Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How long does the School Psychology Program take to complete?
A: The program takes 3 years to complete. The first year includes primarily classroom-based courses. The second year includes some classroom-based courses and practicum, which requires about 10 hours/week in a field placement. The final year is a full-time internship. Because of the field schedule, the program cannot be completed in less than 3 years, although students can choose to go part-time and finish in 4-6 years.
Q: What is the course schedule like?
A: Each class session is between 3-4 hours long and meets once per week. Most students take 3-4 courses per quarter and are thus on campus 3-4 nights a week. Courses are offered starting at 4pm or at 6pm, Monday-Thursday only. Course start times vary; the start time depends on the specific course. Students take courses all four quarters each year (fall, winter, spring, and summer).
Q: Is there a summer break?
A: Although students do take summer courses, there is a 6-week break between summer and fall quarters. There is also a 3-week break between fall and winter quarters.
Q: Do I have to have a degree in education or psychology to apply?
A: No. Applicants from any academic or professional background are welcome. We do require that all applicants have at least one year of work experience, paid or volunteer, with kids ages preschool to early college. This builds a skill set that is crucial in the program, and also demonstrates a commitment and interest in working with kids.
Q: Can I apply before the deadline?
A: We accept applications at any time; however, decisions are not made until after the deadline passes.
Q: What classes are part of the degree?
A: See our list of courses from our brochure here, or from the Graduate Catalog here.
Q: I already have a master's degree. Can any of my classes count toward the School Psychology degree?
A: If you already have a related master's degree, you are eligible to have up to 30 credits waived from the program. If you would like an estimate of how many credits may be waived for you, email a transcript or list of courses to schpsy@seattleu.edu. Include the course name, course number, how many credits, and your grade. You may also fax a transcript to (206) 296-1892; make sure to include a way to contact you. Our faculty will respond to you with an unofficial estimate of how many credits may be waived. The official review would occur following admission.
Q: Do you require the GRE? Subject test or general test?
A: We require the degree for all post-baccalaureate applicants. For post-master's applicants who received a 3.25 GPA or higher in their master's degree, the GRE is waived. We require the general test.