Master of Science in School Counseling

Meaningful degree program

School counselors help students achieve academically, prepare for college and careers, and strengthen social-emotional well-being. At Concordia, counseling education is grounded in a mission to prepare ethical servant leaders. Our approach prepares you to serve as both a counselor and a role model while blending academic excellence with Christian compassion.

• Flexible online format through 8-week sessions designed for busy professionals
• Gain 600 supervised hours across elementary, middle, and high schools through practicum experience
• Earn licensure approved for the Wisconsin DPI #7054 School Counseling

Learning outcomes

• Apply evidence-based counseling theories and interventions in K–12 settings
• Demonstrate professional and ethical conduct aligned with ACA and ASCA standards
• Engage in reflective practice and commit to lifelong learning
• Provide culturally responsive support for diverse learners
• Guide students to lead purposeful, fulfilling lives in mind, body, and spirit

By graduation, you will be prepared to lead counseling and guidance services that support students’ academic achievement, career readiness, and social-emotional growth.

• Primarily online, with year-round entry points at the start of any 8-week session
• Learn from practicing school counselors and experienced educators and expert faculty
• Completion time is about 2-3 years, depending on course load and practicum setting
• Capstone project prepares you to design and evaluate a data-informed school counseling program

What you will learn

This program blends counselor education theory with hands-on practice, preparing you to make a difference in the real world.

Core Courses (36–39 credits):

• Counseling Theories and Issues
• Human Growth and Development
• Social/Cultural Foundations in Counseling
• Trauma Counseling
• Individual and Group Counseling (in-person skill intensives)
• Career Counseling Foundations
• Family Counseling Models and Methods
• Professional Ethics
• Tests and Measurements
• Program Design, Implementation, and Evaluation (Capstone)
  
  Additional requirement for non-teachers: Classroom Management for Counselors (3 credits)

Practicum & Portfolio (9 credits):

• 600 supervised hours (200 each in elementary, middle, and high school)
• Professional portfolio aligned with Wisconsin Pupil Services Standards

Most students complete the program in about 2–3 years, depending on transfer credits, course load, and scheduling of the 600-hour practicum.

Licensure and accreditation

Concordia’s School Counseling program is approved by the Wisconsin DPI for endorsement of the #7054 School Counseling license. To earn licensure, you must:

• Complete all required coursework and practicum hours
• Develop and present a professional portfolio
• Pass the Praxis II exam

Requirements vary by state. Students outside Wisconsin may complete the degree without teacher licensure and should confirm transferability with their state licensing board.

Career paths

With demand for counselors growing nationwide, graduates are well-positioned for impactful careers. You’ll be prepared for roles such as:

• School Counselor (Elementary, Middle, High School)
• College and Career Readiness Coordinator
• Student Services or SEL Team Leader
• Advocate for equity and systemic change in schools

Median Salary (2024): $65,140 per year ($31.32/hour)
Job Outlook (2024–34): 4% growth (as fast as average, U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics)

Financial Aid

Financial Aid is available for eligible students. Employer reimbursement and Concordia partnership discounts may also apply.

Related program

Students interested in becoming a licensed clinical counselor should view our Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling degree.