May 31, 2026  
2026-2027 Graduate Catalog 
    
2026-2027 Graduate Catalog

Education Major, EdS (TPTE Department)


Return to {$returnto_text} Return to: College of Education, Health, and Human Sciences

School Psychology offers graded, sequential, and hierarchical training in research, assessment, consultation, and intervention. The program prepares professionals who work collaboratively with educators, administrators, parents, and children to promote learning and development in general education students and students with special needs. Students enrolled in this program will complete core coursework in school psychology, applied practica in local schools, and a 1-year internship. Prior to graduation, students must complete the PRAXIS exam in school psychology.

Concentrations (Required) and Options Available


  • Advanced Educational Studies (Thesis option or Project Option)
  • School Psychology (Coursework Only with Comprehensive Exams)

Campus Code


  • Knoxville Campus
  • Distance Education (Advanced Educational Studies only)

Admissions Standards/Procedures


Admission to the concentration is based on holistic review including GPA at all collegiate levels, a written statement of interest and goals, and professional references. Prior graduate work will be examined on a case-by-case basis to determine if it can be used to satisfy some course requirements for the EdS concentration.

Advanced Educational Studies Concentration


The Advanced Educational Studies concentration provides opportunities to deepen professional expertise, expand instructional impact, and engage in transformative approaches to teaching and learning. While this concentration does not lead to initial teacher licensure, it may support additional endorsements for licensed educators, depending on the student’s individualized program of study. This rigorous, research-informed program equips educators to integrate innovative instructional strategies, leverage data-driven decision-making, and apply advanced theories of learning and evidence-based practices to meet the evolving needs of learners and educational contexts. Graduates emerge as reflective practitioners and leaders who are prepared to shape instructional excellence, foster meaningful student outcomes, and drive positive changes in schools, districts, and the broader field of education.

Credit Hours Required


30 graduate credit hours

Required Courses


  • Core Area (6 credit hours)
    • Must include one course from two of the following areas: adult learning, assessment, cultural studies, educational technology, ESL, instructional pedagogy; or special education.
  • Concentration Specialty Area (12 credit hours) Based upon student’s background and career goals, students will consult with advisor to select appropriate courses.
  • Option Requirement
    • Thesis Option Students: TPTE 518 or ALEC 500 (Agricultural Education concentration only) (6 credit hours)
    • Project Option Students: TPTE 503 or ALEC 593 (Agricultural Education concentration only) (6 credit hours)
  • Related Studies (6 credit hours)
    • Must be related to focus of degree and approved by faculty committee

Additional Course Requirements


Non-Course Requirements


  • Thesis Option: The EdS thesis must be approved by the student’s committee prior to submission to the Graduate School for final approval and acceptance. The student must register for thesis credit hours (TPTE 518) during this time.
  • Project Option: The EdS project must be approved by the student’s committee.

School Psychology Concentration


School Psychology offers graded, sequential, and hierarchical training in research, assessment, consultation, and intervention. The program prepares professionals who work collaboratively with educators, administrators, parents, and children to promote learning and development in general education students and students with special needs. Students enrolled in this program will complete core coursework in school psychology, applied practica in local schools, and a 1-year internship. Prior to graduation, students must complete the PRAXIS exam in school psychology.

Credit Hours Required


60 graduate credit hours

Additional Course Requirements


  • To complete the Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) verified course sequence, students must complete SCHP 515 and SPED 501 as additional classes.

Non-Course Requirements


  • Students must pass the PRAXIS exam in school psychology.

Return to {$returnto_text} Return to: College of Education, Health, and Human Sciences