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The Online Master of Arts in School Counseling at The University of Olivet is designed for students seeking to become certified school counselors and serve students in K–12 educational settings.
This 60-credit program prepares future school counselors to support students’ academic success, social-emotional development, and college and career readiness, while aligning with most state certification requirements.
Olivet offers a fully online program that combines flexible coursework with structured, school-based field experiences, providing clarity, support, and a direct pathway to professional certification.
If you are searching for an online school counseling degree that prepares you for certification while allowing you to remain rooted in your community, Olivet offers a clear and supportive path.
School counselors play a critical role in student achievement, mental wellness, and long-term success.
To become a certified school counselor, candidates must:
Olivet’s program is structured to align with most state certification standards, helping you confidently move from graduate study into professional school counseling practice.*
Students completing the MA in School Counseling program in Arizona receive an Institutional Recommendation (IR) for certification. Submitted directly to the Arizona Department of Education (ADE), the IR verifies program completion and streamlines the certification process. To qualify, students must complete all core counseling courses and the School Counseling specialization coursework.
All academic coursework is delivered online in eight-week and sixteen-week formats during Fall, Spring, and Summer terms. New students are welcome twice per year, Fall 1 and Spring 1.
Courses combine synchronous and asynchronous learning, offering flexibility while maintaining meaningful interaction with faculty and peers.
Students will also complete:
Field experiences are completed across three full semesters in approved K–12 school settings. Students work directly with children and adolescents under professional supervision.
These experiences provide hands-on preparation in:
Faculty provide personalized guidance throughout the placement process to help ensure your experience aligns with most state certification requirements.
Olivet combines online flexibility with meaningful faculty connection and mentorship.
Unlike large national online universities, you’ll experience:
You won’t be one of thousands. You’ll be personally supported as you develop your professional identity as a school counselor prepared to lead, advocate, and collaborate in K-12 schools.
The demand for qualified school counselors remains strong as schools prioritize student mental health, academic planning, and postsecondary readiness.
Graduates may pursue roles such as counselors in elementary, middle/junior high and high school settings.
School counselors serve in:
Professional responsibilities may include:
School counselors act as leaders and advocates, working to eliminate barriers and promote equitable access to opportunity for all students.
Does this program meet school counselor certification requirements?
The curriculum is designed to align with CACREP standards. Most states, with a few exceptions, use CACREP standards for the educational requirements for licensure. Students should review current state requirements to confirm individual eligibility.*
Is this program fully online?
Yes. All coursework is delivered online. Students are required to complete two three-day on-campus residencies in Olivet, Michigan, before their practicum and internship experiences begin.
How long is each term?
Courses are offered in eight-week and sixteen-week formats during Fall, Spring, and Summer terms.
Can I complete this program while working full-time?
Many students balance professional responsibilities while completing coursework and clinical requirements. The structured online format and cohort model are designed to support working professionals in any state.
What are the program requirements?
A total of 60 sequential credits is required to earn the Master of Arts in School Counseling. Students must maintain a 3.0 GPA or higher to remain in the program and to graduate.
What are the program learning outcomes?
Graduates of the program demonstrate competency aligned with the 2024 CACREP Standards and the ASCA National Model.
If you’re ready to support students, strengthen school communities, and help young people reach their full potential, the Online Master of Arts in School Counseling at The University of Olivet offers a clear path forward. Begin your application today.
Explore career paths, certification requirements and the real impact school counselors have in today’s schools.
Interested in becoming a school counselor? This step-by-step guide walks through education requirements, field experience and certification so you can confidently plan your path.
Go beyond the basics to explore how school counselors support students’ academic, social and emotional development—and how their role continues to evolve in today’s schools.
Learn the essential steps to entering the profession, along with the skills and qualities that define effective school counselors in real-world school settings.
Not sure which path is right for you? Compare these three school-based roles to understand their unique responsibilities, training and impact on student success.
*Completion of The University of Olivet’s Online Master of Arts in School Counseling program prepares graduates to pursue school counselor certification, but does not guarantee certification. Students are responsible for verifying current certification requirements with their state’s education department.
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