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Assumption University’s M.A. in School Counseling program prepares culturally responsive counselors to support PreK-12 youth from a strengths-based perspective. Students train to work with children and adolescents across academic, career, and social-emotional domains, collaborating with parents, administrators, teachers, staff, and community service providers. The program is one of only three in Massachusetts approved with distinction by the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE), reflecting its rigor and comprehensiveness.

Two tracks are offered: School Counseling, and School Adjustment Counseling/School Social Work. Both train students in evidence-based counseling strategies and interventions spanning the full range of student functioning, recognizing that academic achievement depends on social, emotional, and behavioral well-being.

The Master’s in School Counseling curriculum covers evidence-based practice for comprehensive school counseling programs, including prevention and intervention planning and program evaluation to meet both individual student and school-level needs. Faculty combine academic expertise with active practice as school psychologists, administrators, school counselors, and school adjustment counselors, modeling the dispositions effective counselors need. Small class sizes support close faculty mentorship and strong peer relationships, with many students forming lasting study groups and professional networks.

Graduates enter a dynamic, expanding field addressing the growing and complex needs of today’s students in PreK-12 school settings.

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Why Earn Your Master’s in School Counseling From Assumption University?

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Program DESE-approved with distinction (1 of 3 in Massachusetts)

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Small classes, personal attention – learn directly from accessible, expert faculty

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Real-world field experience – practicum placements in urban and suburban local schools

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Strength-based curriculum

Career Opportunities for School Counselors

  • National median pay for school and career counselors – $65,140.
  • Massachusetts school counselor salaries: roughly $61,700-$99,400 range, with medians reported between $78,800 and $92,500.
  • Boston-area average: approximately $82,000.
  • Projected job growth for this category: 5% (2024-2034).

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data

Program at a Glance

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Curriculum

60 Credits, program can be completed in two years

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Start Dates

The program is available to start in Fall, Spring, or Summer

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Delivery Options

100% Online

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Tuition

$730 per credit hour, $43,800 estimated total tuition

Take the Next Step

Learn More About Our Graduate Programs