Admissions

Application Deadlines

SPRING 2026 Admission Deadline: October 1st, 2025

SPRING 2026 Document Deadline: October 20, 2025

Steps to Apply

Visit our program pages to learn more about the steps to apply:

Upcoming General Information Sessions

Information session for Prospective Applicants to the Post-Master's Credential Only Program: This information session is specifically intended for prospective applicants to the post-master's credential only program. This progam is designed for individuals who alreeady have a qualifying master's degree in counseling (or closely related field, such as clinical counseling, counseling psychology, social work) and would like to pursue additional coursework and training in order to be eligible to apply for a California K-12 school counseling credential (i.e., Pupil Personnel Services Credential in School Counseling) 

Post Master's Credential Only FAQ's 

Q: I am a K-12 educator with a master’s degree in education. Would this be considered a qualifying degree for the post-maters credential only program?

A: No. The qualifying degree must be in counseling or a closely related clinical field in order to be eligible for admission to this program. Prospective applicants who hold a master’s degree in education or in another discipline are encouraged to apply for our master’s in counseling and guidance program so that they can complete the degree and K-12 school counseling specialization (i.e., credential preparation).

 

Q: I’m eager to get started in this program right away. How soon can I start?

A: Individuals who are interested in the post-master’s credential only program must apply to the program and be admitted before they can begin. We have fall and spring admissions. 

 

Q: How long will it take me to complete this program? 

A: Our post-masters credential only program requires a minimum of 18 semester units over four semesters. Students in this program complete all school counseling specialization courses, practicum, and fieldwork. 

 

Q: Can you tell me which classes I will need to take?

A: In order to meet the requirements outlined for the preparation of school counselors by the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing, everyone who is admitted into the post-master’s credential only program will complete the school counseling specialization, practicum, and fieldwork courses. In addition, after an applicant has accepted their admissions offer, they will undergo a thorough syllabi and transcript review to determine if any additional coursework is needed to meet our CTC-approved program requirements. An individualized plan of study will be developed for each student.

 

Q: How much will it cost to complete the program?

A: San José State University is part of the California State University system. Tuition is determined each academic year by the Board of Trustees. Information about this year’s tuition can be found through the SJSU Bursar’s Office. 

 

Q: I completed fieldwork in my master’s program. Can I count those hours toward my fieldwork hours in the post-master’s credential only program.

A: No. The California Commission on Teacher Credentialing requires students who are enrolled in a school counseling program to complete 100 hours of practicum before they begin their 800 hours of fieldwork. In our program, practicum and fieldwork are tied to specific courses which cover key areas in school counseling program and required content for credential preparation.

 

Additional Admissions Resources