PPSC in School Counseling Program Overview

The Pupil Personnel Services Credential in School Counseling with Child Welfare and Attendance authorization prepares you to become a school counselor, providing students the support and encouragement they need to pursue college and careers.

As a student, you will:

  • Support students with social and developmental needs.
  • Assist students with study and organizational skills.
  • Help pupils build problem solving and coping skills.
  • Provide career and higher education advisement.
Those without a master’s degree should consider UMass Global’s Master of Arts in Counseling with Pupil Personnel Services Credential integrated program.
CA Only

At a Glance

Online
18 Credits
Next Start Date
Fall I (Aug 25, 2025)

Career Outlook for PPS Credential in School Counseling

Results for:
Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim, CA
Median Salary2
Job openings (in the last 12 months)
Top Companies Hiring

Data source: Lightcast™ 2025 www.lightcast.io

The pathway information provided through this website is based partly on U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data licensed by the University of Massachusetts Global from Lightcast. While the University of Massachusetts Global believes this data to be reliable, some of the data is based on estimates made by Lightcast when actual data is unavailable. Those estimates and the corresponding data may need to be corrected.

  1. Change in employment projections 2022 - 2032
  2. Based on BLS Occupational Employment Statistics and updated quarterly
  3. The University of Massachusetts Global does not guarantee a job to graduates upon completion of any program

Courses You Might Take

CSPU 511

Introduction to the Ethical Practice of School Counseling

3 Credits
CSPU 616

Leadership and Systems Change

3 Credits
CSPU 617

Transition to Work and Career

3 Credits
CSPU 618

Best Practices in Counseling

3 Credits
EDUU 602

Positive Behavior Supports

3 Credits
CSPU 619

Practicum and Supervision in School Counseling

3 Credits

What it’s like going to UMass Global?

Instructor-Led, Session-Based

This program is delivered in an instructor-led format, with eight-week sessions and multiple start dates per year for flexibility. In each class, you'll focus on one topic at a time and can take a session off if needed—no penalty. Courses include online lectures, group discussions, and structured assignments with set deadlines. This format offers clear milestones and peer interaction, making it ideal for students who thrive in a structured learning environment.

Personalized Support Services

UMass Global meets you wherever you are in life, with dedicated support at every step. From enrollment coaching and financial aid to academic advising and career services, we're committed to your success. Access personalized guidance, flexible resources, and a supportive community, empowering you to achieve your educational goals, no matter your starting point.

Woman shaking hands with man

Employer-Aligned Curriculum

At UMass Global, our employer-aligned curriculum ensures that coursework is directly relevant to today’s workplace. Designed with input from industry experts and faculty who are also working professionals, our programs focus on practical, career-advancing skills. Using a “backwards course design,” we tailor coursework to meet current job market needs. Our diverse faculty provides real-world insights and mentorship, ensuring that the skills you learn are immediately applicable to your career or future career changes.

Instructor-Led, Session-Based

This program is delivered in an instructor-led format, with eight-week sessions and multiple start dates per year for flexibility. In each class, you'll focus on one topic at a time and can take a session off if needed—no penalty. Courses include online lectures, group discussions, and structured assignments with set deadlines. This format offers clear milestones and peer interaction, making it ideal for students who thrive in a structured learning environment.

Personalized Support Services

UMass Global meets you wherever you are in life, with dedicated support at every step. From enrollment coaching and financial aid to academic advising and career services, we're committed to your success. Access personalized guidance, flexible resources, and a supportive community, empowering you to achieve your educational goals, no matter your starting point.

Woman shaking hands with man

Employer-Aligned Curriculum

At UMass Global, our employer-aligned curriculum ensures that coursework is directly relevant to today’s workplace. Designed with input from industry experts and faculty who are also working professionals, our programs focus on practical, career-advancing skills. Using a “backwards course design,” we tailor coursework to meet current job market needs. Our diverse faculty provides real-world insights and mentorship, ensuring that the skills you learn are immediately applicable to your career or future career changes.

Our Faculty

Admission Requirements

Prospects

  • Indicate your intent to pursue to the PPSC-SSW credential on the application when applying to UMass Global’s MSW program.
  • Complete the state’s Basic Skills Requirement in order to be eligible for a credential recommendation.

Current Students

  • Declare your intent to pursue the PPSC-SSW credential by making an appointment and meeting with your academic advisor.
  • Apply to be recommended to the CTC by UMass Global after completing the required 3-5 credential courses.

California Residency

This program is only available to California residents.

Student Status

Admission to the PPSC-SSW program is restricted to UMass Global MSW students.

For a detailed list of admission requirements, check out the Academic Catalog PPSC-SSW page or contact UMass Global's School Social Work coordinator at schoolsw@umassglobal.edu.

WASC Senior College and University Commission

University of Massachusetts Global is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)

California Commission on Teaching Credentialing

University of Massachusetts Global's School of Education is accredited by the California Commission on Teaching Credentialing (CTC).

Calculate Time and Cost

Demo

Ways to Get Started

Testimonials

The counseling program prepared me for my surprise career in behavioral health by providing me with a strong background and practical experience in counseling techniques and a strong skill set in research and critical thinking—key in building a leadership career.

Robert P.
Professional Clinical Counseling, MA

My academic advisor was a great support system. He was my advisor throughout my program and he took the time to learn about me personally so we could make the best schedule to accommodate my life.

Steve L.
Education, Teaching and Learning, MAE

 

An Online Education
Built For You

Get More Information

I'm active-duty military or spouse
This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
aoi-cta-psychology.jpg

Want More Information About Psychology and Counseling?

Explore career opportunities in these helping professions and discover a path that fits your future.