Minnesota State University will add a third doctoral program this fall: the doctor of psychology degree in school psychology.

The Psy.D. program will prepare candidates for certification to practice as school psychologists or for other doctoral-level careers such as university teaching.

MSU became Minnesota’s first state university with doctoral students in 2007, when candidates enrolled for the doctor of nursing practice degree and the doctor of education counselor degree in education and supervision. Those candidates enter the second year of their programs this fall.

“School psychology is one of the top 10 professions in America in terms of future growth and demand,” Anne Blackhurst, dean of the College of Graduate Studies and Research, said in a university-issued statement. “The addition of the Psy.D. program enhances Minnesota State Mankato’s ability to meet regional and national workforce needs.”