Department of Counseling and Development

M.S. in School Counseling

Program Overview
The M.S. in Education with the School Counseling specialty prepares the individual to work with young people from a developmental perspective - to clarify their goals, overcome behavioral and social obstacles, and enhance their learning experience. We will teach the prospective school counselor how to help students cope with problems relative to their daily academic and social activities, such as peer pressure, socio-economic status, cultural differences and family issues. Graduate students will learn effective individual and group counseling techniques and gain practical field experience through the counseling practicum and the internships, preferably at all levels (elementary, middle and high school). This 48-credit M.S. program and two years of experience as a school counselor results in New York SED permanent certification as a school counselor.

Planning the Course of Study and Obtaining Certification as a School Counselor
Upon completion of the program, students will be required to obtain certification as a School Counselor. The Department of Counseling and Development's Handbook details this protocol.

The School Counselor program provides the student with an opportunity to develop understanding and competencies appropriate to the specialty area. Each student, with the consultation of the Academic Counselor, develops and follows a Plan of Study. Every term, the student should also consult with an assigned faculty advisor for completion of the study plan and course selection. Each degree candidate will be required to complete 90 hours (and 10 additional hours- see course description) of practicum experience in a field setting (EDC 669, Counseling Practicum) and 600 hours of internship experience (EDC 683, Counseling Internship I and EDC 684, Counseling Internship II).

CULMINATING EXPERIENCE

Option A:  Students admitted Fall 2007 and thereafter will take EDC 707, Degree Synthesis, in place of the comprehensive examination; however, the comprehensive exam will be made available for those students who wish to take it in place of EDC 707.

Option B:  Comprehensive Exam (24 credits must be completed with an additional 12 credits in progress in order to sit for the examination)

Option C:  Thesis (Refer to the Graduate Student Handbook for requirements)

Note: Upon completion of 12 credits, all students are required to meet with their faculty advisor for an Interim Assessment.  Such an assessment allows both the advisor and the student to discuss the student’s progress and achievement and to identify any areas of concern.