Mercy College

What you'll study

The programme combines core coursework, applied skill development and supervised practical experience. Core topics typically include developmental and educational psychology, cognitive and academic assessment, social–emotional and behavioural interventions, consultation and systems-level practice, research methods and statistics, and legal and ethical issues in school settings. Practical components usually consist of campus-based practicum placements plus a longer, supervised internship in local schools, where trainees conduct assessments, plan and deliver interventions, consult with teachers and parents, and participate in multidisciplinary teams.

Typical modules and subjects you can expect are:

• Developmental and Child Psychopathology – understanding typical and atypical development across childhood and adolescence.
• Assessment and Diagnosis – cognitive, academic, social–emotional and behavioural assessment techniques and report writing.
• Intervention and Evidence-Based Practice – individual and group interventions for learning and behavioural needs.
• Consultation and Systems Consultation – strategies for working with teachers, families and school systems to support pupils.
• Research Methods and Programme Evaluation – quantitative and qualitative methods, outcome measurement and applied research design.
• Law, Ethics and Professional Issues – safeguarding, confidentiality, inclusive practice and statutory responsibilities in schools.
• Practicum and Internship – supervised placements in local schools, with increasing responsibility for assessment, intervention and case management.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a bachelor’s degree in psychology, education or a closely related discipline from a recognised institution. Typical requirements include a satisfactory undergraduate grade, academic transcripts, and references (usually at least one academic). Many successful applicants have some experience working with children or young people — for example, through teaching, support work, or volunteering — and programmes often value evidence of this practical exposure.

Required application materials commonly include a personal statement outlining your motivation and relevant experience, two references, and a CV. Some programmes may request an interview or additional evidence of suitability for school-based practice. If you intend to become a registered or credentialed school psychologist, you should check the specific certification or licensing requirements in the region where you plan to work, as additional supervised hours or examinations may be required.

Career prospects

Graduates from a master’s-level school psychology programme typically go on to roles in primary and secondary schools, pupil referral units or multi-agency teams. Common job titles include trainee school psychologist, assistant educational psychologist, inclusion or behaviour support specialist, and learning support coordinator. With further supervised experience and meeting local credentialing requirements, graduates can practice as school psychologists delivering assessment, intervention and consultation in education settings.

Other career paths include roles in special educational needs provision, community child mental health services, third-sector organisations supporting children and families, educational assessment services, and progressing to doctoral-level training or research in educational or clinical psychology.

Why study at Mercy College

Mercy College offers a practice-focused programme with access to local school partnerships for supervised placements and close contact with faculty who have experience in education and child mental health. Class sizes are typically small, allowing personalised feedback and mentorship during practicum work. The curriculum emphasises applied assessment and intervention skills alongside research literacy, preparing graduates for hands-on work in schools or for further specialist training.

The college’s links with regional schools and community services help students gain real-world experience and build professional networks. Prospective students should review Mercy College’s programme literature and speak with admissions staff about placement opportunities and how the course prepares candidates for local certification or registration as a school psychologist.