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Master of Science in Education Child and Adolescent Counseling

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  3. Counseling & Therapy
  4. MS in School Counseling
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Child and Adolescent Counseling coursework overview

Coursework tailored to your learning preferences

  • Capella sets the deadlines
  • Weekly online interactions
  • Learn on your time
  • Online
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Planning for your degree

  • total quarter credits: 90
  • Quarter length: 10 weeks
  • Course length: 10 weeks
  • Break: 3 weeks between quarters
Example sequence Specialization Residency Practicum Internship Core

Course requirements

  • Core 13 courses
  • Specialization 4 courses
  • Residencies 2 courses
  • Practicum 1 course
  • Internship 2 courses

Example program course sequence

This example course sequence takes course prerequisites into account, so it can be helpful as a general guide when you register for courses. The number of courses you take in a quarter and the time it takes for you to complete your program can vary. Your academic coach can help answer any course registration questions.

Show all descriptions
COUN5002 Core Lifespan Development for the Counseling Professions 4 quarter credits Learners examine theories and principles of lifespan development to include biological, cognitive, social, emotional, and moral frameworks. Learners analyze the diverse contexts that support typical and adaptive development in all stages of life, and are exposed to current research and knowledge in the field. Must be taken during the learner's first quarter. Cannot be fulfilled by transfer. 4 quarter credits
COUN5217 Core Ethical and Legal Issues in Professional Counseling 4 quarter credits Learners evaluate current legal and ethical guidelines used in the counseling profession. Learners apply decision-making models and formulate effective collaboration strategies used to resolve legal and ethical issues that arise when working with children, adults, couples, and families in a variety of treatment settings. Learners also analyze how personal belief systems can influence counselors¿ responses to those issues. Prerequisite: BS in Psychology Pre-Counseling and Therapy learners require special permission for registration (Student Group UCOU) and must have completed PSYC3700 or PSYC4700 and PSYC4101 with a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or better. 4 quarter credits
COUN5239 Core Theories of the Counseling Profession 4 quarter credits Learners investigate various theories of psychotherapy and their respective philosophical principles and assumptions. Learners evaluate the theoretical concepts and evidence-based practices of psychotherapy and examine appropriate application of theories and interventions to a diverse client population. 4 quarter credits
COUN5279 Core Life Planning and Career Development 4 quarter credits Learners develop foundational knowledge and skills applicable to career counseling and development. Learners analyze theoretical models of career development as they relate to client interests, aptitudes, personalities, traits, values, and work preferences. In addition, learners explore the ways in which social interests, family relationships, cultural facets, and developmental factors and circumstances resulting from life transitions relate to career development across the lifespan. Learners also discuss legal and ethical issues associated with career counseling practice. Prerequisite: BS in Psychology Pre-Counseling and Therapy learners require special permission for registration (Student Group UCOU) and must have completed PSYC3700 or PSYC4700 and PSYC4101 with a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or better. 4 quarter credits
COUN5336 Core Counseling and Advocacy with Diverse Populations 4 quarter credits Learners engage with theory, research, and models that inform ethical and culturally competent counseling and social justice advocacy in a variety of settings. Learners analyze counseling theories and evidence-based practices that emphasize the relevance of multicultural counseling and advocacy roles of counselors. Throughout the course, learners investigate cultural assumptions, values, counselor credibility, prejudice, and racism within the counseling context. Learners identify their own overt and covert beliefs, and messages around cultural characteristics to determine how these experiences might influence the counseling process. In addition, learners gain an understanding of the role of the counselor and advocate in promoting social justice at multiple levels Prerequisite: BS in Psychology Pre-Counseling and Therapy learners require special permission for registration (Student Group UCOU) and must have completed PSYC3700 or PSYC4700 and PSYC4101 with a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or better. 4 quarter credits
COUN5106 Core Assessment, Tests, and Measures 4 quarter credits Learners examine the assessment process and how tests and measures are used in counseling. Learners also explore the evolution of assessment methods, testing strategies and interpretation, and fundamental measurement constructs. 4 quarter credits
COUN5280 Core Introduction to School Counseling 4 quarter credits Learners gain an understanding of the profession of school counseling. Learners examine the history and development of school counseling; investigate ethical and legal requirements for school counselors; explore the American School Counselor Association (ASCA) National Model and service delivery systems, including specific programs and interventions; and analyze the multiple roles and functions of school counselors with various stakeholders. 4 quarter credits
PLAY6203 Specialization Course The History and Systems of Play Therapy 4 quarter credits Learners examine the historical origins of and rationale for integrating play into the practice of therapy and discuss the core systems of and approaches to play therapy. Learners also review the contributions of play to child development and well-being throughout the lifespan. Cannot be fulfilled by transfer. 4 quarter credits
COUN-R5861 Residency The Counseling Relationship: Concepts and Skills 4 quarter credits In this first residency, learners gain an understanding of clinical skills practice through coursework and a face-to-face residency. During the face-to-face residency, learners analyze, develop, and demonstrate counseling concepts and skills. This course requires a time commitment after the face-to-face residency beyond the online course activities. For MS in Addiction Studies, MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, and MS in School Counseling learners only. Cannot be fulfilled by transfer. Prerequisite: MS in Addiction Studies learners must have completed ADD5217, ADD5336, COUN5260. MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling learners must have completed COUN5217; COUN5223; COUN5239 or COUN5830; COUN5279; COUN5336. MS in School Counseling learners must have completed COUN5217; COUN5239 or COUN 5812; COUN5279; COUN5280; COUN5336. 4 quarter credits
COUN5420 Core Child and Adolescent Psychopathology 4 quarter credits Learners examine common characteristics, risk factors, and warning signs of mental health and behavioral disorders affecting children and adolescents. Learners also critically evaluate diagnostic models, methods, and approaches and explore current DSM classifications and diagnostic issues related to children and adolescents. In addition, learners investigate the impact of common medications on learning, behavior, and mood in children and adolescents. 4 quarter credits
Core COUN5238: Crisis Assessment and Intervention - Core 4 quarter credits
COUN5422 Core Counseling for College and Career Readiness 4 quarter credits In this course, learners examine models of P-12 comprehensive career development. Learners also evaluate developmentally appropriate interventions and assessments that enhance career readiness, improve graduation rates, and promote equity in student achievement and college access. Prerequisite: COUN5279, COUN-R5861. 4 quarter credits
PLAY6206 Specialization Course Theories and Skills of Play Therapy 4 quarter credits Learners expand on their knowledge of the major theories of play therapy and the skills and interventions that define those theories. Learners assess the major theories and apply these to their work with a diversity of child clients and client scenarios. Learners also develop a personal theoretical orientation and apply this approach to personal practice. Learners assess ethical and legal issues unique to the field specific to providing culturally and socially diverse play therapy services. Prerequisite(s): PLAY6203 or PSY5244. Cannot be fulfilled by transfer. 4 quarter credits
Specialization Course Choose a Specialization Course 4 quarter credits
Core COUN5241: Group Counseling and Psychotherapy - Core 4 quarter credits
Specialization Course Choose a Specialization Course 4 quarter credits
COUN-R5863 Residency The Advanced Counseling Relationship: Concepts, Skills, and Approaches 4 quarter credits In this second residency, learners build upon clinical skills practice and group counseling. Learners analyze, develop, and demonstrate advanced counseling concepts, skills, and approaches during their face-to- face residency. This course requires a time commitment after the face-to-face residency beyond the online course activities. For MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and MS in School Counseling learners only. Cannot be fulfilled by transfer. Prerequisite: COUN5106, COUN5238, COUN5241, COUN-R5861. MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling learners must have completed COUN5107, COUN5225. MS in School Counseling learners must have completed COUN5420. 4 quarter credits
COUN5007 Core Research Methods for the Counseling Professions 4 quarter credits Learners gain an understanding of quantitative, qualitative, and mixed-method approaches to counseling research and program evaluation. Learners apply graduate-level approaches to research methodology for the counseling profession. 4 quarter credits
COUN5284 Core School Counseling Program Development and Evaluation 4 quarter credits Learners gain a comprehensive understanding of development of school counseling programs and services, and the data-driven decision-making and accountability needed to sustain them. Learners utilize evidence-based school counseling practices to investigate the needs, determine interventions and evaluate programs using the American School Counselor Association (ASCA) National Model as a framework. Prerequisite: COUN5239 or COUN5812; COUN5241; COUN-R5861. 4 quarter credits
COUN6102 Practicum School Counseling Practicum 4 quarter credits The school counseling practicum is a supervised experience during which learners practice specific counseling skills, including interviewing, assessment, intervention, documentation, and consultation in a school counseling setting. Learners use fundamental communication and interviewing counseling approaches that promote student and school success. This course requires 100 hours of practicum experience, which must consist of no less than 40 hours of direct student contact, and no less than 12 hours of face-to-face individual and/or triadic supervision with site supervisors. For MS in School Counseling learners only. Grading for this course is S/NS. It is the learner¿s responsibility to research and comply with the specific practicum and licensing or credentialing requirements of their states. Prerequisite(s): COUN5007, COUN5284, COUN-R5863, completion of or concurrent registration in COUN5422 with a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or better. Cannot be fulfilled by transfer. 4 quarter credits
COUN6121 Internship Internship for School Counseling 1 5 quarter credits This is the first course in a sequence of two required school counseling internship courses during which learners engage in the comprehensive work experience of a school counselor. Learners complete 600 total required contact hours comprised of a minimum of 240 hours of direct service contact with students, families, and other stakeholders, and 20 hours of face-to-face individual and/or triadic supervision with site supervisors. Throughout this internship, learners develop and apply a broad spectrum of counseling skills in a school setting. Learners create and deliver programs that address students¿ academic, social/emotional, career, and developmental needs to assist students and parents during all phases of the educational process. The internship provides opportunities for learners to become familiar with a variety of professional activities and resources, including record keeping, assessment, supervision, consultation, referral, in-service training, and staff meetings. For MS in School Counseling learners only. Special permission is required for registration. Grading for this course is S/NS. It is the learner¿s responsibility to research and comply with the specific practicum and licensing or credentialing requirements of their states. Prerequisite(s): COUN5422, COUN6102, with a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or better. Cannot be fulfilled by transfer. 5 quarter credits
COUN6122 Internship Internship for School Counseling Internship 2 5 quarter credits This is the second course in a sequence of two required school counseling internship courses during which learners engage in the comprehensive work experience of a school counselor. Learners complete 600 total required contact hours comprised of a minimum of 240 hours of direct service contact with students, families, and other stakeholders, and 20 hours of face-to-face individual and/or triadic supervision with site supervisors. Throughout this internship, learners develop and apply a broad spectrum of counseling skills in a school setting. Learners create and deliver programs that address students¿ academic, social/emotional, career, and developmental needs to assist students and parents during all phases of the educational process. The internship provides opportunities for learners to become familiar with a variety of professional activities and resources, including record keeping, assessment, supervision, consultation, referral, in-service training, and staff meetings. For MS in School Counseling learners only. Grading for this course is S/NS. It is the learner¿s responsibility to research and comply with the specific practicum and licensing or credentialing requirements of their states. Prerequisite(s): COUN6121, with a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or better. Cannot be fulfilled by transfer. 5 quarter credits

What can I expect in the courseroom?

Each unit consists of readings, discussions and other activities you will be expected to complete throughout the week. Most deadlines for coursework occur on Thursdays and/or Sundays but may vary by program and course. In each course, you will receive a detailed scoring guide that describes expectations for every graded assignment.

How will I be graded?

Grades are based on your participation in weekly reading discussions and completion of assignments, based on criteria outlined in the rubric. You will also be assessed on your ability to demonstrate an understanding of expected outcomes for your program or specialization. These outcomes are based on the needs and performance standards of your field or discipline.

Learn more about online learning at Capella

Total

At least 90 quarter credits

One or more courses in this program may require a prerequisite(s). Refer to the course descriptions for details.

Learners who do not complete all program requirements within quarter credit/program point minimums will be required to accrue such additional quarter credits/program points as are associated with any additional or repeat coursework necessary for successful completion of program requirements.

Capella University cannot guarantee eligibility for licensure, endorsement, other professional credential, or salary advancement. State licensing regulations and professional standards vary; learners are responsible for understanding and complying with the requirements of the state in which they intend to work. State licensing boards review each applicant's completed education, exam scores, supervised experience, criminal history, and application materials at the time of license application to determine eligibility. For more information, see the professional licensure disclosures for this program on Capella’s website. Contact your school district for a determination on qualifications for salary advancement.

Capella University is not currently accepting applications for the MS in School Counseling program from Arkansas or Kentucky residents.

Specialization course requirements

Complete at least 16 quarter credits from the specialization courses shown below.

Show all descriptions
PLAY6203 Specialization Course The History and Systems of Play Therapy 4 quarter credits Learners examine the historical origins of and rationale for integrating play into the practice of therapy and discuss the core systems of and approaches to play therapy. Learners also review the contributions of play to child development and well-being throughout the lifespan. Cannot be fulfilled by transfer. 4 quarter credits
COUN5254 Specialization Course Child and Adolescent Counseling 4 quarter credits Learners gain an understanding of major theories and research of adolescent and child development. Learners examine biological and psychosocial development factors and evaluate the influence of family, community, society, and trauma on development. 4 quarter credits
COUN5254 Specialization Course Child and Adolescent Counseling 4 quarter credits Learners gain an understanding of major theories and research of adolescent and child development. Learners examine biological and psychosocial development factors and evaluate the influence of family, community, society, and trauma on development. 4 quarter credits
COUN5271 Specialization Course Marriage and Family Systems 4 quarter credits Learners investigate families as systems from theoretical, clinical, and research perspectives. Learners gain an understanding of family development, transitions, assessment, and intervention, including consideration for diversity and sociocultural factors. Learners also apply systems-oriented assessment models and strategies for initial interviews, hypothesis formulation, and designing a strategy for intervention. 4 quarter credits
COUN5271 Specialization Course Marriage and Family Systems 4 quarter credits Learners investigate families as systems from theoretical, clinical, and research perspectives. Learners gain an understanding of family development, transitions, assessment, and intervention, including consideration for diversity and sociocultural factors. Learners also apply systems-oriented assessment models and strategies for initial interviews, hypothesis formulation, and designing a strategy for intervention. 4 quarter credits
COUN5422 Specialization Course Counseling for College and Career Readiness 4 quarter credits In this course, learners examine models of P-12 comprehensive career development. Learners also evaluate developmentally appropriate interventions and assessments that enhance career readiness, improve graduation rates, and promote equity in student achievement and college access. Prerequisite: COUN5279, COUN-R5861. 4 quarter credits
COUN5422 Specialization Course Counseling for College and Career Readiness 4 quarter credits In this course, learners examine models of P-12 comprehensive career development. Learners also evaluate developmentally appropriate interventions and assessments that enhance career readiness, improve graduation rates, and promote equity in student achievement and college access. Prerequisite: COUN5279, COUN-R5861. 4 quarter credits
PLAY6206 Specialization Course Theories and Skills of Play Therapy 4 quarter credits Learners expand on their knowledge of the major theories of play therapy and the skills and interventions that define those theories. Learners assess the major theories and apply these to their work with a diversity of child clients and client scenarios. Learners also develop a personal theoretical orientation and apply this approach to personal practice. Learners assess ethical and legal issues unique to the field specific to providing culturally and socially diverse play therapy services. Prerequisite(s): PLAY6203 or PSY5244. Cannot be fulfilled by transfer. 4 quarter credits

Total

At least 90 quarter credits

One or more courses in this program may require a prerequisite(s). Refer to the course descriptions for details.

Learners who do not complete all program requirements within quarter credit/program point minimums will be required to accrue such additional quarter credits/program points as are associated with any additional or repeat coursework necessary for successful completion of program requirements.

Capella University cannot guarantee eligibility for licensure, endorsement, other professional credential, or salary advancement. State licensing regulations and professional standards vary; learners are responsible for understanding and complying with the requirements of the state in which they intend to work. State licensing boards review each applicant's completed education, exam scores, supervised experience, criminal history, and application materials at the time of license application to determine eligibility. For more information, see the professional licensure disclosures for this program on Capella’s website. Contact your school district for a determination on qualifications for salary advancement.

Capella University is not currently accepting applications for the MS in School Counseling program from Arkansas or Kentucky residents.

Show all descriptions
COUN-R5861 Residency The Counseling Relationship: Concepts and Skills 4 quarter credits In this first residency, learners gain an understanding of clinical skills practice through coursework and a face-to-face residency. During the face-to-face residency, learners analyze, develop, and demonstrate counseling concepts and skills. This course requires a time commitment after the face-to-face residency beyond the online course activities. For MS in Addiction Studies, MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, and MS in School Counseling learners only. Cannot be fulfilled by transfer. Prerequisite: MS in Addiction Studies learners must have completed ADD5217, ADD5336, COUN5260. MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling learners must have completed COUN5217; COUN5223; COUN5239 or COUN5830; COUN5279; COUN5336. MS in School Counseling learners must have completed COUN5217; COUN5239 or COUN 5812; COUN5279; COUN5280; COUN5336. 4 quarter credits
COUN-R5863 Residency The Advanced Counseling Relationship: Concepts, Skills, and Approaches 4 quarter credits In this second residency, learners build upon clinical skills practice and group counseling. Learners analyze, develop, and demonstrate advanced counseling concepts, skills, and approaches during their face-to- face residency. This course requires a time commitment after the face-to-face residency beyond the online course activities. For MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and MS in School Counseling learners only. Cannot be fulfilled by transfer. Prerequisite: COUN5106, COUN5238, COUN5241, COUN-R5861. MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling learners must have completed COUN5107, COUN5225. MS in School Counseling learners must have completed COUN5420. 4 quarter credits

Total

At least 90 quarter credits

One or more courses in this program may require a prerequisite(s). Refer to the course descriptions for details.

Learners who do not complete all program requirements within quarter credit/program point minimums will be required to accrue such additional quarter credits/program points as are associated with any additional or repeat coursework necessary for successful completion of program requirements.

Capella University cannot guarantee eligibility for licensure, endorsement, other professional credential, or salary advancement. State licensing regulations and professional standards vary; learners are responsible for understanding and complying with the requirements of the state in which they intend to work. State licensing boards review each applicant's completed education, exam scores, supervised experience, criminal history, and application materials at the time of license application to determine eligibility. For more information, see the professional licensure disclosures for this program on Capella’s website. Contact your school district for a determination on qualifications for salary advancement.

Capella University is not currently accepting applications for the MS in School Counseling program from Arkansas or Kentucky residents.

Show all descriptions
COUN6102 Practicum School Counseling Practicum 4 quarter credits The school counseling practicum is a supervised experience during which learners practice specific counseling skills, including interviewing, assessment, intervention, documentation, and consultation in a school counseling setting. Learners use fundamental communication and interviewing counseling approaches that promote student and school success. This course requires 100 hours of practicum experience, which must consist of no less than 40 hours of direct student contact, and no less than 12 hours of face-to-face individual and/or triadic supervision with site supervisors. For MS in School Counseling learners only. Grading for this course is S/NS. It is the learner¿s responsibility to research and comply with the specific practicum and licensing or credentialing requirements of their states. Prerequisite(s): COUN5007, COUN5284, COUN-R5863, completion of or concurrent registration in COUN5422 with a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or better. Cannot be fulfilled by transfer. 4 quarter credits

Total

At least 90 quarter credits

One or more courses in this program may require a prerequisite(s). Refer to the course descriptions for details.

Learners who do not complete all program requirements within quarter credit/program point minimums will be required to accrue such additional quarter credits/program points as are associated with any additional or repeat coursework necessary for successful completion of program requirements.

Capella University cannot guarantee eligibility for licensure, endorsement, other professional credential, or salary advancement. State licensing regulations and professional standards vary; learners are responsible for understanding and complying with the requirements of the state in which they intend to work. State licensing boards review each applicant's completed education, exam scores, supervised experience, criminal history, and application materials at the time of license application to determine eligibility. For more information, see the professional licensure disclosures for this program on Capella’s website. Contact your school district for a determination on qualifications for salary advancement.

Capella University is not currently accepting applications for the MS in School Counseling program from Arkansas or Kentucky residents.

Show all descriptions
COUN6121 Internship Internship for School Counseling 1 5 quarter credits This is the first course in a sequence of two required school counseling internship courses during which learners engage in the comprehensive work experience of a school counselor. Learners complete 600 total required contact hours comprised of a minimum of 240 hours of direct service contact with students, families, and other stakeholders, and 20 hours of face-to-face individual and/or triadic supervision with site supervisors. Throughout this internship, learners develop and apply a broad spectrum of counseling skills in a school setting. Learners create and deliver programs that address students¿ academic, social/emotional, career, and developmental needs to assist students and parents during all phases of the educational process. The internship provides opportunities for learners to become familiar with a variety of professional activities and resources, including record keeping, assessment, supervision, consultation, referral, in-service training, and staff meetings. For MS in School Counseling learners only. Special permission is required for registration. Grading for this course is S/NS. It is the learner¿s responsibility to research and comply with the specific practicum and licensing or credentialing requirements of their states. Prerequisite(s): COUN5422, COUN6102, with a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or better. Cannot be fulfilled by transfer. 5 quarter credits
COUN6122 Internship Internship for School Counseling Internship 2 5 quarter credits This is the second course in a sequence of two required school counseling internship courses during which learners engage in the comprehensive work experience of a school counselor. Learners complete 600 total required contact hours comprised of a minimum of 240 hours of direct service contact with students, families, and other stakeholders, and 20 hours of face-to-face individual and/or triadic supervision with site supervisors. Throughout this internship, learners develop and apply a broad spectrum of counseling skills in a school setting. Learners create and deliver programs that address students¿ academic, social/emotional, career, and developmental needs to assist students and parents during all phases of the educational process. The internship provides opportunities for learners to become familiar with a variety of professional activities and resources, including record keeping, assessment, supervision, consultation, referral, in-service training, and staff meetings. For MS in School Counseling learners only. Grading for this course is S/NS. It is the learner¿s responsibility to research and comply with the specific practicum and licensing or credentialing requirements of their states. Prerequisite(s): COUN6121, with a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or better. Cannot be fulfilled by transfer. 5 quarter credits

Total

At least 90 quarter credits

One or more courses in this program may require a prerequisite(s). Refer to the course descriptions for details.

Learners who do not complete all program requirements within quarter credit/program point minimums will be required to accrue such additional quarter credits/program points as are associated with any additional or repeat coursework necessary for successful completion of program requirements.

Capella University cannot guarantee eligibility for licensure, endorsement, other professional credential, or salary advancement. State licensing regulations and professional standards vary; learners are responsible for understanding and complying with the requirements of the state in which they intend to work. State licensing boards review each applicant's completed education, exam scores, supervised experience, criminal history, and application materials at the time of license application to determine eligibility. For more information, see the professional licensure disclosures for this program on Capella’s website. Contact your school district for a determination on qualifications for salary advancement.

Capella University is not currently accepting applications for the MS in School Counseling program from Arkansas or Kentucky residents.

Core course requirements

Complete at least 52 quarter credits in the core courses category. Choose from the courses shown below.

Show all descriptions
COUN5279 Core Life Planning and Career Development 4 quarter credits Learners develop foundational knowledge and skills applicable to career counseling and development. Learners analyze theoretical models of career development as they relate to client interests, aptitudes, personalities, traits, values, and work preferences. In addition, learners explore the ways in which social interests, family relationships, cultural facets, and developmental factors and circumstances resulting from life transitions relate to career development across the lifespan. Learners also discuss legal and ethical issues associated with career counseling practice. Prerequisite: BS in Psychology Pre-Counseling and Therapy learners require special permission for registration (Student Group UCOU) and must have completed PSYC3700 or PSYC4700 and PSYC4101 with a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or better. 4 quarter credits
COUN5217 Core Ethical and Legal Issues in Professional Counseling 4 quarter credits Learners evaluate current legal and ethical guidelines used in the counseling profession. Learners apply decision-making models and formulate effective collaboration strategies used to resolve legal and ethical issues that arise when working with children, adults, couples, and families in a variety of treatment settings. Learners also analyze how personal belief systems can influence counselors¿ responses to those issues. Prerequisite: BS in Psychology Pre-Counseling and Therapy learners require special permission for registration (Student Group UCOU) and must have completed PSYC3700 or PSYC4700 and PSYC4101 with a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or better. 4 quarter credits
COUN5106 Core Assessment, Tests, and Measures 4 quarter credits Learners examine the assessment process and how tests and measures are used in counseling. Learners also explore the evolution of assessment methods, testing strategies and interpretation, and fundamental measurement constructs. 4 quarter credits
COUN5420 Core Child and Adolescent Psychopathology 4 quarter credits Learners examine common characteristics, risk factors, and warning signs of mental health and behavioral disorders affecting children and adolescents. Learners also critically evaluate diagnostic models, methods, and approaches and explore current DSM classifications and diagnostic issues related to children and adolescents. In addition, learners investigate the impact of common medications on learning, behavior, and mood in children and adolescents. 4 quarter credits
COUN5422 Core Counseling for College and Career Readiness 4 quarter credits In this course, learners examine models of P-12 comprehensive career development. Learners also evaluate developmentally appropriate interventions and assessments that enhance career readiness, improve graduation rates, and promote equity in student achievement and college access. Prerequisite: COUN5279, COUN-R5861. 4 quarter credits
COUN5007 Core Research Methods for the Counseling Professions 4 quarter credits Learners gain an understanding of quantitative, qualitative, and mixed-method approaches to counseling research and program evaluation. Learners apply graduate-level approaches to research methodology for the counseling profession. 4 quarter credits
COUN5002 Core Lifespan Development for the Counseling Professions 4 quarter credits Learners examine theories and principles of lifespan development to include biological, cognitive, social, emotional, and moral frameworks. Learners analyze the diverse contexts that support typical and adaptive development in all stages of life, and are exposed to current research and knowledge in the field. Must be taken during the learner's first quarter. Cannot be fulfilled by transfer. 4 quarter credits
COUN5280 Core Introduction to School Counseling 4 quarter credits Learners gain an understanding of the profession of school counseling. Learners examine the history and development of school counseling; investigate ethical and legal requirements for school counselors; explore the American School Counselor Association (ASCA) National Model and service delivery systems, including specific programs and interventions; and analyze the multiple roles and functions of school counselors with various stakeholders. 4 quarter credits
COUN5284 Core School Counseling Program Development and Evaluation 4 quarter credits Learners gain a comprehensive understanding of development of school counseling programs and services, and the data-driven decision-making and accountability needed to sustain them. Learners utilize evidence-based school counseling practices to investigate the needs, determine interventions and evaluate programs using the American School Counselor Association (ASCA) National Model as a framework. Prerequisite: COUN5239 or COUN5812; COUN5241; COUN-R5861. 4 quarter credits
COUN5336 Core Counseling and Advocacy with Diverse Populations 4 quarter credits Learners engage with theory, research, and models that inform ethical and culturally competent counseling and social justice advocacy in a variety of settings. Learners analyze counseling theories and evidence-based practices that emphasize the relevance of multicultural counseling and advocacy roles of counselors. Throughout the course, learners investigate cultural assumptions, values, counselor credibility, prejudice, and racism within the counseling context. Learners identify their own overt and covert beliefs, and messages around cultural characteristics to determine how these experiences might influence the counseling process. In addition, learners gain an understanding of the role of the counselor and advocate in promoting social justice at multiple levels Prerequisite: BS in Psychology Pre-Counseling and Therapy learners require special permission for registration (Student Group UCOU) and must have completed PSYC3700 or PSYC4700 and PSYC4101 with a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or better. 4 quarter credits
COUN5239 Core Theories of the Counseling Profession 4 quarter credits Learners investigate various theories of psychotherapy and their respective philosophical principles and assumptions. Learners evaluate the theoretical concepts and evidence-based practices of psychotherapy and examine appropriate application of theories and interventions to a diverse client population. 4 quarter credits
COUN5241 Core Group Counseling and Psychotherapy 4 quarter credits Learners in this course examine the theoretical components and developmental aspects of groups. Topics include types of groups, group dynamics and processes, group leadership and membership roles, ethical awareness in relation to groups, and crisis management within groups. Learners must meet weekly via web conferencing for synchronous (live) group meetings with their course instructor. Prerequisite(s): COUN-R5861. 4 quarter credits
CST8741 Core Group Counseling and Psychotherapy 4 quarter credits Learners in this course review the historical development of group counseling and psychotherapy, and synthesize and apply the field's current research, theories, and clinical procedures. Topics include the role of the leader and leadership styles, the mechanics of co-therapy, special-function groups, and management of critical incidents within groups. 4 quarter credits
COUN5338 Core Crisis Intervention, Trauma Response, and Emergency Management 4 quarter credits Learners in this course examine skills and strategies for crisis intervention and prevention, response to trauma, and emergency management as they apply to the school counseling profession within K-12 school settings. Topics include responding to trauma; providing trauma-informed care; working with victims of trauma, abuse, or violence; developing crisis intervention and prevention plans; assessing risk of suicide and other risks; and analyzing and implementing emergency management plans. 4 quarter credits
COUN5238 Core Crisis Assessment and Intervention 4 quarter credits Learners assess crisis intervention and emergency management models and strategies used in the counseling field and develop the crisis intervention skills needed to provide counseling services in mental health settings in a timely, effective, and ethical manner. Learners also investigate related topics, including working with situational crises, assessing suicide and other risks, and supporting the implementation of emergency management plans. Prerequisite: MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and MS in School Counseling learners must have completed COUN-R5861. Contemporary Theory in School-Based Services graduate certificate learners must have completed COUN5002. 4 quarter credits

Total

At least 90 quarter credits

One or more courses in this program may require a prerequisite(s). Refer to the course descriptions for details.

Learners who do not complete all program requirements within quarter credit/program point minimums will be required to accrue such additional quarter credits/program points as are associated with any additional or repeat coursework necessary for successful completion of program requirements.

Capella University cannot guarantee eligibility for licensure, endorsement, other professional credential, or salary advancement. State licensing regulations and professional standards vary; learners are responsible for understanding and complying with the requirements of the state in which they intend to work. State licensing boards review each applicant's completed education, exam scores, supervised experience, criminal history, and application materials at the time of license application to determine eligibility. For more information, see the professional licensure disclosures for this program on Capella’s website. Contact your school district for a determination on qualifications for salary advancement.

Capella University is not currently accepting applications for the MS in School Counseling program from Arkansas or Kentucky residents.