Both our Master of Arts and Master of Education programs lead to certification as a school counselor, and coursework may meet the educational requirements for licensure as a professional counselor in the state of Maryland. There are no advantages to pursuing one track over the other. Candidates select tracks based upon their interests.
Our MA program is focused on preparing the research practitioner. M.A. candidates complete a six-credit thesis seminar over two semesters where they are mentored in research methods to either evaluate their practice or identify student needs during the internship experience. Candidates work with program faculty who becomes their thesis advisor throughout the process to select a research focus, choose methodology, analyze data and draw conclusions. Candidates must receive permission from their thesis advisor to move on to Thesis II.
Candidates in our M.Ed. program complete 6-credits in electives to deepen their knowledge and skills as a counselor. Some electives we offer are in mindfulness, counseling refugee populations, trauma-informed practices, leadership and social justice.