B.S. Psychology emphasis in School Guidance
Bachelor of Science in Psychology, emphasis in School Guidance
The School Guidance emphasis will prepare candidates in both psychology and elementary education, in preparation for work in an elementary school as a teacher and ultimately a school counselor.
The degree meets the education requirements for the Texas Education Agency education preparation programs and additionally provides a background in psychology.
Please note that the State of Texas requires candidates who desire a certificate in school counseling to have two years of successful teaching and be in possession of a valid teaching certificate issued by the State of Texas. A master's degree in School Guidance/School Counseling is also required to become a licensed school counselor.
The degree prepares candidates for the State of Texas teacher certification exams. Three exams are required for State of Texas certification, 1. Pedagogy and Professional Responsibilities, 2. Core Subjects EC. - 6, and 3. Science of Teaching Reading.
The candidate is responsible for initiating the application process, all forms and additional information are available in the Education & Psychology Department.
Admission to the program includes:
- Application to the Educator Preparation Program (after completing 60 credit hours)
- Statement of purpose - one-page typed essay describing reasons for desiring a profession in the teaching field
- Two letters of recommendation from individuals other than relatives.
- All potential candidates will have an interview with the Education/Psychology Department before being fully accepted into the School Guidance emphasis. See Technical Standards in Pre-Service Teacher Candidate Handbook.
- Some candidates will need to take the THEA exam and meet a minimum score of 260 in reading, 230 in math, and 220 in writing. Passing standards are subject to change, as the State Board of Education changes minimum standards. Note: You are exempt from the THEA if you earn a score of 550 in both areas or better in the areas of Math and Verbal on your SAT or if your ACT score had a composite of 21 with at least a 19 in Math and Language.
- Candidates must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher
- Before acceptance, all students must submit to, pay for, and pass a criminal background check
Degree Plan
After the candidate has been admitted to this program, they should develop a degree plan with their advisor.
Retention in this Program
To be retained in this program, students must:
- Maintain a cumulative 3.00 grade point average in all coursework.
- Give evidence of satisfactory professional growth.
- Show promising development in field experiences.
- Demonstrate behavior that is ethically and morally responsible.