School & College Counseling

To Apply to the Counseling Program:

1. Download the MS Counseling Program Information for specific application procedures to guide you through the application process.  The Frequently Asked Questions sheet is also very helpful to prospective students when applying.

2.  Complete the University application at Cal State Apply before you complete the Program application. 

3.  Once you have completed your University application, then complete your Program application through https://www.csudh.edu/coe/apply  Click on the "Apply Now" button and select the Counseling program to begin. Be sure to download the Counseling Program Application Procedures to guide you through the process.

Please contact the Division of Graduate Education office for more information: (310) 243-3524.

Guiding students to success.

The Counseling and Pupil Personnel Services (PPS) graduate programs at CSUDH's College of Education prepare educators to work successfully with culturally and linguistically diverse learners in urban schools grade Pre-K through 12 as school counselors, as well as college counselors in community colleges and universities. Valued and hired by public school districts throughout greater Los Angeles, as well as private schools and institutions of higher education, our Counseling graduates are recognized for their professional standards, collaborative skills and commitment to educational equality for all learners.

Features of the Counseling and PPS programs include:

M.S. in Counseling with options in School and College Counseling

The Master of Science in Counseling program prepares students for careers in a variety of educational counseling settings.  Students can choose to specialize in School or College specializations and are able to concurrently pursue the Pupil Personnel Services (PPS) credential, which is required to work as a School Counselor in the public schools.

Our program is designed to provide students with a broad conceptual knowledge base in counseling, and training in specific counseling skills applicable to a diversity of populations and needs.  Our program stresses the importance of self-awareness, reflective examination, and intrapersonal and professional growth in order to provide a comprehensive preparation in educational counseling.

Specialized Credential in Pupil Personnel Services (PPS), School Counseling, Optional authorization in Child Welfare and Attendance (CWA)

Candidates completing the M.S. in Counseling (in either option) have the option to simultaneously earn a PPS Credential in School Counseling provided they have passed the CBEST. The PPS Credential program equips candidates with the knowledge and skills to promote the personal, social and academic development of multicultural and linguistically diverse pupils in public schools. Candidates completing the PPS Credential also have the option of earning an authorization in Child Welfare and Attendance (CWA). The CWA authorization prepares candidates with the specialized training to assist pupils with school attendance and truancy concerns.

Theory into Practice

Blending theory and practice, our Counseling courses include assignments and projects that integrate research, practice, reflective and experiential learning and field-based experience. Through field experiences in schools, colleges, and other community agencies, Counseling and PPS candidates have a range of opportunities to gain valuable firsthand experience with students in educational settings.

Evolving Curriculum

By continually assessing and evaluating the needs of local urban schools, the Counseling coursework and training remain relevant and connected to the current demands of school districts as well as the communities they serve. Candidates finish the program well prepared to anticipate and address emerging as well as existing challenges learners face in today's urban high-needs schools.

 Follow us on Instagram: @toro_counselors