School Psychology - Master

In response to the growing need for trained professionals in school psychology in Algeria—particularly given the systemic challenges confronting the national education system—Hassiba Ben Bouali University in Chlef has established a Master’s program specializing in School Psychology. This program evolved from the former Master’s in Educational Psychology and offers a more focused curriculum addressing learning difficulties and student-related challenges within school environments. Its primary objective is to train competent professionals equipped for diagnostic work, intervention, and scientific research in this essential field

Admission Requirements

Applicants must hold a Bachelor’s degree (LMD system) in one of the following disciplines

School Psychology

Educational Psychology

Special Education

 Counseling and Guidance

Social Psychology

Clinical Psychology

Work and Organizational Psychology

Candidates must also fulfill the academic and administrative prerequisites set for this level of graduate study

Program Objectives

The Master’s program in School Psychology is designed to achieve the following goals

  Advanced Theoretical Training : Provide students with comprehensive theoretical and practical knowledge related to learning difficulties, academic guidance, and strategies to enhance school performance, grounded in contemporary theories and methodologies

Diagnostic and Intervention Skills: Equip students with the competencies required to identify and classify learning and school-related disorders, and to design and implement appropriate intervention strategies. Training includes the use of psychological assessment tools such as standardized tests, clinical interviews, and case study analysis

·        Research Skills Development: Prepare students for academic and applied research in school psychology by offering rigorous training in research methodology, study design, and implementation

Professional Competencies: Train students to operate effectively within educational institutions and specialized centers, and to collaborate with multidisciplinary teams in both academic and applied settings

Acquired Competencies

Graduates of the program will be equipped with the following competencies

Academic Research: Conduct high-quality, methodologically sound research in the field of school psychology

Collaborative Work: Actively contribute to research groups or laboratories specializing in educational and psychological studies

University-Level Teaching: Acquire the foundational knowledge necessary to pursue doctoral studies and eventually take on teaching roles in higher education

Student Supervision: Guide undergraduate students in conducting research projects and academic inquiries

Field Experience: Develop practical experience through internships in schools and other educational settings

Career Opportunities: Graduates may pursue careers in a variety of sectors, including

 Ministry of National Education: Positions as school psychologists, academic advisors, or specialists in school and vocational guidance

Ministry of Higher Education: Roles in academia as researchers or assistant lecturers at universities and research institutions

Ministry of National Solidarity: Work in centers serving children with special educational needs or psychosocial challenges

Private Sector: Employment in psychological clinics, educational support centers, or NGOs focused on child development and education

Program Structure : The Master’s program spans two academic years (four semesters) and includes core, methodological, exploratory, and interdisciplinary courses. Core courses emphasize key aspects of school psychology, while methodological courses focus on research techniques and diagnostic tools. Exploratory courses offer students insights into complementary disciplines