Pupil Personnel Credential: School Counseling Specialization

Credential Requirements (90 units)

The Pupil Personnel Credential (School Counseling Specialization) is offered through the School Counseling, and Marriage, Family Therapy program. This credential is required for work as a counselor in the public schools, and is approved by the California Commission of Teacher Credentialing (CTC). The commission sets the standards and competencies for the state, and Cal State East Bay’s program is designed to incorporate all knowledge, skills and practical experiences required to meet those expectations ³.

The School Counseling Credential program is a two-year course of study that reflects an integration of local program needs, the campus mission, and the direction provided by the National Standards and National Model of the American School Counselor Association (ASCA) and the National Career Development Guidelines (NOICC). The program is designed to train competent practitioners who are prepared to be leaders in building comprehensive, results-based school counseling programs that serve the needs of all pupils. The program provides training in mental health services using an integrated model designed to serve marriage and family therapists, school counseling and school psychology students. The school counseling students, however, will receive additional training and experience to prepare them to effectively perform the functions of a school counselor. The School Counseling Credential program includes specific training in guidance program models, guidance program development/implementation, and in the comprehensive and developmental school guidance curricula for academic, career, and personal/social development. Students also learn team building, management, and accountability for a comprehensive guidance program.

The M.S. in Counseling (or an acceptable equivalent) is required.