Rural Iowa Grow Your Own School Psychologist Program
The University of Northern Iowa (UNI), in partnership with seven of Iowa’s AEAs, is offering a collaborative “grow your own” program that trains new school psychologists to increase access to mental health services in high-need, rural Iowa schools. Participants earn an Ed.S. in school psychology through UNI while continuing to work full-time. Upon graduation, students commit to serving as AEA school psychologists in rural areas, helping address critical local needs. Two pathways are available:
- Bachelor’s track: For educators with Bachelor's degrees currently working in schools (teachers, paraprofessionals, etc.); Ed.S. in 4 years
- Master’s track: For professionals with Master's degrees in education and related fields; Ed.S. in 3 years
Why It Matters
Iowa faces a critical shortage of school psychologists. While NASP recommends 1 psychologist per 500 students, current ratios in Iowa range from 1:1,657 to 1:7,857, limiting student access to mental health supports.
Program Benefits
Financial Support: The grant covers the cost of books each semester, travel costs for in-person classes/sessions, and 90% of tuition and fees.
Part-time: Ability to take classes part-time while working full-time.
Strong professional engagement: Join a cohort of up to 12 others taking the same sequence of courses in the program.
Service Commitment
Graduates commit to 3 years of service in their AEA after completion