GSOE Doctoral Field Experiences

The commitment to the scholar-practitioners model of education is very evident in the fieldwork element of all the programs in the Graduate School of Education at Alliant International University.

One of the most effective features of our education programs is that students engage in a practicum during their first semester. Whether they are enrolled in a teacher education, educational psychology or educational administration program, students learn by working onsite at a school. During this practicum, students are not just observing, but are working in a role like the one they are preparing for: as a teacher’s aide in the classroom, as a principal or as a school psychologist. Because this practicum takes place during the first semester of study, students have an opportunity to weight whether or not the career path they have chosen will truly meet their needs.

Field Experience Components for Various Degree Programs

Doctorate in Educational Psychology with an emphasis in School Psychology (PsyD)

This program includes two different internships. The first internship for this five-year program is completed during the student's third year of the credential program.

The second internship is optional. Students electing to complete this optional internship will have the necessary hours required for the optional license exam. The Board of Psychology requires 3000 hours (instead of 1500) supervised by a licensed psychologist. These hours are not related to the credential internship.

Advanced Standing Doctorate (PsyD)

This three-year program, which is designed for current School Psychologists does not require an internship. However, students have the option of completing the 3000 hours required by the Board of Psychology for licensure.

PPS Credential
This program requires the student to complete an internship in the third year of the program. This placement consists of a full-time internship, possibly paid, and the completion of 1200 clock hours supervised by a school psychologist. (Students who cannot complete 1200 hours of full-time placement may be able to arrange for a part-time option.)

Upon completion of this internship, students will apply to the State of California for the PPS credential as a School Psychologist.