Degree Information
Start your future with Tennessee Tech!
The Specialist in Education (Ed.S.) degree in Counseling and Psychology, with a concentration in School Counseling allows you, as a professional, to help students deal with personal issues, social and academic problems, and decision-making at the elementary through secondary levels. The counseling and consultation skills acquired through this program allow our graduates to assist diverse individuals and groups deal with a wide range of personal issues, social, and academic issues.
Licensure as a school counselor requires additional elements after earning your Ed.S., including the successful completion of the Praxis exam and other standards-based* requirements. Contact the Department of Counseling and Psychology for more information on licensure requirements. Nationally accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP).
School counselor candidates who do not have teaching experience are required to participate in a semester-long orientation experience, in a school setting. A verification form indicates that a student meets the standards mandated by the Tennessee State Board of Education.
*The standards are mandated by the Tennessee State Board of Education. These requirements may be fulfilled in our program by taking the appropriate courses, transferring courses, or life experiences/independent study.
Admissions Requirements
Students seeking admission to the Counseling and Psychology Specialist in Education program should have had previous experience appropriate to the proposed area of specialization, and are required to have:
-
- Degree: a Master’s degree from an accredited institution
- GPA: at least 3.5 on a 4.0 scale
- Enough graduate training in psychology to do advanced graduate work in the chosen concentration
- Letters of Recommendation: Three acceptable letters of recommendation for graduate study from faculty members or other persons who have adequate knowledge of the applicant’s professional qualities or potential for success as a graduate student.
- Interviews: Successful interview with the faculty review committee with a focus on dispositional congruence, personal intent, and professional aspirations.
- GRE: While not required, an applicant may submit GRE General Test (GRE) scores for consideration to address their aptitude for graduate level academic work.
Satisfying minimal standards, however, does not guarantee your admission. Admission decisions are based on departmental review, using a combination of holistic factors, including an interview, letters of recommendation, academic history, and related work experience.
International students are required to demonstrate competency in spoken and written English by taking appropriate standardized tests. See accepted standardized tests and minimum required scores »
Career Opportunities
Learn More About Career Development
Admissions
Learn more about next steps and more through the College of Graduate Studies.