As a school psychologist in California, you’ll play a crucial role in improving learning outcomes by addressing behavioral issues and enhancing curriculum plans. Moreover, California school psychologists are in high demand and earn almost $30,000 more than the national average.
To become a licensed school psychologist in California, you must graduate from an accredited and state-approved graduate program. This guide can help you find the program that best suits your needs and start your journey toward becoming a school psychologist. You’ll discover a list of this year’s top-ranked online and on-campus programs, a breakdown of the different types of school psychology programs available, a step-by-step guide to the CA licensure process, and much more.
2024 Rankings: Best Accredited School Psychology Programs in California
The best school psychology programs in California have the curriculum, flexibility, and student support you need to become a skilled school psychologist. To help jumpstart your search, we’ve identified three of the best schools meeting those criteria. These programs set themselves apart through affordable, accredited programs that prepare you for state licensure. See who stands out in 2024 and stay tuned for our full ranking arriving later next year.
1
Loyola Marymount University
Loyola Marymount University offers three school psychology programs in California:a Master of Arts, an educational specialist degree (Ed.S.), and a pupil personnel services (PPS) credential. The school administers these in-person courses of study from campuses in Los Angeles and nearby Playa Vista. Graduates are fully eligible for national certification and state licensure as school psychologists. Loyola Marymount uses a cohort-based model, enrolling approximately 20 new students each year.
To be eligible for admission to a school psychology graduate program, applicants must have a bachelor’s degree in psychology or education, or have completed at least 18 credits in those subjects. Coursework for the program covers a wide range of topics, including research evaluation and statistics, group and individual counseling, behavioral assessment, professional ethics, and family systems theory. In the program’s culminating phase, students spend approximately 2,000 hours in supervised fieldwork at local schools. Upon graduation, students are fully qualified to work as school psychologists in K-12 settings, with most completing the program in approximately three years.
2
National University
Headquartered in La Jolla, National University is best known for its arts and sciences online degrees but also offers hybrid and campus-based programs that include psychology programs. Its Master of Arts in school psychology requires 90 credits and includes a PPS credential. Students who already have a master’s degree in counseling or psychology can earn the PPS credential alone by completing 15 courses in school consultation, cognitive assessment, and crisis response.
The California school psychology programs use 4-week terms to provide increased flexibility and accommodation to students. Core courses such as developmental psychopathology and learning theory may have hybrid options, which provide essential knowledge and skill foundations. Both programs teach students to utilize systematic approaches to schooling, which support data-driven decision-making. The programs conclude with capstone practicum requirements in applied settings, which enhance future employment opportunities.
3
California State University Long Beach
Designed for working professionals already employed in K-12 settings, California State University Long Beach’s school psychology program leads to an Ed.S. degree and a PPS credential. It holds programmatic accreditation with the NASP and state approval from the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing. The curriculum includes 60 credits of core instruction and hands-on learning. Most students complete the program in 3 years of full-time study, including 1-2 years of coursework and 1-2 years of internship and practicum experiences (over 1,500 hours in total).
CSU-Long Beach boasts a 100% Praxis pass rate over the last four years and offers student resources like school psychology-specific financial aid, student research initiatives, and regular peer and faculty networking opportunities. Students complete courses in psychoeducational assessment, collaborative consultation in school settings, development risk and resilience, and statistics for educational practice. Qualified applicants must satisfy prerequisites in developmental learning and classroom management.
Top Online School Psychology Programs in California for 2024
Accredited California school psychology programs with online or hybrid formats provide additional flexibility for busy students and working professionals to advance their careers. Below we list the top-ranked psychology programs in California that provide a range of options to match your background and long-term goals. Some offer fully online programs, while others use hybrid delivery with in-person fieldwork requirements. Either way, expect to receive material and interact with content using interactive tools like videoconferencing and discussion boards. Many of these programs continue to use cohort models for their online programming to encourage additional support and collaboration. See our guide to online school psychology programs for more information on what you can expect.
College Ranking Methodology
Generate List of Eligible Schools and Programs
To be eligible for this ranking, schools were required to meet the following criteria based on government data provided by The Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS).
- Institutional accreditation from an organization recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.
- At least one program in the subject area offered partially or fully online.
- Career placement and academic counseling services.
Assign Weightings
After generating the list of eligible schools, the STEPS data team then assigned weights and ranked schools based on their performance in a variety of key categories. Affordability metrics received the heaviest weightings, followed by online learning and academic quality metrics (equally weighted).
Online Learning
- Number of online programs in subject area self-reported by school to the U.S. Department of Education.
- Percentage of graduate students at the school taking at least one class online.
Affordability
- Relative cost of attendance compared to peer schools on the list. Based on in-state tuition for graduate students per academic year.
Academic Quality
- Student-to-faculty ratio: Schools with lower ratios ranked higher.
- Percentage of students admitted. More selective schools ranked higher.
About Our Data
All STEPS rankings use the latest official data available from The Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS). Most recent data pull: August 2023
Accreditation Glossary
ABHE: Association for Biblical Higher Education, Commission on Accreditation
ABHES: Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools
ACCJC: Western Association of Schools and Colleges Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges
ACCSC: Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges
DEAC: Distance Education Accrediting Commission
HLC: Higher Learning Commission
MSCHE: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
NECHE: New England Commission of Higher Education
NWCCU: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
SACSCOC: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
TRACS: Transnational Association of Christian Colleges and Schools, Accreditation Commission
WSCUC: Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission
1
Fresno, California
Fresno Pacific University has two programs for prospective students seeking graduate training in the school psychology field. Students who want to become credentialed school psychologists as quickly as possible can consider the Master of Arts in School Psychology. Individuals who complete this program will receive their California Pupil Personnel Services Credential (PPS). For those who want a greater breadth of training to work in schools, the Master of Arts in School Psychology and School Counseling program prepares students to become licensed school psychologists in California. With an extra 28 credits, students receive additional counseling training. Both programs offer much of the classwork online in a synchronous format; internships and other in-person components are required.
Program Highlights:
Master of Arts in School Psychology and School Counseling
- Credits: 90
- Length: 8-9 semesters
- Cost: $730.00/credit
- Mode: Partially online
- Accreditation: CCTC
Master of Arts in School Psychology
- Credits: 62
- Length: Varies
- Cost: $730.00/credit
- Mode: Partially online
- Accreditation: CCTC
2
San Diego, California
Alliant International University offers a Master of Arts in Education in School Psychology in a convenient online format. The program is approved by the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing (CTC); graduates are eligible to receive their California Pupil Personnel Services Credential (PPS) and become licensed school psychologists. All coursework is available online, but students are required to complete an internship at a K-12 school.
Program Highlights:
Master of Arts in Education in School Psychology with PPS Credential
- Credits: 60
- Length: About 3-4 years
- Cost: $792.00/credit
- Mode: Fully-online
- Accreditation: CCTC
Spotlights: Online California School Psychology Programs
1
Alliant University Meridian University
San Diego-based Alliant University operates six affiliates across the Golden State and offers three accredited, fully online school psychology programs. Its 60-credit Master of Arts in education offers graduate-level training in school psychology and allows you to earn the PPS credential in the process. Qualified learners can also pursue the PPS credential as a standalone course, focusing either on mental health or applied behavior analysis. Another option is the 78-credit Ed.S. degree in those same concentration areas. With each educational path, aspiring professionals graduate in 3 years and meet all eligibility requirements for licensure.
Alliant University stands out from other campus-based school psychology programs in California by offering all of its coursework online through convenient and accessible synchronous and asynchronous elements. In addition, students have the option to attend one-day weekend residencies each term. Prior to graduation, students gain hands-on experience through internships and practicums in K-12 facilities. This approach to learning provides flexibility and convenience for students while also ensuring they are prepared for a successful career as a school psychologist.
2
Brandman University
A standout among the best accredited school psychology programs in California, Brandman University administers several fully online paths to completion, including master’s, PPS, and Ed.S. options. Its standard Ed.S. program involves 72 total credits and includes instruction in core courses and applied capstone experiences. The program offers school psychology Ed.S. specializations in autism, applied behavior analysis, and English language learning. Students interested in earning a master’s degree or PPS can do both at Brandman, either together or as standalone courses of study.
The school psychology programs at Brandman use a combination of online and hybrid learning methods. The curriculum is designed with a competency-based course sequence that allows students to create a flexible schedule tailored to their individual needs. In addition to individual field placements, students are provided with several opportunities to practice the Praxis exam during their studies. Upon completion of the program, graduates participate in an exit interview with faculty to facilitate professional development and networking opportunities.
3
Fresno Pacific University
Fresno Pacific University administers two online school psychology programs from its main campus in the Central Valley. The MA/PPS course of study in school psychology and the dual school psychology/school counseling program both result in the same credentials and use small class sizes for collaborative and individualized learning experiences. The MA/PPS in school psychology requires 73 credits and the dual program requires 93. These offerings stand out from other California school psychology programs by integrating courses in applied behavior analysis as a part of their curriculums.
The school uses hybrid delivery methods that include traditional, classroom-based instruction and options for flexible online learning resulting in a blended experience. Core courses build key skills in assessment and intervention, learning theory, and group counseling techniques. During their third year of study, all students complete hands-on fieldwork experiences that include at least 1,200 hours of supervised work in applied K-12 settings.
Types of School Psychology Grad Degrees in California
There are several different types of school psychology programs at the graduate level, and the right one for you will depend on your specific career goals and previous education and professional experience. Each degree type is discussed in detail below, followed by a list of accredited California universities that offer it, to help you find the program that’s best for you.
School Psychology Master’s Degree Programs in California
One of the most common paths to attainment, a master’s degree in school psychology typically takes 2-3 years to complete. These programs prepare students with a bachelor’s degree for applied work in primary and secondary school contexts. They offer foundational instruction in methods of intervention and psychoeducational assessment and typically conclude with supervised fieldwork experiences that synthesize acquired knowledge and skill.
Depending on the program, obtaining a master’s degree in school psychology might also involve earning the Pupil Personnel Services (PPS) credential concurrently. These programs do not require a bachelor’s degree in counseling or psychology, but applicants from other fields may need to complete course prerequisites.
Examples of Accredited California Universities Offering This School Psychology Program
Humboldt State University: Master of Arts in School Psychology
- City: Arcata
- Delivery: On-Campus
- Accreditation: CCTC approval
California Baptist University: Master of Science in School Psychology
- City: Riverside
- Delivery: On-Campus
- Accreditation: CCTC approval
University of La Verne: Master of Science in School Psychology
- City: La Verne
- Delivery: On-Campus
- Accreditation: CCTC approval; CAEP accreditation
San Francisco State University: Master of Science in School Psychology
- City: San Francisco
- Delivery: On-Campus
- Accreditation: CCTC approval
- City: L.A
- Delivery: Online/On-Campus/Hybrid
- Accreditation: CCTC approval; NASP and CAEP accreditation
School Psychology Ed.S. Programs in California
An educational specialist degree (Ed.S.) qualifies you for the same roles as a master’s in school psychology but with increased specialization. Ed.S. degrees take about the same time as a master’s program (2-3 years) but use a different structure. Programs like the ones listed below offer specialized training in the school-based challenges many students face and some offer concentrations in areas like mental health and applied behavior analysis.
Most Ed.S. programs are administered as post-graduate courses of study, which means you need a master’s degree in counseling, psychology, or a related field. Others may extend opportunities to earn a master’s degree along the way. In those cases, aspiring professionals should plan for their studies to take a bit longer and require extra prerequisites.
Examples of Accredited California Universities Offering This School Psychology Program
Fresno State University: The Educational Specialist (Ed.S.) School Psychology
- City: Fresno
- Delivery: On-Campus
- Accreditation: CCTC approval; NASP
California State University, San Bernardino: Education Specialist Degree in School Psychology
- City: San Bernardino
- Delivery: On-Campus
- Accreditation: CCTC approval; NASP
San Diego State University: Ed.S. in School Psychology
- City: San Diego
- Delivery: On-Campus
- Accreditation: CCTC approval; NASP
University of the Pacific: Educational Specialist in School Psychology
- City: Stockton
- Delivery: On-Campus
- Accreditation: CCTC approval
Alliant University: Ed.S. in School Psychology
- City: San Diego
- Delivery: Online
- Accreditation: CCTC approval
Ed.S./Master’s Dual Degree School Psychology Programs in California
California school psychology programs with this pathway combine master’s and Ed.S. instruction in a single course of study. The result is a dual degree and an additional PPS credential in some cases. Like other offerings, these programs usually last several years and include core coursework and capstone practicum components to meet licensure requirements.
Curricula for dual degree programs emphasize group theory, personality dynamics for school-aged children, and program evaluation. Because these programs provide specialized training in addition to graduate-level instruction, many offer concentrations in subjects like clinical mental health and applied behavior analysis. Specialization may extend your timeframe for completion.
Examples of Accredited California Universities Offering This School Psychology Program
Chapman University: Ed.S. in School Psychology Dual Degree Program
- City: Orange
- Delivery: On-Campus
- Accreditation: CCTC approval; NASP, CAEP
- City: Azusa
- Delivery: On-Campus
- Accreditation: CCTC approval; NASP, CAEP
University of the Pacific: Education Specialist in School Psychology + MA in Counseling Psychology
- City: Stockton
- Delivery: On-Campus
- Accreditation: CCTC approval
La Sierra University: Specialist in Education in School Psychology (with MA in Counseling)
- City: Riverside
- Delivery: On-Campus
- Accreditation: CCTC approval;
Brandman University: Ed.S. in School Psychology and Master’s in Educational Psychology
- City: Irvine
- Delivery: Online/On-Campus/Hybrid
- Accreditation: CCTC approval; NCATE
School Psychology Doctoral Programs in California
These programs lead to the highest degree attainable in school psychology, usually a Ph.D., though there are some Ed.D. and Psy.D. programs out there. Designed for working professionals interested in positions as researchers, postsecondary educators, and school psychology experts, doctoral programs usually take around 5 years to complete. They include core coursework and a research-based dissertation or thesis project that broadens the horizons of the field.
Graduates also complete PPS-based internship experiences. Depending on the program, you may be able to complete specialized studies in applied counseling or clinical psychology. Key courses include learning development, personality adjustment, career planning and professional development, and cultural diversity.
Examples of Accredited California Universities Offering This School Psychology Program
University of California, Santa Barbara: Ph.D. in School Psychology
- City: Santa Barbara
- Delivery: On-Campus
- Accreditation: CCTC approval; APA
La Sierra University: Doctor of Education in School Psychology
- City: Riverside
- Delivery: On-Campus
- Accreditation: CCTC approval
University of California, Berkeley: School Psychology, Ph.D.
- City: Berkeley
- Delivery: On-Campus
- Accreditation: CCTC approval; APA, NASP
Alliant University: Online Psy.D. in School Psychology
- City: San Diego
- Delivery: Online
- Accreditation: CCTC approval
University of California, Riverside: School Psychology Ph.D. Program
- City: Riverside
- Delivery: On-Campus
- Accreditation: CCTC approval; APA, NASP
Pupil Personnel Services (PPS) Credential Programs in School Psychology
In California, PPS programs offer an additional way for aspiring school psychologists to obtain their credentials without completing another degree. Schools with these programs administer a post-graduate course of study and expect applicants to hold master’s degrees in clinical disciplines like counseling, social work, or psychology. Some also call for course prerequisites.
Students usually finish their PPS course of study in about 3 years, completing key courses and around 1,500 hours of supervised fieldwork. Classes look at motivation and achievement in K-12 students, family systems theory, methods of statistical research, counseling technique, and behavioral adjustment.
Examples of Accredited California Universities Offering This School Psychology Program
Saint Mary’s College: Post-Master’s, School Psychology PPS
- City: Moraga
- Delivery: On-Campus
- Accreditation: CCTC approval
Azusa Pacific University: PPS, School Psychology Credential
- City: Azusa
- Delivery: On-Campus
- Accreditation: CCTC approval; CAEP
Loyola Marymount University: PPS Credential in School Psychology
- City: L.A.
- Delivery: On-Campus
- Accreditation: CCTC approval
Alliant University: PPS Credential in School Psychology
- City: Irvine
- Delivery: Online
- Accreditation: CCTC approval
San Francisco State University: PPS Credential, School Psychology Authorization
- City: San Francisco
- Delivery: On-Campus
- Accreditation: CCTC approval
Accreditation and State Approval for School Psychology Programs in California
Schools with psychology programs in California should possess some form of institutional accreditation, regional or national, granted by agencies recognized by the U.S. Department of Education or the Council for Higher Education Accreditation. This ensures that high levels of quality and rigor back the degree you earn.
Beyond the institutional level, California school psychology programsshould hold approval from the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing (CCTC). This is especially important because the CCTC sets licensure eligibility requirements, including mandatory education standards. If you plan to work as a school psychologist in a K-12 setting in California, you need to complete an approved program.
Other organizations like the American Psychological Association (APA), the National Association of School Psychologists (NASP), and the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP) also accredit California school psychology programs. These agencies recognize schools and programs that meet field-specific standards in psychology, school psychology, and education.
Financial Aid for School Psychology Grad Students in California
Scholarships, grants, and other financial aid opportunities can help you pay for your education. Professional organizations like the California Association of School Psychologists offer awards to their members in addition to other advancement benefits. School psychology students are also typically eligible for broader opportunities in psychology like those listed by the APA.
Many of the best California school psychology programs offer scholarships and other awards to their students. At the graduate level that usually means research or other service-based fellowships often including professional development components. For example, California State University Long Beach and Alliant International University both extend financial aid opportunities to school psychology students. For more information on financial aid for school psychology and grad students, see the STEPS scholarship listing and financial aid guide.
How to Become a School Psychologist in California
If becoming a licensed school psychologist in California is your main goal, you’ll need to complete some additional steps beyond the necessary education before you can begin work. The California Commission on Teacher Credentialing (CCTC) oversees this process and establishes eligibility requirements. An overview of those steps is provided below.
Step 1
Complete an Approved Program
The first step is to complete an approved education and training program like the ones discussed above. This could be a master’s program, an Ed.S. course of study, a PPS program, or some combination of the three. The CCTC only requires that the course of study consist of at least 60 credits beyond the undergraduate level. It also keeps a useful directory of approved programs.
Step 2
Obtain PPS Recommendation
Once you graduate from a CCTC-approved school psychology program in California, you must obtain a proper recommendation. The CCTC requires that new candidates for licensure procure recommendations from an approved program with a PPS program in school psychology. Most applicants receive recommendations from the school they have graduated from.
Step 3
Complete a Basic Skills Assessment
Under California education codes and regulations, new licensees must also complete a basic skills assessment. A computer-based exam, the California Basic Educational Skills Test (CBEST) measures competency in key areas like reading, writing, and mathematics. The test usually takes around 4 hours to complete. Preparation materials are available through the state of California.
Step 4
Submit Fees, Fingerprints, and Application
After steps 1-3 are complete, you’re ready to apply for PPS licensure as a school psychologist. Begin by submitting live fingerprints with the California Department of Justice and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Once you pass the criminal background check, submit a licensure application and pay any applicable fees.
Step 5
Maintain Your Credentials
Licensed school psychologists must renew their credentials periodically to remain compliant with California laws and regulations. The specifics vary depending on your background, work history, and gained experience, but they sometimes involve another application and updated fingerprint records. Licensure renewal ensures that working school psychologists keep their skills and knowledge up to date.
Job Outlook for School Psychologists in California
| Employment (2018) | New Jobs Created (2018-2028) | Job Growth Rate (2018-2028) | Average Annual Openings (2018-2028) | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| California | 17,400 | 2,300 | 13.2 | 1,530 |
| United States | 162,000 | 23,800 | 14.7% | 14,600 |
Source: Projections Central; Data reflects job outlook for Clinical, Counseling, and School Psychologists
School Psychologist Salaries in California
| 10th Percentile | Median | 90th Percentile | |
|---|---|---|---|
| California | $57,730 | $107,470 | $172,580 |
| United States | $46,410 | $79,820 | $138,550 |
| Bakersfield, CA | $70,530 | $107,120 | $140,590 |
| Chico, CA | $57,960 | $91,660 | $118,050 |
| Fresno, CA | $64,050 | $117,870 | $159,040 |
| Hanford-Corcoran, CA | $92,210 | $114,940 | $139,430 |
| Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim, CA | $58,950 | $107,470 | N/A |
| Madera, CA | $68,570 | $120,730 | $145,560 |
| Merced, CA | $61,970 | $102,710 | $140,150 |
| Modesto, CA | $61,910 | $115,360 | $158,790 |
| Napa, CA | $92,800 | $123,940 | $141,940 |
| Oxnard-Thousand Oaks-Ventura, CA | $48,860 | $103,930 | N/A |
| Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario, CA | $60,660 | $104,220 | $163,010 |
| Sacramento–Roseville–Arden-Arcade, CA | $51,650 | $112,920 | $159,870 |
| Salinas, CA | $47,620 | $104,810 | $139,040 |
| San Diego-Carlsbad, CA | $69,560 | $102,510 | $206,920 |
| San Francisco-Oakland-Hayward, CA | $47,450 | $101,900 | $167,110 |
| San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara, CA | $69,660 | $112,790 | $159,010 |
| San Luis Obispo-Paso Robles-Arroyo Grande, CA | $85,510 | $125,330 | $143,340 |
| Santa Cruz-Watsonville, CA | $43,090 | $76,000 | $145,760 |
| Santa Maria-Santa Barbara, CA | $55,730 | $119,610 | $158,480 |
| Santa Rosa, CA | $88,850 | $131,740 | $181,890 |
| Stockton-Lodi, CA | $57,620 | $107,590 | $145,700 |
| Vallejo-Fairfield, CA | $82,560 | $120,230 | $153,660 |
| Visalia-Porterville, CA | $85,230 | $118,410 | $154,740 |
| Yuba City, CA | $46,070 | $79,510 | $104,770 |
Sources: Bureau of Labor Statistics, May 2020; Data reflects job outlook for Clinical, Counseling, and School Psychologists
