Best Master’s in School Counseling Programs Near Miami
Miami's school systems are growing in both size and complexity. With more than 330,000 students in the Miami-Dade County Public Schools alone—the fourth-largest school district in the U.S.—there is an urgent need for highly trained school counselors. These professionals are key to improving student outcomes in academics, social development, and mental health. As student needs evolve to include greater mental health awareness and increased support for diverse learners, the presence of a well-prepared school counselor has become more vital than ever. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 5% increase in school counseling jobs nationwide by 2032, with even greater demand expected in Florida.
For those looking to pursue this meaningful career path, a master's degree in school counseling is essential. These programs are designed not only to build core counseling competencies, but also to ensure students are equipped to handle the unique challenges of today’s K–12 educational environments. Several universities near Miami offer programs that combine accredited coursework, clinical experience, and strong faculty mentorship to prepare students for licensure and employment in diverse school settings. This guide highlights top programs in the region, certification steps, and actionable insights to help prospective counselors choose the right path forward.
Top School Counseling Master's Programs Near Miami in 2025
Nova Southeastern University
Fort Lauderdale, FL - Private 4-year - nova.edu
Master's - Master of Science in Counseling
Concentration: School Counseling - Online Learning - Visit Website
Nova Southeastern University's Master of Science in Counseling with a concentration in School Counseling is an online program tailored for aspiring school counselors. Accredited by CAEP and recognized by ASCA, this 48-credit hour program is designed to meet the Florida Department of Education's certification requirements. Offering flexible start dates in August, January, and May, the program emphasizes practical experience crucial for effective school counseling. While specific admissions criteria must be met, the program stands out for its focus on preparing graduates for certification in Florida without mentioning a required entrance exam, making it an accessible option for many. Military-friendly, it supports a diverse student body in achieving their career goals.
- CAEP-accredited program
- ASCA-Recognized
- 48 credit hours
- Online delivery
- Start dates in August, January, May
- Aligns with FDOE requirements
- Prepares for Florida certification
- Practical experience emphasized
- Tuition details online
- Specific admissions criteria
Florida International University
Miami, FL - Public 4-Year - fiu.edu
Master's - Master of Science in Counselor Education, School Counseling
Campus Based - Visit Website
Florida International University offers a Master of Science in Counselor Education with a focus on School Counseling, designed to prepare students for impactful careers in K-12 educational settings. This program stands out for its emphasis on multicultural competence, preparing graduates to work effectively with diverse populations. The curriculum covers essential areas such as ethics, research, and developmental psychology, combining both online and in-person learning modalities. Graduates are eligible for national school counselor certification and Florida Department of Education certification. Admission requires an undergraduate degree, with supplementary courses for those lacking an education background. Notably, the program does not require an entrance exam, making it accessible to a broader range of applicants.
- Prepares for K-12 settings.
- Eligible for national certification.
- Blends online and in-person learning.
- Focuses on multicultural competence.
- Requires undergraduate degree.
- Additional courses for non-education majors.
- Courses on ethics and research.
- Developmental psychology included.
- Practical skills emphasized.
- Florida certification available.
What to Look for in a Miami-Based School Counseling Program
Choosing the right master’s program in school counseling involves evaluating accreditation, practical experience opportunities, and curriculum alignment with licensure standards. Understanding what distinguishes each program can help students make informed decisions that support both educational and career goals. It is important to find a program that offers a well-rounded experience that blends academic rigor with opportunities for hands-on application.
In a city as culturally diverse as Miami, it is also critical that a program trains students in multicultural competence and provides exposure to the realities of urban education. A program that offers real-world training through local partnerships not only enhances practical skills but also increases the likelihood of job placement after graduation.
Key factors to consider include:
- CACREP Accreditation: Indicates that the program meets nationally recognized standards in counselor education.** Indicates that the program meets nationally recognized standards in counselor education.
- Florida Licensure Alignment: Coursework and fieldwork should satisfy all state certification requirements.
- Practicum and Internship Placements: Quality field experiences through partnerships with Miami-area schools provide real-world training.
- Faculty Expertise: Instructors with direct experience in school counseling bring valuable insights into course content and student mentorship.
- Flexible Scheduling: Evening, weekend, or online options accommodate students balancing education with other commitments.
- Specialized Curriculum: Programs with coursework in trauma-informed practices, bilingual counseling, or college readiness support are especially relevant in Miami’s educational climate.
Understanding School Counselor Certification in Florida
Certification is required to practice as a school counselor in Florida. Programs near Miami are structured to meet these requirements through a combination of academic coursework and clinical experience. The certification process ensures that all school counselors possess the competencies needed to support student success and mental wellness.
Florida has well-defined standards for school counselor preparation. In addition to academic requirements, candidates must complete substantial hands-on experience in real K-12 environments. Many local programs embed this requirement through supervised practicums and internships in partnership with Miami-Dade County Public Schools.
Steps to become certified in Florida include:
- Completing a master's degree in school counseling from a regionally accredited or state-approved program.
- Completing at least 600 hours of supervised internship in a school setting.
- Passing the Florida Teacher Certification Examination (FTCE) in Guidance and Counseling.
- Applying to the Florida Department of Education with verified transcripts and internship documentation.
Temporary certification may be granted for individuals working toward full certification while employed in Florida schools. Those entering the field on a temporary certificate are often supported through mentorship programs within their district.
Career Outlook and Real-World Opportunities in Miami
In Miami's multicultural and multilingual school environments, counselors play a pivotal role in promoting mental health, academic achievement, and equity. Public schools, charter schools, and private institutions all seek professionals with the skills to support diverse learners. The demand for school counselors continues to grow, especially in high-needs urban schools where mental health support is critical to student outcomes.
Graduates of school counseling programs near Miami can expect to find opportunities across a range of educational settings. In addition to public schools, many graduates work in international or bilingual institutions, specialized magnet schools, or alternative education programs focused on at-risk youth. Those with bilingual skills or specialized training in trauma or crisis counseling are especially in demand.
- Median Salary: Around $59,000 per year in the Miami-Fort Lauderdale-West Palm Beach metro area
- Job Settings: Public K-12 schools, charter schools, private schools, and international institutions
- Key Competencies: Crisis response, family engagement, bilingual communication, college readiness support, and ethical practices endorsed by the American School Counselor Association Crisis response, family engagement, bilingual communication, and college readiness support
School counselors in the region often collaborate with community organizations, family service agencies, and healthcare providers to offer wraparound support for students. This integrated approach enhances both educational performance and long-term well-being.
Choosing the Right Program: Questions to Ask
Deciding which school counseling program to pursue is a major step. Understanding personal goals, professional aspirations, and logistical needs helps clarify which program offers the best match. Program selection should go beyond reputation or rankings—it should also consider individual fit, support systems, and alignment with career goals.
Students are encouraged to ask detailed questions during the admissions process and connect with current students or alumni to gain deeper insight. Many programs offer virtual info sessions or allow prospective students to sit in on a class.
Important questions to consider:
- Does the program provide flexible scheduling or online options?
- What types of schools does the program partner with for practicum placements?
- Is there a strong alumni network or career services support?
- Does the program emphasize areas of interest such as trauma-informed care or advocacy?
- What professional organizations or conferences do faculty and students participate in?
Asking the right questions can uncover strengths that aren't always obvious on a website. These conversations also signal serious intent to admissions officers, which may positively impact application outcomes.
A Strong Start Toward a Meaningful Career
South Florida offers a wealth of opportunities for aspiring school counselors, with accredited programs that blend academic excellence and real-world application. From public university campuses to private institutions with personalized learning environments, Miami's offerings meet a wide range of professional needs.
Pursuing a master's in school counseling is more than a degree—it's a commitment to serving students and shaping educational futures. These programs prepare future counselors to lead with empathy, support student resilience, and advocate for equitable access to education. With demand rising, now is an ideal time to take that first step.
Students who choose to study near Miami will find themselves in a vibrant, diverse community where cultural understanding and language skills enhance every aspect of the school counselor role. Completing a program in this setting can uniquely position graduates to thrive in urban educational environments.
Taking the time to evaluate program options carefully will help ensure a meaningful and lasting impact within Miami's diverse school communities.
Sources
- CACREP – Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs
- Florida Teacher Certification Examinations (FTCE)
- American School Counselor Association
- Bureau of Labor Statistics – School and Career Counselors
- Florida Department of Education – Certification Requirements
