With Pupil Personnel Services Credential

The Master of Science  in School Psychology with Pupil Personnel Services (PPS) Credential program prepares ethical, culturally responsive school psychologists who advocate for equitable, safe, and diverse PK–12 learning environments where all children can thrive. The program equips graduates to utilize expertise in mental health, psychoeducational assessment, behavior intervention, and learning to partner with school administrators, teachers, and families to enrich the academic, social, and emotional lives of children.

School Psychology Curriculum

The Master of Science in School Psychology curriculum is designed to train students to apply the consultation skills, psychological practices, leadership skills, and collaborative practices required to meet the comprehensive needs of the increasingly diverse populations of children, families, schools, and communities they serve. In total, the master’s degree program consists of 64 units and can be completed in three years. To provide convenience and flexibility, the Master of Science in School Psychology program is available at two of our locations: La Verne and Bakersfield.

The MS in School Psychology program is accredited by the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing.

Pupil Personnel Services Credential

In order to earn the Pupil Personnel Services (PPS) Credential, students must complete 64 units of coursework, 450 hours of practicum, and 1,200 hours of fieldwork in educational settings. They also must pass the National Association of School Psychologists (NASP) Praxis exam. A Pupil Personnel Services Credential qualifies individuals to work as professional school psychologists in educational settings with students from preschool to grade 12 in the state of California.

School Psychology Internships

Two levels of supervised field work are required for the Master of Science in School Psychology program. This requirement is typically fulfilled through internships.

Master’s students may qualify for the School Psychology Internship Credential if they:

• have passed the CBEST;
• have a Certificate of Clearance;
• have successfully completed the following courses:
  • ASCD 503 and 550, SPSY 502, 535, 547, 549, 560, 564, 567, 571, 572, 573, 574, 577, 578, 579, 586A-I, 586A-II, 587 B-III, 587 B-IV, and a 3-unit elective with a minimum 3.0 GPA; and
• have received district certified letter of intent to hire.

Careers in School Psychology

Because of an increasing awareness of the connection between mental health and learning, employment for school psychologists continues to grow. Graduates of the master’s in school psychology program are able to utilize their training to improve academic achievement, support diverse learners, and promote positive behavior and mental health in educational settings; work with school administrators to improve school-wide practices and policies; consult with teachers, families, and other school-employed mental health personnel to improve support strategies; and employ interventions to manage student and classroom behavior.