School Counselor, Post-Master's Certificate
Earn Your School Counselor Certificate
The Illinois State Board of Education has approved the School Counseling program to prepare candidates for the Professional Educator License (PEL) in School Counseling. The program includes comprehensive coursework and practical training in areas such as student academic development, crisis intervention, and college readiness counseling.
Through these components, candidates are equipped to address diverse student needs in modern educational environments, ensuring they are ready to support and guide students effectively upon certification.
Candidates must have a Master's degree in Counseling, Psychology, or a related field.
Application Deadlines
Fall Semester- February 15th
Spring Semester- August 15th
Career Enhancements
As a licensed school counselor, you can focus on promoting student success by providing targeted career guidance that helps students understand their strengths and potential career paths. You can also aim to implement comprehensive school counseling programs that support the academic, career, and personal/social development of all students.
What You'll Study
Our academic catalog has detailed information about what you'll study, like courses, hours needed for completion, and other requirements.
Courses are offered in a hybrid format.
Program Requirements
- Master's degree in Counseling, Psychology, or related field
- A cumulative graduate GPA of 3.0 or higher
- Be licensed eligible in the Mental Health field
Prior to receiving the university recommendation for the Educator License (PEL), students must provide evidence of having passed the School Counselor content area examination of the Illinois Licensure Testing System
Application Materials
- Official transcript(s) from all previous college work
- Statement of Character (statement includes questions that need to be checked off by the applicant)
- Three personal references who can speak to your academic ability (an automatic email will be sent to these individuals)
- Interview with faculty members (not all applicants will be asked to interview)
Admission decisions are final and cannot be appealed.
Scholarships
At GovState, many scholarships are available and can make your education even more affordable!
Accredited Program
The School Counseling certificate is accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP) through March 31, 2031.
