School Counseling PreK-12, M.S.

Priority Application Deadline: January 15. Applicants should ensure that all of the required materials are submitted by that date.

Join us for an info session September 22 or October 21!

Note: Project IMPRESS students will start during the summer semester to align with their cohort. Project IMPRESS not available for fall start students.

Admissions Requirements

  • Bachelor’s Degree. We recommend applicants have an undergraduate GPA of 3.0 or better. However, in reviewing applications, all elements are carefully considered.
  • We do not require a specific undergraduate major; however, we do review your transcript to see if you have taken classes relevant for counseling.
  • Official transcript of all undergraduate and graduate study.
  • A personal essay (500 words) describing your main academic interests and why you are interested in this program.
  • 3 letters of recommendation, with at least two from faculty members. If you graduated more than 10 years ago, references should speak to the applicant’s ability to be successful in a graduate school context with details and observations that could transfer into an academic context.
  • A résumé or CV.
  • English proficiency exam scores (international students): TOEFL (80+), IELTS (6.5+), and/or Duolingo (120+)
  • GRE not required.

NOTE: Applicants who advance in the review process will be invited to participate in a required virtual group interview with faculty. This interview is a key component of the admissions process and provides an opportunity for faculty to learn more about applicants’ interpersonal skills, communication style, and readiness for graduate study in counseling.

Financial Support

  • Master’s and C.A.S. scholarships: All applicants are automatically considered for significant scholarships.
  • Project IMPRESS aims to recruit, prepare, and retain future special educators to work in high-needs settings. The program provides up to 100% tuition scholarships in a supportive cohort experience. To be considered, address/talk about your interest in Project IMPRESS in your personal statement.
  • More financial aid and scholarship resources

Program Contacts

Breana Nieves Vergara, Assistant Director of Graduate Admissions and Recruitment
bknieves@syr.edu|315.443.2505
Breana Nieves Vergara headshot