School Counseling
The School Counseling Master of Arts program at the University of North Carolina provides students with the skills and knowledge to support the academic, social, and emotional development of K-12 students. The curriculum emphasizes counseling theories, student development, and evidence based intervention strategies, preparing learners to address diverse student needs in educational settings. Students develop counseling skills, developmental assessment, intervention strategies and ethical decision making abilities, equipping them to create safe, supportive, and inclusive school environments.
Throughout the program, learners engage in coursework, supervised field experiences, and practical projects that integrate theoretical knowledge with real world counseling practice. Faculty mentorship guides students in conducting assessments, developing individualized interventions, and implementing evidence based programs. By combining counseling theory with applied practice, students strengthen communication skills, research competence, problem solving abilities and professional judgment, ensuring they are well prepared for careers as school counselors and educational support specialists.
Key information
Key Facts
- Program Title: School Counseling
- Degree Type: Master of Arts
- Duration: 2 years
- Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
- Application Deadline: 01 August 2026
- Location: University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, United States
- Field of Study: School Counselling
- Language of Instruction: English
Program Structure
Semester 1 Foundations in School Counseling
• Counseling Theories and Techniques
• Human Growth and Development
• Assessment and Evaluation in Schools
• Professional Ethics and Legal Issues
Semester 2 Core Counseling Practices
• Group Counseling and Dynamics
• Career Development and Academic Advising
• Crisis Intervention and Conflict Resolution
• Fieldwork I
Semester 3 Advanced Counseling Interventions
• Multicultural Counseling Practices
• Family and Community Engagement
• Psychological Assessment and Testing
• Fieldwork II
Semester 4 Integration and Capstone
• Counseling Program Design and Implementation
• Research Methods in Counseling
• Capstone Project in School Counseling
• Professional Development and Portfolio
Career Opportunities
Graduates of this program are prepared for professional roles in K-12 education that require expertise in counseling, student support, and academic guidance. Many pursue careers as school counselors, academic advisors, student support specialists and career guidance coordinators, providing guidance and interventions to enhance student well being and academic success. Others work in educational non profits, community programs, or governmental agencies, developing programs, conducting assessments, and supporting diverse student populations. The programs focus on applied counseling, developmental theory, and fieldwork experience equips graduates to address student needs effectively and contribute to supportive learning environments.
Why Choose This Program
This program is ideal for students who want to combine theoretical knowledge of counseling with practical skills in school settings. Its curriculum emphasizes student development, evidence based counseling interventions, and applied field experience, providing learners with the tools to support academic, social, and emotional growth in schools. Faculty mentorship guides students in developing counseling strategies, ethical decision making, communication skills, and program evaluation capabilities. Through supervised fieldwork, applied projects, and capstone experiences, learners strengthen counseling expertise, applied intervention skills, student support competencies and professional judgment, preparing them to lead initiatives that promote student success and well being in educational environments.
Contact Information
Phone: +1 (919) 966-3621
Email: unchelp@admissions.unc.edu
Address: Jackson Hall, 174 Country Club Road, Chapel Hill, NC 27514, USA
