Appalachian State University
Professional School Counseling: Master of Arts (MA)
Application Deadlines
Fall Admission
June 15
Admission Requirements
Admission requirements vary by program. Learn more
Location
Boone campus
Completion Time
2-3 years (full time)
Build a career helping students.
Expand your impact on students’ lives with a Master of Arts in Professional School Counseling from App State. Offered full and part time in person at the Boone campus, our supportive cohort model pairs thoughtful coursework with close mentorship to help you build lasting professional connections — preparing you for a dynamic job market where nearly 100% of graduates secure employment within six months of graduation.
You will learn directly from licensed faculty who bring extensive K–12 school counseling experience across rural, urban and international settings. Through experiential learning and opportunities to collaborate with faculty on research, presentations and service, you’ll gain the real-world readiness needed to support and empower all students, anywhere. The program provides ideal preparation for doctoral study in counseling education and offers elective options in counseling, addictions, special education and expressive arts.
This program meets the requirements for North Carolina School Counselor Licensure (K–12). It also follows guidelines and standards set forth by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP) and is accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP).
100%
Praxis pass rate for Professional School Counseling students
100%
Graduates employment rate at K–12 schools in North Carolina and other states
R2 for high research activity
App State has earned a Research 2 Carnegie Classification, recognizing the university’s high research activity and doctorate production. Learn more about App State’s R2 status
Top 5 in innovation
U.S. News & World Report has recognized App State as a top five school for innovation for nine consecutive years.
Concentrations and Courses
Careers and Mountaineers
Where can an App State degree take you? Anywhere you want to go! Our passionate and engaged alumni become leaders in their communities and chosen professions.
Careers
- Professional School Counselor
- School Based Therapist
- College Preparatory Counselor/Coach
- University Advisor Career Counselor
- Clinical Mental Health Counselor
- Camp Director / Programming Director (autism, grief, outdoor programs, leadership)
Employers
- School systems across North Carolina and the southeastern U.S.
- Smoky Mountain Mental Health
- Daymark Mental Health
- Meridian Mental Health
- RHA Mental Health
Career information resource
Career Development Center
Services provided by the Career Development Center include resume reviews, career coaching, job and internship search assistance, and other tools for you to achieve life and professional success.
Ask a Mountaineer — connect with App State alumni
Need help “opening the door” at a dream company? Want to get feedback on your resume from industry professionals? Not sure how to interview? Access the knowledge and expertise of more than 150,000 App State alumni who are ready to help. All you have to do is ask. Ask a Mountaineer
More to Explore at App State
International Experience
Work outside your cultural boundaries. Learn more
Professional Development
Invest in yourself with opportunities designed to stimulate career growth. Learn more
Graduate Assistantships
Earn some money while you earn your degree. Learn more
Professional Licensure
App State programs that lead to a professional licensure or certificate are intended to prepare students for licensure or certification in North Carolina. Check the Professional Licensure webpage for information on licensure requirements in other states.
Apply
Are you ready to become a Mountaineer? Take the next step, apply for admission to App State and elevate your future success.
Admissions questions? Contact us.
Connect
Program Contact
Dr. Jill Van Horne
Program Director
[email protected]
828-262-2590
Department of Counseling, Family Therapy and Higher Education
Visit Campus
Experience the beauty of App State’s Boone campus firsthand. Tour campus, virtually or in person. Explore App State’s Boone home.
Admissions Events
Want to know more about the people and programs of App State’s School of Graduate Studies? Attend an information session.