Vanderbilt University – Online Master of Education with Specialization in School Counseling

Program Overview
Total Credits | 48 |
Type of Degree | Master of Education (M.Ed.) |
Full-Time/Part-Time | Both |
Time to Complete | Two to three years |
On-Campus Immersions | Two (2) on-campus immersions in Nashville, TN |
Vanderbilt University’s Peabody College is committed to shaping today’s best school counselors through innovation, research and hands-on experiential learning. The Master of Education in human development counseling with a specialization in school counseling program is designed for students interested in developing the practical, creative and critical-thinking skills to make a positive difference in individual lives.
Through the online M.Ed. program, students develop the skills needed to effectively manage school counseling programs in K-12 settings. Vanderbilt’s state-of-the-art instruction combines theory, practice, collaboration and research to ensure students develop the competency and confidence to excel in their field.
Peabody Online students:
- Can earn a Master of Education (M.Ed.) in human development counseling from Vanderbilt University’s top-ranked Peabody College without relocating
- Attend live, face-to-face online classes every week and complete interactive coursework from any Internet-enabled device
- Earn the same degree and have access to the same opportunities and resources as their on-campus peers
- Have the opportunity to network with peers and faculty at in-person immersion experiences in Nashville, Tennessee
Student Experience
Peabody Online blends live online classes, self-paced course work and interactive projects. The online learning format facilitates collaboration, critical thinking and problem-solving within an interdisciplinary curriculum. From enrollment to graduation, Vanderbilt University offers 24/7 student support, career services and an extensive alumni network.
Coursework and Curriculum
The curriculum provides a rigorous and humanistic training model to prepare students to become effective K-12 school counselors. Developed and led by Vanderbilt University faculty, each course maintains the same academic rigor and standards as on-campus programs.
Graduates gain the knowledge to create effective school counseling programs in K-12 settings. Skills learned include counseling principles and ethics, creative strategies, problem-solving, human development and social-emotional care.
Additionally, students focus on the following key areas of study in order to meet program objectives and develop critical skills:
- Social and Cultural Diversity
- Human Growth
- Helping Relationships
- Research and Assessment
- Career Development
- Ethical Practice
Application Requirements
To submit an application, interested applicants must include the following items:
- All applicants must have a bachelor’s degree and participate in an admissions interview
- Complete online application
- Official degree-bearing transcripts
- Interest and goals statement
- Reference letters
- Standardized test scores (GRE/GMAT) are strongly encouraged but not required
- Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) scores (if applicable)
Take the Next Step!
Learn more about Vanderbilt University’s online school counseling program.