How to become a school psychologist

Diagnose and implement individual or schoolwide interventions or strategies to address educational, behavioral, or developmental issues that adversely impact educational functioning in a school. May address student learning and behavioral problems and counsel students or families. May design and implement performance plans, and evaluate performance. May consult with other school-based personnel.

Steps to get there

Most employers expect most of these occupations require graduate school. for example, they may require a master's degree, and some require a ph.d., m.d., or j.d. (law degree)..Extensive skill, knowledge, and experience are needed for these occupations. Many require more than five years of experience. For example, surgeons must complete four years of college and an additional five to seven years of specialized medical training to be able to do their job.

What school psychologists do

• Report any pertinent information to the proper authorities in cases of child endangerment, neglect, or abuse.
• Interpret test results and prepare psychological reports for teachers, administrators, and parents.
• Maintain student records, including special education reports, confidential records, records of services provided, and behavioral data.
• Compile and interpret students' test results, along with information from teachers and parents, to diagnose conditions and to help assess eligibility for special services.
• Collaborate with other educational professionals to develop teaching strategies and school programs.
• Select, administer, and score psychological tests.

Skills that matter most

• Reading Comprehension
• Speaking
• Active Listening
• Writing
• Critical Thinking
• Monitoring
• Active Learning
• Learning Strategies

Is school psychologist a good career?

On the numbers, this job pays above the typical job. Median pay is 88% above the all-occupation median. Whether it fits you depends on the work itself, the schooling you are willing to do and where you want to live.

Where it pays most

• California $127,780
• Colorado $124,770
• New Mexico $110,360
• Maryland $109,700
• Washington $108,780

School Psychologists salary by state and city

Sources: O*NET® 31.0 (CC BY 4.0, USDOL/ETA) and BLS Employment Projections 2025–35. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025.