Champion Students. Lead with Compassion. Advance Your Career.

    Unlock your potential with our Sixth Year Certificate in School Counseling—a comprehensive, field-based program designed for professionals with a master’s degree in a helping or education-related field who are ready to become certified K–12 school counselors in Connecticut. Whether you’re transitioning from teaching, social work, or clinical counseling, this program equips you with the skills to support students’ academic, emotional, and social development.  This 41-credit program includes rigorous coursework, a 100-hour practicum, and a 700-hour, 10-month supervised internship in a school setting. Upon completion, candidates are eligible for the Connecticut (068) School Counselor Certification. Candidates with 30 months of certified public teaching experience may waive 50% of the internship requirement.

    Our Post-Master’s Certificate in School Counseling—a focused, field-based program designed for experienced counseling professionals seeking certification as K–12 school counselors in Connecticut. Whether you’re transitioning from clinical or community counseling or expanding your impact in education, this certificate equips you with the skills to support students’ academic, social-emotional, and career development.
    This 20-credit program includes 12 credits of advanced coursework and 8 credits of supervised fieldwork, culminating in a 700-hour, 10-month internship in a school setting. Upon completion, candidates are eligible for the Connecticut (068) School Counselor Certification.

    Why Choose a Master of Science in School Counseling?

    Growing Demand for School Counselors: The need for qualified school counselors is on the rise. Employment of school and career counselors is projected to grow by 4% from 2023 to 2033*. This growth reflects the increasing recognition of the vital role counselors play in student development and well-being.

    Rewarding Career Opportunities: School counselors in Connecticut enjoy fulfilling careers in both public and private educational settings. With a median annual wage of $65,140*, you can expect a competitive salary that reflects your expertise and dedication.

    Impactful Work: As a school counselor, you'll help students navigate academic challenges, support well-being, develop life skills, and plan for their futures. Your guidance can make a lasting difference in their lives, fostering a supportive and nurturing environment.

    Professional Growth: A Master of Science in School Counseling equips you with advanced skills in counseling techniques, educational psychology, and student and professional advocacy. You'll be prepared to take on leadership roles and contribute to the development of effective counseling programs.

    Program Highlights

    Designed for professionals with a master’s degree in helping or education-related fields 
    • Leads to Connecticut (068) School Counselor Certification 
    • 41 credits of coursework and fieldwork, including a 100-hour practicum and 700-hour internship 
    • Internship waiver available for candidates with 30 months of certified public teaching experience 
    • No thesis or comprehensive exam required 
    • Flexible entry with up to 9 credits allowed prior to formal admission 
    How This Certificate Enhances Your Career
    This Sixth Year Certificate is more than a credential—it’s a transformative step toward becoming a student-centered leader in education. Whether you’re guiding students through academic planning or supporting their emotional well-being, this program will help you:
    • Strengthen Counseling Expertise: Apply developmental, academic, and career counseling strategies in diverse school settings. 
    • Advance Toward Certification: Fulfill the requirements for Connecticut’s (068) School Counselor Certification. 
    • Improve Student Outcomes: Support students’ mental health, academic achievement, and postsecondary planning. 
    • Expand Your Role: Position yourself for leadership in school counseling, student services, or district-level support. 
    • Collaborate Across Systems: Work with educators, families, and community partners to foster inclusive, supportive learning environments. 
    Join a community of professionals committed to student success and school transformation. Your journey to becoming a certified school counselor starts here.
    U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics – School and Career Counselors
    Next Steps
         

         
    Contact Us
         
    SchoolCounselingGrad@SouthernCT.edu
    College of Education
    Department of Counselor Education
    Program Page

    Return to the program page.
    Application Requirements

    Application Submission 
    Application Fee ($50)
    Official Transcripts
    Essay
    Three References
    Resume/CV
    PraxisCore, SAT, ACT, or GRE scores

    Essay Prompt

    A 500-word essay describing the basis of their interest in the School Counseling program at SCSU. Evidence of a desire to enter the program and knowledge of the field; Knowledge of profession.
    Additional Information

    Interviews will be scheduled as applications become complete
    Curriculum

    Post Master's Certificate
    Sixth Year Certificate
     
    Cost of Program

    Use our Paying for College Calculator to estimate the cost of your program.
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