Pupil Personnel Services Credential
The Pupil Personnel Services (PPS) credential program at USD is a graduate program designed for students wishing to serve as school counselors in K-12 settings in California public schools. Students meet the California requirements for the PPS credential as part of their requirements for the Master of Arts degree in School Counseling.
For more information, consult the PPS and PAS Credential Handbook.
Requirements:
Basic Educational Skills Test
The California Basic Educational Skills Test (CBEST) is required before admission to a credential program. The test consists of 3 parts including reading, writing and mathematics. For information on registration, the tests, test dates, passing scores and to view a sample test visit the exam web site. There is a fee to take the CBEST.
Transcripts
Submit original transfer transcripts to the Credential Analyst.
Certificate of Clearance
A livescan fingerprint clearance and background check through the CTC is required upon admission to the credential program. Forms and information are available from the Credential Analyst. Follow the instructions and submit the completed forms to the Credential Analyst. If one already holds a California credential, such as an emergency or sub permit, submit a copy to the Credential Analyst. Note that additional fingerprinting and fees may be required by the employing district when hired. The certificate of clearance must be posted on the CTC web site prior to admission to fieldwork.
Professional Education Program
Information on School Counseling coursework, practicums and fieldwork is available on the School Counseling web site.
Credential Application
Obtain the credential application from Credential Analyst during the final semester of credential coursework. When all credential requirements including fieldwork have been completed and final grades have been posted to the USD transcript the application is approved by the Counseling Program Director. The Credential Analyst then submits the credential recommendation on-line to the CCTC. The candidate then receives an e-mail from the CCTC asking for payment of the credential fee by credit card. When that process is completed the CCTC sends the candidate e-mail verification of the credential to print out and show to employers.
