School Psychology, Ed.S.
Earn both an M.S. in Educational Psychology and an School Psychology Ed.S. with emphasis in Early Childhood Studies to jump start your career in school psychology.
Program Intro
The three-year Educational Specialist degree (Ed.S.) in School Psychology program with an early childhood studies specialization prepares aspiring school psychologists to work effectively with young children (pre-K to age 8). Candidates will gain essential clinical skills in assessment, evidence-based interventions, collaboration and cultural sensitivity. Graduates will earn both an M.S. in Educational Psychology and a Pupil Personnel Services (PPS) credential with authorization in school psychology, allowing them to become leaders in early childhood settings.
How is this program different from CBU's M.S. in School Psychology? The first two years follow the same coursework as CBU's M.S. in School Psychology, but the third year allows students to gain specialized training with early childhood populations to conduct assessments, collaborate with families and educational staff, and recommend specialized interventions.
*Based on current academic year. Subject to change.
Why Earn Your Ed.S. in School Psychology at CBU?
CBU's three-year Ed.S. in School Psychology is perfect for students who are interested in helping children (preschool-12th) succeed academically, socially and emotionally. As a school psychologist, you will collaborate with educators, parents and other professionals to create safe, healthy, and supportive learning environments for all students that strengthen connections between home and school.
Faith integration
CBU's program focuses on moral and ethical standards along with faith integration in the field. Graduates of the program share a deeply rooted commitment to recognize and realize the potential of every child and student.
Learn with a cohort
This program is comprised of a small cohort of students that progress though the program together. The cohort model creates an environment where cooperative learning is cultivated with relationships that are essential for professional networking.
Graduate with a credential
Students of this program emerge with an Ed.S. in School Psychology, an M.S. in Educational Psychology and a Pupil Personnel Services Credential in School Psychology recognized by the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing.
What You'll Learn
- Candidates will be able to conduct comprehensive assessments of young children's cognitive, socio-emotional, and behavioral development using appropriate tools and techniques, and interpret assessment results to inform intervention strategies.
- Candidates will demonstrate the ability to develop and implement effective early intervention plans that are evidence-based and tailored to the unique needs of preschool-aged children, fostering their academic, social, and emotional growth.
- Candidates will exhibit cultural competence when working with diverse families and communities, recognizing the importance of involving parents and caregivers in the assessment and intervention process to support children's development within their cultural context.
- Candidates will possess advanced skills in consulting with teachers, school administrators, and other professionals to create collaborative environments that promote the well-being and academic success of preschool children, particularly those with special needs.
- Candidates will be proficient in reading and applying research relevant to early childhood development and school psychology, using empirical evidence to inform the development and improvement of programs, policies, and practices that enhance the learning experiences of young children.
Program Details
ECH 540: Early Childhood Literacy and Langauge
This course will review significant research and theory regarding language acquisition and literacy skills in the early childhood period. Current instructional and assessment strategies for early literacy and language development in young children, including the bilingual child, will be explored. Techniques for involving and educating families will be investigated.
PPS 544: Individual Intelligence Testing
This course presents the theoretical foundations necessary to develop skills in interpreting and using individual intelligence assessments. Students will be able to describe the components of a variety of theories of intelligence, including the Cattell-Horn-Carroll (CHC) theory of intelligence, and utilize theory to interpret assessment results and write legally-defensible reports.
PPS 563: Assessment of Emotional and Behavioral Disorders
This course introduces the basic principles involved in identifying and assessing problem behaviors and pathology in the educational setting. Knowledge and data-analysis are used to form conclusions and to communicate them clearly in addressing serious behavior problems. Candidates design positive behavior support plans and comprehensive functional behavior support plans for individuals, as well as school-wide plans to affect positive behavior change.
Pedro Olvera, PsyD
Associate Professor of School Psychology
School Psychology Program Director
Office Phone: 951-552-8356
E-mail: polvera@calbaptist.edu
Office Location: Yeager Center B237
Cammy Purper, Ph.D.
Professor of Education
Director of Online Education for the School of Education
Coordinator of Bachelor's in Early Childhood Studies (Online)
Office Phone: 951-343-3935
E-mail: cpurper@calbaptist.edu
As you make decisions about graduate school, keep in mind the full social, spiritual and educational experience awaiting you at CBU. Here, you will be supported by professors, staff and fellow students who will help you discover your strengths and challenge you to do more than you ever thought you could. Let us equip you with the education, training and opportunities you'll need to start making a unique difference doing what you love.
| Application Deadlines | Fall |
|---|---|
| Priority | May 15 |
| Standard | August 1 |
Career Possibilities
Graduates of CBU's Education Specialist degree in School Psychology program will be well prepared for careers as early childhood school psychologists.
- Early Childhood School Psychologist
- School Psychologist
- Educational Psychologist
- Educational Researcher
- University School Psychologist
- College Counselor
- State School Psychologist
- Hospital School Psychologist
Related Programs
Next Steps
Join our community. At CBU, you’ll be challenged to become an individual whose skills, integrity, and sense of purpose glorify God and distinguish you in the world.