Master of Education: Guidance and Counseling

The Master of Education: Guidance and Counseling program prepares individuals to advise and meet students’ needs in collaboration with parents, teachers, and other school and community personnel. Graduates of the program will be prepared to promote the academic achievement, career planning, personal, and social development of school-aged youth. The program features a strong research and theoretical base in human development while involving the APUS student in practical, real-life, school-based experiences. In addition, the degree plan follows the American School Counselor Association national model which advocates comprehensive, data-driven school counseling programs. The degree adheres to the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP) standards and is comprised of 12 online three credit hour core courses followed by a six credit hour practicum (100 field hours) and a 6 credit hour internship (600 field hours), both onsite, for a total of 48 credit hours. APUS will be applying for CACREP accreditation in 2009.

Degree Program Objectives

The Master of Education: Guidance and Counseling seeks the following specific learning outcomes of its graduates.

• Plan, design, implement, and evaluate a comprehensive school counseling program which is responsive to all students regardless of difference
• Demonstrate knowledge and skills in relating to parents, students, colleagues, and community members in an ethical and professional manner
• Utilize theories and techniques to assist in academic planning and career development
• Demonstrate an understanding of the fundamental interviewing and assessment skills including the identification of issues affecting growth and development
• Develop an ability to review and apply research to evaluate the effectiveness of counseling program effectiveness; modify counseling services to meet the needs of the student population
• Be able to help students cope with personal and interpersonal issues through individual and group counseling
• Select appropriate assessment options to measure academic, career and personal development of students and be able to effectively communicate results
• Utilize appropriate principles and strategies to help diverse student populations experience success; and develop decision making skills designed to promote achievement
• Articulate the role of the school counselor within the educational system and demonstrate effective leadership that enhances the learning environment
• Demonstrate knowledge of potential mental health challenges of adolescents and children; identify conditions affecting normal human growth and development
  

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 Graduate Catalog | Master's