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Department of Social Work

CSUSM Pupil Personnel Services Credential

The purpose of the CSUSM Pupil Personnel Services Credential (PPSC) is to prepare MSW students to have the necessary knowledge and skills to be employed as competent school social workers (preschool through 12th grade) in California schools. MSW students who complete this credential are eligible to apply for the California State PPSC in two areas: 1) School Social Work, and 2) Child Welfare and Attendance. These credentials are awarded and administered through the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing (CTC).

PPSC Program Options

  1. For current MSW students, students must apply to be admitted into the PPS Credential Program. The requirements for the PPS credential are: (1) completing a field internship in a qualifying public school setting; (2) completing all required documentation and pre-certification materials, and (3) passing two school social work elective courses: MSW 652 Advanced Social Work Practice in Schools I, and MSW 653 Advanced Social Work Practice in Schools II. 
  2. Post-MSW students may enroll in the two PPSC courses. Candidates are required to provide a transcript as evidence that they have completed an MSW degree at an accredited institution. More information about this option will be posted at a future date as it becomes available. Please email Please email Michelle Santiago, PPS Credential Coordinator, at msantiago@csusm.edu to indicate interest in this option.

Required Courses for the Pupil Personnel Services Credentials

MSW 652 Advanced Social Work Practice in Schools I (3)

Addresses the specific knowledge and skills required for advanced social work practice in a school setting. Examines roles, responsibilities and the functions of a social worker in educational settings to promote well-being and system change. Emphasizes meeting the needs of diverse student populations and families from a micro-practice perspective. Course content is designed to meet and exceed the Pupil Personnel Services Credential Program Standards set forth by the State of California.

MSW 653 Advanced Social Work Practice in Schools II (3)

Addresses the specific knowledge and skills required for advanced social work practice in a school setting. Examines roles, responsibilities and the functions of a social worker in educational settings to promote well-being and system change. Emphasizes meeting the needs of diverse student populations and families from a macro-practice perspective. Course content is designed to meet and exceed the Pupil Personnel Services Credential Program Standards set forth by the State of California.