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About the Program

When do classes meet? 
Graduate courses at CBU are designed to accommodate the busy schedules of working adults. Classes are typically offered on Mondays for first year students and Wednesdays for students in their secnd year.

How long does the program take? 
This program can be completed in 3 academic years or 8 semesters. Please contact the graduate program advisor at the Metcalf School of Education or attend an information session for more detailed program completion details. 

Can I work full time while enrolled in the program? 
Yes, during years 1 and 2. However, students will be required to complete fieldwork during their course of studies. Students are not able to work full time during year 3.   

Will I have to complete fieldwork to finish my degree? 
Yes, students in the program must complete a year-long (800 hours) internship in the field. 

Can I apply my previous work experience to the fieldwork requirement? 
At California Baptist University, all school counseling fieldwork experiences are meticulously designed to align with the specific program expectations outlined by the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing (CTC), and thus no previous experience can be applied towards these requirements. These experiences must be completed under the direct supervision of credentialed school counselors possessing a minimum of three years of professional experience.    

How do I find a site mentor for my fieldwork? 
CBU supervisors and students work together to find a suitable school site and mentor. CBU supervisors use their network to find placements aligning with student goals, while students are encouraged to utilize their connections and express preferences. Once a site and mentor are identified, the CBU supervisor provides ongoing oversight and support through regular consultations with the student, monitoring progress, and offering guidance. The CBU supervisor also communicates consistently with the site supervisor, ensuring alignment, facilitating feedback, and resolving issues. This sustained engagement ensures a productive and successful field experience. 

Application Process

What are the program's entry dates and application deadlines? 
The MS in School Counseling begins in the fall. Priority deadline is May 15 and the standard deadline is August 1. 

What is the GPA requirement? 

2.75 cumulative. Additional opportunities may be available for a student to overcome an unsatisfactory GPA.

What are the prerequisites for credential? 

The prerequisites to begin this program are:

  • PSY213 (General Psychology)
  • PSY346/PSY322 (Abnormal Psychology or Theories of Personality)
  • PSY320/EDU302 (Life Span Development or Growth, Development and Learning) 

PPS Credential

Do I need a credential to practice as a school counselor? 
Yes. School counselors must be certified and/or licensed by the state in which they work. 

How do I get the Pupil Personnel Services (PPS) Credential? 
Once you have completed the required coursework and fieldwork, you must contact the CBU credential analyst at (951) 343-4586 and request the credential application. Return the application along with the necessary documents and payment to the analyst who will apply for your credential (you may not apply directly to the California Commission on Teaching Credentialing). You must also be recommended by CBU for the credential. To follow up on the status of your credential, contact the CBU credential analyst at (951) 343-4586. 

Is completion of a Master of Science in School Counseling or School Psychology required in order to complete the Pupil Personnel Services (PPS) credential? 
No. Students who already possess a master's or doctoral degree in a related field (such as counseling, social work or psychology) from an accredited institution may be eligible for the PPS Credential, specifically in school psychology, without earning the MS and/or EdS degrees. Please get in touch with the School of Education for more information. 

How long does the PPS credential program take to complete? 
The PPS with a specialization in school counseling takes approximately three academic years to complete. Classes are designed for the working adult and are typically held one night a week. 

PPS Credential Only: For those seeking only the PPS Credential in school counseling and who hold a related advanced degree, the program can be completed in approximately two years (6 semesters).

What are the prerequisites for a credential? 
Students must have completed 12 units of undergraduate or graduate semester hours in general psychology, abnormal psychology or theories of personality, introductory statistics, and life span development or growth development and learning. Finally, applicants must provide a Certificate of Clearance.

Financial Aid

Is there financial assistance available specifically for education professionals?

Yes, a variety of financial assistance options are available for educators.