School Counseling—Master of Arts

Master of Arts (MA)

counselor with student

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Industry highlights

Employment for educational, vocational, and school counselors is expected to grow by 19 percent from 2010 to 2020.US Bureau of Labor Statistics

Program overview

The program is offered in-person in Kalamazoo; however, there are some courses that are offered online. The program is offered in a hybrid format in Grand Rapids which means there are several courses offered online and some courses meet in-person.

You love helping young people realize their full potential and are ready to reach your own. With a Master of Arts degree in counselor education—school counseling from Western Michigan University, your career advancement is in your own hands.

The school counseling program meets the educational requirements for the school counselor license (K-12) and the limited license as a professional counselor (LLPC) in Michigan.

Join us for a virtual information session to learn more.

*Limited coursework offered on the Grand Rapids campus

Why school counseling at Western Michigan University?

  • This master's degree program at WMU is unique because there are three different tracks available that lead to a variety of different certifications.
  • When it comes to practicum hours, the Department of Counselor Education and Counseling Psychology offers several options. With on-site clinics in Kalamazoo and Grand Rapids, there are many opportunities for training. The program also has connections with many area school counseling sites where you can complete your practicum.
  • In addition to WMU funding opportunities, our department offers competitive scholarships.
  • We are the only institution in the U.S. that includes an optional co-curricular designation known as the WMU Signature. Pathways include: Teaching & Student Success, Leadership, Health & Wellbeing, Diversity, Inclusion, Equity & Justice, and more! 

CACREP accredited

The school counseling program is accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and related Educational Programs. Not only will your experience as a graduate student be valued by employers, your degree will be well recognized and highly commended.

Who should apply?

Anyone with a strong undergraduate academic career (3.0 or higher cumulative GPA) in psychology or a related field is encouraged to apply. You can view detailed admissions information for domestic applicants here and international applicants here.

Career opportunities

The school counseling program is designed to prepare individuals to function as school counselors at one of the three levels in public and private schools in accordance with the Endorsement Rules and Teacher Certification Code of the state of Michigan, and Public Act 288 r.e. School Counselors.

Cost & Funding

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