Counseling and Educational Psychology

The Department of Counselor Education at West Chester University offers degree programs in counselor education that are accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP). The progams in counselor education include one that leads tot he master of science degree for students who wish to work in higher education settings and/or studet affairs (M.S.). The second leads to the master of education and educational specialist I certificate for elemntary and/or secondary school counselors (M.Ed.). In additionto the degree and certification programs, the department offers a 12-credit opst-master's certificate program fort hose preparing to apply for Pennsylvania Professional Counselor Licensure. Mindful of its dual constituencies (i.e., students in teacher preparation and counselors in training), the department has designed a curriculum that is consistent with the College of Education's cnceptual framework and that meets national standards for teachers and counselors. Counselor education curricula address the core competencies developed by the National Board of Certified Counselors (NBCC) and CACREP. All programs emphasize the preparation of reflective practitioners who understand and appreciate the diversity of student needs, values, beliefs, and experiences. Upon completion of the program at WCU, students possess the knowledge and skills in counseling content, client understanding, the helping process, and ethical, professional practice.