Student Learning Outcomes

1. Synthesize an understanding of historical and contextual dimensions of professional orientation, assessment, research, career, theory, and lifespan development

2. Explain an understanding of group dynamics and construct clinical interventions that foster development

3. Apply ethical, empirically grounded, and culturally relevant strategies and models in counseling practice 

4. Develop advocacy and leadership principles and practically apply them in the context of professional school counseling

5. Apply social and cultural diversity theories, models, and multicultural competencies in counseling practice and research

6. Demonstrate an understanding of the history and current best practices of school counseling, as well as the roles and responsibilities of a school counselor across grade levels

7. Identify and respond to characteristics, risk factors, and warning signs for students at risk for learning mental health, behavioral disorders

Program Description

The Master of Science in School Counseling prepares students to work with children of all ages in urban, rural and suburban K-12 school settings. Beginning with their first courses, students gain practical hands-on experiences that prepare them for their clinical placements in schools. Students work closely with their advisor to develop a program of study that meets their interests and specific career goals. Through two unique school counseling specialty courses, students acquire the knowledge and abilities necessary to implement a comprehensive, developmental school counseling program that includes individual and group counseling, large group classroom guidance, advisement and consultative services, as well as systemic support skills. Students gain the tools necessary to be effective professional school counselors and change agents, so they can help to meet the needs of every student. Graduates from our program meet the requirements for provisional certification as a school counselor in New York State and are employed in schools as:

• School Counselors
• Directors of Guidance
• Career Center Counselors
• Admissions Counselors
• Support Service Counselors
• Alcohol-Drug Abuse Prevention Education Program (ADAPEP) Counselors
• Student Assistance Counselors
• Family Support Counselors

The Department of Counseling and Human Services has been a pioneer in training highly skilled practitioners and leaders in a wide range of counseling settings. Syracuse University’s programs are nationally accredited and can lead to national certification or State Certification in School Counseling or Licensure as a Clinical Mental Health Counselor.

Programs include extensive fieldwork opportunities in which students gain hands-on experience working with students and clients in a wide range of counseling and educational settings. Students work closely with their advisor and the fieldwork coordinator to identify settings that meet their individual interests and career goals. The faculty is nationally recognized for their leadership in the profession and all classes are taught by skilled experts and experienced clinicians.

The faculty is deeply committed to the growth and development of their students; faculty work closely with both our master’s and doctoral students. Students are trained in the most current practices and research in counseling and provided the opportunity to develop their skills and succeed in their chosen area of specialization. The department’s goal is to prepare national leaders in counseling. We provide constructivist and experiential learning environments in our classes and are committed to reflexive leadership. We seek to develop a diverse group of professionals who will excel in knowledge, skills, commitment, and service in a wide range of educational and community settings.