Program Highlights | Career Outlook | Courses | How to Apply
Serve. Support. Succeed!
Would you like to support student well-being in public schools? Chico State offers a fully online, post-master’s Pupil Personnel Services Credential (PPSC) in School Social Work for MSW professionals seeking to serve in California K–12 school settings.
The PPSC Program provides the specialized training and field experience required to earn a California Pupil Personnel Services Credential through the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing (CTC). This credential is required for school social workers in most California public school districts.
With a PPSC in School Social Work, you are authorized to provide a wide range of student support services for grades pre-K through 12, including:
- Assessing home, school, and community factors that affect student learning.
- Delivering mental health counseling and behavioral support services.
- Collaborating with teachers, administrators, and caregivers.
- Coordinating services among families, schools, and community agencies.
- Advocating for student equity and inclusion in school systems.
Chico State’s PPSC program is designed for working professionals who already hold a Master of Social Work (MSW) degree or are currently enrolled in Chico State’s MSW program. With a flexible format, asynchronous online courses, and personalized practicum pathways, you can complete your credential while continuing to serve your community.
Career Outlook
Why Become a School Social Worker? The need for school social workers is critical across California, particularly in Northern and rural regions. According to recent data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics and educational policy sources:
Job Growth
Employment of child, family, and school social workers is projected to grow 10% from 2022 to 2032, which is faster than the average for all occupations. An estimated 28,600 job openings are expected each year due to growth and replacement needs (BLS.gov).
Credential Demand
Many California school districts now require a PPSC for school social worker roles. Credentialed professionals are in especially high demand due to increased mental health needs in pre-K–12 education.
Workforce Shortage
California currently has a student-to-school social worker ratio of over 6,100 to 1, far exceeding the nationally recommended ratio of 250 to 1. This gap represents a significant opportunity for credentialed professionals to make an immediate impact.
Regional Opportunities
Northern California, including the North State region and Butte County, shows a robust demand for PPSC-credentialed professionals. School districts in rural and high-need communities are actively seeking MSW-level candidates with the credentials to support student mental health, behavior, and academic achievement.
By earning your PPSC through Chico State, you’ll position yourself to fill this vital need in communities that need you most—and launch a meaningful, secure career in education-based social work.
About the PPSC-SSW Program
• Complete the courses in one summer (June–August).
• Fully online courses with live meetings.
• Fully accredited and approved by the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing (CTC).
• Fees: $600/unit. Total cost: $4,200.
Courses
Courses are taught by credentialed and experienced school social workers. Contact our program coordinators, Lena Correa or Maia Illa, to learn more at ppsc-ssw@csuchico.edu.
SWRK 670: Social Work and Education Policy (3 units)
Explores macro-level policy issues in K–12 education, student rights, education funding, and the school social worker's role in systems change. [Read full description]
SWRK 672: Social Work in Educational Settings (3 units)
Covers trauma-informed, culturally responsive social work practices in schools, emphasizing collaboration, equity, and multi-tiered support systems. [Read full description]
SWRK 599: Fieldwork Practicum (1 unit)
Provides support in completing or verifying school-based practicum hours and preparing for credential application. We offer placement support to our students through advising and connecting with employers. Contact us to learn more about practicum supports. [Read full description]
Applications Open January 1!
To apply to the Summer 2026 cohort, you must:
- Have a Master of Social Work (MSW) from a CSWE-accredited program
Or - Be a current student in the Chico State MSW program
Note: Students from MSW programs at other universities or those with other master’s degrees are not eligible.
Priority deadline is March 30.