»MA in School Counseling Admission Requirements

Chapman University I Attallah College of Educational Studies

Acceptance into the graduate programs in counseling is based on multiple criteria, including previous academic achievement, experience working with children and in schools, knowledge of the profession of school counseling and commitment to the program’s mission and goals. In keeping with the University’s mission, the MA in School Counseling program is committed to providing a personalized education of distinction.

After initial screening of the application materials, selected prospective students will be invited for an in-person interview with faculty. Accurate annual deadline information is available on the program website.

To be considered for admission to the MA in School Counseling program, all candidates must submit the documents listed below:

  • Graduate Application
    Online graduate application.
  • Supplemental Application
    Supplemental application part of the online application.
  • Official Transcripts
    Official transcripts from the undergraduate degree granting institution of higher education.
  • Letters of Recommendation
    Two letters of recommendation. If possible, one recommendation form should be from someone who has experience with the candidate in an academic setting and knowledge of the candidate’s academic potential and a second recommendation form should be from someone who knows the candidate in a work setting, preferably one where the candidate works with children.
  • Personal Essay
    Submit an autobiographical statement outlining your life experiences that have shaped your approach to working with children and how you have arrived at this point in your career development. Your essay should be approximately 750 words in length, double-spaced.
  • Resume
    A current resume that includes information on experiences working with children and/or families.

*The GRE is NOT required for admission to the MA in Counseling program but is considered, if submitted, and may enhance the overall evaluation of your application file.

After initial screening of the application materials, selected prospective students will be invited for an in-person interview with faculty.

More Information


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Program at a Glance

  • Cohort model: Students pursuing the MA in School Counseling and/or the LPCC emphasis option begin their studies each summer semester.
  • Low student-to-faculty ratio, with close collaboration between students and faculty on professional training, research, publications, and presentations.
  • Study abroad opportunities
  • Tuition assistance and scholarships are available
  • A 51-unit program that can be completed in 2 years of full-time study or extended to 3 years of study.
  • 200 hours of practica and 800 hours of internship for a total of 1,000 hours of fieldwork.
  • Students also earn the California Pupil Personnel Services Credential in School Counseling at the same time as the Master of Arts in Counseling.
  • Option for an emphasis in Professional Clinical Counseling, which fulfills the educational requirements for the California license as a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC).
  • Please visit the MA in School Counseling current catalog to learn more about the program completion requirements.

Fieldwork and Graduation Requirements

  • 51-unit program can be completed in 2 years of full-time study or extended to 3 years of study.
  • 200 hours of practica and 800 hours of internship for a total of 1,000 hours of fieldwork.
Fieldwork Requirements
  • Signed Chapman University Fieldwork Clearance Packet
  • Met one of the Basic Skills Requirements
  • Valid Negative TB Test (screening or test)
  • Certificate of Clearance or 30-day substitute permit
Graduation Requirements
  • PASS Praxis Exam (5422- School Counselor)
  • Final Portfolio Program Exit Interview

Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor


The Attallah College of Educational Studies has tracks that allow students in School Counseling and School Psychology to meet the educational requirements to become a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC).

 

Summer 2026 Start

Application Deadline


Priority Application Deadline: January 20, 2026

  • School Counseling with LPCC Emphasis
  • School Counseling 

*All application materials must be submitted by the priority deadline to receive full consideration for fellowships.

Learn More About LPCC


Dr. Amy Jane Griffiths
Assistant Director of LPCC Program

For Questions on the School Psychology Pathway
schoolpsychology@chapman.edu

For Questions on the School Counseling Pathway
schoolcounseling@chapman.edu