Online Master of Education in Counseling and Personnel Services
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Master of Education in Counseling and Personnel Services, Online
The Master of Education in Counseling and Personnel Services (MEdCPS) with a concentration in School Counseling is designed for professionals who want to positively impact students’ outcomes and lives outside the classroom. Our graduate education students prepare to support their students’ academic achievement, personal development and college and career readiness in K–12 environments.
The school counseling master’s program at UofL prepares graduate students in Kentucky and beyond to take on professional responsibilities and serve as school counselors and/or administrators. In this role, school counselors holistically address students’ emotional, academic and social well-being along with their post-secondary goals.
This program emphasizes ethical practice, advocacy and collaboration, equipping future school counselors with the skills needed to address the complex challenges students face today.
US News & Word Report Recognition
The MEd in Counseling and Personnel Services online degree is offered by the College of Education and Human Development at the University of Louisville, a school consistently recognized by US News & World Report as Best in the Nation and Best for Veterans for its Graduate Education programs quality of instruction and student support.
MEd in Counseling and Personnel Services Online Degree
No GRE Required for Admission - Start your advancement journey today and prepare to make an impact on teachers and students alike.
Master of Education in Counseling and Personnel Services
100% Online
The big picture
School counselors play a vital role in shaping student success academically, socially and emotionally. The online MEd in counseling and personnel services with a concentration in school counseling at the UofL is designed for individuals who want to advance their professional credentials and make a meaningful impact in K–12 schools as counselors or school administrators.
This program blends counseling theory with applied practice to prepare students for the realities of school-based counseling. Through a structured curriculum and supervised field experiences, students develop the knowledge, skills and professional judgment required to support diverse student populations using evidence-based interventions and collaborate with educators, families and community partners.
Delivered 100% online, UofL’s master’s degree in school counseling offers flexibility for working professionals while maintaining rigorous academic and clinical expectations aligned with professional standards for school counseling.
Online MEdCPS Degree Highlights
- Develop counseling skills that support academic success and student well-being
- Prepare for professional practice as a school counselor in K–12 settings
- Apply ethical, multicultural principles to school-based counseling practice
- Build assessment and intervention skills to support student needs
- Learn from faculty with experience and authority in school counseling education
- Translate your skills and expertise into higher pay and more influence within your organization
This program can lead to a Kentucky Provisional Certificate as a School Counselor.
Practicum Requirement
The online master of education in counseling and personnel services degree requires 100 hours of practicum experience. Most practicum placements are designed to be completed in 10 hours per week intervals, making your total practicum time about 10 weeks.
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How to apply to UofL's online MEdCPS degree
Check out typical application deadlines for the online MEdCPS degree program at UofL and prepare your application packet according to the requirements outlined below.
Application Deadlines
| Preferred Deadline | Term | Start Date |
|---|---|---|
| March 1 | Fall | August |
| October 1 | Spring | January |
| April 1 | Summer | May |
Note: Although admission is granted on a rolling basis throughout the year, applicants are encouraged to work on and submit their complete application well in advance of the preferred deadline, as obtaining transcripts and other materials may take more time. Applications submitted or completed after the preferred deadline will be considered on a case-by-case basis for the next available start/term.
How to apply for the online MEdCPS
- Start your application for graduate admission
- Submit $65 non-refundable application fee
- Upload required materials*
- Request official transcripts from all previously attended colleges and universities. Transcripts are only accepted directly from the institution(s) by email: gradadm@louisville.edu (recommended) or mail: University of Louisville, Graduate School, 2211 S. Brook St., Louisville, KY 40292.
- Create a financial plan
What admissions requirements are for the online MEdCPS?
Admission requirements and materials
To be considered for admission in good standing, applicants must have:
- a bachelor’s degree or its equivalent from an accredited institution
- a minimum undergraduate GPA of 2.75 on a 4.0 scale
*Required application packet materials include:
- two letters of recommendation from faculty or supervisors familiar with their work
- a professional goal statement: the admissions committee evaluates applications based on whether the applicant's goals, professional experiences and commitment to education that demonstrate you are an appropriate fit for this program
- a current resume
- official transcripts from all previously attended colleges and universities.
*Your Application Portal
Once you have started the graduate application, you can check the status and review any additional checklist to-do items. Log in to your application using the email address you used to apply for admission and your password. Your checklist items may include additional materials or documentation that facilitate a smooth admissions process. You will also have access to important contact information and next steps after an admissions decision is made.
*See the Graduate School Transfer of Credit Policy for more information.
Out-of-state applicants
Out-of-state applicants should check state authorizations and licensing disclosures for requirements in your state. Please be advised that the University of Louisville cannot guarantee that our program will meet licensure, salary, advancement or other requirements in their state. The University of Louisville makes every effort to ensure information about educational requirements for programs is current; however, licensure requirements are always subject to change. Students should always check with their state licensure board to confirm licensure requirements.
If you have further questions about licensure, please contact our academic advisor at betty.hampton@louisville.edu
For more information on the application and admission process, please contact our online learning enrollment counselor through an information request.
How much it costs to earn an online MEdCPS degree at UofL
Academic Year Tuition
$638 per credit hour
$250 per credit hour active-duty tuition rate
This program is a Title IV federal financial aid eligible program. Tuition rate does not include costs associated with a specific course or program, such as textbooks.
Please note that other fees apply – check our tuition page for all applicable costs.
Tuition, fees and charges are subject to change and effective on the date enacted. For additional information on educational expenses and the cost of attendance, please visit the Student Financial Aid Office website.
Does your employer offer tuition reimbursement?
Many employers often have programs available to assist their employees financially in their educational pursuits. Do not miss out on any potential opportunities. Reach out to your school, district or organization’s HR department to learn about available options.
What you learn in the online MEdCPS
Online courses
The MEd in counseling and personnel services emphasizes comprehensive school counseling practices across academic, career and social-emotional domains. Coursework explores counseling theories, assessment techniques, multicultural perspectives and ethical and legal considerations that guide effective practice in various school settings.
The MEd in counseling and personnel services with a concentration in school counseling is a 36-credit hour program. Students must complete 12 courses, eight of which are core courses and four concentration courses, and 100 hours of practicum.
To see all available online courses and degree requirements, please visit UofL's Academic Catalog page (select Degree Requirements tab).
Our online master’s students learn to design and implement counseling interventions, interpret data to support student outcomes and advocate for equitable access to educational opportunities. The curriculum reflects current expectations for professional school counselors and prepares graduates to navigate the evolving needs of K–12 schools and districts.
Start working on your application and feel free to connect with us anytime if you have questions or need further guidance.
What Can I Do with a Master's in Counseling and Personnel Services?
Schools across the country continue to prioritize student support services that address academic progress, mental health and college and career readiness. As a result, school counselors remain a critical part of K–12 educational teams.
The expertise you will develop as you progress through this program will prepare you to become a school counselor, regardless of your undergraduate background.
Licensure Considerations
This program is designed to support students pursuing school counseling roles and can lead to Kentucky licensure as a School Counselor in roles that focus on prevention, intervention and advocacy within elementary, middle and high school settings.
Licensure requirements vary by state and are subject to change. Students are encouraged to review their state’s licensure requirements and consult with an academic advisor to understand how program completion aligns with their professional goals.
In the MEdCPS online program at UofL, you will develop a comprehensive understanding of counseling theories and techniques and how to apply them to meet K-12 students’ needs. Specific expertise gained from the program includes:
- Legal, social, ethical and cultural considerations for school counselors
- Working with K-12 students in group counseling settings
- Counseling and career guidance best practices
- Developing systems and assessments for counseling activities
What is the career outlook for someone with this degree?
This program can help you become eligible for certification in school counseling and can qualify you to work as a school counselor in Kentucky and some other states.
According to the 2024-2034 occupational outlook on bls.gov, the school counseling occupation is expected to grow 4% nationwide and have a median average salary of $65,140 (bls.gov). Within Jefferson County Public Schools in Louisville, Kentucky, the salary range for elementary, middle and high school guidance counselors is $92,900-$102,200 (https://www.jefferson.kyschools.us/)
Employment opportunities and advancement may vary based on location, experience level and other specific requirements. Career outlook information reflects general workforce trends and does not guarantee employment or licensure.
Career Paths and Job Titles
Graduates of the MEd in Counseling and Personnel Services with a concentration in School Counseling may pursue roles as:
- School counselor (elementary, middle or high school)
- School administrator
- College and career readiness counselor
- Student support services counselor
- Guidance counselor
- Academic intervention counselor
- School-based mental health support specialist
Career titles and responsibilities may vary by school district, state regulations and professional experience.
Discover your future in school counseling, personnel management or education administration.
What Your Support Network Looks
Success in a graduate program requires more than strong coursework – it requires the right support. From application through graduation, MEdCPS students are backed by a knowledgeable team that understands the demands of working professionals. Enrollment counselors, academic advisors, program leadership staff and faculty collaborate to provide clear guidance, timely support and practical insight so you can stay focused, confident and on track throughout your degree.
| Name | Title | Phone | |
|---|---|---|---|
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Cameron Murray-Hicks | Online Enrollment Counselor | online@louisville.edu | 800.871.8635 |
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Ahmad Washington, Ph.D. | Associate Professor | ahmad.washington@louisville.edu | 502.852.2144 |
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Hong Ryun Woo, Ph.D. | Professor | hongryun.woo@louisville.edu | 502.852.0615 |
Whether you need more info or are ready to apply and need further guidance, reach out to us – we are here for you!
What Else Should You Know
The questions and answers below help you learn more about our program, licensure, practicum and how to succeed as an online student at UofL and beyond.
When is the best time to apply for and start this program?
You can apply for whatever upcoming term best meets your needs! Whether you prefer to start your academic journey in August, January or during the summer months, you have the opportunity to select the term that best suits your goals and schedule. You can view application deadlines and requirements on the application tab.
Who is this program for?
The MEd in Counseling and Personnel Services with a concentration in School Counseling is offered for individuals who love working with K-12 students and want to make a meaningful impact in their lives outside of a classroom setting.
What is the practicum like and how long will it take?
100 hours of practicum experience is required. Most practicum placements are designed to be completed in 10 hours per week intervals, making your total practicum time about 10 weeks.
Do I need to have insurance before I begin my practicum placement?
Yes, all students must have personal liability insurance before beginning their practicum placement.
Will this degree make me eligible for Rank I teacher certification?
Yes, successfully completing this degree program will make Rank II certified teachers in Kentucky eligible to rank up to Rank I.
Where can I find state licensure information?
You can view this resource on our Professional Licensure Notifications and Disclosures page.
Is financial aid available for this program?
Yes, there is financial aid available for this program. You can learn more by visiting our Tuition, Aid & Fees tab on this page.