Montana · Career guide
How to become a School Psychologist in Montana
School psychologists conduct psychoeducational evaluations, support IEP eligibility determinations, provide individual and group counseling, and coordinate multi-tiered systems of support. The role typically requires an Ed.S. (60-graduate-credit specialist degree) and is one of the most acute shortage areas in the country — districts routinely contract out psych services because they can't hire enough W-2 staff.
No school psychology positions are open in Montana right now — set up an alert and we'll notify you when new postings are scraped.
Certification path in Montana
- Earn a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution. Most candidates complete a teacher-preparation program either as part of their undergraduate studies or as a post-baccalaureate add-on.
- Pass the required exams. Montana typically requires:
- Praxis Subject Assessments (or approved content knowledge verification) — Content knowledge for your licensure area
School psychology requires an Ed.S. (60-credit specialist) or a related master's + internship + national certification (NCSP) recognized by most states.
- Apply for your initial license through Montana Office of Public Instruction. The packet typically includes official transcripts, exam scores, a background check, and (depending on the state) a recommendation from the teacher-prep program. Visit Montana Office of Public Instruction →
- Job-search in Montana. We'll track school psychology openings as districts post them; set up an alert to be notified immediately when new positions go live.
Alternative pathways in Montana
If you didn't follow the traditional university-route, Montana offers these alternate paths that may apply to your situation:
- Provisional License: For candidates who meet most requirements while completing outstanding requirements
- Substitute License to full license pathway
- Career and Technical Education authorization
- Tribal College-based preparation programs for reservation school teachers
Montana salary context
Average teacher salary in Montana: $50,890/year (rank #47 nationally). Entry-level pay with a bachelor's typically starts at $32,000/year.
Role-specific premiums vary by district — special education, STEM, and bilingual roles frequently command signing bonuses or stipends. See the full Montana salary guide for the breakdown.