School Counseling - Master of Arts Degree in Education

Objectives

The objectives of the Master's level program in School Counseling are intended to prepare students that will:

1. Possess the ability and demonstrate the skills, characteristics and attributes to meet State and national standards for certification as a school counselor by successfully completing a core curriculum that includes 10 content areas, i.e., Human Growth and Development, Social and Cultural Foundations, Helping Relationships, Group Work, Career and Life Style Development, Appraisal, Research and Program Evaluation, Professional Orientation, Foundations and Contents of School Counseling and Collaborating/Consulting; a progression of supervised experiences in counseling and guidance; and a course of study in special education thereby enabling them to practice as a school counselor for grades pre-K through 12.

2. Demonstrate knowledge about the history, philosophy, and current trends in school counseling and educational systems.

3. Apply both developmental and intervention models to the total development of students as unique individuals within educational settings.

4. Use school-based data to design comprehensive programs to meet specific school counseling program goals, including action plans for implementation and evaluation.

5. Develop mechanisms for referral, collaboration and public relations.

6. Become leaders in the school and advocates for educational equity for all students.

7. Be aware of current ethical and legal issues, laws and both federal and state regulations relevant to school counseling.

8. Apply current and emerging technological resources to: 1) enhance counseling and guidance planning, and 2) promote informed academic, career and personal/social choices.

9. Demonstrate accountability by using outcome-based data to effect systemic change.