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Join Dr. Mary Graham in a recorded information session detailing the Online Master's in School Counseling program.
New Students begin the program every year in fall quarter. Return to top
There are no course or degree prerequisites, however we prefer that you have at least 3 years of experience working in schools or with school-age youth.
Asynchronous education provides the opportunity for students to access their education at their convenience. There are no required in-person, live classes. Instead, courses include previously recorded videos, readings, and other learning materials. As a student, you are required to meet the weekly deadlines for the course material. This often includes discussion boards, roundtable dialogues, presentations, written assignments, and other assignments. Return to top
The priority deadline to apply for fall quarter is February 1 of that year. After February 1, as space is available, there will be rolling admission review until the program is filled. Return to top
The program takes 3 years to complete. The first two years includes online asynchronous courses, both content courses and skills courses. The final year includes practicum and internship. Return to top
Because of the sequence of classes and cohort system, it is not possible to complete our program in less than 3 years. Return to top
Students take 2-3 courses per quarter. All classes are online and asynchronous for the first two years. The third year is online and synchronous. Summer residency takes place in person in Seattle over one weekend after the first and second year in the program. Students take courses all four quarters each year (fall, winter, spring, and summer). Return to top
Although students do take summer courses, there is a 6-week break between summer and fall quarters. Summer residency takes place in person over one weekend (usually late July) after the first and the second year in the program. There is also a 3-week break between fall and winter quarters. The summer before internship starts (the third year), students start their internship classes early. There is only a 1-2 week break before students are expected to be at their internship site and class. Return to top
We do not require that applicants have an undergraduate degree in any particular field. Applicants with any undergraduate degree are encouraged to apply. Return to top
We accept applications at any time; however, decisions are not made until after December 1st. Return to top
No – not in the same year. The applicant will need to choose which counseling program to apply to at the application stage. Return to top
See our list of School Counseling courses here. Return to top
School counseling graduates are employed in both private and public K-12 school settings as professional school counselors. Additionally, students can pursue work in other social service agencies and mental health clinics. Return to top
We do not have a certificate-only option or a post-master's option. All students must complete the entire 90-credit program. Return to top
This program does not require the GRE. However, if your undergraduate degree was non-graded (i.e., you have no GPA), Seattle University requires that you take a standardized test in order to apply. You may choose either the GRE or the MAT (Miller Analogies Test). Return to top
Our program cost information can be found here. Return to top
The College of Education offers scholarships based on financial need, academic history, and fit with the College. Additionally, students may participate in the Puget Sound Partnership Program. Through the Puget Sound Partnership Program, funded by a $3.5 million grant from the U.S. Department of Education, the College of Education will support school counseling and school psychology students with scholarships and financial aid options.
We occasionally have opportunities for graduate assistantships, which are posted for current students as they become available. Return to top
Yes. Graduating from a non-accredited program may impact your ability to obtain counselor licensure and certification. Graduating from a CACREP-accredited program also increases marketability for employment. Many states already require CACREP accredited programs for all counselors. The Online School Counseling program is CACREP-aligned and in the 3 year process of accreditation. We are working closely with CACREP and expect accreditation in 2026. Return to top
It can impact your ability to be certified and/or licensed outside the state of Washington. Even if you are not intending to work outside of Washington state it is important to keep your options open should you decide to move in the future.
Many states prefer that graduates are from CACREP programs. Those graduating from a CACREP program may find it more difficult to obtain school counselor certification and mental health licensure in other states. We encourage you to check your state’s certification and licensure laws for more information Return to top
Learn more about the Puget Sound Partnership through an information session. You'll learn about the scholarship opportunity, partnership goals, and more!