Application Instructions for the School Psychology Program

Department of Graduate & Professional Studies Eureka Hall 401 6000 J Street Sacramento, CA 95819-6079 (916) 278-5942 www.csus.edu/coe

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Dear Prospective Student:

Thank you for your interest in the Masters programs in the Department of Graduate and Professional Studies (GPS) in Education. The following application and procedures are for students interested in the following interrelated programs (unless you already have a graduate degree, we encourage all students to enroll in the fourth option below):

1. School Psychology (PPS) Credential (Available only for individuals who already hold a graduate degree)

2. School Psychology (PPS) Credential Master of Arts (MA) in Education (School Psychology)

3. School Psychology Credential (PPS) and Specialist in Education (EdS) in School Psychology (available only for individuals who already have a graduate degree) 4. School Psychology Credential (PPS), Masters of Arts (MA) in Education (School

Psychology), and Specialist in Education (Ed.S.) in School Psychology

Please NOTE the following steps needed to successfully complete the application process: 1. Complete a university application for the Office of Graduate Studies online

only at http://www.csumentor.edu

2. Complete a supplemental program application and supporting documents, and submit your application packet to the Academic and Program Services Office (Eureka Hall - 401) by the deadline.

In the process of completing the university application for the Office Graduate Studies, you will need to select your specific education MA program under Enrollment Plans, Major/Program objective.

Thank you again for your interest in pursuing graduate studies with our department. We hope to have the opportunity to work with you.

Sincerely, Susan Heredia Department Chair

Graduate and Professional Studies in Education

The Fall 2014 University Online Grad School Application & Supplemental

Program Application Packet will be accepted:

** October, 2013 – March 1, 2014 **

I.

Application Instructions – University Graduate School

A. CSU APPLICATION FOR GRADUATE SCHOOL ADMISSION: Applicants not currently attending Sacramento State, Sacramento State graduating seniors, and Sacramento State students completing a master’s degree or second bachelor’s degree must complete and submit the CSU application for graduate school admission online at: www.csumentor.edu no

later than MARCH 1, 2014. The $55.00 non-refundable application fee must be paid online at the time the application is

submitted. IMPORTANT TIPS: When completing enrollment information on the application, indicate the following: • Major/Program Objective from one of the following:

 Education, Special Education (School Psychology); the code is 20013 • Degree Objective:

 MA or Ed.S. • Credential Objective:

 PPS in School Psych; the code is 804

• Complete the rest of the online graduate school application. Once you pay the fee and click the “submit” button, print the page that reads, “CSU Sacramento Graduate Application Agreement Statement.” Submit this page with your Supplemental Program Application packet.

• TRANSCRIPTS needed for graduate school application (for non-Sac State students):

***One (1) set of official transcripts (sealed) from all junior colleges, colleges, and universities attended. Submit this set of transcripts directly to the Office of Graduate Studies (OGS) no later than MARCH 2014. Mailing address: Office of Graduate Studies, CSU Sacramento, 6000 J Street, Sacramento, CA 95819-6112. Or, you can deliver official sealed transcripts to the office in the River Front Center, room 215.

***NOTE: If you graduated/are graduating from Sacramento State, you do not need to submit additional transcripts to OGS

unless you attended another college(s) after you graduated.

Degrees from foreign countries: Applicants with degrees from outside of the United States must read and follow the instructions

at this website, http://www.csus.edu/gradstudies/FutureStudents/ApplicantsWithForeignDocuments/index.html or call OGS at (916) 278-6470. Foreign documents/transcripts must be sent directly from your University and must be received by OGS no later than

MARCH 2014

.

II.

Supplemental Application Instructions – School Psychology Program

B. REQUIREMENTS OF ALL APPLICANTS:

1. Hold a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution

2. Have attained a grade point average of at least 3.0 (on a 4.0 scale) in the last 60 graded semester (or 90 graded quarter) units attempted

3. Have been in good academic standing at the last college attended

4. Have completed or be in the process of completing all undergraduate degree preparation (or equivalent) no later than the semester in which application for classified status is submitted. (Refer to the application form for additional prerequisites, etc.)

C. PERSONAL DATA: Provide current address, phone numbers, and email address. If you are moving during the application process call (916) 278-5942 with any address and/or phone number changes.

D. PREFERRED AREA OF SPECIALIZATION: Select the area of study you are interested in.

F. CALIFORNIA BASIC EDUCATION SKILLS TEST (CBEST): Although successful completion of this test is not required for admission into the School Psychology program, applicants are required to provide evidence that they are registered to take the exam. Successful completion of the CBEST is required of all credential candidates prior to enrolling in any fieldwork experience and to be fully admitted into the program. Students admitted without the CBEST are expected to present a photocopy of test scores within the first semester to the Academic and Program Services Office in Eureka Hall 401. Passing this test is required of all persons applying for any and all California teaching credentials (including the PPS credential). G. GWAR FOR GRADUATE STUDENTS: Graduate students will follow a two step process to meet the GWAR: in the first step,

your writing will be assessed to determine your readiness for graduate-level writing tasks. The second step is the completion of the culminating experience. There will be three methods by which graduate students may take this first step in the graduate GWAR process. Please see the last page of the application for more details.

H. TRANSCRIPTS to be SUBMITTED with the PROGRAM APPLICATION PACKET:

1. Sacramento State students (current and former): Submit one complete Sacramento State transcript (opened officials are OK; or print an unofficial transcript from MySacState), AND one set of official transcripts from all other junior colleges, colleges, and universities attended, including any colleges you are currently attending.

2. Applicants who will be NEW students at Sacramento State: Submit one set of official transcripts from ALL junior colleges, colleges/universities attended, including any colleges you are currently attending.

I. RESUME: Complete all applicable sections of the resume that apply. Please note that we distinguish between paid and

unpaid work experiences, as well as training received both within and outside of academic programs. It is highly

recommended that you also include your own resume.

J. LIST OF REFERENCES: List the names, titles, organizations, and phone numbers of the three (3) persons from whom you

are requesting letters of recommendation. This list enables us to address any questions or concerns that may arise regarding the letters of recommendation that are submitted as a part of the application.

K. WRITTEN STATEMENT: Please submit an appropriate written statement from one of two required questions (provided

below). This statement must reflect an understanding of the profession of school psychology and must exemplify strong written communication skills. This statement should be approximately 500 words and must be typed and double-spaced. L. LETTERS OF RECOMMENDATION: Submit three letters of recommendation. Persons writing letters of recommendation

should be familiar with your academic work (your ability to complete graduate level course work) and/or your professional capabilities (in particular your ability to work with school age youth and in a school environment). Previous and current professors, teachers, instructors, supervisors, and employers are all appropriate. Use the cover sheet attached to the application for each letter.

III. Application Submission

The completed School Psychology supplemental program application packet should be submitted to Eureka Hall 401 or mailed to:

California State University, Sacramento College of Education

ATTN: School Psychology Program Admission 6000 J Street – Eureka Hall 401

Sacramento, CA 95819-6079

IV. Screening Procedures

The Office of Graduate Studies does a preliminary check for completion of minimum university requirements. Your University Application for Admission is then forwarded to the College of Education - School Psychology Program. After the posted deadline, supplemental program applications are reviewed for completion of all undergraduate preparation, GPA, and applicable test scores (the GRE is recommended, but not required). Applications are then submitted to a school psychology faculty panel for initial screening. Those applicants who pass the initial screening will be contacted as soon as possible (typically within two weeks) after the deadline regarding a required interview. Applicants will be asked to complete a spontaneous writing sample at the time of the interview. This writing sample will be part of the evidence used to determine if a candidate will be admitted to the School Psychology Program. All students will then be advised, in writing, regarding their admission status. This process is completed as soon as possible.

Students are occasionally admitted conditionally, which means that there are certain contingencies that must be met before admission will be permanent (e.g., completing prerequisites, passing the CBEST). The program retains the right to revoke any student’s admission if such contingencies are not met within the agreed-upon time frame.

V.

Financial Aid

Fall 2014

Submit no later than March 1, 2014

Personal Information:

Mr. Ms. Dr.

Last name First M

I Previous last name ^ƚƵĚĞŶƚ/

M ailin g Ad dr ess:

Street: City: State: Zip:

Per m an en t Ad dr ess:

Street: City: State: Zip:

e-mail: Primary phone # Alternative Phone #.

Ethnicity (optional): Language(s) spoken fluently:

Preferred Area of Specialization

MA in Education (School Psychology), School Psychology PPS Credential, and Ed. S. Degree MA in Education (School Psychology) and School Psychology PPS Credential

School Psychology (PPS) credential and Ed.S. Degree (for students who already have a graduate degree) School Psychology (PPS) Credential only (for students who already have a graduate degree)

Proof of Completion of Undergraduate Preparation

Bachelor’s Degree Major: Minor:

Institution and Location: Graduation Date:

Other Degrees Held (degree): Major:

Institution and Location: Graduation Date:

Department of Graduate & Professional Studies

Pre-Requisite Requirements

For each prerequisite requirement, indicate course number (e.g. EDS 140), semester completed (or anticipated date of completion) and where taken. Transcripts must be included. Applications will not be processed without this information.

Requirement Course Semester/Year University

Abnormal Psychology (e.g. PSYCH 168) Drugs and Behavior (e.g. PSYCH 117)

Educ of Exceptional Children (e.g. EDS 100A/B or EDUC 100A/B) Intro to Behavioral Stats (e.g. PSYC 101)

Introduction to Counseling (e.g. EDC 170 or EDUC 155) Power, Privilege & Self Identity (e.g. EDC 171 or EDUC 156) Tutoring Children Reading (e.g. EDTE 103 or EDUC 125) -OR-

Teaching/Tutoring experience deemed equivalent (consult with a School Psychology advisor)

California Basic Education Skills Test (CBEST) (provide verification)

I have/will fulfill this requirement by:

CBEST: Date passed ____________________________________ .

CBEST: registered to take the exam on__________________________________

Graduate Writing Proficiency for Master’s Degree Candidates (provide verification)

I have/will fulfill this requirement by:

Requirement completed at Sac State: Course:________________________________ Semester/Year:___________________________

Equivalent completed (submit waiver from Office of Graduate Studies): Institution:______________________ Course:_____________

Not yet completed – I will complete the requirement in my first semester in the School Psychology Program and notify the department once completed

Academic Preparation:

List all colleges and/or universities attended starting with the most recent. Include one set of all transcripts with this supplemental program application.

Resume:

Complete all the following sections that apply to you. Please see notes in Application Procedures. It is highly recommended that you also include a personal resume with your application.

LICENSES/CERTIFICATES/CREDENTIALS/ PRESENTLY HELD

Date _{Name Granting Institution/Organization}

WORK EXPERIENCE - Related Professional/Paid Work Experience

Dates (to/From) Institution/Location Description of Responsibility

UNRELATED PAID WORK EXPERIENCE

Dates (to/From) Institution/Location Description of Responsibility

PROFESSIONAL AFFILIATIONS

Dates (to/From) Institution/Location Committee Work / Offices Held

INTERNSHIPS/APPRENTICESHIPS/PRACTICA/VOLUNTEER EXPERIENCE

GRE Scores (Scores are NOT required, but if you have a low GPA and high GRE scores this will improve your admission chances)

Date(s) taken Verbal Reasoning Quantitative Reasoning Analytic Writing Psychology

Educational Experience/Qualifications

Dates

To/From Institution/Location Major/Minor Received Degree GPA

Academic Awards/Honors

Date Institution/Location Description

Related Workshops Attended

Date Institution/Location Description

References:

Please identify three individuals from whom we will receive letters of recommendation. Print attached cover sheet for each letter

Written Statement

Please select ONE of the two questions below and attach a double-spaced, type written essay of approximately 500 words/2 pages. Sign and date your statement. Please remember this statement will be used as part of the evidence (written

communication skills) when determining admission to the program.

1. What characteristics do you believe you currently possess that will enable you to succeed in the School Psychology Program and in the field of school psychology?

2. What experiences or factors have led you to your decision to apply to the School Psychology Program?

Graduate Writing Requirement

All students admitted to the School Psychology Program will need to meet the University’s graduate writing requirement. By answering the questions below you will be able to determine if this requirement has been met

YES NO Statement

I have previously been awarded a graduate degree (e.g., M.A., M.S., Ph.D., or J.D.) from a US-Accredited University in the English language

I have been the first author of an English language academic journal article. (If yes please attach a copy of said article to this application.)

I have graduated with a baccalaureate degree from a US-accredited University with a cumulative GPA of 3.7 or higher

I received a 4.5 or higher on the analytical writing portion of the GRE/GMAT (If yes please attach verification of said score)

I have been the Instructor of record of a college-level writing course taught in the English language at a US-accredited University

If you answered YES to ANY of the preceding questions you have probably met the first step University’s graduate

writing requirement. (The second step will be completion of the culminating experience.)

If you answered NO to ALL of the preceding questions then you will need to do ONE of the following to meet this

requirement. (This could be done before or after admission to the program. Meeting the first step of the graduate writing requirement is NOT an admission requirement.)

1. Take or retake the GRE/GMAT and obtain a score of 4.5 on analytical writing.

2. Take the Writing Placement for Graduate Students (WPG) test, a timed essay examination. This test is only offered twice each year. Go to the Office of Graduate Studies for information on times/dates and location. 3. Earn a grade of “B” or higher in a Graduate Writing Intensive course (one is currently offered through the

College of Education (EDGR 260) and is a required School Psychology Program class.

California State University, Sacramento

College of Education, Graduate and Professional Studies in Education

6000 J Street • Eureka Hall 401 • Sacramento, CA 95819-6079 (916) 278-5942 • (916) 278-5993 FAX

www.csus.edu/coe

Letter of Recommendation Cover Sheet for the School Psychology Program

Applicant’s Name:

TO THE EVALUATOR: the above named applicant is seeking admission to a graduate level program that trains persons to assume responsible

roles in the helping professions. Please provide what evidence you have regarding any or all of the following: The applicant’s 1. Ability to succeed at graduate level academics

2. Emotional stability and ability to attend to the needs of others 3. dependability, responsibility, morality and ethics

Completed form and letter of recommendation must be received by March 1, 2014. Letters may be mailed directly to the department or may be submitted by the student as part of the admission packet.

Letters can be mailed to:

California State University, Sacramento

Department of Graduate and Professional Studies in Education ATTN: School Psychology Program Admission (EUREKA HALL 401) 6000 J Street

Sacramento, CA 91819-6079

Evaluators Name: Title:

Organization: Phone Number:

Address:

Relationship to Applicant:

How long have you know this applicant:

Please attach a letter of recommendation to this cover sheet

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Supplemental Program Application

California Basic Educational Skills Test Requirement (CBEST): Submit proof meeting this requirement, i.e., photocopy of test registration and/or photocopy of score report.

Writing Proficiency Requirement: Submit proof of how you are completing/have completed this requirement. Transcripts: Submit with this application packet, one set of OFFICIAL transcripts from ALL colleges attended (the Sac State transcript can be unofficial). Remember, the Office of Graduate Studies will need their own set of official transcripts from all colleges attended, if you are NOT a current Sac State student or did not graduate from Sac State. Three Reference Letters (including cover sheet)

Written Statement

Resume (optional, but encouraged)

University Graduate School Application Verification: Once you submit the online grad school application through CSUmentor, printout and submit with this program application packet a photocopy of the ‘Graduate Application Agreement Statement’ as proof of submitting the grad school application.

Checklist (this sheet).

OFFICE USE ONLY: Accepted by: Date: What’s Next: