spsycher

I've tried looking for two of the programs... The one that I am questioning about having nasp approval is new and doesnt have any graduates yet... I would be in their very first cohort

That is what scares me! But one of the other programs I have been accepted to just got NASP approval last year and has been around a while, I have to believe some graduates from there had graduated before approval and were able to get jobs, although I know it is a completely different school and situation. My state only requires the NCSP to work, and I can get the NCSP without going to a NASP approved program - just need a portfolio and extra paper work in addition to the regular requirements for grads of NASP approved programs. I am worried if what I get from classes will be adequate enough for the NCSP though. They seem to be following NASP standards and the program appeals to me because it is also providing students with the BCBA. The other two programs just don't seem to fit with me as well, but again, I don't want to waste time and money and not be employed!

I'm accepted to 3 Ed.S. programs for school psychology. My favorite one is BRAND NEW therefore will not be NASP approved until after I graduate. Has anyone else out there attended a non-nasp-approved program? If so, how did this effect finding a job for you? Advice? Should I even be considering this school?

I've been wait listed at my favorite school, I was told I was first on the list, but I'm not sure what this means for my chances of getting in? I have been accepted to 3 other programs and one isn't NASP approved because it is brand new and I would be in their very first cohort (I believe a program has to graduate a class before applying for NASP approval?). They told us once they received NASP approval, we would be "grandfathered" into it/could say we graduated from a NASP approved program. I like the program better than the other two, but am a little concerned about how organized it will be. I am also concerned about the NASP approval and how it will affect my chances of getting a job? (Ed.S. degree) Any thoughts? Or advice?

I would go for MSU, since your impression is that it is a better program. I know of some students there who have been able to find assistantships - you just have to find your own. Also, what debt you do incur is eligible for government loan forgiveness program, so after 10 years of payments (like $20/month) the remaining balance is forgiven. Although my take on BSU is that it is more behavioral as it does offer a BCBA option. I am not sure if MSU offers any additional certifications but that is something to take into account if you are interested in those options.