School Counseling
Adopting the School-College-Community Collaboration Model, the Master of Education (M.Ed.) in Counselor Education prepares students to work as Professional School Counselors. Graduates possess the professional knowledge, skills, and practices necessary to promote the academic, career, and personal/social development of K-12 students. In addition to the traditional core of developmental theory and the associated design and implementation of preventive interventions, the program also provides the opportunity to explore clinical counseling theory and practice. This is augmented by our commitment to a foundation in multicultural diversity, which is reflected in the required coursework and in the faculty-student community.
Founded in 1946, the Counselor Education Program at North Carolina State University has had a long and rich history of contributing to the needs of North Carolina and the nation.
Competence in both theory and practice is emphasized. Students participate in individualized field experiences in K-12 schools in North Carolina. In light of our commitment to multicultural diversity, we are particularly interested in attracting students from culturally diverse backgrounds. In recent years, we have increased the proportion of culturally different students from less than 5% to almost 20% of our degree candidates. Our curriculum content acknowledges the significance of cross-cultural perspectives in counseling theory, research, and practice.
Visit the College of Education program website for more information.
Graduates of the M.Ed. in School Counseling program will meet course requirements for Professional Licensure in the state of North Carolina.
Eligibility
Applicants must submit:
- Completed online application, the departmental application form, your resume, and non-refundable application fee
- 3 recommendations from people who know your academic record and potential for graduate study (letters should be uploaded online)
- Official transcripts of all post-secondary education
- **Official statement of English Proficiency (TOEFL) for international students
- All students must be able to complete their field experiences (Practicum and Internship) in the state of North Carolina
Selection for admission is based on a number of considerations:
- Academic achievement, especially in the junior and senior undergraduate years, as well as performance in any graduate courses, is carefully evaluated for evidence of competence in intellectual inquiry.
- Performance ratings and recommendations from professors and supervisory personnel are also carefully examined for evidence of personal qualities requisite for professional competence.
- Demonstrated leadership activity and/or significant work experience represent additional important factors.
- Interview process –candidates are selected to be interviewed, barring significant geographical distances.
- Other additional materials are also welcome to supplement the application – such as a research paper, a video of some “helping” activity by the candidate, etc.
Applications and all supporting documents must be received on or before the Graduate School Priority Deadlines or the Program Deadlines. International students should also consider their specific deadline, whichever is earlier.
**Request the test center to send your scores directly to NC State when taking the exam: TOEFL Institution code 5496. Upload unofficial copy when submitting application.
Plan of Study
The online option is a three-year, part-time cohort program that requires students to take courses year-round including summer. Students begin in Summer II (June), and typically take two online classes in fall and in spring. During the final year, some on-campus (weekend) classes are required.
Career Prospects
Completion of a master's degree in counselor education is the first step to becoming licensed to practice in the state of North Carolina. Students are eligible to take licensing exams in their field during the final semester of the program. Graduates of the M.Ed. in Counselor Education (with a concentration in School Counseling) are equipped to work as Professional School Counselors serving grades K-12.
