New Jersey · Career guide

How to become a School Psychologist in New Jersey

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.

See 81 school psychology jobs open in New Jersey →

Certification path in New Jersey

  1. 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.
  2. Pass the required exams. New Jersey typically requires:
    • Praxis Core Academic Skills (or qualifying SAT/GRE scores) — Basic reading, writing, and mathematics
    • Praxis Subject Assessments — Content knowledge for your certification area
    • edTPA — Performance assessment required for Standard Certificate

    School psychology requires an Ed.S. (60-credit specialist) or a related master's + internship + national certification (NCSP) recognized by most states.

  3. Apply for your initial license through New Jersey Department of Education. The packet typically includes official transcripts, exam scores, a background check, and (depending on the state) a recommendation from the teacher-prep program. Visit New Jersey Department of Education →
  4. Job-search in New Jersey.Browse current school psychology openings across New Jersey districts. Apply directly to each district's careers page — no platform fees.

Alternative pathways in New Jersey

If you didn't follow the traditional university-route, New Jersey offers these alternate paths that may apply to your situation:

  • Certificate of Eligibility (CE): For those with subject area bachelor's degrees not from a teaching program
  • Provisional Teacher of the Arts for visual and performing arts professionals
  • Teach For America (active in Newark and Camden)
  • Career and Technical Education endorsements

New Jersey salary context

Average teacher salary in New Jersey: $76,000/year (rank #7 nationally). Entry-level pay with a bachelor's typically starts at $47,500/year.

Role-specific premiums vary by district — special education, STEM, and bilingual roles frequently command signing bonuses or stipends. See the full New Jersey salary guide for the breakdown.

Full New Jersey certification guideAll license tiers, alt routes, and reciprocity from other states.New Jersey salary guidePay schedule, COL context, top-paying districts.New Jersey teacher shortageWhich subjects are in shortage status — and the loan-forgiveness eligibility.