School Counseling, M.S.

California Baptist University

Program Summary – Master of Science in School Counseling (M.S. in School Counseling)

The Master of Science in School Counseling (M.S. in School Counseling) program prepares students for a career as professional school counselors, focusing on the development of skills necessary to support the academic, social, and emotional well-being of students. This program provides a comprehensive understanding of counseling theories, techniques, and ethical practices, while also addressing the specific needs of students in K-12 educational settings. Students in this program are trained to work with children and adolescents, helping them navigate personal challenges, academic pressures, and career planning.

Key Program Features:

• Clinical Training – Hands-on experience through internships and supervised clinical placements in schools, where students work directly with students and educational staff.
• Counseling Techniques and Theories – Focus on various counseling approaches, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy, person-centered therapy, and solution-focused therapy, tailored for children and adolescents.
• Developmental Psychology – Understanding the developmental stages of students and applying psychological principles to support their academic and personal growth.
• Multicultural Counseling – Training in culturally competent counseling practices, focusing on meeting the needs of diverse student populations.
• School and Family Dynamics – Emphasis on the relationship between school, family, and community, and how counselors can engage with all parties to promote student success.
• Ethics and Professionalism – Exploration of the ethical standards and legal issues related to counseling in school settings.

Key Areas of Study:

1. Counseling Techniques and Practice – Developing practical counseling skills for individual and group therapy, as well as crisis intervention strategies.
2. Developmental and Educational Psychology – Understanding the cognitive, emotional, and social development of students at different stages and how it affects their behavior and learning.
3. Multicultural Competence – Gaining insight into the unique needs of students from diverse backgrounds and developing strategies to create an inclusive, supportive environment.
4. Career Counseling – Learning how to guide students through career exploration, college admissions, and professional development.
5. Ethics and Legal Issues – Learning about the ethical and legal responsibilities of a school counselor, including confidentiality, mandatory reporting, and working within school policies.
6. Crisis Intervention – Preparing counselors to handle critical situations such as bullying, mental health crises, and other urgent student issues.

Career Opportunities:

Graduates of the M.S. in School Counseling program can pursue careers in a variety of settings, primarily in educational environments, including:

• School Counselor – Working in elementary, middle, and high schools to provide guidance and support to students in academic, emotional, and social areas.
• Career Counselor – Helping students explore career paths, plan for higher education, and make informed decisions about their future professions.
• Mental Health Counselor – Providing individual or group therapy to students dealing with mental health challenges such as anxiety, depression, and trauma.
• College Admissions Counselor – Assisting students with the college application process, including advising on applications, scholarships, and career planning.
• Academic Advisor – Helping students select appropriate courses, understand graduation requirements, and develop strategies for academic success.
• Crisis Intervention Specialist – Offering immediate support during critical situations, such as student suicides, family tragedies, or school violence.
• School Social Worker – Providing social work services to students and families, particularly in cases of behavioral problems or crises.