The Ph.D. in School/Applied Child Psychology is the second degree in a combined M.A. and Ph.D. program with the M.A. (Thesis) in Educational Psychology's School/Applied Child Psychology concentration. Most students in the doctoral program completed their M.A. in the Educational Psychology program although students can apply for direct entry into the Ph.D. program with a master’s degree obtained at another institution. At both the M.A. and Ph.D. levels, students take a combination of theoretical, practical, and research-based courses throughout the course of their degree. Students will produce a thesis at both levels of study.
Extending upon the M.A. degree, the program's focus remains on the improvement of the educational and psychological well-being of children and to educate school psychologists in a manner consistent with the highest international standards in the field. Students explore a variety of topics including mental health, child development, school organization, learning processes, behaviour, motivation, and effective teaching. They are prepared to become inquiring professionals committed to the development of children and youth and receive intensive training of clinical practice with children and families, as well as basic and applied research.