M.A. in Counseling in Educational Setting
The M.A. in Counseling in Educational Settings at Rowan University is a comprehensive p...
M.A. in School Psychology
Glassboro
INTAKE: Jan & Aug
Program Overview
The M.A. in School Psychology at Rowan University is a program designed to provide a strong foundation in the theories, knowledge, and methodological procedures of psychology relevant to school settings. It serves as the first part of a two-tiered program, with the Educational Specialist (Ed.S.) degree being required for certification as a school psychologist in New Jersey. The curriculum combines traditional classroom learning with extensive field experience to build both knowledge and practical skills. While the M.A. program itself does not lead to certification as a school psychologist, it prepares students for the advanced Ed.S. program.
Curriculum: The M.A. in School Psychology at Rowan University requires the completion of 33 semester hours, encompassing 12 courses. The curriculum includes foundational courses in areas such as the education and psychology of students with disabilities, neurological bases of educational disorders, individual and group counseling procedures in educational settings, lifespan development, development and learning, psychopathology of children and adolescents, research methodology and statistics in counseling psychology, and applied research seminars in school psychology. A residency requirement mandates students complete at least 15 semester hours within a one-year timeframe.
Research Focus: The M.A. program introduces students to research methodology and statistics relevant to school psychology. Students engage in applied research seminars, laying the groundwork for evidence-based practice. While the M.A. may not involve extensive independent research, it emphasizes the importance of understanding and applying research findings to inform psychological services in schools.
Industry Engagement: The M.A. in School Psychology is a stepping stone towards professional practice in schools. While the M.A. itself doesn't confer certification, it is a prerequisite for the Ed.S. program, which includes a 300-hour practicum and a 1200-hour externship/internship in school settings. This sequential structure ensures that students gain practical experience and engage with the educational environment as part of their professional preparation.
Global Perspective: While the primary focus of the program is on the U.S. educational system and New Jersey certification requirements, the curriculum addresses the diverse needs of student populations, which inherently includes cultural considerations. Courses on psychopathology of children and adolescents and counseling procedures would likely touch upon cultural factors influencing mental health and development.
Location
Glassboro
Score
IELTS 6.5
Tuition Fee
USD 19150
Postgraduate Entry Requirements
Application Fee: $65
Academic Qualifications: Applicants for postgraduate programs typically require a minimum academic achievement of 65% or above in their bachelor's degree.
English Language Proficiency:
- IELTS: Overall band score of 6.5 or 7.0 with a minimum of 6.0 in each component.
- TOEFL: Overall score of 70 or higher.
- PTE: Overall score of 50 or higher.
- DET (Duolingo English Test): Minimum score of 110.
Rowan University offers a variety of scholarships and financial aid opportunities specifically aimed at supporting international students in their academic pursuits. Understanding that studying abroad can be a significant financial investment, Rowan provides merit-based scholarships, awards, and grants to help ease the financial burden and reward academic excellence and leadership potential.
Merit-Based Scholarships: International students at Rowan University may be eligible for merit scholarships based on their academic achievements, standardized test scores, and other criteria. These scholarships can range from partial to substantial tuition awards and are typically renewable for multiple years, provided students maintain satisfactory academic progress.
Global Academic Excellence Scholarship: One of the key awards available to incoming international undergraduate students is the Global Academic Excellence Scholarship, which recognizes outstanding academic records and exceptional leadership qualities. This scholarship helps reduce tuition costs and encourages high-performing students to join Rowan’s diverse community.
Departmental Scholarships and Awards: Many of Rowan’s individual colleges and departments offer specialized scholarships for international students pursuing degrees in specific fields such as business, engineering, communication, or health sciences. These awards are often competitive and based on academic merit, portfolio submissions, or departmental recommendations.
Graduate Assistantships and Fellowships: For international graduate students, Rowan provides assistantships and fellowships that offer tuition remission along with a stipend in exchange for teaching or research support. These positions not only help finance graduate education but also provide valuable professional experience and academic networking opportunities.
The M.A. in School Psychology at Rowan University serves as the foundational component for individuals aspiring to become certified school psychologists. While this master's degree alone doesn't grant certification in New Jersey, it equips graduates with essential psychological knowledge and research skills applicable in educational settings, paving the way for the required Ed.S. program.
School Counselor (depending on state requirements): Some states or private institutions may allow individuals with a Master's in Psychology or a related field to work as a school counselor, focusing on academic and social-emotional support under supervision.
Behavioral Support Specialist: Assisting teachers and school psychologists in implementing behavior management plans and providing direct support to students with behavioral challenges.
Educational Assistant/Paraprofessional (with a psychology focus): Working in classrooms to support students with diverse learning needs, often assisting with the implementation of IEPs and behavioral interventions.
Mental Health Counselor (entry-level, agency-based): Providing counseling services to children and adolescents in community mental health agencies or residential treatment facilities, often under the supervision of a licensed clinician.
Research Assistant (in educational or psychological research): Working on research projects related to child development, learning, or school-based interventions at universities or research institutions.
Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) Therapist/Technician: Implementing behavior intervention plans for children with autism spectrum disorder and other developmental disabilities, often in school or clinical settings.
Child and Family Advocate: Working with non-profit organizations or government agencies to support the well-being of children and families, often involving case management and resource coordination.
Academic Advisor (some higher education settings): Providing academic guidance and support to college students, potentially with a focus on students with academic or personal challenges.
Early Intervention Specialist: Working with infants and toddlers with developmental delays or disabilities and their families, providing support and implementing intervention plans.
Educational Diagnostician Assistant: Assisting educational diagnosticians in administering and scoring assessments to identify students' learning strengths and weaknesses.
