Master of Education in Counseling

Now more than ever, there’s a vital need for counseling professionals. The Stephens College programs in clinical mental health counseling and school counseling will help you apply your interests and talents in helping other achieve their goals and improve their sense of wellness.
Why Stephens?
Evening courses, program tracks, and committed faculty who care about your unique goals make it easy for you to pursue your Master of Education (M.Ed.) in Counseling or earn the licensure you need.
Our focus on the individual ensures small class sizes and personal attention. We are committed to preparing the best counseling professionals and will help you transition successfully to the next phase in your career. Peer-to-peer support and dedicated advisers enhance the learning experience.
Applications for the Stephens College Counseling program are being accepted for the Fall 2025 cohort.
Application reviews for admission to the Fall 2025 cohort will begin on February 1st, 2025. Here are some quick links to our application process and financial aid office.
Dr. Dan Kissinger, program director, can answer any questions regarding the program. You can contact him at dkissinger@stephens.edu.
Program Features
Enhance your career with a degree or licensure provided by those who understand the industry and your commitment to making a difference.
- All evening courses designed for working adults
- Full-time and part-time options
- 1/3 of courses taught online
- Experienced and dedicated counselor education faculty
- Wide range of internship opportunities across clinical organizations and school systems in Columbia and across Mid-Missouri
- Dedicated clinical mental health practicum/internship at Stephens College Counseling Center
- Strong peer-to-peer support networks with fellow counseling students
- Dedicated faculty advisers provide one-on-one mentorship and career guidance
Strong Career Outlook
Counseling professionals with the right educational foundation and credentials are in excellent position for career success. Employment opportunities for both clinical and school counselors are expected to grow substantially by 2026.
Explore projected job growth for careers in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and School Counseling.
Specialization Areas
Clinical mental health counselors focus on promoting the mental health of individuals, families, groups and organizations in a diverse society.
Clinical TrackProfessional School Counselors help students address their personal, social, educational and career needs in elementary, middle and high schools.
School Counseling TrackM.Ed. in Counseling
More About Our Program
Enhance your career with a degree or licensure provided by those who understand the industry and your commitment to making a difference.
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Contact Us
Master of Education in Counseling (M.Ed.)
Dr. Dan Kissinger, Director
(573) 876-7207
dkissinger@stephens.edu