W&M School of Education expands reach with new online master’s in counseling
New degree program: The School of Education's new Online Master of Education in Counseling program will feature concentrations in school counseling and clinical mental health counseling.
The William & Mary School of Education has launched a new Online Master of Education (M.Ed.) in Counseling program, with concentrations in school counseling and clinical mental health counseling.
Start dates for the program are available in January, May and August.
Accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling & Related Educational Programs, the new program combines principles of counseling and psychotherapy with a professional emphasis on social justice. The program prepares students to work as licensed or certified counselors in various school and community settings.
“This program offers students a dynamic and well-connected educational experience,” said Charles “Rip” McAdams, professor and chair of the school’s psychology and counselor education department. “Students can connect directly with faculty and explore both the theoretical and practical aspects of counseling through diverse interactive learning environments, guided practicum courses and onsite residencies.
“Our faculty work closely with every student to ensure they can become capable and mindful counselors. The program will expand the reach and accessibility of our very well-established and highly-respected on-campus program.”
The Online M.Ed. in Counseling is a 60-credit program that can be completed in just under three years. In addition to coursework, students gain professional experience through fieldwork including a 100-hour practicum and 600-hour internship.
The curriculum emphasizes personal and interpersonal growth, cultural responsiveness and social justice and is designed to give students the foundational knowledge to pursue licensure or certification exams. Students also participate in two three-day residencies, hosted on the school’s campus in Williamsburg, Virginia, where they join faculty and fellow students for experiential learning activities such as role play and student presentations.
Program coursework, including exams and discussion boards, is delivered through an interactive learning management system (LMS) that is accessible via desktop computer, laptop or mobile device. The LMS also offers a student dashboard that maps learning experiences, such as individual courses and assignments, to important social justice-based competencies.
“This new online program offers a powerful combination of integrated teaching methods and experiential learning opportunities that will prepare students to be highly effective counselors who can assist others in managing their own well-being and effectively resolving crises,” McAdams said.
