Master of Science in Counseling (School Counseling)
Hours: 60 Online
About
The Master of Science in Counseling (School Counseling) at FHSU is a 60-credit-hour, fully online graduate program designed to prepare students for licensure as Professional School Counselors (PSC). The program equips students with the knowledge and skills needed to effectively support and counsel students across elementary, middle, and high school levels.
Fort Hays State University is committed to student success, offering a supportive learning environment led by experienced faculty, including a clinical assistant professor specializing in community counseling. This expertise ensures both personal and academic growth throughout the program.
Why pursue a Master of Science in Counseling (School Counseling) at Fort Hays State University?
The M.S. in Counseling (School Counseling) program delivers all courses online, enabling students to pursue their education from anywhere in the world. This flexible format supports working professionals and individuals with busy schedules, allowing them to balance personal and professional commitments while advancing their careers.
The program emphasizes equipping future school counselors with the skills to support students facing academic challenges, mental health concerns, and career development needs. With a strong focus on human development and the integration of both individual and group counseling techniques, graduates are prepared to make a meaningful impact on the lives of the students they serve.
Who is this program for?
The M.S. in Counseling (School Counseling) program is for individuals who are passionate about making a positive impact on the lives of young people. This program is an excellent choice for a variety of individuals, especially:
- Individuals passionate about working with children and youth
- Individuals interested in a career in school counseling
- Current school counselors
- Graduates of a bachelor's degree in education or a related field
Real-World Applications
A key component of the M.S. in Counseling (School Counseling) is the practicum and internship, which immerse students in real-world settings, allowing them to apply classroom theories and skills directly with students. These hands-on experiences also provide valuable opportunities to network with practicing school counselors and other professionals in the field.
Beyond the practicum and internship, the program offers additional avenues for practical growth. Students can engage in student organizations, attend relevant conferences, and volunteer within their communities. These experiences further develop their skills and knowledge, preparing them for successful careers in school counseling.
Stay Ahead of the Curve
The program prioritizes a thorough understanding of state statutes and legislation governing school counseling, integrating these legal frameworks throughout the coursework to ensure students are well-versed in current regulations. It also places strong emphasis on the American School Counselor Association’s guidelines and standards, with the ASCA National Model serving as the cornerstone of the curriculum.
Beyond traditional education models, the Master of Science in Counseling (School Counseling) delivers a comprehensive curriculum designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge essential for effective practice as professional school counselors.
Practical Activities
As part of its commitment to a well-rounded education, the M.S. in Counseling (School Counseling) requires students to complete 700 hours of field experience through practicum and internship courses. This comprehensive training encompasses counseling practice, school counseling internships, and counseling program coursework, enabling students to refine their skills while addressing the academic achievement, adolescent development, and mental health needs of the students they will serve.
What You’ll Learn:
- Acquire the expertise for a Professional School Counselor license
- Gain a comprehensive understanding of counseling strategies
- Focus on effective counseling for various school levels
- Develop skills to navigate elementary, middle, and high schools
- Create and manage comprehensive counseling programs for school settings
How You’ll Learn:
- Engage in interactive online coursework modules
- Benefit from expert guidance from seasoned faculty
- Access a supportive environment for personal development
- Collaborating with a clinical assistant professor
- Experience tailored learning for school counseling proficiency
The core courses in the Master of Science in Counseling (School Counseling) program cover a broad spectrum of counseling topics, preparing students to meet the demands of their roles as certified school counselors. The curriculum focuses on ethical and legal standards, research methods, human development, trauma, and psychotherapy. Below are several key courses offered in the program:
COUN 827: Counseling Skills Development – Residency Required
In this course, students will develop essential skills for effective counseling and consulting practices.
COUN 844: The School Counseling Profession
This course covers counseling approaches, skills, techniques, and intervention strategies for addressing the educational, social, and developmental needs of children. It is also suitable for elementary school teachers seeking certification renewal or improved interpersonal skills.
COUN 853: Childhood and Adolescent Counseling
This course provides an overview of the theories and practices of childhood and adolescent counseling within the context of mental health. Students will examine the etiology of childhood-specific disorders among diverse populations, along with relevant counseling skills and diagnostic practices.
Discover the full Master of Science in Counseling (School Counseling) course listing by visiting the Academic Catalog.
Upon obtaining the M.S. in Counseling (School Counseling), students will be ready to pursue fulfilling careers in several counseling domains. With the program's comprehensive coursework, combined with FHSU’s dedication, alumni become successful champions of student achievement.
Professional School Counselor
Graduates are prepared to step into the crucial role of a school counselor. They play a vital role in promoting student success by helping students develop academic, career, and personal skills. They work with students on a one-on-one basis, in small groups, and in whole-school settings to address a variety of issues, such as academic concerns, social and emotional problems, and career development
Licensed Professional Counselor
The program also empowers students to pursue licensure as licensed counselors, allowing them to practice in clinical mental health settings. With a solid foundation in research methods, counseling services, and successful completion of a comprehensive examination, Fort Hays State University alumni are poised for success in private practice or within larger mental health organizations.
Career Counselor
Fort Hays State University’s emphasis on career counseling within its counselor education programs uniquely prepares graduates to guide individuals through career decisions. With an advanced degree and a deep understanding of the ethical and legal issues surrounding career development, these professionals make meaningful contributions to the workforce.
Mental Health Counselor
Specializing in mental health counseling, graduates can focus on providing therapeutic interventions to individuals struggling with a range of psychological issues, such as anxiety, depression, and trauma. They will work to promote mental well-being and foster healthy coping mechanisms.
The M.S. in Counseling (School Counseling) welcomes applications from individuals with a bachelor's degree, along with a background in counseling or human services. Understanding the admission requirements for the program is the first step toward a transformative journey in school counseling. Here's a list of the criteria:
Personal Statement
Applicants must submit a compelling personal statement that demonstrates their passion for counselor education and their dedication to making a positive impact on students' lives.
Background Check
As part of the admission process, a background check is required to ensure a safe and secure learning environment for all school counseling students.
Letters of Recommendation
Applicants must provide two letters of recommendation from individuals who can speak to their qualifications and potential for success in the Master of Science in Counseling (School Counseling) program.
GPA Requirement
Maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0 in previous academic work, demonstrating a strong commitment to excellence in counselor education.
The Best Value in Higher Education Anywhere
Fort Hays State University prides itself on quality education at an affordable price. Students in this program can expect to pay approximately $21,617.40 during their time as a student.
*Estimated cost based on 60 credit hours required to complete the M.S. in Counseling program at the FHSU Online tuition rate ($360.29/credit hour). Tuition and Fees are subject to change as they are approved by the Kansas Board of Regents each year.
Ready for the next step?
Our faculty would be excited to talk to you about how our department programs can help you explore your interests and prepare you for a variety of rewarding careers.
Related Programs
While the M.S. in Counseling (School Counseling) is the primary program for aspiring school counselors, several related programs are available to complement this education and broaden career opportunities. These include:
- M.S. in Counseling (Clinical Mental Health Counseling)
- BSE in Elementary Education (Early Childhood Unified)
- BSE in Elementary Education (PreK-6)
- BSE in Secondary Education
The program is a 60-hour online program that can be completed in 2-3 years of study.
The program is offered entirely online. This means you can complete the program from anywhere.
The core courses cover various counseling-focused topics, including ethical and legal standards, research methodologies, human development, trauma, and psychotherapy. They aim to provide a comprehensive understanding of counseling strategies and effective counseling for various school levels.
The M.S. in Counseling (School Counseling) is accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation. CAEP accreditation is a voluntary process that ensures that educator preparation programs meet high-quality standards and prepare students to be competent and effective professionals.
An internship or practicum is required as part of the degree. Students must complete at least 700 hours of field experience through their practicum and internship courses.
Information about the Department of Advanced Education Programs
FHSU’s Department of Advanced Education Programs (AEP) is one of the most diverse and comprehensive departments, offering a wide range of programs designed to fit the unique needs of educators at every stage of their careers. Whether you aim to enhance your teaching skills, pursue a role as a building principal or community counselor, add an endorsement, or renew your license, our department is dedicated to helping you succeed in your aspirations.
AEP aims to be the leader in preparing inclusive educational and community professionals to unlock innovative potential in a rapidly advancing world, by preparing global leaders who serve in these settings. Our programs focus on the interaction among innovative technologies, relevant content, diversity, and best practices.
- CACREP Accreditation:
The Department of Advanced Education Programs holds Advanced-Level Accreditation from the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP). See the Fort Hays State University CAEP Accredited Provider page for details.
Advanced-Level Accreditation is provided at the post-baccalaureate or graduate levels leading to licensure, certification, or endorsement. Advanced-Level Programs are designed to develop P-12 teachers who have already completed an initial-licensure program, currently licensed administrators, or other certified (or similar state language) school professionals for employment in P-12 schools/districts. CAEP's Advanced-Level accreditation does not include any advanced-level program not specific to the preparation of teachers or other school professionals for P-12 schools/districts; any advanced-level non-licensure programs, including those specific to content areas; or educational leadership programs not specific to the preparation of teachers or other school professionals for P-12 schools/districts.
- Master's
- Online
