Minimum number of credits required to complete the program: 48
Minimum cumulative GPA required: 3.0
School: School of Education and Social Policy
Learn more about the program
The M.Ed. in School Counseling program prepares candidates for rewarding careers in school-or community-based counseling, college readiness, career guidance, or transitional services.
The program offers an accessible yet rigorous curriculum aligned with Massachusetts licensure requirements and the American School Counselors Association standards.
Built on a foundation of theoretical understanding, the program progresses to a predominantly field-based experience. The ongoing, progressively intense field experience requirement is the hallmark of our program. Through 100 hours of pre-practicum and 500-1200 hours of field experience in schools and community-based organizations, students will develop a valuable, more holistic understanding of the school counseling profession.
Full-time students can complete our program in two years taking three courses per semester and completing the full practicum in year two along with corresponding upper level courses. Part-time students can complete our program in three or more years. Both options will require a full year school-based field experience if desiring license in Massachusetts. Individuals holding a current master’s in counseling or psychology may be able to customize a license only option.
The M.Ed. in School Counseling is a 48-credit program.
Licensure
Merrimack College’s program is fully accredited by the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education for licensure preparation in:
- School Counseling PreK-12
- School Adjustment Counselor/School Social Worker PreK-12
Students will select their focus area during practicum. This year long field experience will provide students with an opportunity to develop Subject Matter Knowledge (SMK) competencies under the guidance of a professional licensed counselor. Students may elect to complete multiple license areas.
Advanced Graduate Certificate
Merrimack offers an advanced graduate certificate in School Social Work/Adjustment Counseling, a one year, 16-20 credit option completed after the master’s. The coursework is paired with a 900/700 hour field experience and culminates with a capstone school-based action research project. Completers of this program will have a strong understanding of how to support all youth in their social development, emotional competency, and mental health and wellness. Students may continue their studies after completing the school counseling requirements as a post-master’s student. Candidates who already hold a master’s degree in Mental Health Counseling or Social Work are eligible for this option in addition to Master’s of School Counseling graduates.
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