School Psychology Credential in California Overview
When it comes to education, it really does take a village. Your students each face unique challenges and benefit from personalized attention from a variety of caring professionals. With understaffed schools and overwhelmed teachers, school psychologists are needed more than ever. In the pupil personnel services (PPS) credential in school psychology, you’ll fill a vital role in acting as guiding light for those you serve throughout their school years, and the difference you make will be lasting.
With this program, you’ll learn from professors who’ve been leaders in online education, and as we move forward in the digital world, your skills in performing virtual psychoeducational assessments will become more valuable than ever before. Faculty in the program are made up of working professionals, eager to share their real-world experiences, challenges, and successes in the field, and all committed to social justice, diversity, and giving back to their communities.
Program Highlights
CTC-Approved Curriculum
Our program is approved by the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing (CTC), one of the highest standards in the country and the world.
Hands-on Faculty
Faculty are professionals working in the field, with lived experience, and small class sizes ensure you get focused and individualized attention.
Strong Partnerships
Our strong relationships in the education community provide opportunities for you to network, build relationships, and create prospects.
Admissions
Learn About Admissions Requirements
Faculty
Get to Know Our Diverse Faculty
Pupil Personnel Services Credential Information
Links and Downloads
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of job can I expect to get with this certification?
Graduates of the PPS credential in school psychology degree program will be prepared to pursue a career as a school psychologist or educational psychologist at the elementary-, middle-, or high-school level. As a student with a successful completion of this graduate program, you may also pursue a career as a psychologist that specializes in educationally related mental health support or behavioral support.
What scholarship and financial aid options are available to me?
Private and public scholarships can help you meet the cost of your education, and Alliant offers institutional scholarships for many of our students. Learn more about these scholarship opportunities here. Additional financial aid is available for those who qualify in the form of loans, grants, federal work study, and military aid. Learn more in our Financial Options Guide.
When does the PPS in School Psychology Credential program start?
The program starts in January and August and is open for enrollment during each of those respective enrollment periods. You can find a copy of our academic calendar here.
I already have a master’s degree; can I just complete the PPS credential?
You may qualify for the PPS-only option if you already hold a master’s degree in a related field (counseling, MFT, counseling psychology, special education, etc.). We ask you to fill out a transfer credit evaluation form and submit a copy of your master's degree transcripts to determine if you qualify.
Can I work full-time and complete the program?
Since some practicum hours are required during the program, it is recommended that students limit work to no more than 35 hours per week. Scheduling flexibility is also recommended so that students may complete some of their required practicum hours during typical K-12 school hours.
How long does it take to complete the online school psychologist credential program?
The PPS Credential in School Psychology degree is a 60-credit program and takes a minimum of three years to complete, over 13 terms.
What is the modality of this program?
All coursework for the program can be completed online. The residency is a one-day weekend meeting, held online or on-campus, during each of the individual and group counseling courses. For the credential degree, additional two two-day weekend meetings, online or on-campus, during each of the three assessment courses are required. The residencies are held on the Northern California and Southern California campuses.
"This is a profession in which you can really change the hearts and minds of many and make a difference. There are many opportunities to be able to transform systems and provide support in more ways that increase your impact in the lives of your students."
Why Alliant
At Alliant, our mission is to prepare students for professional careers of service and leadership and to promote the discovery and application of knowledge to improve lives. We offer an education that is accredited, focused on practical knowledge and skills, connected with diverse faculty and alumni, and aimed at the student experience.
Why CSOE
CSOE offers a variety of degrees, certificates, and credentials in education that prepare you to make a lasting difference through teaching, counseling, leadership, advocacy, administration, management, and community work. Whether you’re looking for an online degree program or an in-person learning experience for your higher education, we are here to guide you every step of the way.