California Baptist University
Dr. Bonnie G. Metcalf School of Education
“We believe education is a calling and we exist to equip, empower and encourage leader-educators to impact our communities, country and world.”
Robin Duncan, EdD Dean, Metcalf School of Education
01
In addition to learning foundational concepts, our program incorporates handson experiences starting in the first semester. The blend of theory and practical experience, with courses taught by current and former school counselor leaders, provides a model for success in the student’s practicum, fieldwork and career as a TK–12 school counselor.
This program is made up of a cohort of students that progress together. The cohort model creates an environment where cooperative learning is cultivated with longlasting relationships that are essential for vocational networking and support. 02
Students of this program emerge with both a Master of Science in School Counseling and a Pupil Personnel Services Credential in School Counseling recognized by the California Comission on Teacher Credentialing. 03
Program Length
48 units
3 years (8 semesters)
Program Cost*
$40,600
$785 per unit
$365 per semester general fee
Program Start Term
Fall (September)
Classes offered on campus Monday–Thursday evenings. Some Saturday classes required.
*Based on current academic year. Subject to change.
WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)
Commission on Teacher Credentialing (CTC)
Led by biblical truth, the Metcalf School of Education’s mission is to prepare globally minded educational leaders of high moral character who are equipped with the knowledge and skills needed to create inclusive, lifelong learners.
Robyn Wijnhamer Class of 2019
Meet Robyn Wijnhamer, a 2019 CBU alumna of the MS in School Counseling program. Robyn is now a school counselor at Raney Intermediate School. She cultivates opportunities for all students to have access to equitable education and succeed in fulfilling their potential. Focusing on the academic, socialemotional and college/career success of students, Robyn believes there is strength in diversity and works hard to empower all students with healthy perceptions of themselves and their unique ability to learn and develop into leaders of their community.
Q: Why did you want to study the school counseling program?
A: I was drawn to the school counseling program out of a desire to become an advocate for all students, encouraging them in their unique stories and individual gifts and talents.
Q: What have you loved most about working in the field you are in?
A: The best part of my role as a school counselor is having the opportunity to build relationships with students and be a part of their stories. I feel honored to be in a role where I can advocate for student needs while encouraging all students in their ability to reach their full potential and succeed in their various aspirations.
Q: What about CBU caught your eye when applying to grad programs?
A: First, I appreciated that the CBU program is strongly aligned with the American School Counseling Association (ASCA) and equips emerging school counselors with the knowledge and tools necessary to be strong advocates for students. I was also drawn to their model of providing students with a blend of theory and practical experience. Gaining hands-on experience in my first year as a graduate student was instrumental to my development as a school counselor.
Q: How did CBU prepare you for the job you are in currently?
A: At the time of graduation, I felt well versed in the ASCA comprehensive school counseling model and the ability to implement it in my future placement. Additionally, I felt well connected to a network of amazing counselors in surrounding districts due to the intentionality of the program to provide opportunities for engagement prior to graduation.
Q: What was one of the most valuable things you took from your time at CBU?
A: In addition to feeling well equipped to step into a school counseling role, my time at CBU connected me to an incredible community of school counselors in the surrounding area that I continue to collaborate and consult with in my current role. The opportunities that this program provided for me to glean from veteran counselors and other educational leaders has significantly impacted me as a counselor and the program of my current school site.
Q: What is a piece of advice you would give to someone looking to apply to this program?
A: I would encourage all prospective students to be confident in their interest of this program. As a CBU student you will be provided with an opportunity to learn under professors who are passionate experts in their craft while growing as a leader who is trained to work in community and confidently advocate and serve all students.
Pedro Caro, EdD Director, School Counseling
My name is Dr. Pedro Caro and I am proud to serve our future school counselor leaders.
As a former school counselor, I know that we can make a difference in the lives of countless students every day. Helping all young people reach and exceed their potential—especially those in traditionally underserved communities—drives my purpose and serves as my “why.” Every child was uniquely created by God with gifts and talents that school counselors can help bring to light.
More than ever, professional school counselors are essential at every level to support students’ academic, socio-emotional and postsecondary growth and development.
Today’s school counselors are systems thinkers, change agents and advocates. Research shows that youth thrive when they have a caring adult relationship, and school counselors are the heart of the school. I truly believe that we have the most rewarding profession with a lasting impact.
My research interests include identifying factors that contribute to building trust with Latinx families, examining culturally relevant principal leadership and investigating burnout in first-year school counselors. I look forward to serving our school communities by equipping our next generation of leaders with the resources and tools to build comprehensive school counseling programs.
Application for admission with a $45 application fee.
Official transcript reflecting the completion of a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university recognized by the U.S. Department of Education and/or the Council for Higher Education Accreditation, or the evaluated equivalency
Minimum GPA of 2.75 or presentation of a minimum combined score of 300 on the verbal and quantitative sections of the Graduate Record Exam (GRE) or passing score on the CSET Exam to overcome a low grade point average.
Pass the state-administered California Basic Education Skills Test (CBEST) or equivalent by the end of the first semester of enrollment.
Verification of Certificate of Clearance from the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing, which can be obtained through the School of Education.
Written statement of purpose and in-person/virtual program interview. Written statement (500-word maximum) and interview will address:
• What are your educational goals?
• How will this program help meet those goals?
• What makes you a good fit for CBU?
Additional requirements may be requested.
Completed with a grade of “C” or better:
• General Psychology
• Abnormal Psychology OR Personality Theories
One (1) of the following:
• Growth Development and Learning
• Lifespan Development
• Educational Psychology
*At least one (1) prerequisite must be completed prior to admission. Remaining prerequisites must be completed within the first semester of the program.
Submit a graduate application at calbaptist.edu/gradapp.
Send official college or university transcripts.
Provide any supplemental documents required.
Ready to take the next step? Follow this QR code to start your application!
8432 Magnolia Avenue Riverside, CA 92504
Admissions 8432 Magnolia Avenue Riverside, CA 92504
951.343.4249
calbaptist.edu
Dr. Bonnie G. Metcalf School of Education
951.343.4313 calbaptist.edu/school-of-education
