School Counseling

MASTER OF Science

The school counseling program equips professionals with the skills, knowledge and experience to become effective advocates, collaborators and leaders committed to helping today’s diverse students and schools succeed. Candidates are equipped to offer counseling services, support students and communicate effectively with families and school personnel.

2.5

Years

$756 + fees

Cost Per Unit *
View Additional Cost of Attendance (COA)
and Fees.

48

Why earn your M.S. in School Counseling at CBU?

Blend theory and practical experience
CBU’s M.S. in School Counseling prepares graduates to plan, implement and evaluate students’ academic, career, personal and social development. In addition, our graduates are trained to provide consultation and training to teachers and parents in order to meet students’ unique needs. In addition to learning foundational concepts, our program incorporates hands-on experiences starting in the first semester. The blend of theory and practical experience provides a model for success in the student’s internship and career as a school counselor.

Learn with a cohort
This program is made up of a small cohort of students that progress though the program together. The cohort model creates an environment where cooperative learning is cultivated with relationships that are essential for vocational networking.

Prepare to pass the School Counselor Exam
CBU's Pupil Personnel Services (PPS) Credential in School Counseling prepares students to take the standardized School Counselor Examination (ETS/PRAXIS II) and it prepares students to advance in a career as a school counselor in a public school or other educational setting. Graduates of the program earn their Master of Science and PPS Credential simultaneously.

The Pupil Personnel Services credential programs (school psychology and school counseling) offered by CBU’s Dr. Bonnie G. Metcalf School of Education are approved by the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing (CTC).

Developing Culturally Competent Practice

PPS 521

This course will prepare school counselors and school psychologists with the knowledge, perspectives, and skills needed for effective practice in America’s increasingly diverse schools.

School Counseling Leadership and Advocacy

PPS 528

In this course, students will analyze the shifting role of K-12 school counselors as school leaders and learn how to effectively advocate for their programs.

Crisis Response, Behavior Intervention and Management

PPS 533

This course will focus on the basic aspects of effective crisis response within the educational setting.

Student Learning Outcomes

SLO 1: Students will be able to identify and articulate components that make up a 21st century comprehensive school counseling program.
SLO 2: PPS candidates have an awareness of cultural factors that impact student development, behavioral functioning and home interactions. PPS candidates understand the implications of diversity upon the design and administration of assessments and interventions.
SLO 3: PPS candidates help students, parents, and teachers effectively access technology, as well as how to enhance learning with appropriate technologies. PPS candidates use technology and database in evidence based practice, decision making, program evaluation, assessment and progress monitoring.
SLO 4: PPS candidates support policy development that creates safe and effective learning environments. Candidates use their knowledge of ethical considerations related to assessment, counseling, professional activity, and personal conduct to drive their professional practice.
SLO 5: PPS candidates determine how best to collect data, interpret the results, communicate the data to a diverse audience, and use the data effectively to design instructional interventions. Candidates are able to use standardized measures as well as alternative assessment methods to collect student data necessary to develop appropriate behavioral and academic interventions. Candidates are skilled in communication the results of assessment to many types of audiences, including teachers, parents, IEP teams, community agencies and administrators.

FAQs

1. What are the program's entry dates and application deadline?
The M.S. in School Counseling with a PPS Credential is typically offered as a cohort-based model. The cohort model requires a minimum of 10 students to begin and allows students to progress through the program in a cohesive manner, which encourages relationship and competence. The program begins in the fall as cohorts form. Information on the application requirements and deadlines can be found here.

2. How long does the program take?
This program can be completed in 2.5 years by taking 7 units in each of the spring, summer and fall terms. Please contact the graduate program advisor at the Metcalf School of Education or attend a Graduate Program Information Session for more detailed program completion details.

3. Can I work full time while enrolled in the program?
Yes. However, students will be required to complete fieldwork during their course of studies.

Take the next step toward living your purpose

As you make decisions about graduate school, keep in mind the full social, spiritual and educational experience awaiting you at CBU. Here, you will be supported by professors, staff and fellow students who will help you discover your strengths and challenge you to do more than you ever thought you could. Let us equip you with the education, training and opportunities you'll need to start making a unique difference doing what you love.