Ed.S. in School Counseling
Education Specialist (Ed.S.) in School Counseling
Become a School Counselor — with or Without a Teaching Background
Help students thrive academically, socially, and emotionally through counseling grounded in respect for human dignity and a commitment to serving others. The University of Saint Mary 60-credit Education Specialist in School Counseling prepares aspiring counselors for Kansas PreK–12 school counselor licensure. Designed for working adults, the program combines synchronous online or Kansas City-area evening coursework with supervised school-based experiences.
Complete the degree in approximately 2.5 to 3 years. A teaching license is not required for admission, and no GRE is required. An Ed.S. is considered a terminal degree, which can equate to higher earnings potential vs. master's holders (Please note: salary policies vary by school district, and holding an Ed.S. does not guarantee a salary increase).
Ed.S. Program Snapshot
Degree: Education Specialist (Ed.S.) in School Counseling
University: University of Saint Mary
Completion Time: Approximately 2.5 - 3 years
Format: Synchronous online or evening classes at USM-Johnson County in Leawood, Kan. School-based field experiences required.
Schedule: Generally one evening per week per course; 16-week semesters
Start terms: January and August
Teaching Licensure: Not required for admission
No Entrance Exam: GRE not required
Professional Preparation: Kansas PreK-12 School Counselor licensure, subject to state requirements
Tuition: $550 per credit hour
Why Choose School Counseling at the University of Saint Mary?
Ed.S.-School Counseling Grads will be uniquely trained to define, deliver, manage, and assess a comprehensive program that provides wide-ranging prevention and intervention services for students. Training also prepares you for the inherent counselor role as a leader, advocate, and facilitator of systemic change in your school. If you are ready for a new career focus, we have the program for you!
A Pathway for Teachers and Career Changers
USM welcomes applicants with or without teaching licensure. Licensed educators can build on classroom experience while applicants with other backgrounds can prepare for school counseling through an approved academic and field-experience pathway.
Graduate Study That Fits Your Schedule
Courses are offered on a predictable rotation, generally meeting one evening each week. Participate synchronously online or at USM-Johnson County, according to course availability. Your advisor can help map your course sequence in advance.
Practical Experience and Personal Attention
Learn from experienced school counseling faculty in a close-knit academic community where personal attention, collaboration, and professional growth are valued. Coursework progresses toward a counseling practicum and supervised school counseling internships, connecting theory with the needs of PreK–12 students.
Purpose-Driven Professional Preparation
Rooted in USM’s Catholic and Vincentian tradition, the program emphasizes ethical judgment, respect for human dignity, advocacy, and service to students and families.
What Does a School Counselor Do?
School counselors support students’ academic achievement, social-emotional development, and college and career readiness. Their work includes individual and group counseling, classroom lessons, academic and career planning, crisis response, and collaboration with families, teachers, and administrators.
USM’s curriculum reflects the profession’s focus on comprehensive, data-informed school counseling programs, as described in the American School Counselor Association National Model.
Can You Become a School Counselor Without Being a Teacher?
Yes. Kansas provides a school counselor preparation route for applicants who do not hold teaching licenses. Additional field experiences or other conditions may apply. USM’s program is designed for both groups. Please note: individual requirements depend on your background and current Kansas State Department of Education (KSDE) licensure rules.
Kansas School Counselor Licensure
USM’s Ed.S. is designed to prepare graduates for Kansas PreK–12 school counselor licensure. Licensure is granted by KSDE, not automatically by the university. Applicants must meet applicable preparation, assessment, application, and background-specific requirements.
Can You Work as a School Counselor Before Graduation?
Some students may qualify for a provisional school specialist license after completing the required portion of an approved program and meeting KSDE employment, supervision, and other conditions. Eligibility is not automatic. Review current KSDE licensure guidance and consult your USM advisor before making employment plans.
What About Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) Eligibility?
USM offers a possible additional LPC-related coursework pathway for Ed.S. students. School counselor licensure and professional counselor licensure are separate credentials. Additional coursework alone does not guarantee LPC eligibility; applicants must satisfy the Kansas Behavioral Sciences Regulatory Board’s applicable education, examination, supervision, and other requirements. Ask an advisor for an individualized pathway review.
Admissions Requirements and Start Dates
USM offers January and August entry with rolling admissions. Applicants should submit materials at least 30 days before their intended start date when possible.
Requirements include:
- Bachelor’s or graduate degree from a regionally accredited institution
- Minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0
- Completed graduate application and transcripts
- A Professional Goals Statement detailing:
- your perception of what school counselors do in schools
- explaining why school counseling matches personally vs other helping professions
- identifying experiences with children/adolescents, diverse cultures, advocacy, leadership
- Current résumé and two professional recommendations (recommendation form will be provided)
- Admissions interview, which may be conducted by video
- No GRE is required. A teaching license is not required for admission.
Career Outlook for School Counselors
School counseling offers opportunities to help students navigate academic, personal, and career decisions. For national employment, pay, and projected growth data, consult the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Actual compensation depends on the school district, experience, credentials, and salary schedule; an Ed.S. does not guarantee a particular salary increase.
Salaries displayed represent the 50th percentile of all employees in a given field — not entry-level.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a teaching degree required for the Ed.S. in School Counseling?
No. USM accepts applicants without teaching licensure. Additional field requirements may apply for Kansas licensure.
Can I complete the program entirely online?
Many courses may be taken synchronously online, but required practicum and internships involve supervised school-based experiences.
How long does the program take?
Approximately 2.5–3 years, depending on course sequencing and individual circumstances.
How many credits are required?
The Ed.S. in School Counseling requires 60 graduate credits.
When can I start?
USM offers January and August entry, with rolling admissions.
Is the GRE required?
No. The GRE is not required for admission.
Does the degree automatically provide Kansas school counselor licensure?
No. Graduates must also satisfy current KSDE licensure requirements.
Can the Ed.S. lead to LPC licensure?
Yes. LPC licensure requires separate eligibility review and compliance with state licensing rules.
Ready to Make a Difference in Students’ Lives?
Whether you are an experienced teacher or exploring a new career, USM’s Ed.S. in School Counseling prepares you to make a meaningful diffference in students' lives through compassionate service, ethical leadership, a grounding in values, and a commitment to helping every student succeed.
Connect with an admissions advisor to discuss your background, course schedule, field experiences, and licensure goals.
Accreditations
The University of Saint Mary is accredited by the Kansas State Department of Education
(KSDE).
The Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP) accredits the University
of Saint Mary education programs. CAEP promotes excellence in educator preparation
through quality assurance and continuous improvement.
Learn more about USM accreditations
Have Questions? Contact Us.
USM-Johnson County
11221 Roe Ave
Leawood, KS 66211
913-345-8288
Joe Perez
Admissions Counselor
joe.perez@stmary.edu
913-319-3003
Ready for a rewarding challenge? Become a school counselor!
For additional information about school counseling, please consult the following resources:
Have Questions? Contact Us.
USM-Johnson County
11221 Roe Ave
Leawood, KS 66211
913-345-8288
Joe Perez
Admissions Counselor
joe.perez@stmary.edu
913-319-3003
Ready for a rewarding challenge? Become a school counselor!
For additional information about school counseling, please consult the following resources: