ABOUT THE PROGRAM

The Valdosta State University Counselor Education Program offers an Education Specialist (Ed.S.) degree in School Counseling. The faculty prepares students, who are already certified school counselors, to become leaders and researchers in school counseling. School Counselors develop advanced skills in counseling, consulting, and research. The Education Specialist Degree in School Counseling is designed to enhance and advance the knowledge and skills of school counselors beyond the Master’s level in the following areas: counseling, supervision, leadership, consultation, research, and mental health care systems. The Ed.S. program prepares those who are already certified as school counselors to become leaders and researchers in the educational environment and to gain the knowledge and skills needed to address mental health issues found in the school environment. The fully online Ed.S. degree in School Counseling is 30 credit hours total. Both full time and part time program of study options are available.  

Ed.S. Degree with a Major in School Counseling Course List: 

SCHC 8150   Program Evaluation

SCHC 8160   Advanced Practice in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy

SCHC 8220   Social Justice in Professional Practice 

SCHC 8300   Crisis Counseling

SCHC 8891   School Counseling Practicum I

SCHC 8995   Capstone Seminar

COUN 8200   Child Psychopathology

COUN 8610   Behavior Modification

RSCH 8000   Advanced Research Methodology

SCHC 8892   School Counseling Special Topics Seminar

ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS

  1. An applicant must hold a master’s degree and be a fully certified school counselor.
  2. An applicant must have one year experience working as a certified school counselor in a school setting. Because this is a degree only program and not a certification program, the applicant must hold professional standard renewable certification in school counseling. Proof of certification is required with the application to the program. The one year of experience may not include practica and internships.
  3. An applicant will not be admitted with a grade point average of less than 3.0 on all previous graduate work attempted. Only applicants who have been granted “Regular” admission status may enter the Education Specialist Degree in School Counseling. Graduate work taken prior to admission to an Education Specialist degree program will not be counted toward the degree requirements.

ADMISSION DEADLINES

Fall Semester: July 15

Spring Semester: November 15

Summer Semester: April 15

GRADUATION APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS

  1. Online Graduate Application and Application Fee (credit or debit card and e-checks accepted)
  2. Official transcript from your Master's Degree-granting school and from any graduate coursework.
  3. Verification of School Counseling certification and one year of experience.
  4. Three letters of recommendation. Letters must be accompanied by the required form or submitted through the online recommendation system.
  5. VSU Medical Form completed and signed by the student/applicant.
  6. Verification of lawful presence for applicants who believe they qualify for in-state tuition or a residency waiver.

GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS

Candidates must complete an application for graduation one semester prior to their expected graduation date and a 3.0 cumulative grade point average (GPA) is required for graduation. No grade below a "C" will be credited towards the degree.

Students planning to attend graduation should make arrangements with the VSU Bookstore for purchase of cap, gown, and hood. The Registrar's Office should be consulted early in the program (at least one semester before graduation) for procedures and deadlines. A $25 graduation fee must be paid at the Bursary prior to final evaluation. This fee is valid for one year beyond the initial term selected for completing degree requirements. Instructions and application for degree can be found at the Registrar's website.