Mar 29, 2024  
2020-2021 Graduate Bulletin 
    
2020-2021 Graduate Bulletin [ARCHIVED CATALOG]

School Counseling MEd


Overview


The Master of Education in School Counseling is a 48-hour NCATE accredited program that offers flexible scheduling. Courses are offered in face-to-face and online formats. To accommodate working professionals, fall and spring classes are offered online. Summer courses meet face-to-face on the Hattiesburg campus. To build professional counseling skills, students engage in three semesters of hands-on field experience in K-12 school settings.   

The program focuses on the integration of theory, research, and experiential learning. It builds on a foundation in counselor-first identity, creating comprehensive school counseling programs with an emphasis on school counselor leadership, critical thinking skills, ethical decision-making, and the connection between research and practice. Students are equipped with knowledge and skills necessary to promote academic, social, and emotional success for students and to serve as advocates in primary and secondary school settings. Graduates are prepared to pursue board certification as a National Certified School Counselor in the state of Mississippi. Students who intend to seek licensure in another state should verify that this program of study meets the desired state’s licensure requirements. For assistance with out-of-state licensure questions, please complete the Professional Licensure Form.

Admission Requirements


In addition to the requirements detailed in Admissions Requirements and Procedures , applicants must submit the following documents:

  1. Official scores from one of the following standardized exams - Graduate Record Examination (GRE), the Praxis II Subject Assessment, or the Praxis Core Academic Skills for Educators test (CORE).
  2. Statement of Purpose - In a 2-3 page essay, describe your educational training and experiences working with children/adolescents and families. Also, discuss your professional goals and describe how they are compatible with the program’s mission.
  3. Résumé
  4. Letters of Recommendation - Three (3) letters of recommendation from previous professors and/or employer supervisors who can attest to your academic performance and readiness for graduate work.

 

Program Requirements and Academic Policies


In addition to the requirements detailed in General Degree Requirements  and General Academic Information , students must:

  1. Maintain the requisite minimum 3.00 GPA with no grade below a “C” and with no more than one “C” to graduate. Students who make two “Cs” must retake one course to bring the grade up to a “B” or higher and into compliance with degree requirements. Failure to make the requisite grades will result in program dismissal.
  2. Pass a criminal background check and purchase professional liability insurance prior to placement in a K-12 school field experience.
  3. Take the Praxis II: Professional School Counselor exam (#5421) and report the scores to The University of Southern Mississippi prior to graduation.