School Psychology

Our program is in-person with the exception of a few fully or partially online courses. Classes begin no earlier than 4:30 p.m. to accommodate working professionals. On-campus attendance is a requirement 2-3 days a week, depending on the term and/or track.

Choose from our full-time program or part-time option to earn your degree:

• Full-time program: Two years of classes (starting in the fall semester), followed by a full-time (40 hours/week) internship for 10 months. Classes typically take place two to three evenings per week.
• Part-time option: Requires three years of part-time classes (starting in the fall semester), followed by a full-time (40 hours/week) internship for 10 months. Classes typically take place one to two evenings per week (depending on the semester).

It is possible for full-time students to cut back to part-time (depending on individual circumstances), but it's not possible to start as a part-time and switch to full-time.

Most classes are offered only once per year, thus we prefer students to follow a precise sequence of coursework.

Transfer Credits

Each academic department determines if graduate transfer credit will be granted for courses that have not already been applied to another graduate degree. Generally, no more than nine credit hours are transferable into master's programs, 15 into doctoral programs. If you are admitted to a graduate program and wish to obtain transfer credit, you should speak with your academic adviser.

The Department of Counselor Education and Human Services requires that transfer credit must be from courses taken within the last 5 years, and for which the earned grade was a B or better. Course syllabi must be available for review and approval.

Thesis Requirement

A thesis is required for the Ed.S. degree. This involves completion of an independent research project. During their first year, students explore areas of interest and commit to a topic by the beginning of their second year. This research experience is guided by program faculty and culminates in a written project and oral defense.

Experiential Learning

As part of this program, you'll participate in a practicum and internship. You can also choose from several extra-curricular activities, such as clubs and organizations, that cater specifically to your degree program.

Program Faculty

• Elana Bernstein, Ph.D. (program coordinator)
• Susan Davies, Ed.D.
• Laura Miller, Ph.D.
• Jim Ayers, Ed.S., NCSP (adjunct)
• Nick DeGrazia, Ed.S. (adjunct)
• Liz Staley, Ed.S., NCSP (adjunct)
• Katie Weber, Ed.S. (adjunct)

Columbus Campus Option

Beginning in fall of 2026, our program will expand to our Columbus campus. This expansion increases access to our nationally approved, specialist-level training for students across central Ohio who wish to make a meaningful impact in their schools and communities.

Students in the Columbus cohort will engage in the same rigorous coursework, hands-on field experiences and dedicated faculty mentorship that define UD’s school psychology program. Guided by our commitment to preparing professionals who promote equity, learning and well-being for all children, this new location extends our tradition of excellence and service into the heart of central Ohio.

Additional Information

Visit the Catalog to view additional details about the school psychology graduate program, including degree requirements and course descriptions.

Application Deadlines

Application deadlines for the School Psychology program:

• Fall enrollment: Jan. 10

Admission Requirements

Applicants to the UD School Psychology program should submit the following information in addition to their online application: 

• Official academic records of all previously attended colleges or universities must be submitted directly from the colleges or universities to the Office of Graduate Admission Processing. Hand-carried transcripts, official copies marked Issued to Student, and unofficial copies are not acceptable.
• Three letters of recommendation from professors or employers.
• A personal statement: Your personal statement should paint a picture of yourself. Your statement should give insight to your experiences, qualifications, and professional goals. Indicate why you would like to become a school psychologist, and why you chose to apply to the University of Dayton. Include descriptions of any relevant experiences such as research and study experience, work experience with children, and even personal experience. Also, indicate how the program will aid in future career objectives. It is also appropriate to cite strengths and weaknesses you see within yourself. Above all, make your statement personable and interesting, and ensure that you proofread and present your best writing.
• Resume.
• Results from the GRE are optional; however, they are required for applicants with an undergraduate grade-point average below 2.75 on a 4.0 scale.

Once you've successfully met the required admission criteria outlined above, there will be a faculty review. Following the review of these materials, you may be invited to interview with department faculty. 

Candidates are typically emailed at the beginning of February with invitations for on-campus interviews. Interviews are held at the end of February/early March. Candidates are notified of acceptance by mid-March. Candidates have until April 15 to accept or decline admission offers.

International Admission

International students must submit English Proficiency, Visa and Financial Documentation and a WES credential evaluation along with the items listed above.

Additional Counselor Education and Human Services Programs

• Clinical Mental Health Counseling (M.S.E.)
• Human Services (M.S.E.)
• School Counseling (M.S.E.)
• Clinical Mental Health Counseling (Graduate Certificate)
• Pastoral Counseling (Graduate Certificate)
• School Counseling (Graduate Certificate)

Related Programs

• Educational Leadership (M.S.E.)
• Educational Leadership (Ph.D.)
• Nonprofit and Community Leadership (Graduate Certificate)
• Pastoral Care (Graduate Certificate)

Rooted in our Catholic, Marianist traditions, the University of Dayton is dedicated to being transparent and ensuring student success.

The school psychology program is proud to offer a number of graduate assistantships each year in partnership with area school districts. If you are interested in a graduate assistantship, applications are accepted from early December to March 1 each year.

Financial aid may be available for degree-seeking graduate students, file the FAFSA to be considered. Once you have applied and been accepted to a graduate program, we will prepare your applicable aid for the upcoming year.