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Equipping you to positively impact the lives of future generations.

If you have a heart for equipping young people with the tools they need for success in school, careers, and life, the in-demand field of school counseling is an opportune career path to consider. The Master of Arts in School Counseling is an online master's program offered through CCU's College of Adult and Graduate Studies that prepares you to begin the process of licensure as a professional school counselor.

This online school counseling degree provides a unique opportunity to play a vital role in America's education system. Whether your focus is towards public school, private school, charter school, or k-12 schools, with your master's degree, you will be able to provide the counseling services necessary in supporting young people, their families, teachers, school administrators, and the local community.

Program Focus

The School Counseling program unites biblical truth with clinical competence, mentoring students to become Christ-like leaders in the field of education.

At CCU, the School Counseling master's degree offers a proactive and preventative model for providing professional counseling services in a school setting, helping K-12 students develop skills in each of the American School Counselor Association's (ASCA) three domains of behaviors and mindsets: social/emotional development, academic success, and college and career readiness. These skills lay the foundation for a preventative model that starts in elementary school and carries through adolescence, which, if followed, has been shown to reduce disruptive behaviors, provide responsive/crisis services, and increase student achievement in areas like educational setting, GPA, and graduation rates.

The graduate program places a unique emphasis on the spiritual health of young people alongside their emotional and mental health and their overall human growth and development. At CCU, you will be prepared to integrate elements of your Christian faith into counseling, allowing you to make a difference in the lives of your school community with expertise and heart for a rewarding lifelong teaching experience.

Learn more about the course curriculum and admission requirements for the School Counseling master's degree.

    • 60 total credit hours (38 in core)
    • 100% online program. All students are required to attend three in-person residencies in Colorado for the program.
    • Courses are taken two at a time, and are typically completed in seven-week blocks.
    • Designed for busy adult learners; complete in as little as 30 months of consecutive coursework, allowing you to further your career development and school counselor education even with a full-time or part-time job.
    • Students can transfer up to 12 graduate-level credit hours.
    • Graduates will be prepared to begin the process of seeking licensure as a Licensed School Counselor by passing a state-administered licensure exam and the CACREP Degree Equivalency Process.
    • Program Brochure   
  • Curriculum in the School Counseling Master's Degree Program

    The Master of Arts in School Counseling program is offered online through CCU's College of Adult and Graduate Studies. The program combines rigorous coursework, experiential learning, and mentoring relationships, all designed to equip you with a framework for creating a school culture of success for all students, all explicitly presented through a biblical lens.

    The School Counseling degree is built strategically to meet or exceed all CACREP-specific standards, as well as the Colorado Department of Education standards, with our program meeting the approval of both the Colorado Department of Education and the Colorado Department of Higher Education. The program is designed to be completed within seven to nine semesters of intensive study in a lock-step sequence.

    Due to the nature of the counseling curriculum, some online courses will have a synchronous component, requiring students to be available for scheduled real-time videoconferencing with a small group and/or the professor and class. The program administration reserves the right to move students from one course section to another to provide equity in class size.

    The M.A. School Counseling degree requires the completion of 60 credit hours as follows:

    • School Counseling Core (38 hours)
    • Practicum/Internship (9 hours)
    • Electives (5 hours)
    • Bible and Theology (4 hours)
    • Residency (4 hours)

    Some of the foundational courses include:

    • Counseling and Helping Relationships (CSL 620). An exploration of the major individual theories of counseling, with emphasis on their personality theory underpinnings, consistency, completeness, relation to empirical data, and practical implications. This course provides students with weekly training and practice in basic counseling skills.
    • Human Growth and Development (CSL 641). A survey of the major theories, issues, and data of developmental psychology covering early childhood through late adulthood. This course provides an opportunity for counselors to look at the importance of development in the lives of their clients and themselves. Many factors influence one’s development, including aspects of physical, cognitive, psychosocial, cultural, and spiritual development.
    • Crisis and Trauma (CSL 645). Theoretical and practical intervention strategies for a variety of crises, including telephone and online counseling, domestic violence, sexual assault, vicarious traumatization, compassion fatigue, etc.
    • Lifestyle and Career (CSL 663). An overview of career development theories, career and lifestyle counseling, occupational and educational information sources and systems, education and guidance, and decision-making, planning, and evaluation.
    • Social and Cultural Foundations (CSL 665). A study of issues and trends in a multicultural and diverse society. Specific concepts addressed will include human roles, societal subgroups, social mores and interaction patterns, and differing lifestyles. Cross-cultural counseling principles and methods will also be explored.

    Course Catalog

  • Admission Requirements for the M.A. in School Counseling

    Admission to the M.A. in School Counseling program at Colorado Christian University is selective. Each applicant is carefully evaluated for an aptitude for graduate-level study, career goals, potential success in forming effective counseling relationships, and respect for cultural differences. Admission to the M.A. in School Counseling program is not guaranteed.

    Applicants to the M.A. in School Counseling program will complete all admissions requirements before being considered by the Admission Committee. The M.A. in School Counseling Admission Committee determines whether an applicant is accepted or denied admission.

    After the first semester in the Master of Arts in School Counseling program, students are formally assessed by the M.A. in School Counseling faculty and administrative team based on their academic work, basic counseling skills, and professional behavior. This evaluation process is performed to fulfill CACREP, ASCA, and professional gatekeeping responsibilities and to ensure that each student has the capacity to develop the skills required for the field of counseling.

    Application Deadlines

    Online cohorts begin in July of each year. It is recommended that applications are completed at least four weeks prior to the applicant's anticipated start date. All required admission documents and background check results must be received by CCU before an admission interview will be scheduled. Applicants will be extended an interview invitation and are required to respond within three days to schedule the admission interview. A delayed response may result in a delayed start date if the applicant is accepted.

    Application files will be evaluated in the order received. Applicants should complete the admission process as early as possible to allow adequate time to work with an advisor and finalize financial aid.

    Admission Requirements
    • A completed application for admission.
    • Valid state-issued driver's license or state-issued ID card or valid passport.
    • Current Resume or Curriculum Vitae.
    • An official transcript showing a conferred bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university with a minimum grade point average (GPA) of 2.5 on a 4.0 scale. Applicants with an undergraduate grade point average between 2.0 and 2.49 will be admitted on a conditional admit (CAD) basis for the first semester. CAD students must maintain a 3.0 GPA or better in their first semester to continue in the program.
    • Official transcript(s) of completed graduate-level counseling credits completed at another institution.
    • A criminal background check through CastleBranch from every country the student lived in in the past seven years. Applicants should consult with their enrollment counselor before placing their Castlebranch order.
    • A completed Candidacy Writing Sample per essay prompts.
    • Admission interview(s) and additional documentation and/or requests from the MAC Admissions Committee and/or designated program personnel.

    To submit application-related materials that were not already submitted through the online application, email them to AdmissionsSupport@ccu.edu or mail them to:

    Colorado Christian University
    Attn: Registrar's Office/Transcripts
    8787 W. Alameda Ave.
    Lakewood, CO 80226

    Transfer of Courses

    In accordance with CCU's Graduate Residency Policy, students transferring from an accredited institution may transfer up to twelve (12) approved semester hours of graduate credit. The remaining hours must be completed at CCU.

    The coursework must be equivalent to that offered at CCU and fulfill the CCthe counseling program. CCU will not accept the following courses, or their equivalents, for transfer to the M.A. in School Counseling program:

    • CSL 514 Counseling Practicum
    • CSL 581 Counseling Residency I
    • CSL 582 Counseling Residency II
    • CSL 681 Counseling Residency III
    • LSC 630 School Counseling Internship I
    • LSC 631 School Counseling Internship II
    Licensing

    Colorado Christian University offers several academic programs which lead to professional licensure in the state of Colorado and, in some programs, prepare students for a national exam. All students should be aware that states vary in their educational and professional requirements depending on the profession. Some states require specific educational requirements, clinical requirements, accreditation requirements, or exam requirements. See professional licensure disclosures for details.

    Time Limitation

    All work applied toward the Master of Arts in School Counseling degree must be completed within a six-year period from the date of enrollment. After the six-year period, any student who has not completed the requirements to graduate, and desires to complete the program, must complete a Petition for Exception to Academic Policy. Continuing study is not guaranteed and must be approved by the Dean of Behavioral and Social Sciences. Students are required to adhere to the most current Academic Catalog, CAGS Student Handbook, Master of Arts in School Counseling Program Handbook, and Manuals, fees, and tuition rates.

    Students who have not attended a class for a period of 365 days, and desire to reenter the program, are required to reapply and meet all standard application procedures. If accepted, the student will be admitted under the current catalog standards. Stepping out of the cohort may result in delayed completion of the student's program.

Benefits of the School Counseling Master's Degree

CCU's comprehensive school counseling program coaches you to become a leader in today's education system, surrounding you with the collaborative encouragement and community of your cohort and equipping you to share the hope of Jesus in practical ways on a daily basis.

  • Students are mentored by qualified professors who have extensive academic and counseling experience.
  • Through hands-on field experiences and teaching practicums, students are challenged to explore how their theory and faith integrate as professional school counselors.
  • Classes are provided in a format that allows students to study with a community of peers focused on a common goal.
  • A Master of Arts in School Counseling degree gives you the credentials that you need to open up opportunities for school counseling positions nationwide with attractive salaries, schedules, and benefits packages.

What can you do with an M.A. in School Counseling?

The field of school counseling continues to expand. The Bureau of Labor Statistics expects this profession to grow faster than average over the next 10 years. Future school counselors can choose to work in preschool, elementary, middle/junior high school, k-12 schools, or high school settings, with locations varying from rural to urban.

Sample career paths include:

  • Youth and Family Case Manager
  • Child Behavior Technician
  • Academic Advisor
  • School Counselor
  • Educational Consultant
  • College Career Counseling
  • Group Counseling

Learning Outcomes

Learning outcomes for the School Counseling degree program will be based on state and national criteria for licensure as a school counselor. Licensing requirements vary from state to state. Credit hours and curricula will coincide with the requirements for the American School Counseling Association and the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP).

Accreditation

The Master of Arts in School Counseling has been approved by the Colorado Department of Education and the Colorado Department of Higher Education, and accreditation by CACREP is in process. Programs accredited by CACREP are reviewed against professionally approved standards, resulting in a streamlined licensure application process.


dual-degree-option-web.png

If you are interested in earning a master's degree in both school counseling and mental health counseling, CCU offers a Dual Degree: Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and Master of Arts in School Counseling program.

By declaring the dual degree track, you can earn two counseling master's degrees for a total of 75 credit hours instead of 120 credit hours in as little as three years, even with a full-time job. This cost-effective, time-reducing pathway prepares you for licensure in both fields and expands your counseling career opportunities. Learn more about CCU's dual degree track in Counseling.


Questions About CCU's M.A. in School Counseling Degree Program?

Do you feel called to be a licensed school counselor? Whether you have questions about financing a master's degree, CCU's accreditation, or what kind of jobs you can get with a school counseling degree, we're here to help. For additional questions, please contact an enrollment counselor.

How many credit hours is the Master of Arts in School Counseling program and how long does it take to complete?

The program is 60 credit hours and is designed to be completed in two and a half years.

Is the program accredited?

The Master of Arts in School Counseling has been approved by the Colorado Department of Education and the Colorado Department of Higher Education, and accreditation by CACREP is in process. Programs accredited by CACREP are reviewed against professionally approved standards, resulting in a streamlined licensure application process.

How many hours are required for the practicum and internship experience?

Students must complete 100 hours of practicum and 600 hours of internship at a site established by the student, for a total of 700 hours.

I have been out of school for years and wish to make a mid-life career change. Will I be out of place in this student population?

Our student population in the M.A. in School Counseling program varies in age and background. Students range from those who just completed their undergraduate program to those wishing to make complete career changes later in life.

Do I need to take the Graduate Record Examination (GRE)?

There is no GRE requirement for the M.A. in School Counseling program. See the M.A. in School Counseling admission requirements for specific admission requirements.

Are there any undergraduate prerequisites?

CCU does not require undergraduate prerequisites for the M.A. in School Counseling program.

Will CCU accept transfer credits?

Students may transfer up to 12 semester hours of graduate work from an accredited college or university. See our admission requirements for additional information about transfer of courses.

How much does the program cost?

View current tuition and fees for the M.A. in School Counseling program.

Is financial aid available?

See our Financial Aid website for detailed information about financial aid and payment options for graduate students. The first step in applying for financial aid is to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). You are also encouraged to check with your employer about additional tuition benefits that may be available through your company.

Can I take classes online?

The Master's in School Counseling program is offered as a full online cohort program, with three required residential intensives in Colorado.

Is the program on semesters or quarters?

The Master's in School Counseling program operates on the semester system. The program is offered over three 15-week semesters per academic year including fall, spring, and summer. The semesters are divided into two 7-week blocks (A & B).

After completing the program, what must I do to become a licensed professional counselor?

This program is geared towards licensure with a biblical foundation. Once the program is completed, those wishing to become licensed as a school counselor in Colorado must pass the PRAXIS exam, and apply for licensure with the Colorado Department of Education. Please be aware that licensure requirements vary from state to state. Students are responsible for knowing the requirements of the state in which they seek licensure, and must review the state requirements above and beyond academic achievement and testing.

What types of jobs will I be qualified for once I complete the program?

School counselors can choose to work in preschool, elementary, middle/junior high school, or high school settings, with locations varying from rural to urban. Sample career paths include:

  • Youth and Family Case Manager
  • Child Behavior Technician
  • Academic Advisor
  • School Counselor
  • Educational Consultant
  • College Career Counselor
Professional Licensure Disclosure

Colorado Christian University offers several academic programs which lead to professional licensure in the state of Colorado and, in some programs, prepare students for a national exam. All students should be aware that states vary in their educational and professional requirements depending on the profession. Some states require specific educational requirements, clinical requirements, accreditation requirements, or exam requirements. See professional licensure disclosures for details.

State Exclusions for Online Students

Colorado Christian University is required by the U.S. Department of Education to be in compliance with state laws regarding where we can offer distance and/or online education. The College of Adult and Graduate Studies at Colorado Christian University offers courses to online students in all states with some exceptions for specific academic programs.

CCU's School of Counseling

  • Adult students working in class

    1,200+

    Students

  • 50 States

    Where Students Reside

  • CCU faculty member with student

    91%

    Take Online Classes

  • Professor lecturing class

    700+ Years

    Faculty Clinical Experience

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