Wisconsin

In This Section

SEA Credential:
In order to be eligible for a license as a school psychologist, an applicant shall meet all of the following requirements:

  • Completion of an approved school psychology program that results in a doctor of philosophy, doctor of psychology, doctor of education, education specialist degree, or the equivalent, as determined by the institution and approved by the state superintendent.
  • Receive an institutional endorsement.
  • Meet the content knowledge requirement by completing at least one of the following:
    • 1. Having a cumulative grade point average of not less than 3.0 on a 4.0 scale for courses in the subject area or position.
    • 2. Having a passing score on a standardized test approved by the state superintendent.
    • 3. Completing a content-based portfolio designed by the educator preparation program.

The following categories exist for state licensing:

Tier I: Renewable license granted to applicants who have completed their school psychology coursework resulting in at least a Master's Degree, but have yet to complete their internship.
Tier II: Provisional License: A renewable license that remains valid for 3 years. Applicants who already meet the general requirements listed above may apply for a Tier II license.
Tier III: Lifetime License: Once a school psychologist has completed 6 successful semesters in an educational setting under a Tier II license, they may apply for a lifetime license. This license remains valid unless the educator has not been employed by a school district for 5 consecutive years or if the educator submits an unsatisfactory background check. Background checks are conducted once every 5 years. 

Continuing Education Requirements:
None

Scope of Practice:
The SEA credential allows for practice in public schools and pre-K and early childhood settings. School psychologists may also provide contracted services in schools. WDPI also defines school psychology and a school psychology evaluation tool based on the NASP Practice Model. School psychologists also are included in the Pupil Service Standards. One must apply through the Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services in order to practice outside of schools. Wisconsin offers a designation titled "private practice school psychologist" that requires completion of at least a specialist's degree in school psychology, an internship, an SEA credential, and a written exam.

SEA website: http://dpi.wi.gov/

SEA Consultants/Contacts:
Tim Peerenboom
School Psychology Consultant
Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction
timothy.peerenboom@dpi.wi.gov
(608) 266-1999; (800) 441-4563

SEA documents, regulations, or standards: Wisconsin Administrative Code, Chapter PI 34
https://docs.legis.wisconsin.gov/code/admin_code/pi/34

https://dpi.wi.gov/sites/default/files/imce/tepdl/pdf/lpg_ps_61_62.pdf 

Evaluation rubric for school psychologists: http://dpi.wi.gov/sites/default/files/imce/sspw/pdf/psschoolpsychrubric.pdf

Psychology board website: https://dsps.wi.gov/Pages/Professions/Psychologist/Default.aspx