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Graduate Program - Online
Master of Science in Education: Professional School Counseling

Online Master of Science in Educaiton: Professional School Counseling

 

Help students navigate academic, career, and personal challenges while creating school environments where every learner can thrive. Buena Vista University's Master of Science in Education in Professional School Counseling prepares future school counselors with the knowledge, practical experience, and leadership skills needed to support PK-12 students.

Degree
Master of Science in Education (M.S.Ed.)
Format
Online
Student Smiling at Graduation

Fast Facts


Format: Primarily Online with Two On-Campus Summer Residencies

Duration: Complete in as little as 24 months

Cost: $495 per credit hour

Start Dates: August, January, May

GRE: Not Required

Licensure: Prepares students for Iowa School Counselor Licensure

Licensure Preparation

This program is designed to prepare graduates for Iowa School Counselor Licensure through coursework and supervised field experiences that meet state educational requirements.

If you plan to pursue licensure outside Iowa, BVU's Graduate Programs team can help you understand your state's licensure requirements and determine the appropriate pathway.

Why BVU

Why study Master of Science in Education: Professional School Counseling at BVU

Designed for working professionals, this flexible online program combines coursework, supervised field experiences, and personalized faculty mentorship to prepare graduates for Iowa school counselor licensure and meaningful careers in education.

Designed for Working Professionals

Earn your master's degree while balancing work and personal commitments through a flexible online program.

Prepare for School Counseling Licensure

Develop the knowledge, counseling skills, and professional competencies needed to earn Iowa school counselor licensure.

Gain Hands-On Experience

Build confidence through supervised practicum and internship experiences in PK-12 school settings.

Support Student Success

Learn from experienced counselor educators who prepare you to advocate for students, collaborate with educators and families.

BVU Stories

The relationships that I've built with both staff and the cohort has been the most rewarding.

"I have gained a tremendous amount of skills through the cohort that we've worked with, through the reading, through the group projects, through class itself, and learning from a lot of the knowledge that our professors have given to us. Everybody is encouraging, helpful, supportive, understanding, just like a school counselor would be. That's our staff. You can tell they live it, they've done it, and they really do an amazing job with that."
 
—Joe Thompson, M.S.Ed. Student

 

Hands-On

Learn by doing, from day one

This program combines flexible online coursework with immersive residencies and supervised field experiences to prepare you for a rewarding career as a professional school counselor. Throughout this program, you will:

Develop counseling techniques that support PK-12 students.

Promote students' academic, career, and social-emotional development.

Strengthen collaboration skills while working with teachers, administrators, and families.

Learn to design and deliver comprehensive school counseling programs.

Apply your learning through supervised practicum and internship experiences in school settings.

Where Graduates Work

BVU master of science in education: professional school counseling graduates go far.

Elementary schools Middle schools High schools Public school districts Private and independent schools Area Education Agencies (AEAs) Educational service organizations
Career Outcomes

Where this degree can take you

Elementary School Counselor
Middle School Counselor
High School Counselor
PK-12 School Counselor
Students Smiling in Group
Experience the Power of Residency

Build Confidence through Immersive, Hands-On Learning.

While coursework is completed primarily online, you'll participate in two four-day summer residencies on Buena Vista University's Storm Lake campus. These immersive experiences give you the opportunity to strengthen your counseling skills through guided practice, receive personalized feedback from faculty, and build meaningful relationships with your cohort.

Designed to complement your online coursework, the residencies prepare you for practicum, internship, and the collaborative work of supporting students in PK-12 schools. You'll leave each residency with greater confidence, stronger counseling skills, and a deeper connection to your peers and professors.

During your residency, you'll:

  • Practice counseling techniques through hands-on learning experiences.
  • Receive individualized coaching and feedback from faculty.
  • Collaborate and build lasting relationships with your cohort.
  • Prepare for practicum, internship, and professional school counseling.
Your Career. Your Way.

Make a Difference in Students' Lives.