(M.A., M.S., M.Ed., C.A.S., Ed.D.)

M.Ed.: The 48-credit hour Master’s degree is designed to offer preparation for entry-level professional counseling in school settings. The curriculum is comprised of coursework and intensive supervised field experiences considered to be essential in the preparation of professional counselors with a developmental orientation.

C.A.S.: The C.A.S. is offered as a planned program of electives approved by an advisor representing 30 credit hours beyond the Master’s degree. Through the C.A.S., students develop specialized knowledge about counseling with certain client populations, obtain advanced levels of supervision of counseling practice, and qualify for school counselor certification if they have previously prepared to work in community agency settings.

Ed.D.: The doctoral program in Counselor Education prepares students for academic positions in counselor education. In designing this program, the faculty ascribe to the overarching goal of preparing competent scholar-practitioners. The program is closely allied with the faculty of Human Development and Family Studies. Counselor Education doctoral applications are due by December 1 for review for Fall acceptance. Admission to the graduate program in Counselor Education, in addition to the basic requirements of the Graduate School, includes separate eligibility standards as established by the faculty. A personal interview also is recommended. The program encourages consultation and collaboration among professionals in schools and community settings. Therefore, students are provided field experiences in elementary, middle, and secondary schools and post-secondary institutions. Opportunities are also available in the community contexts.

Opportunities for financial aid may be available to students in Counselor Education in addition to those sources listed elsewhere in this catalog. Employment opportunities often are available in the professional and academic community (e.g., tutoring, proctoring, and part-time in counseling services). Further information may be obtained from the student financial aid office and the coordinator of Counselor Education.