School Counseling

School Counseling Program at Kansas State University prepares students to become effective school counselors dedicated to supporting students’ academic, career, and social-emotional development. The program is designed to equip future counselors with comprehensive knowledge, practical skills, and ethical standards necessary to promote positive learning environments and foster student success across diverse school settings. Through a blend of rigorous coursework, hands-on field experiences, and research opportunities, students gain a strong foundation in counseling theories, developmental psychology, and intervention strategies. The curriculum emphasizes culturally responsive counseling, trauma-informed practices, collaborative problem-solving, and the use of data-driven decision-making to tailor support to individual student needs. Students will engage in supervised practica and internships within local schools, providing real-world experience in counseling diverse student populations and working collaboratively with educators, families, and community agencies. The program aligns with national and state certification standards, preparing graduates to obtain licensure as school counselors and contribute meaningfully to educational communities. Graduates of the Kansas State University School Counseling program are equipped to serve in elementary, middle, and high school settings, advocating for student well-being and academic achievement. Whether pursuing employment directly after graduation or continuing their education through doctoral studies, alumni are prepared to make a positive impact on students’ lives and foster inclusive, supportive school environments. The faculty consists of experienced professionals committed to mentoring students and advancing research in school counseling, ensuring graduates are well-prepared to meet the dynamic needs of today’s educational landscape.

The School Counseling program at Kansas State University is designed to prepare students for a rewarding career as school counselors, equipping them with the knowledge, skills, and ethical foundation necessary to support the academic, career, and personal development of students across diverse educational settings. This comprehensive program emphasizes a holistic approach to student well-being, integrating theoretical frameworks with practical application to ensure graduates are well-prepared to address the unique needs of the school populations they serve. Students will explore core topics such as counseling theories, developmental psychology, educational law and ethics, multicultural competence, and data-driven decision making. The curriculum combines coursework, supervised practicum experiences, and internship placements within local schools, providing real-world training to develop effective counseling techniques and intervention strategies. Emphasis is placed on fostering collaboration with teachers, administrators, parents, and community agencies to promote a positive learning environment. The program also focuses on understanding mental health issues affecting youth, including anxiety, depression, bullying, and substance abuse, empowering future counselors to provide timely support and appropriate referrals. Graduates will earn a Master of Science degree in School Counseling, qualifying them for state certification and licensure required to work as professional school counselors. The program encourages lifelong learning and professional development, along with adherence to ethical standards set by relevant professional organizations. Whether students aim to work in elementary, middle, or high schools, the School Counseling program at Kansas State University prepares them to become compassionate, effective advocates for student success and well-being.

The School Counseling program at Kansas State University requires candidates to fulfill a comprehensive set of academic and practical requirements to attain their degree. Applicants must hold a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution and demonstrate a strong academic record. The program typically involves completing prerequisite coursework in areas such as human growth and development, counseling theories, and ethical practices. Prospective students are advised to submit official transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a personal statement outlining their interest in school counseling and career goals.

Once admitted, students are enrolled in a rigorous curriculum designed to prepare them for certification and effective practice. The coursework includes core classes in counseling techniques, assessment methods, multicultural counseling, and crisis intervention, ensuring candidates are equipped to serve diverse student populations. The program emphasizes experiential learning through supervised internships and practicum placements in school settings, which are integral for skill development and real-world application. These practicum experiences typically require students to complete a minimum of 600 hours under supervision, providing exposure to individual counseling, group work, and collaboration with educators and families.

Furthermore, the program mandates successful completion of comprehensive exams and the submission of a professional portfolio demonstrating competence in core counseling skills and ethical standards. Graduate students are also expected to participate in ongoing professional development activities and adhere to Kansas State University’s code of conduct and ethical guidelines for counselors. After completing the coursework and practical components, candidates must pass the Praxis School Counseling Exam, a required certification assessment recognized nationwide.

In addition to academic requirements, prospective students should possess strong interpersonal skills, cultural competence, and a commitment to supporting student success. The program prepares graduates to pursue certification from the Kansas State Department of Education, enabling them to serve as licensed school counselors in K-12 educational settings across Kansas. Overall, the School Counseling program at Kansas State University is designed to produce highly qualified professionals capable of addressing the diverse needs of students and promoting positive educational outcomes.

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Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.

• ✔️ Flexible study schedule
• ✔️ Experienced teachers
• ✔️ Certificate upon completion

📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.

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The School Counseling program at Kansas State University offers students a comprehensive pathway to become licensed school counselors, with various financial aid options available to support their educational pursuits. Tuition costs for in-state students are approximately $10,000 per year, while out-of-state students may pay around $24,000 annually. These figures are indicative and may vary based on specific courses and enrollment status. In addition to tuition, students should consider expenses such as fees, books, supplies, and living costs, which can significantly impact the overall financial requirement for completing the program.

Kansas State University provides several financial aid opportunities for graduate students enrolled in the School Counseling program. Federal financial aid options, including grants and loans, are available through the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Graduate students are eligible for federal work-study programs, allowing them to gain practical experience while earning income to support their studies. The university also offers institutional scholarships specific to graduate students pursuing counseling or education degrees, which are merit-based or need-based.

Graduate assistantships are another valuable funding avenue, where students can work as teaching or research assistants, providing both financial support and practical experience in the field. Application for these positions typically requires a separate process and adherence to university deadlines. Additionally, students are encouraged to seek scholarships offered by professional organizations related to school counseling, such as the American School Counselor Association (ASCA). Such scholarships often require an application and demonstrate a commitment to the profession.

Students should also explore external funding sources, including state-specific grants, private foundations, and community organizations, which may offer scholarships or financial support for students pursuing school counseling degrees. Budgeting for ongoing costs and planning early for financial aid applications is essential to ensure affordability throughout the program. Overall, while the total cost of completing a School Counseling degree at Kansas State University can be substantial, a combination of institutional, federal, state, and private funding sources can make the program accessible to qualified students.

The School Counseling program at Kansas State University is designed to prepare students for careers as professional school counselors in elementary, middle, and high schools. The program emphasizes comprehensive guidance and counseling strategies, developmentally appropriate practices, and ethical considerations in school counseling. Students gain knowledge in areas such as counseling theories, assessment and testing, ethical and legal issues, diversity and multicultural competencies, and crisis intervention. The curriculum includes coursework in human development, career development, group counseling, individual counseling techniques, and program planning.

Practical training is integrated throughout the program through internships and clinical experiences in school settings, allowing students to apply counseling skills in real-world environments under supervision. The program also underscores the importance of collaboration with teachers, administrators, parents, and community resources to support student success and well-being. Graduates from the program are equipped with the skills necessary to address various challenges faced by students, including mental health concerns, behavioral issues, and academic difficulties.

Kansas State University's School Counseling program is accredited by relevant accrediting bodies, ensuring it maintains high standards of quality and prepares students for the Certification of School Counselor in Kansas. Students are also encouraged to engage in research, professional development, and advocacy to stay current with evolving best practices in school counseling. The program aims to produce competent, ethical, and compassionate counselors dedicated to fostering positive educational environments and promoting student achievement and mental health. Upon completion of the program, graduates are eligible for certification and licensure as school counselors, enabling them to work in K-12 educational settings across Kansas and beyond.