School psychologists receive specialized graduate preparation that includes coursework and field experiences in both psychology and education. School psychologists typically complete either a specialist-level degree program (at least 60 graduate semester hours) or a doctoral degree (at least 90 graduate semester hours). Most specialist-level degree programs require a minimum of three years of full-time study, including a year-long supervised internship. 

School psychologists must be credentialed by the state in which they work. In Indiana, the school psychologist credential is offered by the Indiana Department of Education (IDOE). The IDOE also offers an Independent Practitioner Endorsement (IPE) – click here to learn more about the IPE. School psychologists may also be a Nationally Certified School Psychologist (NCSP) and, for those trained at the doctoral level, licensed as a Health Service Provider in Psychology (HSPP). 

The National Association of School Psychologists (NASP) sets standards for credentialing, professional practice, ethics, and graduate preparation/training. More information about the profession of school psychology is available through NASP at http://www.nasponline.org/about_sp/spsych.aspx. 

NASP Professional Standards address (a) Standards for Graduate Preparation of School Psychologists, (b) Standards for the Credentialing of School Psychologists, (c) Principles for Professional Ethics, and the (d) Model for Comprehensive and Integrated School Psychological Services. Standards are available at http://www.nasponline.org/standards/2010standards.aspx. 

Information regarding the Indiana school psychologist credential is available at http://www.nasponline.org/certification/state_info_list.aspx. Directions for credential application through the Indiana Department of Education is available at http://www.doe.in.gov/licensing/school-services-licensure-school-counselor-and-school-psychologist

Indiana has three universities with NASP accredited School Psychology programs. More information regarding school psychology in Indiana and the training programs can be found here.

Ball State University - NASP accredited

Indiana State University - NASP accredited