School Counseling

Statistics involving crises of children are alarming, as abuse, neglect, divorce, poverty, unemployment, substance abuse, teen pregnancy, eating disorders, and other issues interfere with students’ stability. Professional School Counselors (PSC) are becoming more essential as schools are challenged to meet the academic, social, and safety needs of their students. The lives and futures of these students will be more promising with concern, encouragement, and direction offered by caring Professional School Counselors who are trained at Indiana Wesleyan University.

Those who complete the 48-credit-hour Master of Arts with a major in Counseling and specialization in School Counseling will learn to link counseling know-how to Christ-like service through the integration of Christian principles. Candidates are trained to be servant-leaders in the school setting. They are prepared to help pre-kindergarten through high school students succeed in school and in life as they counsel these students and collaborate with families, staff, and the community.

This program is accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP), 1001 N. Fairfax St., Suite 510, Alexandria, VA 22314, 703-535-5990. This shows the validity and strength of the program. Graduates will be recommended for licensure immediately upon successful completion of the program requirements.

Courses and practicums are completed at our Marion or Indianapolis (West) sites. Studies include core counseling classes, School Counseling specialization classes, elective hours, and the completion of a practicum and two semesters of internship. Full-time students finish their coursework in just two years, and most part-time students finish in just three years. Individual courses pertaining to child and adolescent development and counseling may be taken for those “testing the waters” of school counseling. Students with a graduate degree in a closely related field may pursue a Post-Master’s Degree Certificate. This will award candidates a certificate rather than a degree, which will qualify them for an Indiana State School Counseling License.