Preschool Child Psychology (M.S.E.)

39 Credits

NYSED 93021

This program focuses on the scientific study of the psychological growth and development of pre-K to second-grade students. It includes instruction in empirically based preschool testing, assessment, consultation, and intervention methods; data-based decision-making; cognitive and perceptual development; social and emotional development; theories of cognitive growth; related research methods; and supervised fieldwork in school settings with early childhood populations. 

Students who are admitted to the Ph.D. program in school psychology, the Advanced Certificate (formerly Professional Diploma) program in school psychology, or to the Advanced Certificate (formerly Professional Diploma) program in bilingual school psychology, and who do not have a relevant master’s degree, must complete a master’s degree (M.S.E.) while matriculated in their programs in order to be eligible for permanent professional New York state certification as a school psychologist or school psychologist with a bilingual extension.

These M.S.E. programs are designed to provide specialized studies in areas that complement the practice of school psychology. These are "captured" programs that overlap with the school psychology Advanced Certificate and doctoral programs.

Note: These master’s degree programs or specialization areas do not in and of themselves lead to eligibility as a school psychologist or bilingual school psychologist. Students must complete the Advanced Certificate in School PsychologyAdvanced Certificate in Bilingual School Psychology, or Ph.D. in School Psychology to meet New York state’s requirements for eligibility as a certified school psychologist.

Completion Requirements

To complete the M.S.E., students must

  • complete the prescribed program of study, including the four courses (12 credits) that do not overlap with the advanced certificate or bilingual advanced certificate programs prior to or concurrently with completing the advanced certificate or Ph.D.;
  • maintain a minimum overall graduate grade point average of 3.25 (B or better); and
  • complete an end-of-program comprehensive assessment.

CIP Code

42.2703 - Developmental and Child Psychology.


You can use the CIP code to learn more about career paths associated with this field of study and, for international students, possible post-graduation visa extensions. Learn more about CIP codes and other information resources.

Admission to one of the the School Psychology program's M.S.E. programs is limited to students already admitted to the Ph.D. program in school psychology, the advanced certificate (formerly professional diploma) program in school psychology, or the advanced certificate (formerly professional diploma) program in bilingual school psychology. Admission to and enrollment in one of these programs is sufficient for admission to a master's program.

Students in the Advanced Certificate program in bilingual school psychology who lack a master's degree must complete the master's in the psychology of bilingual students in order to be eligible for the New York state bilingual certification extension.

To apply, students need to complete an inter-program application form, which is available from the division or deans' offices.

Program of Study

Course Title Credits
EDGE 6101Race and Multicultural Education in American Society3
One of the following courses:3
Psychological Factors in Young Children with Disabilities
Psychology of Child Development
Advanced Developmental Psychology
PSGE 6417Developmental and Intellectual Disabilities3
PSGE 6418Emotional Disorders of Childhood and Adolescence3
PSGE 7508
PSGE 7518
Cognitive Assessment
and Cognitive Assessment Lab
3
PSGE 7413School Psychology: Advanced Assessment Seminar3
One of the following two Research courses:3
Introduction to Research
Quantitative Research Methods in Psychology and Education I
PSGE 6311Applications of Behavior Analysis in Educational Settings3
PSGE 7425Advanced Intervention Seminar: Preschool Intervention3
PSGE 7445Theories of School-Based Consultation3
PSGE 6446Consultation With Families in a Diverse Society3
PSGE 7500Clinical Practicum in School Psychology3
PSGE 7502Consultation Practicum in School Psychology3
PSGE 0725Master's Comprehensive Exam/Assessment in Preschool Psychology0
Total Credits39