!

Don’t hesitate to contact us with any questions you have about the School Psychology program.

Our experienced and supportive admissions staff is here to provide all the individualized guidance you need.

Learn more about the School Psychology, Ed.S. program.

Find out more about the School Psychology, Ed.S. program and other degrees offered in the College of Education.