School psychologists apply the knowledge of psychology to the problems of education. They use specialized knowledge in areas such as assessment, learning and human relationships to facilitate, through school personnel, the learning, and growth of all children, including the exceptional. The traditional role of the school psychologist involves testing and observing children who are experiencing difficulty learning or relating in school and then working toward the improvement of the educational setting for these children. However, school psychologists also assume many alternative roles which work toward the improvement of the educational setting for all school children. They consult with teachers, parents and administrators and counsel with children. They may also offer in-service workshops or become involved in research.

Careers in school psychology are usually in public schools or similar human service settings. School psychologists may also become licensed and enter private practice; in places such as Virginia, this may occur with a 60 semester hour master's degree program and four years of experience in the public school system.

The National Association of School minimum of a 60 semester hour master's level school years of full-time study followed by an internship during the third year. The GMU Psychology Department has a M.A. in School Psychology, with a Ph.D. in applied developmental psychology.

A bachelor's degree with a major in psychology is the preferred preparation for study in a graduate school psychology program. Undergraduate courses that are prerequisites for the George Mason University School Psychology Program (M.A.) include the areas of (1) general psychology, (2) statistics, (3) developmental psychology, (4) personality theory, and (5) learning. Other undergraduate courses that are helpful preparation for school psychology include tests and measurements, abnormal psychology, experimental psychology, counseling, educational psychology, social psychology and behavior modification.