Master of Education in School Counseling

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Upcoming Info Sessions

RSVP Here!

Prospective applicants are invited to join us to learn more about Western Washington University's Master's of Education in School Counseling program, its structure, accreditation, expectations, coursework, and the application process. Come with questions—we look forward to seeing you there!

Program Information

The MEd school counseling program prepares professional counselors for employment in educational settings and is designed for those students intending to apply for the state educational staff associate certificate endorsed in school counseling at the elementary and secondary levels. Certification as a public school teacher is not required for admission to the program. The school counseling program is accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP), and the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE).

The program contains a thesis option for those students interested in pursuing a research project related to the degree program.

Goals

The program prepares knowledgeable, skilled, culturally sensitive, and ethical professional counselors who meet the relevant licensing or credentialing standards for practice in mental health and public and private educational settings in the State of Washington.

Application Requirements

  • The following specific courses are required for those who do not have a degree in psychology: introductory psychology, statistics, abnormal psychology, and child/adolescent development. Deficiencies in prerequisites may be completed after program admission but must be completed prior to first enrollment.
  • All applicants must complete the Graduate School's ApplyWeb application and pay the $100 application fee.
  • Within the application you will be prompted to upload an unofficial transcript from each institution attended. If admitted, you will be asked to provide official transcripts.
  • Additional application materials are specified below. Applications will not be forwarded to the department for review until all required materials have been received by the Graduate School.
  • International Applicants: Please review the requirements for information regarding Degree Equivalency, English Language Proficiency and student VISA requirements.

Additional Application Requirements

  • Three (3) Letters of Reference
    • Each reference should be no more than 1 year old. Must include at least one from a professor who can comment on academic abilities.
  • Professional resume: include all work and volunteer experiences relevant to counseling with children/youth
  • Statement of Purpose: The WWU Counseling Program faculty and students are guided by a mission statement and program objectives that reflect our values and goals for training counselors. As you begin the application process, please take time to review the WWU mission and objectives and reflect upon your interest in and match with our program. Use this reflection and write an essay of about 1000 words to address the following: 
    1. Describe the academic, professional, personal, and volunteer experiences that make you a strong candidate for graduate training in the WWU Counseling Program. 
    2. Describe an experience you had working to promote equity, social justice, and/or access in your personal or professional life. 
    3. Explain why you have chosen school counseling as a professional path.