Appalachian State University
Professional School Counseling: Master of Arts (MA)
Application Deadlines
Fall Admission
May 1
Application Requirements
Entrance exam: Not required
Application requirements vary by program. Learn more
Location
On 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. Backed by thoughtful coursework designed to help you nurture and empower students, you will graduate ready for a dynamic job market in need of quality school counselors. Nearly 100% of graduates are hired within three months of graduation.
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).
97%
of graduates seeking employment in helping professions or doctoral programs were placed within four months of graduation.
A 2025 Best
The Princeton Review named App State among the best schools in the U.S. and the Southeast for 2025.
Top 3
U.S. News & World Report has recognized App State as a top 3 university for innovation for 8 consecutive years.
Concentrations and Courses
Careers and Mountaineers
Where can an App State degree take you? Anywhere you want to go!
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
App State’s 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.
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.