School and Mental Health Counseling, MSEd

The Executive Program in School and Mental Health Counseling, M.S.Ed. is designed for working professionals embarking on careers as either school or mental health counselors. The program is organized around two tracks: Mental Health Counseling Licensure and School Counseling Certification and Mental Health Counseling Licensure. Using an executive-learning format, students can earn their degrees while maintaining full-time employment by attending courses that meet for one week of intensive study each summer and one weekend per month during two academic years. The cohort-model program results in students who work closely with their peers through a sequentially structured curriculum of courses and field training. Students may not begin accruing hours in their field placement (practicum & internship) sites until they have completed all the background checks and criminal history clearances required by their home states. Supervised field experiences are integral to the program. This program starts in the Summer term.

For more information: https://www.gse.upenn.edu/academics/programs/school-mental-health-counseling-masters

The degree and major requirements displayed are intended as a guide for students entering in the Fall of 2026 and later. Students should consult with their academic program regarding final certifications and requirements for graduation.

Curriculum 

¹

Students must earn a C or better in all requirements, except for EDSC 6010 and 6100 where students must earn a B or better. Grades earned below will not be counted towards the degree and students will have to retake courses or be dismissed.

²

Year 1 practicum students must accrue a total of 115 hours at their site placement, which includes the 15 hours of pre-practicum preparation at their sites. The requirement also states that 40 of the 100 hours must be in direct service (face-to-face) with clients; the remaining 60 hours can include observation, meetings, case planning, and paperwork.

³

Year 2 internship students must complete a total of 600 internship hours, with 240 hours in direct service. For school-based interns completing the dual track, 420 of the total 600 hours must be completed in a school setting; the remaining 180 hours can be completed at their school site, or in a separate mental health placement

A grade of “B” or above is required for Internship as this is the culminating activity of the program’s curriculum. Students who do not meet this requirement, may be asked to repeat the course or could be dismissed from the program.

Required Milestones

Comprehensive Examination (or Portfolio or Thesis)  

Master’s degree candidates must demonstrate thorough knowledge of the field of specialization by passing a comprehensive examination in their area of study. The examination/portfolio/thesis serves an educational and evaluative purpose through which students are expected to review and integrate what they have learned in their coursework and fieldwork. Comprehensive formats vary.

¹

Year 1 practicum students must accrue a total of 115 hours at their site placement, which includes the 15 hours of pre-practicum preparation at their sites. The requirement also states that 40 of the 100 hours must be in direct service (face-to-face) with clients; the remaining 60 hours can include observation, meetings, case planning, and paperwork.

²

Year 2 internship students must complete a total of 600 internship hours, with 240 hours in direct service. For school-based interns completing the dual track, 420 of the total 600 hours must be completed in a school setting; the remaining 180 hours can be completed at their school site, or in a separate mental health placement

A grade of “B” or above is required for Internship as this is the culminating activity of the program’s curriculum. Students who do not meet this requirement, may be asked to repeat the course or could be dismissed from the program.