Pitt State School of Psychology enters exciting new chapter

The School Psychology program at Pittsburg State University is entering an exciting new chapter marked by national accreditation efforts, innovative pathways for educators, and a renewed focus on meeting the needs of students who come from differing backgrounds.

A new pathway

The program has launched a new Respecialization Pathway in School Psychology, designed for professionals who already hold a graduate degree in a related field and are seeking to transition into school psychology.

This pathway responds directly to growing interest from current educators, principals, reading specialists, and other professionals who previously lacked a clear route into the profession.

Unlike similar options offered by competitors that result only in a certificate, Pitt State's pathway leads to a graduate degree (Ed.S.) through a flexible hybrid format.

Participants who enter the program complete an additional 45 credit hours, building upon their existing master's degree. Applicants with backgrounds in education or psychology are strongly encouraged to apply; other related fields are considered on a case-by-case basis, with individualized transcript reviews.

"This pathway creates a meaningful opportunity for professionals to transition into school psychology while building on their existing expertise," said Assistant Professor Angelina Boyd."We're excited to provide a flexible and accessible route into the field."

Students may begin the program in summer, fall, or spring, with applications now being accepted. The program is prepared to welcome its first cohort as early as this summer.

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Bilingual service

An emphasis of the program will be culturally responsive practice and service to students of differing backgrounds - primarily those who are English language learners.

Faculty expertise includes bilingual assessment and intervention, preparing graduates to more effectively serve English language learners and multilingual students in schools.

This focus addresses a long-standing challenge in the profession: when assessments are not linguistically appropriate, they may fail to accurately reflect a student's true abilities, often leading to misidentification or inappropriate interventions.

Pitt State's program is one of only a handful in the region to integrate these practices so thoroughly into the training model, aligning with the evolving needs of nearby school districts.

Pursuing accreditation

For the first time in the program's history, the School Psychology program has submitted an application for candidacy with the National Association of School Psychologists (NASP). The program is awaiting review by the NASP Program Accreditation Board, with a decision expected by July 1.

NASP accreditation is widely regarded as the gold standard in the field of school psychology. Only two programs in Kansas currently hold this accreditation, placing Pitt State's effort among a small and highly competitive group that includes flagship and metropolitan institutions.

Achieving NASP candidacy status would signal that the program is on track to fully meet rigorous national standards, a status that remains in effect for approximately one year as programs complete the accreditation process.

"This step represents a significant milestone for our program and for the university," said Program Director Sandra Cobos. "It reflects our commitment to excellence, accountability, and preparation of highly qualified school psychologists."

Growing the profession

The pursuit of NASP accreditation and the launch of the new pathway both position Pitt State as a strong and competitive option for prospective students, Cobos noted, while supporting broader efforts to address the national shortage of school psychologists.

Looking ahead, the program is developing scholarship opportunities to further support students and expand access, underscoring long-term aspirations for growth and impact.

"We're building a program that prepares graduates to make a meaningful difference in schools and communities," said Associate Professor Robin Blair, chair of Psychology & Counseling.

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