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Master of Arts in School Counseling
Prepare to support students’ academic, career, and social-emotional development.
We can provide you with all of the training you need for certification as a New Jersey school counselor — a vital member of any school’s educational leadership team
Centenary University’s Master of Arts in School Counseling program is approved by the New Jersey Department of Education and accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP). You’ll learn how to perform school counseling services, including how to work with students to achieve academic, personal, and career goals. School counselors make a difference every day in the lives of children and teens.
Our 48-credit program explores how to counsel administrators, teachers and parents as well as how to develop relationships with community agencies in assisting children and families. The curriculum includes foundational courses in counseling theory and practice, and then dives deep into subjects critical to working in schools. Topics include human growth and development and working with individuals with disabilities.
School counseling allows you to:
- Develop a thorough understanding of and competence in the practice of counseling in the K-12 environment
- Acquire an appreciation for the ethical and legal responsibilities associated with the school counselor role
- Acquire professional skills and practical experience in the provision of counseling services in a school setting.
Your Future
Academic Advancement:
Next steps include LPC/LAC licensure pathway, school counseling certification, addiction counseling credentials, doctoral study, clinical supervision, or trauma/addictions specialization.
Career Pathways:
School Counselor, Academic Advisor, College Counselor
Industry Outlook:
Steady demand for school counselors, with job growth driven by increased focus on student mental health.
Regional employers include
New Jersey school districts; Rutgers UBHC; RWJBarnabas Health; Hackensack Meridian Health; Atlantic Health System; SERV Behavioral Health; CFG Health Network; Carrier Clinic; nonprofit behavioral health providers.
Salary Outlook:
$50,000 – $80,000
Getting Started
For New Jersey entry-level roles aligned to Master of Arts in School Counseling, a reasonable starting range is approximately $50,000–$65,000, depending on role, licensure/certification, employer type, and prior experience.
Early Career and Progression
Approx. $75,000 midpoint at about five years, with higher earnings in specialized, licensed, technical, supervisory, or high-demand settings.
Approx. $90,000 average or attainable mid-career benchmark around ten years, especially for advanced credentials, management responsibility, or specialized practice.
*Salary and Outlook Data