Why the Post-Masters School Counselor License Eligibilty Certificate
The Post-Master’s School Counselor License Eligibility Certificate at APSU is designed for individuals who have already completed a master’s degree in school counseling or a related field (e. g., mental health counseling) and need limited additional coursework and clinical experience to meet Tennessee licensure requirements. This program is ideal for professionals seeking to transition into school counseling roles without starting a full graduate degree. Students complete a tailored curriculum aligned with the Tennessee Department of Education’s licensing standards and CACREP-accredited guidelines.
School counselors play a vital role in supporting student academic success, social-emotional development, and career readiness. With the demand for school counselors expected to grow 11% through 2030—faster than the national average—this certificate offers a timely and focused path into a high-need profession. In rapidly growing communities like Clarksville-Montgomery County, qualified school counselors are in particular demand.
APSU’s faculty bring expertise in school-based counseling, diversity, and mental health,
offering students access to practical, culturally responsive training and mentorship.
Ideal candidates have a master’s degree in counseling or a related field such as psychology,
social work, or sociology. Many are passionate about helping children and adolescents
thrive. Strong interpersonal skills, empathy, and interest in personal development,
education, or advocacy are common traits among successful students in this program.
The Post-Master’s School Counselor License Eligibility Certificate program at APSU supports the development of all eight NACE Career Readiness Competencies, ensuring that graduates are fully prepared for professional success in school counseling roles.
Students strengthen their Career & Self-Development by engaging in coursework and field experiences that support licensure and professional growth. Through case studies, consultation, and data-informed planning, they enhance their Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving skills in real educational settings. The program’s emphasis on collaboration within schools nurtures Teamwork and Collaboration skills, while direct work with students and families sharpens Communication and Interpersonal Skills.
With a strong focus on Equity & Inclusion, students are trained to meet the needs of diverse populations and address systemic barriers in education. They demonstrate Professionalism by adhering to ethical guidelines and state licensure standards, and apply Technology effectively to manage student data, access resources, and deliver counseling services.
Program completers emerge not only licensure-eligible but also equipped with the full range of career competencies needed to succeed and lead in today’s K–12 schools.
Admission Requirements
For information related to admission requirements please visit the graduate bulletin.
What Will I Learn
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Students will demonstrate knowledge and skills of the helping process; counseling theories and techniques; prevention, education, consultation, and wellness models; counselor self-understanding; and the change process.
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Students will demonstrate the knowledge and application of culturally, situationally, and developmentally appropriate treatment strategies for addressing the specific needs of children and adolescents; including characteristics, risk-factors and warning signs of child/adolescent mental health and behavioral disorders; and common medications that affect learning, behavior, and mood.
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Students will demonstrate the knowledge and skills necessary to promote the academic, career, and personal/social development of P-12 students through the design and implementation of a data-driven, comprehensive school counseling program; interventions and assessments to promote college and career readiness; and the qualities and styles of effective leadership in schools.
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Students will demonstrate knowledge of historical and contemporary models of the school counseling profession; legislation and government policies, legal and ethical standards, and the multiple roles of the school counselor; as well as an understanding of school systems, professional identity, resource management, professional organizations, preparation standards, and credentials relevant to the school counseling profession.
Program Information
Post-Masters School Counselor License Eligibility Certificate Program Requirements
Post-Masters School Counselor License Eligibility Certificate 2 year plan