Master of Arts (M.A.) in School Counseling

Master of Arts (M.A.) in School Counseling

Prepare to work as a licensed school counselor in a broad range of elementary and secondary schools that represent our diverse and ever-changing society. The program’s small cohort size and comprehensive mentorship support make it a singular and nurturing place to launch a counseling career. The program has trained hundreds of school counselors to become leaders, advocates, and change agents who utilize evidence-based practices to remove barriers to learning and promote positive development for children and adolescents.

At a Glance

How many courses?


Most students take 16 courses (48 credits total).  Students must also complete a one-year practicum in Massachusetts. 

How long will it take?


Full-time students typically finish in less than 2 years.

When can I start?


Most students (PT/FT) begin the program in the fall, but you may also start in the spring. 

#10

National ranking for Student Counseling and Personnel Services programs

U.S. News & World Report

Curriculum

Our curriculum offers after-work course options to allow students to pursue their degrees full time or part time, balancing family and professional commitments. 

Requirements


  • Courses: 16
  • Credits: 48
  • Comprehensive Exam

This degree is one of the Lynch School’s designated STEM programs as determined by the Department of Homeland Security. F1 visa students in STEM-designated programs may apply for a 24-month extension of the post-completion optional practical training (OPT).

Practicum

Much of the second year of the program focuses on the internship, where you will have opportunities to hone your counseling skills. We emphasize the importance of culture and context, encouraging you to acquire a community-oriented understanding of the settings in which you serve. Our dedicated director of practicum experience works to pair you with pre-practicum and practicum placements at schools that fit your goals.

Accreditation

We are an approved teacher preparation program by the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education. Upon successful completion of the Lynch School of Education and Human Development's educator preparation program, students earn an endorsement from Boston College for licensure in Massachusetts. The 600+ hours of practicum experience students receive exceed current Massachusetts requirements for initial licensure as a school counselor at all grade levels.

Faculty

The Whole Child Approach

In keeping with the American School Counselor Association's model of school counseling, our program trains counselors to take a “whole child” approach, considering both the in-school and out-of-school factors that promote student thriving. You'll study how multiple systems—including families, schools, and communities—interact to promote thriving and achievement among children and adolescents who represent diverse cultures, racial and ethnic groups, social classes, abilities, and sexual orientations.

Financial Aid

Education should level the playing field. We feel the same way about financial aid.

The Lynch School of Education and Human Development provides more than $10.8 million in financial aid to students each year. As a result, the quality of BC’s instruction, the benefit of our alumni network, and the impact a BC degree will have on your employment options is both affordable and invaluable. 

Careers

Roles

  • School Counselor
  • Director of Graduate Admission
  • Associate Director of College Counseling
  • College Counseling Assistant

Organizations

  • Randolph Community Middle School
  • Marblehead High School
  • Viewpoint School
  • Christo Rey High School
  • Latin School of Chicago
  • Needham High School

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Application & Deadlines

Apply Now

A non-refundable application fee of $75 is required. The fee is waived for select applicants.

Deadlines:

Spring 2024

  • Priority Deadline: Nov 1
  • Rolling Admission: Until Dec 1

Fall 2024

  • Priority Deadline: Jan 4
  • Rolling Admission: Until May 1

Résumé

To be uploaded to your online application.

In addition to your academic history and relevant volunteer and/or work experience, please include any licenses currently held, any social justice-related experience, any language skills other than English, and any research experience or publications.

Personal Statement

To be uploaded to your online application.

In 1,000-1,500 words, describe your academic and professional goals, any experience relevant to this program, and your future plans, expectations, and aspirations.

Letters of Recommendation

Two letters of recommendation are required, with at least one required from an academic source. Applicants may submit one additional recommendation of their choice.

Transcripts

Transcripts from all college/university study are required.

Applicants who have received degrees from institutions outside the United States should view the "International Students" section for additional credential evaluation requirements.

Please begin your online application before submitting your transcripts. Details on how to submit transcripts and international credential evaluations can be found within the application. In order to ensure your transcript reaches our office, it is important to review and follow the instructions.

Standardized Tests

GRE scores are not required. If you wish to send GRE scores, the Lynch School GRE code is 3218.

Please view the "International Students" section for information on English Proficiency test requirements.

Writing Sample

Not required.

International Students

Applicants who have completed a degree outside of the United States must have a course-by-course evaluation of their transcript(s) completed by an evaluation company approved by the National Association of Credential Evaluation Services (NACES). Submission of falsified documents is grounds for denial of admission or dismissal from the University.

Applicants who are not native speakers of English and who have not received a degree from an institution where English is the primary language of instruction must also submit a TOEFL or IELTS test result that meets the minimum score requirement.

Please click the link below for full details on these requirements.

Requirements for International Students

Contact Us

  gsoe@bc.edu
  617-552-4214