The Master of Science in School Counseling prepares students to become professional school counselors equipped to support the academic, career, and personal/social development of children and adolescents in PreK-12 settings. Despite being a profession that is projected for continued growth, there are currently not enough counselors to meet demands. Join Shenandoah’s program to develop the knowledge and skills you need to serve your community.
This program is seeking approval from the Virginia Department of Education. This program will seek CACREP accreditation.
ACADEMIC PROGRAM CURRICULUM | START TERM | APPLICATION OPENS | APPLICATION DEADLINE |
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Master of Science in School Counseling | Fall 2025 (August) | Apply Now |
Priority: March 15, 2025 Applications will continue to be accepted after the priority deadline on a space-available basis until the cohort is full. |
Admission Requirements
- A bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university with a recommended minimum grade point average of 3.0 on a 4.0 grade scale.
- Unofficial transcripts from all colleges and universities attended (or currently attending) for initial admission. Official transcripts must be sent prior to enrollment if admitted to the program.
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All transcripts from non-U.S.-based institutions must be course-by-course evaluated by a NACES or AICE academic credential evaluation company to obtain equivalency information on courses, grades, and degrees earned. Upload a copy of this course-by-course evaluation to serve as your unofficial transcript from that institution. Please note: If choosing to upload an unofficial evaluation, please contact the evaluating agency to ensure the same official version can be sent at a later date. Unofficial and official evaluations must be conducted by the same evaluation company to ensure consistency.
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- Two letters of recommendation that indicate applicant’s ability to participate in the rigors of graduate school as well as the traits applicants possess to be a future allied health practitioner. At least one faculty letter of recommendation is preferred.
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Essay (1-2 pages) addressing one of the following two prompts:
1. Discuss a current issue or trend in education that you believe significantly impacts student well-being. How might school counselors address this issue to support students effectively? Include specific strategies or interventions you would consider implementing.
OR
2. Describe a time when you successfully helped someone overcome a personal, academic, or social challenge. What skills and qualities did you utilize? How does this experience relate to your vision of being an effective school counselor?
- Students that meet academic requirements will be invited to participate in an interview.
Prior to enrolling, admitted applicants will be required to complete state and federal background checks, obtain personal liability insurance from the start of the program, and will be required to adhere to immunization and vaccination policies of Shenandoah’s School of Health Professions and individual practicum and internship sites.
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Financial Aid
We strongly recommend that all eligible students submit a FAFSA to the Shenandoah University Office of Financial Aid.
Questions? Contact the Office of Graduate Admissions
Call: 540-665-4581 | Text: 540-546-6029 | Email: sugradadmissions@su.edu