Where
do I get information about the program?
To receive materials via mail,
contact
To
receive materials via the web, visit the
How many
credits are required?
The program requires a minimum of 83 credits to be
completed in two years of full time graduate study. The degree is a Master of Education
(M.Ed.)—School Counselor.
Does
the program require a thesis?
A thesis is not required. Students are required to
complete written a comprehensive examination in school counseling.
Can I
attend part time or take classes in the summer or evening?
The program does not lend itself to part time
study because of the highly structured nature of the practicum and internship
experiences. While some classes are taught during the evening, most classes
meet during the day. Program classes are not offered during the summer.
Do
you have a satellite program?
The program is offered on the campus in
How
large is the program?
We accept six students per year. The program is
intentionally small in order to maintain small student/faculty ratios and class
sizes.
Is
the program accredited?
The program is approved by the State of
Do I
need a teaching certificate to become a school counselor in
Certification as a school counselor does not
require teaching experience or a teaching certificate. However, if you are
still an undergraduate considering a major and you might be interested in
teaching at some point, it is a good idea to consider completing a teacher
certification program. Some school districts give preference in hiring to
counselors with teaching credentials. However, if you have finished your
undergraduate work in another area, you are still encouraged to apply to the
program.
Can I
be certified in other states?
Every state has its own requirements and some do
require previous experience as a teacher. You will need to contact the State
Department of Education for specific information about each state. In general,
people certified in one state by a CACREP accredited program can become
certified in other states. However, the issue of teaching certification may be
a factor.
What
is the Certificate in
Upon completion of an approved program in the State of
What does ESA mean?
ESA stands for Educational Staff Associate. This
is a special category of credential for persons working in schools in
supporting professional roles including school psychologists and school social
workers.
When
should I start my application?
Applications are due February 1 of each year. It
is a good idea to complete the Graduate Record Examination in the fall and to
contact a member of the school counseling faculty well in advance of the
February 1 deadline.
Should
my references be faculty members or work supervisors or does it matter?
It is advisable to have a mix of recommendations.
Identify at least one faculty member who can address your ability to complete
graduate level work. It is also advisable to select a reference who can discuss
your potential as a counselor.
May I
include extra information in my application?
Absolutely. It is a good idea to include a resume
and cover letter that describes your interest in becoming a school counselor.
Be sure to let us know about your related work experience. After you submit
your application, be sure to call and schedule an interview if you haven't done
so already. We want to meet the applicants to our program.
I've
heard it is really hard to get admitted. How do I know if I stand a chance?
Our program is small and we receive many fine applications. However, this should not necessarily discourage you. If you believe that you have special qualities that we should consider such as related work experience with children or other documented success in a similar role, be sure to let us know. We do consider grades and test scores, but we consider other things as well.
Who are the counseling faculty?
There are seven faculty members within the department who have significant responsibility for the two graduate counseling programs: Christina Byrne, Tina Du Rocher Schudlich, Deborah Forgays, Jim Graham, Diana Gruman, Arleen Lewis, and David Sue. All seven of us have regular teaching responsibilities in both programs and participate in the selection of students for both programs. Furthermore, you'll have the opportunity to take classes from several other faculty within the department as well.