A degree in psychology with an emphasis on school guidance is designed for individuals seeking a counseling career in a school setting. This composite degree combines courses in psychology and elementary education to prepare candidates who desire to teach and eventually pursue a master’s in school counseling.  The program at Southwestern Adventist University features theoretical knowledge in education and psychology, along with preparation for classroom teaching and State of Texas certification exams.   

Many institutions are looking to hire graduates with a bachelor's degree in psychology. Training in critical thinking, interpersonal communications, and human behavior makes graduates in this field highly versatile and employable and prepares them for a career as a: 

• School counselor 
• School social worker 
• Mental health counselor 
• Psychologist 
• Guidance counselor 
• Teacher 

Understand the qualifications

Students must complete all coursework, field experience, and student teaching in preparation for teacher licensure and completion of the degree. Two years of elementary teaching experience and a master’s degree are required for licensure as a school counselor.  

Students planning to teach at the tertiary level in psychology programs must have at least one area of expertise; a doctorate degree is preferred. A terminal degree (the highest available degree given in an academic discipline) also has the advantage of preparing students to be highly qualified. 

Our program prepares elementary candidates for three State of Texas certification exams required for the early childhood-6th grade (EC-6) teaching credentials. The exams include Core Subjects, EC-6, Pedagogy and Professional Responsibilities (P.P.R.), and the Science of Teaching Reading (S.T.R.).  In addition, candidates seeking Kinder-12th certification or secondary certification prepare for two State of Texas certification exams, Pedagogy, and Professional Responsibilities (PPR) and a content area exam.