The Master of Education (M.Ed.) in School Counseling is an accelerated 14‑month program that prepares future school counselors to lead in K–12 settings. Through rigorous coursework, a yearlong school‑based internship, and individualized professional mentorship, students learn to promote the academic, career, and social‑emotional development of all learners while working to remove barriers to their success.
You will learn to design and deliver a comprehensive school counseling program that supports the academic, social‑emotional, and career development of all students. The curriculum emphasizes equity‑centered practice, data‑informed decision‑making, and leadership within K–12 schools. You will develop strong counseling, consultation, and collaboration skills while learning to advocate for systems that promote student success.
This program is ideal for individuals who want to become licensed school counselors and are committed to supporting the well‑being of children and adolescents. Applicants often come from diverse academic and professional backgrounds but share a passion for working in schools, partnering with families and educators, and fostering inclusive learning environments.
The M.Ed. in School Counseling is an in‑person program. Coursework is delivered on campus at UNC Chapel-Hill, and clinical experiences take place in nearby partner schools.
The School Counseling program is designed to be completed in two years of full‑time study, including summer enrollment.
A completed bachelor’s degree from an accredited four-year institution is required, however, no prior counseling or teaching experience is required. Successful applicants typically bring prior experience of some kind in schools or youth-serving environments and demonstrate a clear sense of purpose in pursuing a career in school counseling.
Fieldwork is comprised of the practicum and the internship, both required. The practicum is from August – October, during which students observe and document school counselors performing their professional duties. Students may participate in performing tasks under supervision to a limited extent. During their internship in October – the Summer, students spend three full days per week at their placement site, allowing them to apply the skills they’ve learned thus far and engage with the full rhythm of a school year.
Clinical placements occur in local public schools that partner with the UNC School of Education. Placements are selected to provide strong mentorship and exposure to diverse student populations and school contexts. Placement preferences — including elementary, middle, or high school — are collected and thoughtfully considered early in the program.
The School Counseling program prepares graduates for specialist-level licensure as K-12 school counselors in North Carolina.
The program leads to North Carolina licensure, and many states offer reciprocity. Because requirements vary, students planning to practice outside North Carolina should review the licensure guidelines for their intended state.
The UNC School Counseling program prepares graduates for specialist-level K–12 school counselor licensure and also includes the graduate coursework required for those who wish to pursue LCMHC licensure in North Carolina.
Applications open annually for summer cohort starts and close in January. Prospective students should review the School of Education’s “How to Apply” page for current deadlines and application cycles. Final admissions decisions are typically communicated by mid-March.
You will submit an online application that includes transcripts, letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, and other required materials. All applicants who advance beyond the initial review will participate in an interview with program faculty. Detailed, step‑by‑step guidance is provided on the “How to Apply” page, which walks you through each component of the application process.
GRE scores are optional for applicants to the School Counseling program. If submitted, scores must be valid within the last five years.
The School Counseling program is designed for full‑time enrollment due to the structure of coursework and required daytime clinical placements.
Yes. International applicants are welcome. Students should review UNC Graduate School requirements for English proficiency, transcript evaluation, and visa documentation.
Yes. International applicants are welcome. Students should review UNC Graduate School requirements for English proficiency, transcript evaluation, and visa documentation.
Many graduate students receive financial support directly through the School of Education and their academic program. In addition, The Graduate School offers a small number of competitive awards that require nomination by the program. To ensure programs have adequate time to review applicants for these opportunities, all application materials — including required uploads and test scores — must be submitted in full by the deadline.
Additional opportunities such as the Fellows for Inclusive Excellence program may provide additional funding for selected students.
Tuition and fees are determined by the university. Tuition is based on residency status and the credit hours taken. When reaching out for estimated cost, please be aware this program has a fall term, spring term and summer terms. Please reach out to the cashier’s office to learn more.
For questions about admissions, program requirements, or advising, contact the Office of Student Affairs at education_studentaffairs@unc.edu or attend an upcoming virtual information session.