Master of Arts in School Counseling / School Adjustment Counseling

2 Years On Campus Masters Program

Boston College

Program Overview

The Master of Arts in School Counseling at Boston College's Lynch School of Education and Human Development is a two-year, 48-credit graduate program designed to prepare students to become professional school counselors in PreK–12 educational settings. The program combines counseling psychology, child development, multicultural perspectives, assessment, and practical school-based training to help students support children's academic achievement, emotional wellbeing, social development, and career planning.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1: Students build foundational knowledge of school counseling, psychological development, and counseling techniques. Courses include Introduction to Comprehensive School Counseling (APSY7800), Foundations of Counseling in Schools (APSY7801), Child Psychopathology (APSY7802), Impact of Psychosocial Issues on Learning (APSY7803), and Multicultural Issues (APSY7528). Students also begin supervised school-based field experience.

Year 2: Students develop advanced counseling and professional practice skills through Seminar in Group Counseling and Group Theory (APSY7640), Ethical and Legal Issues in School Counseling (APSY7804), and Career Development (APSY7448), alongside other required coursework. The year focuses on a supervised 600-hour school counseling practicum, completed across the fall and spring semesters, where students apply their learning in real school environments.

Focus Areas

Comprehensive school counseling, child and adolescent psychology, multicultural counseling, career development, group counseling, family counseling, psychological assessment, student wellbeing, educational support, ethical counseling practices.

Learning Outcomes

Develop individual and group counseling skills, understand child and adolescent development, assess psychological and social challenges, support academic and career planning, apply ethical counseling practices, design student support programs, collaborate with families and educators, evaluate counseling interventions, promote cultural inclusivity, and improve student wellbeing.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation)

The program is approved by the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) and accredited by the Master’s in Psychology and Counseling Accreditation Council (MPCAC) through March 2027, according to the university catalog. Successful completion supports eligibility for the Massachusetts School Counselor license, subject to applicable state requirements, including the MTEL examination.

Reputation (Employability Rankings)

Boston College's Lynch School reports that its Student Counseling program is ranked 11th nationally by U.S. News & World Report, reflecting its strong academic reputation in counselor preparation.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At Boston College, the Master of Arts in School Counseling / School Adjustment Counseling program is designed to provide students with a rich blend of theoretical knowledge and practical experience. This program emphasizes experiential learning, ensuring that you not only learn the concepts but also apply them in real-world settings. Students have access to state-of-the-art facilities and resources that enhance their learning experience and prepare them for successful careers in school counseling.

Here are some key aspects of the experiential learning opportunities available in this program:

- Internships: Students complete a comprehensive internship in a school setting, allowing them to gain hands-on experience and apply their skills in real-life scenarios.
- Field Experiences: The program includes various field experiences where students can observe and participate in counseling practices within schools.
- Collaborative Projects: Engage in group projects that foster teamwork and collaboration, simulating real-world counseling environments.
- Digital Tools: Utilize software such as counseling management systems and assessment tools that are commonly used in the field.
- Research Facilities: Access to the Boston College libraries and research centers, which provide a wealth of resources for academic and professional development.
- Counseling Labs: Participate in role-playing and simulation exercises in designated counseling labs, designed to mimic real counseling sessions.
- Workshops and Seminars: Attend workshops led by experienced professionals in the field, covering current trends and best practices in school counseling.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Pursuing an Master of Arts in School Counseling or School Adjustment Counseling at Boston College opens the door to a rewarding career dedicated to supporting students' emotional and academic growth. Graduates of this program often find themselves in impactful roles such as school counselors, mental health professionals, and educational consultants. The skills and knowledge gained here prepare you to make a significant difference in the lives of students and their families.

Here’s what you can expect in terms of progression and future opportunities:

- University Services: Boston College offers robust career services, including personalized career counseling, resume workshops, and networking events specifically tailored for counseling students. The Office of Graduate Student Life also provides resources to help you connect with alumni and industry professionals.

- Employment Stats and Salary Figures: Graduates from the School Counseling program have a high employment rate, with over 90% securing positions within six months of graduation. The average salary for school counselors in Massachusetts is around $70,000, with potential for growth as you gain experience.

- University–Industry Partnerships: Boston College has established partnerships with local school districts and mental health organizations, providing students with valuable internship opportunities and real-world experience that enhances employability.

- Long-Term Accreditation Value: The program is accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP), ensuring that your degree meets high standards recognized nationally, which can enhance your job prospects.

- Graduation Outcomes: Alumni of the program have gone on to work in various educational settings, including public and private schools, community organizations, and mental health facilities, demonstrating the versatility of the degree.

Further Academic Progression: After completing your MA in School Counseling, you may choose to further your education by pursuing a Doctorate in Counseling or Educational Psychology. This could lead to advanced roles in academia, research, or specialized clinical practice. Additionally, you might consider obtaining licensure as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) or pursuing certifications in specialized areas such as trauma-informed care or school psychology, which can enhance your expertise and career opportunities.