Counselor Education MEd

Here are some of the things you'll learn:

• Develop therapeutic and relational counseling skills grounded in best practices
• Apply comprehensive counseling theories to real-world settings
• Understand professional standards, ethics, and counselor identity development
• Cultivate self-reflection, critical thinking, and effective communication skills
• Advocate for individuals and engage in professional counseling associations 
   

The Counselor Education program emphasizes community collaboration, providing students with valuable partnerships and hands-on learning opportunities. You’ll build a strong professional identity while gaining practical experience through fieldwork in schools, clinics, and community organizations.

With a hybrid course delivery model, you can balance work, academic, and personal commitments while receiving high-quality training in the counseling profession.  

MSU-Northern’s Counselor Education program is designed to prepare students for licensure as school or clinical mental health counselors. The School Counseling track is accredited by the Montana Office of Public Instruction (OPI), ensuring that graduates meet the highest educational standards.

Faculty members bring extensive real-world experience, modeling professional identity, advocacy, and leadership in the counseling field. Through a blend of online flexibility and in-person learning, students develop the skills, confidence, and ethical foundation to serve their communities effectively. 

Graduates of MSU-Northern’s Counselor Education program are equipped to pursue meaningful careers in both school counseling and clinical mental health counseling. With training in evidence-based practices and ethical frameworks, you’ll be ready to work with individuals from diverse backgrounds and needs. 

MSUN’s school counselor’s graduate program provided me with the knowledge to be skilled and self-aware counselor in the school and clinical setting. Dr. Mphande-Finn was genuine and provided guidance and support to ensure our time was productive and enjoyable. 
- Julie Dougherty (Alumni)

The Counseling Education program has been an incredible experience for me. As a working mom of twins, I needed flexibility, and this program provided exactly that—weekly evening Zoom classes, accommodating instructors, and a weekend-intensive format that fits my busy schedule. The hands-on role-playing exercises have been especially valuable, allowing me to apply what I learn directly to my job as a Behavioral Health Coordinator. The support from faculty, particularly Dr. Finn, has been outstanding; she truly cares about our success and ensures we fully grasp the material. This program is not just preparing me for my future—it’s already making a difference in my career and community.  
- Ashley Sherwood

Northern was just a perfect fit for me to complete my master’s and go through their school counseling program. The flexibility has been really awesome—the intensive in-person weekends allow us to discuss and get a lot out of them, but I still have the ability to work and have a life outside of completing my degree. We take one class at a time, which really helps with time management, and the way the program is structured makes balancing everything so much easier. Right off the bat, our first class included lots of practice and role plays, which gave me ideas for how to handle real situations when students come to my office. Everything has just built off of that, and it’s exciting to apply what I’m learning directly to my job. Plus, the affordability at Northern was a huge draw—other programs are quite a bit more expensive, so this was the right choice for me.
- Laura Dailey

I was a teacher for many years, but my interest in mental health—especially through my daughter’s experiences—led me to the counseling program. My favorite part has been the supportive cohort and instructors who genuinely want us to succeed. The hybrid format was an adjustment, but it allows me to work at my own pace while reinforcing learning through in-person sessions. I’ve already gained valuable counseling techniques, and the role-playing exercises have helped me build confidence. My goal is to work with people struggling with substance abuse, and everything I’m learning now is preparing me for that. This is a great program, and we need more counselors.
- Twila Vance 

The Academic Map provides a clear semester-by-semester breakdown of the courses required to complete the program.

Example Courses:

• Theories of Counseling 
• Marriage and Family Counseling 
• Addiction Counseling

Our Financial Aid team is here to support you in overcoming financial barriers and unlocking opportunities.  Learn about scholarships, grants, loans, work study, and federal aid.

For estimated tuition/fees, residence hall rates and more, see the 2024-2025 Estimated Costs of Attendance document, and for detailed tuition and fee costs including course fees, see the Tuition and Fees page.
 

Joyce Mphande-Finn, Ed.D., LCPC, LMHC, NCC
Professor of Counselor Education
joyce.mphandefinn@msun.edu | 406.265.3521
Bio | CV

First Step:

• Complete the Application to MSU-Northern
  • An MSU-Northern application is needed regardless of new admission and/or re-admission.
  • Costs: $30 for new application fee/$0 for re-application fee.
• Send official transcripts to Registrar's Office
  • Transcripts must be sent from the institution(s) you have attended and taken classes, except MSU-Northern.
• Send proof of immunizations to the Registrar's Office

Second Step:

• Once admitted to MSU-Northern, call the CASE Administrative Associate IV for Graduate Studies, at 406.265.3735 with this information:
  • Mailing Address, Phone Number, and Email Address
  •  3 Letters of Recommendation
  •  Letter of Intent (limit 1 page)
  •  Autobiography (limit 5 pages) 
  •  Resume 
•  Simple Background Check - $20. Fill out the form completely or it will be returned.
•  Send back form and money to the following address:

•  Class Registration Form - Complete and submit to the Administrative Associate IV at jennifer.anderson32@msun.edu.

Third Step:

• Once your file is complete, you will receive a determination letter and will meet with an advisor.

Admission Deadline:

• Fall Semester: May 1 to submit application to the Graduate Education Program.