California has more than 5.8 million students across 1,019 districts. Los Angeles Unified School District is the largest district in California, and the second largest in the United States. During the 2024-25 school year, 557,000 students attended LAUSD. Farther north, the San Francisco Unified School District serves more than 50,000 students.
According to Indeed.com, the average school counselor salary in California is $133,063, though the salary ranges from $81,305 to $217,769. Counselors may work in urban districts, like Los Angeles or San Francisco, or one of the rural districts that make up 35% of the state’s school districts.
BECOMING A SCHOOL COUNSELOR IN CALIFORNIA
So you want to be a school counselor in California? As you begin your journey toward this noble profession, here are a few steps you’ll need to take in order to practice as a school counselor in the pre-K through 12th grade public school system in California.
The California Association of School Counselors oversees licensure and certification. In addition to a Master’s in school counseling, counselors must also earn a Pupil Personnel Services (PPS) credential. Programs that provide the PPS credential are a minimum of 48 semester hours; most programs consist of 60 or more credit hours. All accredited programs include the PPS within the coursework for a school counseling degree.
In addition to earning a degree and credential, to become a school counselor, you must:
- Pass the California Basic Education Skills Test (CBEST),
- Complete the fingerprint process,
- Complete a practicum with school-aged children, which may or may not be included in the graduate coursework, and
- Be recommended for a PPS credential by your university.
In California, 31 institutions offer a graduate degree in school counseling and the PPS credential. Keep reading to learn more about the programs available and to find the best fit for you.
Masters Programs In California To Become A School Counselor
There are 23 universities that provide graduate coursework in school counseling, the PPS credential, and fieldwork experiences on campus. These schools provide on-campus coursework, and the opportunity to work with faculty and with local districts and schools. Most programs require two to three years to complete.
California Baptist University
- Riverside, CA
- 2.5 years
- In-Person
Program:
M.S. in School Counseling
City: Riverside, CA
Modality: In person
Length: 48 credit hours, 2.5 years to complete
Tuition: $785 per credit hour
Program Overview:
The M.S. in school counseling prepares graduates to work in schools, supporting students with their academic, career, and social development and needs. Students progress through the program with a cohort. Students complete coursework, and 100 hours of introductory fieldwork and 800 hours of an internship.
California Lutheran University
- Thousand Oaks & Oxnard, CA
- 3 years
- In-Person
Program:
M.S. in School Counseling
City: Thousand Oaks and Oxnard, CA
Modality: In person
Length: 3 years
Tuition: $865 per credit hour
Program Overview:
The M.S. in school counseling uses a cohort model. Courses meet once per week in the evenings. Courses can be completed at the Thousand Oaks or Oxnard campus. Students complete coursework on the theory and tools used by school counselors and provide opportunities for on-site internships in schools that allow for immediate application. The university also uses a cultural proficiency model that recognizes how each individual’s identity and background inform their approach to counseling.
California State University, Bakersfield
- Bakersfield, CA
- 2.5 years
- In-Person
Program:
Master of Science in Counseling, emphasis in school counseling
City: Bakersfield, CA
Modality: In person
Length: 52 credit hours, 2.5 years
Tuition: In-state tuition is $3,804 for 6.1 or more credits a semester, not including fees
Program Overview:
The M.S. in Counseling with an emphasis on school counseling prepares practitioners to work in K-12 school settings. Courses are held in the evenings at the Bakersfield campus. In addition to coursework, students complete an 800-hour fieldwork experience with a focus on practical application.
California State University, Channel Islands
- Camarillo, CA
- In-Person
Program:
Master of Science in School Counseling
City: Camarillo, CA
Modality: In person
Length: Not listed
Tuition: $3,804 for 12 credit hours
Program Overview:
The M.S. in school counseling prepares candidates to work in K-12 schools. California State University-Channel Islands admits students in cohorts, and they move through the program together.
California State University, Dominguez Hills
- Carson, CA
- In-Person
Program:
Master of Science in Counseling, School Counseling option
City: Carson, CA
Modality: In person
Length: Not listed
Tuition: $8,973 full-time (9 month) tuition, not including fees
Program Overview:
The M.S. in counseling program prepares candidates for counseling in diverse educational settings. The program focuses on cultural humility and the importance of reflective examination and interpersonal and professional growth. The program offers the PPS credential, and Child Welfare and Attendance authorization. And, the program is committed to responsive practice adn grounded scholarship to provide training that is connected with the current needs in schools.
California State University, East Bay
- Hayward, CA
- 2 years
- Hybrid
Program:
Master of Science in Counseling
City: Hayward, CA
Modality: Hybrid
Length: 2 years
Tuition: $9,680 including tuition and fees
Program Overview:
The M.S. in counseling prepares practitioners to work in K-12 schools. The mission of the program is to prepare school counselors who promote diversity and inclusion, advocate for the social-emotional, and mental health, and are collaborative and life-long learners. Students enter and progress in a cohort model. The courses are a combination of afternoon and evening classes using a hybrid model.
California State University, Fresno
- Fresno, CA
- 48 units
- In-Person
Program:
Master of Science in counseling, option school counseling
City: In-Person
Modality: In person
Length: 48 units
Tuition: $2,208 not including fees
Program Overview:
The M.S. in counseling with an option in school counseling prepares school counselors and includes the PPS Credential. Students take coursework in theory and practice and complete a culminating project.
California State University, Long Beach
- Long Beach, CA
- 60-66 hours
Program:
Master of Science in School Counseling and California Pupil Personnel Services credential
City: Long Beach, CA
Modality: Not specified
Length: 60-66 credit hours
Tuition: $21,266 for the entire program
Program Overview:
Students pursuing a M.S. in School Counseling enroll in courses that take place afternoons or weeknights. The Practicum and Fieldwork must be completed independently, during the school day. Students complete a Pupil Personnel Services credential alongside the M.S.
California State University, Los Angeles
- Los Angeles, CA
- 73-77 hours
- In-Person
Program:
Master of Science in Counseling, school-based family counseling
City: Los Angeles, CA
Modality: In person
Length: 73-77 credit hours
Tuition: $4,200 per semester, not including fees
Program Overview:
The M.S. in school-based family counseling provides comprehensive training in family therapy with an emphasis on social justice. The program includes the coursework necessary to obtain the PPS Credential. Authorization in Child Welfare and Attendance, Licensed Marriage and Family credential, and Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor credential. Graduates are prepared to work in school and mental health settings.
California State University, Northridge
- Northridge, CA
- 69-72 units
- In-Person
Program:
Master of Science in counseling, school counseling option
City: Northridge, CA
Modality: In person
Length: 69-72 units
Tuition: $3,580 per semester for 6.1 or more units
Program Overview:
Students complete a common core of 51 credit units, which include a focus on mental health and clinical and school counseling, and 18-21 credits in their option area. The school counseling program is driven by a focus on developing counselors who can provide results-based, comprehensive school counseling programs that promote equity and academic achievement. Clinical fieldwork is embedded in the program.
California State University, San Bernardino
- San Bernardino
- 63-66 hours
- In-Person
Program:
Master of Science in Counseling, School Counseling concentration
City: San Bernardino
Modality: In person
Length: 63-66 credit hours
Tuition: $3,804 for in-state residents, 6.1 or more credit hours
Program Overview:
Students in the M.S. in counseling in the school counseling concentration take courses that prepare them to be a counselor in K-12 settings and engage in hands-on placement experiences. Students complete 800 hours of experience at two placements. Students complete the program in three years, taking courses on weekday evenings.
Chapman University
- Orange, CA
- 51 units
- In-Person
Program:
Master of Arts in Counseling
City: Orange, CA
Modality: In person
Length: 51 units
Tuition: $2,075 per credit, not including fees
Program Overview:
The M.A. in Counseling at Chapman University can be completed in 2 to 3 years. Students are enrolled in cohorts and progress through the program together. Students complete 200 practicum hours and 800 internship hours. Chapman University also offers a small teacher to student ratio, and study abroad options.
La Tierra University
- Riverside, CA
- 73 hours
- In-Person
Program:
Master of Arts in Counseling
City: Riverside, CA
Modality: In person
Length: 73 hours
Tuition: $730 per unit, not including fees
Program Overview:
The M.A. in counseling includes three years of experience, the first two involve completing the coursework and the third spent completing fieldwork in schools.
Sacramento State University
- Sacramento, CA
- 60 hours
- In-Person
Program:
Master of Science in Counseling degree and California Pupil Personnel Services credential
City: Sacramento, CA
Modality: In person
Length: 60 credit hours
Tuition: $3,804 per credit hour, not including fees
Program Overview:
The M.S. in Counseling prepares candidates to work in schools, universities, or private practice. The Pupil Personnel Services credential prepares students to work within the school system. The program is focused on practical experience with a 100-hour clinical practicum and 600 hours of field experience. Students complete the program in three years and are enrolled in a cohort to move through the course sequence. Students are encouraged to engage in research and presentations at the state, regional, and national level.
San Diego State University
- San Diego, CA
- 60 hours
- In-Person
Program:
Master of Science in School Counseling degree and California Pupil Personnel Services credential
City: San Diego, CA
Modality: In person
Length: 60 credit hours
Tuition: $2,208 basic graduate tuition; not including fees
Program Overview:
The SDSU School Counseling program prepares school counselors to be change agents, leaders, and advocates. The program involves two years of full-time graduate study. Students must attend classes onsite in schools; first-year students have class in schools one day per week and second-year students have class two full days per week.
San Francisco State University
- San Francisco, CA
- 60 hours
- In-Person
Program:
Master of Science in School Counseling degree and California Pupil Personnel Services credential
City: San Francisco, CA
Modality: In person
Length: 60 credit hours
Tuition: $9,870 per year, not including fees
Program Overview:
The M.S. in school counseling focuses on preventative and intervention strategies to promote wellness and supportive learning environments. Students complete coursework that builds on core counseling skills. Students can complete the coursework in a two or three-year sequence. Practical experience involves supervised practice across two K-12 school placements.
San Jose State University
- San Jose, CA
- 63-66 hours
- In-Person
Program:
Master of Arts in Counseling and Guidance
City: San Jose, CA
Modality: In person
Length: 63-66 credit hours
Tuition: $9,934 for 6.1 or more credit hours, not including fees
Program Overview:
The M.A. in counseling with Pupil Personnel Services credential prepares students to apply evidence-based counseling practices to support students in K-12 schools. Students complete the coursework and a research proposal and thesis. The university also offers short-term opportunities to study abroad during the program.
St. Mary’s University
- Moraga, CA
- 60 credits
- In-Person
Program:
Masters of Arts in School Counseling
City: Moraga, CA
Modality: In person
Length: 60 credits
Tuition: $1,165 per unit cost, not including fees
Program Overview:
M.A. students complete 40 core credit hours of coursework and 20 additional credit hours in school counseling. Students learn the academic, career, and social/emotional development of K-12 students and how to support students in the school setting.
Stanislaus State University
- Turlock, CA
- 58 hours
- In-Person
Program:
Master of Science in Counseling
City: Turlock, CA
Modality: In person
Length: 58 credit hours
Tuition: $8,064 tuition for in-state residents, not including fees
Program Overview:
The M.S. in Counseling can be completed in 2-3 years, and includes coursework and field experience. Students can choose the M.S. in Counseling PPS Credential or the PPS Credential and the Professional Clinical Counselor concentration, which prepares students for the ability to work in agencies, clinics, and medical settings in addition to schools. The PCC concentration is a hybrid program that requires an additional 80 hours of field experience. The PPS concentration requires 200 hours and the combined concentration requires 280 hours of field experience.
University of La Verne
- La Verne, CA
- 55-71 hours
- In-Person + Campus
Program:
Master of Science in Educational Counseling
City: La Verne, CA
Modality: In person, at various campus sites
Length: 55-71 credit hours
Tuition: $820 per credit hour, not including fees
Program Overview:
The M.S. in Educational Counseling program prepares school counselors who can be leaders and advocates in schools using a holistic approach to supporting the learning environment. The M.S. program is provided at several campus locations, including La Verne, Bakersfield, Burbank, Irvine, and Santa Clarita. Classes are held weekends and evenings to accommodate working students. Students complete the coursework in 2 to 3.5 years depending on whether or not the student completes a concentration. The options for concentrations include: Spanish Bilingual Bicultural Counseling, School and Family Based Counseling, and Social Justice Higher Education.
University of Redlands
- Redlands, CA
- 48 hours
- In-Person
Program:
Master of Arts in Education: School Counseling
City: Redlands, CA
Modality: In person
Length: 48 credit hours
Tuition: $905 per credit hour, not including fees
Program Overview:
The M.A. in Education trains school counselors to become empathetic advocates for students and work within a social justice frame. Students complete coursework and 600 to 800 fieldwork hours.
University of San Diego
- San Diego, CA
- 60 hours
- In-Person
Program:
Master of Science in School Counseling degree and California Pupil Personnel Services credential
City: San Diego, CA
Modality: In person
Length: 60 credit hours
Tuition: $1,700 per credit hour, not including fees
Program Overview:
The M.S. in school counseling has two pathways: one in school counseling and one in school based clinical counseling. Both include the California Pupil Personnel Services credential. The school counseling program supports leaders that can work in school environments, and with students who have culturally sensitive or specific needs, such as refugees or those in foster care. Students engage in 800 clinical hours to apply what they learn to school settings.
University of San Francisco
- San Francisco, CA
- 49 hours
- In-Person
Program:
Master of Arts in Counseling, School Counseling Concentration
City: San Francisco, CA
Modality: In person
Length: 49 credit hours
Tuition: $21,200 estimated tuition, not including fees
Program Overview:
The School Counseling concentration prepares K-12 counselors to support students in multicultural urban schools. Students also have the option to complete a Professional Clinical Counseling focus with additional coursework.
Hybrid School Counseling Masters Programs in California
Hybrid university programs provide the option to take courses on campus or online. In California, Azusa Pacific University and Loyola Marymount University provide a hybrid M.A. in counseling with school counseling concentration.
Azusa Pacific University
- Azusa, CA
- 2 years
- Online + Hybrid
Program:
M.A.Ed in School Counseling
City: Azusa, CA
Modality: Hybrid, online
Length: 2 years
Tuition: $815 per credit hour, not including fees
Program Overview:
Graduates earn an M.A.Ed in school counseling and are ready to work with students in school settings. During coursework, students work with practicing school counselors to develop knowledge and skills.
Loyola Marymount University
- Los Angeles, CA
- 48-60 hours
- Hybrid
Program:
Master of Arts in Counseling with School Counseling specialization
City: Los Angeles, CA
Modality: Hybrid
Length: 48-60 credit hours
Tuition: $1,632 per unit, not including fees
Program Overview:
The M.A. in Counseling at Loyola Marymount provides coursework towards the Pupil Personnel Services credential. Students who have earned the PPS credential can also take an additional three courses to earn the Child Welfare and Attendance Authorization. Students complete the program in 2-3 years. Courses are held either online or in person, and afternoons and evenings during the week. In addition to coursework, students complete 800 fieldwork hours.
Online School Counseling Masters Programs In California
There are a total of six fully online school counseling masters programs in California. Online graduate programs allow for additional flexibility when moving through coursework.
Alliant International University
- Locations around California
- 2 years
- Online
Program:
Master of Science in School Counseling or Master of Education in School Counseling
City: Locations around California
Modality: Online
Length: 49 credit hours, 2 years
Tuition: $848
Program Overview:
Alliant International University offers two options for school counseling degrees, both include the Pupil Personnel Credential. The M.S. in school counseling focuses on the research-based aspects of counseling and has coursework related to techniques, methods, and data. Students are prepared for roles that involve research and program development. The MAE in school counseling focuses on the educational and practical aspects of counseling, with coursework in mental health counseling and human development. It directs students into practical educational settings.
Concordia University
- Irvine, CA
- 48 hours
- Online
Program:
Master of Arts in Education, School Counseling
City: Irvine, CA
Modality: Online
Length: 48 credit hours
Tuition: $685 per credit hour
Program Overview:
The M.A.Ed in school counseling is completed in about 2 years. Students complete coursework and 800 field experience hours. Coursework focuses on the knowledge and skills that students need to be successful in diverse school environments.
Fresno Pacific University
- San Diego, CA
- 50 hours
- Online
Program:
Master of Arts in School Counseling
City: San Diego, CA
Modality: Online
Length: 50 credit hours
Tuition: $770 per credit hour
Program Overview:
The M.A. in school counseling provides coursework in K-12 counseling in small classes using synchronous online classes. Students complete coursework and internship experience.
National University
- San Diego, CA
- 72 hours
- Online
Program:
Master of Science in Educational Counseling with Internship (CA)
City: San Diego, CA
Modality: Online
Length: 72 unit hours
Tuition: $442 per quarter hour
Program Overview:
National University is an online university with a focus on serving military veterans. The M.S. in Educational Counseling includes the coursework required to earn the Pupil Personnel Service Credential, and two fieldwork courses. Students complete the coursework and a capstone project. There is an internship only option which is available for students who have been hired by a public school district as a school counselor and require the internship hours.
Point Loma Nazarene University
- San Diego, CA
- Online
Program:
Master of Arts in Counseling or Master of Science in School Counseling
City: San Diego, CA
Modality: Online
Length: Not listed
Tuition: $660 per credit unit
Program Overview:
The M.A. in counseling involves asynchronous coursework that allows for flexibility. The M.A. is focused on practical application, while the M.S. provides more coursework in scientific methods and research. The M.A. is ideal for candidates who want to work in school settings while the M.S. is for students who want to pursue doctoral work. Both degrees include coursework and a capstone project or thesis.
University of Massachusetts Global
- Viejo, CA
- Online
Program:
Master of Arts in Counseling
City: Viejo, CA
Modality: Online
Length: Not listed
Tuition: $730/credit hour
Program Overview:
In the M.A. in Counseling program, students learn to apply the latest practices in school counseling and intervention, and model strategies across educational settings. Courses are delivered online.
CACREP-accredited School Counseling Masters Programs In California
Currently, there are three CACREP-accredited school counseling masters programs in California: Sacramento State University, San Francisco State University, and the University of San Diego.
Sacramento State University
- Sacramento, CA
- 60 hours
- In-Person
Program:
Master of Science in Counseling degree and California Pupil Personnel Services credential
City: Sacramento, CA
Modality: In person
Length: 60 credit hours
Tuition: $3,804 per credit hour
Program Overview:
The M.S. in Counseling prepares candidates to work in schools, universities, or private practice. The Pupil Personnel Services credential prepares students to work within the school system. The program is focused on practical experience with a 100-hour clinical practicum and 600 hours of field experience. Students complete the program in three years and are enrolled in a cohort to move through the course sequence. Students are encouraged to engage in research and presentations at the state, regional, and national level.
San Francisco State University
- San Francisco, CA
- 60 hours
- In-Person
Program:
Master of Science in School Counseling degree and California Pupil Personnel Services credential
City: San Francisco, CA
Modality: In person
Length: 60 credit hours
Tuition: $9,870 per year, not including fees
Program Overview:
The M.S. in school counseling focuses on preventative and intervention strategies to promote wellness and supportive learning environments. Students complete coursework that builds on core counseling skills. Students can complete the coursework in a two or three-year sequence. Practical experience involves supervised practice across two K-12 school placements.
University of San Diego
- San Diego, CA
- 60 hours
- In-Person
Program:
Master of Science in School Counseling degree and California Pupil Personnel Services credential
City: San Diego, CA
Modality: In person
Length: 60 credit hours
Tuition: $1,700 per credit hour
Program Overview:
The M.S. in school counseling has two pathways: one in school counseling and one in school based clinical counseling. Both include the California Pupil Personnel Services credential. The school counseling program supports leaders that can work in school environments, and with students who have culturally sensitive or specific needs, such as refugees or those in foster care. Students engage in 800 clinical hours to apply what they learn to school settings.
University of Southern California
- Los Angeles, CA
- 49 hours
- Online
Program:
Master of Arts in School Counseling
City: Los Angeles, CA
Modality: Online
Length: 49 credit hours
Tuition: $2,354 per credit hour, not including fees
Program Overview:
The M.A. in school counseling online program provides synchronous classes weekly in the afternoons. Students complete the coursework, a 100 hour practicum and 700 hours of fieldwork. Students learn to provide academic, social-emotional, and college and career counseling to K-12 students. Support schools as organizations.
No GRE Required School Counseling Masters Programs In California
None of the school counseling degree programs in California require applicants to submit their GRE scores. However, some programs require a minimum GPA. And, some programs require a valid California teaching license.
California’s Most Affordable School Counseling Masters Programs
There is no shortage of affordable graduate options in California. Among in person programs, the University of LaVerne ($820 per credit hours) is a reasonable option, as is California Baptist University ($785 per credit hour) and the California State universities. Concordia University ($685 per credit hour) and Point Loma Nazarene University ($660 per credit hour) are reasonable online options. It is important to note that the total cost of a degree will depend on the number of courses taken.
Accelerated School Counseling Masters Programs In California
School counseling graduate programs that can be completed in 48 credit hours, or two years, include:
- Alliant University’s online program,
- Azusa Pacific University’s hybrid program,
- California State University at East Bay’s on campus program,
- California State University at Fresno’s on campus program,
- Concordia University’s online program,
- University of Redlands’ on campus program, and
- University of San Francisco’s on campus program.
FAQs
How much does a school counselor make in California?
California is the state with the highest employment level for school counselors. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage is $85,820 for school counselors, the highest wage in the country, and higher than the nationwide average salary of $61,710.
How long does it take to become a school counselor in California?
Most masters programs in school counseling are completed within two or three years, though some programs may offer flexibility to finish sooner or to extend the duration of the program.
