The Graduate Certificate in Counselor Education provides graduates of counseling programs with continuing professional preparation as counselors in public schools and community agencies. The graduate certificate program builds on the knowledge and skills acquired through previous master's level study in counselor education and related fields.
This graduate certificate provides structured support to those seeking continuing education for maintaining current certifications or obtaining additional credentials through the Alaska Board for Professional Counselors (
www.dced.state.ak.us/occ/ppco.htm) and/or the National Board of Certified Counselors, NBCC (
www.nbcc.org). It is designed to supplement each candidate's existing experience and academic preparation and the degree to which each candidate achieves the program outcomes. Therefore, specific required courses are not listed since individual graduate studies plans may vary considerably based on prior coursework of each candidate. Your faculty advisor will use the academic preparation requirements set forth by the licensing boards to guide the coursework selections included on your graduation plan.
Candidates seeking the Alaska LPC credential must have a total of 60 credits approved by the Alaska Board of Professional Counselors.
Certification Notes:
Alaska Type C Special Services Note:
This program does not lead to certification or endorsement from the Alaska Department of Education and Early Development. Individuals holding master's degrees in counseling related fields who are interested in certification as an Alaska school counselor should consider applying to the M.Ed. in Counselor Education as a second master's degree program.
Alaska Licensed Professional Counselor & National Certified Counselor Note:
This program addresses academic preparation for the Alaska Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and the National Certified Counselor (NCC). Other requirements apply. Completion of the graduate certificate program does not automatically result in an LPC or NCC credential, but focuses on professional development and advanced practice for counseling professionals under the guidance of a faculty advisor. However, through advisement, candidates completing the graduate certificate program are well prepared to take the examinations and fulfill other requirements set forth by the licensing boards.
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A candidate who completes the Graduate Certificate in Counselor Education
( in conjunction with their previous coursework) can demonstrate mastery in the counseling field content areas of:
- Research, including program evaluation
- Appraisal of the individual
- Social and Cultural foundations
- Human growth and development
- Career development through the Lifespan
- Helping relationships
and is able to articulate a personalized meaning of the professional and ethical issues in the counseling field.
To receive a Graduate Certificate in Counselor Education you must:
- complete a minimum of 12 credits
- submit a professional disclosure statement
- pass a comprehensive exam
Your academic advisor will work with you to create a graduate studies plan that will meet your needs.
