The counseling programs provide the training necessary for successful counseling in schools, colleges and various community mental health settings.
The Master of Education in School Counseling prepares students to function effectively as licensed school guidance counselors in secondary schools (grades 5-12).
A minimum program of study consists of 36 credits of coursework, or 48 credits if completing the combined MEd/Post-Master's Certificate in College Admission Counseling.
Competence in counseling skills is acquired during the Counseling Skills Laboratory (COUNS 737) and the Counseling Practicum classes (COUNS 720 and COUNS 721). During these courses, students demonstrate the ability to translate training into professional judgments and techniques.
Completion of the master’s degree satisfies the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education's academic experience requirements for Initial Licensure (a passing score on the MTEL is also required). To obtain a Professional License, you need to obtain three years of experience as a school counselor and accumulate a total of 60 graduate credits (including credits earned as part of the master’s degree).
Students are required to apply formally for the School Counseling Practicum and to consult with their advisor regarding their field placement. Six courses must be completed before enrolling in the practicum, including all pre-requisites for COUNS 720. After two failed attempts to satisfactorily complete COUNS 720/721, students will be subject to dismissal from the program.
Prior to enrollment in COUNS 720, students must successfully complete the literacy and communication sections of the Massachusetts Test for Educator Licensure (MTEL), have a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher, and earn a grade of no less than "B" in the Counseling Skills Laboratory course (COUNS 737).
A Criminal Offender Record Information (CORI) check may be conducted by pre-practicum, practicum, and/or internship placement sites for conviction, non-conviction and pending criminal case information.
3.00
Examines the childhood, preadolescent and adolescent stages of human development relative to students learning, social development, and parental relationships. Special emphasis will be placed on deviant behavior, social actions, outreach and prevention programs. Ten observation hours required. Normally offered yearly.
3.00
The foundation course for those enrolled in the school counseling program. The philosophical, historical, and theoretical foundations for school counseling are investigated, as well as the varied roles and functions of the school counselor. Forty (40) field-based observation hours are required. Normally offered yearly.
3.00
Analysis of selected counseling theories representative of the field of counseling psychology. Theories will be selected from the following areas: Psychoanalytic, Psychosocial, Rational, Cognitive Behavioral/Learning Theory, Person-Centered, and Existential Theory. Treatment goals and techniques will be explored.
3.00
A survey of various theories of vocational choice and development, and strategies for the implementation of vocational counseling in the school, agency, or business/industrial setting. Concepts of work, vocational concerns of women and minorities and other major issues also investigated.
Take COUNS-713;
3.00
Evaluating, administering, scoring, interpreting, and reporting results of standardized tests of personality, academic performance, cognitive functioning, aptitude, and achievement. Self-study development and assessment of testing programs. Critical issues in testing. Normally offered yearly.
Take COUNS-710 COUNS-737 COUNS-746;
3.00- 6.00
Application of skills in a school environment. Students will spend a minimum of fifteen hours per week in a school and participate in weekly group sessions at the University for the evaluation of progress and clinical supervision. Open only to degree candidates in the School Counseling Program who have formally applied for the Practicum and have completed at least 18 hours of coursework. Offered fall semester.
Take COUNS-720;
3.00- 6.00
Continuation of COUNS 720 with an opportunity to assume increased responsibility for clients under supervision. Offered spring semester.
3.00
An overview of the various group counseling formats utilized in schools, and related theories. Issues related to the development and implementation of small counseling groups (e.g., group dynamics and processes for group member selection) and larger educational and prevention-based groups (e.g., fostering positive mental health, career-related programming, anti-bullying) will be explored and discussed.
OR
3.00
A study of the practical and theoretical aspects of counseling small groups. There will be provision for a laboratory experience in which students participate in a group and study the dynamics of behavior as this group develops. Group stages of development and leadership skills will also be examined. Normally offered yearly.
3.00
Research designs, methods, and statistics for students in educator preparation programs (school counseling and teacher preparation). The focus of this course is on the practical methods of conducting practitioner-led research, and involves the execution and presentation of an original research project. Normally offered yearly.
3.00
Principles, concepts and methods of research design and statistics associated with psychological and educational research. Practical applications of research studies to a diverse range of interests in education, psychology and counseling. Offered yearly.
3.00
This course explores the major psychological disorders of childhood and adolescence from biological, psychological, and sociocultural perspectives. Attention-deficit and Disruptive Behavior Disorders, Feeding and Eating Disorders, anxiety and depression are among the disorders explored. Student interest determines other topics. Assessment, treatment, and outcome studies are also discussed. Completion of EHS 701 or EHS 712 is recommended before taking this course. Normally offered alternate years.
Take COUNS-713;
3.00
An introduction to the fundamental techniques and methods of interpersonal relationships, self-examination, and field visits in relation to the role of the professional counselor. The course will involve skill building through role playing, video and/or audio taping. Normally offered spring semester.
Take COUNS-710;
3.00
An in-depth investigation of current major areas of concern for the secondary school counselor, including involvement in special needs, legal issues, working with diverse populations and developmental/psychological education. Normally offered yearly.
3.00
This course will discuss issues surrounding admission testing and financial aid practices, admission policies and procedures, diverse students (e.g., first generation, students with learning disabilities, traditionally underrepresented populations in higher education), and the technology tools used to facilitate the college search and application process (e.g., Naviance, ConnectEDU, the Common Application). School-based programs to promote early college awareness will also be discussed, and the perspective of both the high school and undergraduate admissions counselor will be considered. Normally offered yearly
COUNS-747;
3.00
This course will require students to visit a minimum of 8 public and private four-year and 2 two-year higher education institutions. Students will meet with admission, diversity services, and disability services personnel of each college to gain insight into how prospective students with diverse backgrounds and abilities would fit the campus resources and offerings. Normally offered yearly
3.00
Historical and current problems regarding access and equity to higher education opportunities for traditionally underrepresented groups in the college classroom will be explored, with a focus on research describing the problems, and their solutions Course to be offered yearly by the Administration of Higher Education Program
Students in school counseling must successfully complete a minimum of 75 hours of field-based pre-practicum experience. These experiences are incorporated into courses taken before starting the practicum.
Portfolios
All school counseling students will develop and maintain portfolios of all course and field experience related items. Such items might include, but should not be limited to:
The Certificate of Advanced Graduate Study (CAGS) in School Counseling is designed to provide those who have already earned a master’s degree in School Counseling with advanced preparation in the field, and those who have a Master's degree in Counseling with the coursework and experiences needed to qualify for Initial Licensure as a School Guidance Counselor.
The Certificate of Advanced Graduate Study is designed as an individually-oriented program to meet the needs of advanced students. The completion of a minimum of 30 credits of graduate study is required for the certificate. Additional hours may be required at the discretion of the faculty advisor.
Take COUNS-738 COUNS-739;
6.00
Application of skills in an approved field placement (school, clinic, hospital, agency, industry) totaling 300 clock hours. The opportunity to develop advanced skills and to integrate professional knowledge appropriate to the field experience. Failure to successfully complete the practicum field experience for any reason following two attempts will result in termination from the program. Offered fall semester.
Take COUNS-740;
6.00
Continuation of Counseling Internship I with advanced responsibilities totaling 300 clock hours. Exploration of an area of individual specialization. Failure to successfully complete the practicum field experience for any reason following two attempts will result in termination from the program. Offered spring semester.
Selected with Advisor
| Last Completed Award Year: | 2010-11 |
| Program Name: | Certificate of Advanced Graduate Studies (CAGS) in School Counseling |
| On-time Completion Rate: | * |
| Placement Rate: | N/A |
| Occupations by SOC Code: | 21-2012.00 onetoneline.org** |
| Total Estimated Tuition & Fee Costs: | $21,408 |
| Books & Supply Costs: | $1,200 |
| Room & Board Costs: | $15,508 |
| Median Title IV Loan Debt: | * |
| Median Private Loan Debt: | * |
| Median Debt from Institutional Financing Plans or amount students were obligated to pay at program completion. | * |
The Master of Science in Mental Health Counseling trains students to function in a variety of community mental health settings (e.g., clinics, hospitals, prisons, college counseling centers, day treatment programs, rehabilitation facilities, outreach programs, after care centers, etc.).
The ability to work with people in a variety of settings and roles will be cultivated. Through systematic completion of the curriculum, students will develop a competency base from which to perform effectively in their area of specialization.
A minimum program involves 36 credits of coursework, depending on undergraduate preparation.
All students must successfully complete a minimum of 12 credits prior to the Counseling Practicum experience, including the Counseling Skills Laboratory (COUNS 737) course offered during the spring semester and Counseling Theory (COUNS 713).
It is during the Counseling Skills Lab and the Counseling Practicum that a student demonstrates the ability to translate training into professional judgments and techniques. Students are required to apply formally for the Counseling Practicum and to consult with their faculty advisors regarding their field placements. The Counseling Skills Laboratory and the Practicum must be completed with a grade of no less than “B” (3.0). After two failed attempts to satisfactorily complete a clinical practicum students will be subject to dismissal from the program at the discretion of faculty.
3.00
This course examines the process of human development across the lifespan. While it will focus primarily on psychological processes, the intersection with biological and social processes will be explored as well. The major psychological theories of cognitive, social and emotional development will be covered as will the foundations for individual differences. Special emphasis will be placed on topics of interest to people entering the counseling professions. Normally offered yearly.
3.00
Principles, concepts and methods of research design and statistics associated with psychological and educational research. Practical applications of research studies to a diverse range of interests in education, psychology and counseling. Offered yearly.
3.00
Analysis of selected counseling theories representative of the field of counseling psychology. Theories will be selected from the following areas: Psychoanalytic, Psychosocial, Rational, Cognitive Behavioral/Learning Theory, Person-Centered, and Existential Theory. Treatment goals and techniques will be explored.
3.00
The study of the nature of mental disorders; central concepts and processes. Psychogenesis, psychodynamics, role of anxiety, and clinical assessment using the DSM-IV.
Take COUNS-713;
3.00
Evaluating, administering, scoring, interpreting, and reporting results of standardized tests of personality, academic performance, cognitive functioning, aptitude, and achievement. Self-study development and assessment of testing programs. Critical issues in testing. Normally offered yearly.
Take COUNS-713;
3.00
An introduction to the fundamental techniques and methods of interpersonal relationships, self-examination, and field visits in relation to the role of the professional counselor. The course will involve skill building through role playing, video and/or audio taping. Normally offered spring semester.
Take COUNS-738
3.00
Continuation of COUNS 738 with an opportunity to assume increased responsibility for clients under supervision. Failure to successfully complete the practicum field experience for any reason following two attempts will result in termination from the program. Offered spring semester.
3.00
Examines the childhood, preadolescent and adolescent stages of human development relative to students learning, social development, and parental relationships. Special emphasis will be placed on deviant behavior, social actions, outreach and prevention programs. Ten observation hours required. Normally offered yearly.
3.00
The foundation course for those enrolled in the school counseling program. The philosophical, historical, and theoretical foundations for school counseling are investigated, as well as the varied roles and functions of the school counselor. Forty (40) field-based observation hours are required. Normally offered yearly.
3.00
A survey of various theories of vocational choice and development, and strategies for the implementation of vocational counseling in the school, agency, or business/industrial setting. Concepts of work, vocational concerns of women and minorities and other major issues also investigated.
3.00
Selected models of family therapy will be explored. Special emphasis will be placed on assessment and the acquisition of treatment strategies proven to be effective for counselors in helping families cope with developmental stresses. Normally offered alternate years.
3.00
A study of the origin, contributing factors, and implications of drug and alcohol misuse. Various stages and manifestations of abuse/ dependence will be considered and current treatment modalities will be explored.
3.00
An overview of the legal issues confronting counselors, human services providers and administrators. Study of regulatory and licensing matters, standards of care, confidentiality laws, mental health and disability laws and family law, constitutional issues, malpractice and legal/ethical dilemmas in human services.
3.00
The anatomy, physiology and psychology of human sexual functioning are reviewed. Etiology, interpersonal dynamics, and treatment of sexual dysfunctions are reviewed.
3.00
Research designs, methods, and statistics for students in educator preparation programs (school counseling and teacher preparation). The focus of this course is on the practical methods of conducting practitioner-led research, and involves the execution and presentation of an original research project. Normally offered yearly.
3.00
This course explores the major psychological disorders of childhood and adolescence from biological, psychological, and sociocultural perspectives. Attention-deficit and Disruptive Behavior Disorders, Feeding and Eating Disorders, anxiety and depression are among the disorders explored. Student interest determines other topics. Assessment, treatment, and outcome studies are also discussed. Completion of EHS 701 or EHS 712 is recommended before taking this course. Normally offered alternate years.
3.00
A survey of problems and issues confronting cultural diversity. The study of ethnicity and sexual orientation as they influence the development of identity. Implications for counseling strategies. Normally offered yearly.
3.00
A study of the practical and theoretical aspects of counseling small groups. There will be provision for a laboratory experience in which students participate in a group and study the dynamics of behavior as this group develops. Group stages of development and leadership skills will also be examined. Normally offered yearly.
(Coursework in related disciplines may be elected subject to approval of the program director.)
Note: Eligibility for Massachusetts licensure as a Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) requires an additional 30 credit hours including a 600-hour internship. Students are encouraged to enroll in the CAGS Program at the completion of the master’s degree to satisfy the academic requirements for licensure. Licensure permits third party (Insurance Company) reimbursement for counseling services.
The Certificate of Advanced Graduate Study (CAGS) in Mental Health Counseling is designed to provide those who have already earned a master’s degree in Mental Health Counseling, School Counseling, or a closely related field with advanced preparation to fulfill the academic and field-based experience requirements for licensure as a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC).
The Certificate of Advanced Graduate Study is designed as an individually-oriented program to meet the needs of advanced students. The completion of a minimum of 30 credits of graduate study is required for the certificate. Additional hours may be required at the discretion of the faculty advisor.
Take COUNS-738 COUNS-739;
6.00
Application of skills in an approved field placement (school, clinic, hospital, agency, industry) totaling 300 clock hours. The opportunity to develop advanced skills and to integrate professional knowledge appropriate to the field experience. Failure to successfully complete the practicum field experience for any reason following two attempts will result in termination from the program. Offered fall semester.
Take COUNS-740;
6.00
Continuation of Counseling Internship I with advanced responsibilities totaling 300 clock hours. Exploration of an area of individual specialization. Failure to successfully complete the practicum field experience for any reason following two attempts will result in termination from the program. Offered spring semester.
See Mental Health Counseling sections
| Last Completed Award Year: | 2010-11 |
| Program Name: | Certificate of Advanced Graduate Studies (CAGS) in Mental Health Counseling |
| On-time Completion Rate: | * |
| Placement Rate: | N/A |
| Occupations by SOC Code: | 21-2014.00 onetoneline.org** |
| Total Estimated Tuition & Fee Costs: | $21,408 |
| Books & Supply Costs: | $1,200 |
| Room & Board Costs: | $15,508 |
| Median Title IV Loan Debt: | * |
| Median Private Loan Debt: | * |
| Median Debt from Institutional Financing Plans or amount students were obligated to pay at program completion. | * |
3.00
Examines the childhood, preadolescent and adolescent stages of human development relative to students learning, social development, and parental relationships. Special emphasis will be placed on deviant behavior, social actions, outreach and prevention programs. Ten observation hours required. Normally offered yearly.
3.00
The foundation course for those enrolled in the school counseling program. The philosophical, historical, and theoretical foundations for school counseling are investigated, as well as the varied roles and functions of the school counselor. Forty (40) field-based observation hours are required. Normally offered yearly.
3.00
This course examines the process of human development across the lifespan. While it will focus primarily on psychological processes, the intersection with biological and social processes will be explored as well. The major psychological theories of cognitive, social and emotional development will be covered as will the foundations for individual differences. Special emphasis will be placed on topics of interest to people entering the counseling professions. Normally offered yearly.
3.00
Analysis of selected counseling theories representative of the field of counseling psychology. Theories will be selected from the following areas: Psychoanalytic, Psychosocial, Rational, Cognitive Behavioral/Learning Theory, Person-Centered, and Existential Theory. Treatment goals and techniques will be explored.
3.00
A survey of various theories of vocational choice and development, and strategies for the implementation of vocational counseling in the school, agency, or business/industrial setting. Concepts of work, vocational concerns of women and minorities and other major issues also investigated.
3.00
Principles, concepts and methods of research design and statistics associated with psychological and educational research. Practical applications of research studies to a diverse range of interests in education, psychology and counseling. Offered yearly.
3.00
The study of the nature of mental disorders; central concepts and processes. Psychogenesis, psychodynamics, role of anxiety, and clinical assessment using the DSM-IV.
Take COUNS-713;
3.00
Evaluating, administering, scoring, interpreting, and reporting results of standardized tests of personality, academic performance, cognitive functioning, aptitude, and achievement. Self-study development and assessment of testing programs. Critical issues in testing. Normally offered yearly.
Take COUNS-710 COUNS-737 COUNS-746;
3.00- 6.00
Application of skills in a school environment. Students will spend a minimum of fifteen hours per week in a school and participate in weekly group sessions at the University for the evaluation of progress and clinical supervision. Open only to degree candidates in the School Counseling Program who have formally applied for the Practicum and have completed at least 18 hours of coursework. Offered fall semester.
Take COUNS-720;
3.00- 6.00
Continuation of COUNS 720 with an opportunity to assume increased responsibility for clients under supervision. Offered spring semester.
3.00
An overview of the various group counseling formats utilized in schools, and related theories. Issues related to the development and implementation of small counseling groups (e.g., group dynamics and processes for group member selection) and larger educational and prevention-based groups (e.g., fostering positive mental health, career-related programming, anti-bullying) will be explored and discussed.
3.00
Selected models of family therapy will be explored. Special emphasis will be placed on assessment and the acquisition of treatment strategies proven to be effective for counselors in helping families cope with developmental stresses. Normally offered alternate years.
3.00
A study of the origin, contributing factors, and implications of drug and alcohol misuse. Various stages and manifestations of abuse/ dependence will be considered and current treatment modalities will be explored.
3.00
An overview of the legal issues confronting counselors, human services providers and administrators. Study of regulatory and licensing matters, standards of care, confidentiality laws, mental health and disability laws and family law, constitutional issues, malpractice and legal/ethical dilemmas in human services.
3.00
The anatomy, physiology and psychology of human sexual functioning are reviewed. Etiology, interpersonal dynamics, and treatment of sexual dysfunctions are reviewed.
3.00
Research designs, methods, and statistics for students in educator preparation programs (school counseling and teacher preparation). The focus of this course is on the practical methods of conducting practitioner-led research, and involves the execution and presentation of an original research project. Normally offered yearly.
3.00
This course explores the major psychological disorders of childhood and adolescence from biological, psychological, and sociocultural perspectives. Attention-deficit and Disruptive Behavior Disorders, Feeding and Eating Disorders, anxiety and depression are among the disorders explored. Student interest determines other topics. Assessment, treatment, and outcome studies are also discussed. Completion of EHS 701 or EHS 712 is recommended before taking this course. Normally offered alternate years.
3.00
A survey of problems and issues confronting cultural diversity. The study of ethnicity and sexual orientation as they influence the development of identity. Implications for counseling strategies. Normally offered yearly.
3.00
A study of the practical and theoretical aspects of counseling small groups. There will be provision for a laboratory experience in which students participate in a group and study the dynamics of behavior as this group develops. Group stages of development and leadership skills will also be examined. Normally offered yearly.
Take COUNS-713;
3.00
An introduction to the fundamental techniques and methods of interpersonal relationships, self-examination, and field visits in relation to the role of the professional counselor. The course will involve skill building through role playing, video and/or audio taping. Normally offered spring semester.
Take COUNS-738
3.00
Continuation of COUNS 738 with an opportunity to assume increased responsibility for clients under supervision. Failure to successfully complete the practicum field experience for any reason following two attempts will result in termination from the program. Offered spring semester.
Take COUNS-740;
6.00
Continuation of Counseling Internship I with advanced responsibilities totaling 300 clock hours. Exploration of an area of individual specialization. Failure to successfully complete the practicum field experience for any reason following two attempts will result in termination from the program. Offered spring semester.
Take COUNS-710;
3.00
An in-depth investigation of current major areas of concern for the secondary school counselor, including involvement in special needs, legal issues, working with diverse populations and developmental/psychological education. Normally offered yearly.
