Program Overview
The Master of Science in School Counseling program equips students with the knowledge and skills to work as school counselors in K-12 settings. The program emphasizes recognizing and responding to students' social and emotional needs, and prepares graduates for initial certification as school counselors. The curriculum covers fundamental principles, advanced concentrations, and an internship experience, and utilizes a variety of teaching methods to cater to diverse learning styles.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
Program Overview:
The Master of Science Degree in School Counseling is designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge to work in a school setting as a school counselor and collaborate with teachers, parents, and administrators. The program emphasizes recognizing and responding to students' social and emotional needs in K-12 settings.
Objectives:
- Prepare future school counselors to navigate the challenges faced by diverse K-12 students in contemporary society.
- Enable students to implement and evaluate evidence-based comprehensive school counseling programs.
- Provide initial certification as a school counselor upon completion of the 60-credit program.
Program Description:
The School Counseling program offers a comprehensive curriculum covering fundamental knowledge, theories, and skills, advanced specialty concentrations, and an internship experience.
Teaching:
Teaching Methods:
- The program employs a variety of teaching methodologies to cater to diverse learning styles.
- Lectures provide foundational knowledge and theoretical frameworks.
- Discussions foster critical thinking and exchange of ideas.
- Simulation activities allow students to practice counseling techniques in realistic scenarios.
- Role-playing exercises help students develop empathy and interpersonal skills.
Faculty:
- The program faculty comprises experienced professionals with expertise in school counseling.
- Faculty members are actively involved in research, publications, and professional organizations.
- They provide mentorship and guidance to students throughout their academic journey.
Unique Approaches:
- The program integrates technology into its curriculum, ensuring that students are proficient in using digital tools for counseling purposes.
- It emphasizes the impact of cultural diversity on counseling techniques, equipping students with strategies for working effectively with students from diverse backgrounds.
Careers:
Career Opportunities:
- Graduates of the Master of Science in School Counseling can pursue employment as school counselors at the elementary, middle school, and high school levels.
- They can work in rural, urban, and suburban areas.
- Graduates can also work in state education departments or non-profit agencies that support college and career readiness.
Career Outcomes:
- The program prepares students to assume professional school counseling roles, advocating for student success and well-being.
- Graduates gain proficiency in crisis and trauma response, counseling interventions for children and adolescents, family assessment, and ethical practices in school counseling.
- The program empowers students to make a positive impact on the lives of students and contribute to their academic, social, and emotional growth.