Montclair State University Launches Doctor of School Psychology Program

May 9, 2026 - 11:09

Montclair State University has officially launched a new Doctor of School Psychology program, designed to prepare graduates for leadership roles in educational settings. The program, housed within the College of Education and Human Services, aims to address the growing demand for highly trained school psychologists across New Jersey and the nation.

A key feature of the new doctoral offering is its flexible structure. Students can choose between a three-year track for those who already hold a master's degree in school psychology or a related field, and a five-year track for students entering directly from a bachelor's program. This dual pathway is intended to widen access to doctoral-level training, allowing more professionals to pursue advanced credentials without disrupting their careers for an extended period.

The curriculum blends advanced coursework in psychological assessment, intervention strategies, and research methods with extensive supervised field experience. Graduates will be prepared to work in K-12 schools, clinics, and private practice, taking on roles that involve diagnosing learning disabilities, developing behavioral interventions, and consulting with educators and families.

University officials noted that the program was developed in response to a statewide shortage of school psychologists, a problem that has only intensified in recent years. By offering both a fast-track option and a longer, more comprehensive route, Montclair State hopes to produce graduates who are ready to meet the complex mental health and academic needs of students. The first cohort is expected to begin classes in the fall semester.