School Counseling
Master of Science in Education / Advanced Certificate
Graduates from our school counseling program will have the necessary skills to: work to close the opportunity and achievement gap for pK-12 students; advocate for the delivery of multi-tiered services to effectively meet the needs of the school community; and engage in decision-making that is grounded in the ASCA Ethical Standards and School Counselor Professional Standards and Competencies.
In line with contemporary expectations and cutting-edge best practices, Niagara University’s school counseling program offers a rigorous curriculum aimed at facilitating the mindsets and behaviors necessary for school counselors to define, manage, deliver, and assess their comprehensive school counseling programs. With this knowledge and skill set, our students graduate ready to effectively facilitate the academic, college/career, and personal/social development and achievement of all pK-12 students.
Classes typically range from 5-25 students and are typically held in the evenings allowing students to remain employed during the day.
Students have the option to complete the program on a full-, or part-time basis, if desired. As such, the typical timeline in which students complete the school counseling program ranges from 24- to 36-months.
A mentorship program pairs new students with advanced students, alumni, and practicing school counselors.
Students can complete the master’s degree program in school counseling in two years.
Students will be assigned a faculty advisor upon completion of the application for admission. Students should meet with the assigned advisor prior to beginning their program of study and periodically thereafter. The advisor will assist the student in planning his/her program.
Decisions for admittance into the graduate program are based upon a comprehensive system, which includes multiple measures to assess the personal characteristics, communications and basic skills proficiency of candidates.
This system includes (a) application (b) official transcripts or in-progress letter (c) references (d) statement of intent (e) resume and/or experience profile
Students may attend an interview which will examine the student’s career goals, personal readiness for their program, multicultural sensitivity and awareness, and personal judgment and decision-making skills.
Yes!
If you are matriculated (accepted) student you may qualify for a Stafford Student Loan, a Federal Perkins Loan, a TAP award (New York state residents).
Students must maintain a B average in course work and successfully complete a comprehensive examination and all practicum and internship placements.
In August 2022, I enrolled in the Master of Science in School Counseling Program with the ultimate goal of making a difference in my community. My current position as Coordinator of Youth Services and supervisor of Casey House, (an emergency shelter for homeless, runaway, and at-risk youth operated by a local non- profit agency, Pinnacle), has shown me the critical necessity of support and services for our youth.
Another main inspiration in furthering my education, is to be as role model for my eleven-year-old son, who attends school in the Niagara Falls School District. Education has always been important to me, particularly as an African American woman. I have witnessed firsthand the needs of a marginalized community, and the positive difference that education and support can make. I want to be an advocate for equal educational opportunities and change within the societal view of minority students.
In May 2022, we lost my cousin to domestic violence. One of our last conversations before her tragic death, was focused on enrolling into this School Counseling program. With that as one of my motivations, I believe that my career in Counseling will honor her memory.
Through the program thus far, I have learned multiple counseling theories and techniques, and the ethical guidelines that are to be used as an aspiring school counselor. Between now and my expected graduation date of May 2024, I know I will continue to grow personally and professionally through the knowledge and skills gained from Niagara University’s School Counseling program. My future aspiration is to return to my alma mater, Niagara Falls High School as a School Counselor to help guide and support the youth of my community as they transition to adulthood.
Admission Counselor
Career Counselor
School Counselor
Student Support Services
Council for the Accreditation for Teacher Education (CAEP)
