Master’s in School Counseling Near NYC: What You Need to Know & How to Find the Best Program
With over 1,800 public schools and one of the most diverse student populations in the country, New York City is a powerful place to launch your career in school counseling. Earning a Master's in School Counseling is not only required for licensure in New York State, but it also prepares you to meet the complex academic, emotional, and social needs of today's K–12 students, especially in urban environments like NYC.
This guide explores what school counseling master's programs in the New York City area entail and how to choose the program that fits your schedule, goals, and learning style.
Key topics covered in this article:
- What New York State certification requirements are for school counselors, including the 700 hours of fieldwork and exams needed for provisional and permanent certification
- The difference between provisional and permanent school counselor certification in New York and the timeline to achieve each credential
- How NYC school counseling programs prepare you to work with diverse, urban student populations through culturally responsive training and trauma-informed care
- Whether online and hybrid programs are available and how they balance flexible coursework with required in-person internships in NYC schools
- What NYC school counselors earn by experience level, from entry-level ($56,000-$65,000) to senior positions ($90,000+)
- Where you’ll complete your 600-hour internship, including NYC DOE schools, charter networks, and private institutions across the five boroughs
- Why bilingual school counselors are in high demand in NYC’s diverse school system and what additional certifications can boost your career prospects
What Is a Master's in School Counseling?
A master's in school counseling prepares you to support students' academic, career, and personal development. You’ll learn how to provide culturally responsive counseling, design intervention strategies, and work closely with families, teachers, and administrators.
Core learning outcomes include:
- Understanding childhood and adolescent development
- Mastering counseling techniques for individuals and groups
- Supporting students through behavioral or mental health challenges
- Navigating college and career planning
- Promoting equity, inclusion, and social-emotional learning in schools
In NYC, many programs offer added emphasis on urban school systems, multicultural populations, and trauma-informed care.
Find out more about school counseling degrees.
2026 Best Master's in School Counseling Programs Near New York City
CUNY Brooklyn College
Brooklyn, NY - Public 4-Year - brooklyn.cuny.edu
Master's - Master of Science in Education Program in School Counseling
Campus Based - Visit Website
CUNY Brooklyn College's Master of Science in Education in School Counseling is a 60-credit program that prepares professionals for transformative roles in urban schools, leading to New York State provisional certification. It emphasizes multicultural competence, social justice advocacy, and holistic student development through 720 fieldwork hours. The program offers full-time and part-time options with a cohort-based model, focusing on critical self-reflection and collaborative leadership. No entrance exam is required, and it includes a bilingual specialization for enhanced support in diverse educational settings.
- 60-credit Master's degree program
- New York State school counseling certification
- Bilingual specialization available
- Urban school counseling focus
- Social justice oriented curriculum
- Cohort-based learning model
- 720 total fieldwork hours
- Full-time and part-time options
- Multicultural counseling emphasis
- Professional leadership development
Master's - Master of Science in Education in School Psychology
Campus Based - Visit Website
The Master of Science in Education in School Psychology at CUNY Brooklyn College is a 60-credit curriculum approved by NASP and New York State, leading to certification and the NCSP credential. It provides advanced skills in assessment, intervention, and counseling, with 1,200 clinical hours from practicum and internship. The program does not require GRE scores and prefers candidates with experience working with children, focusing on addressing learning barriers and supporting academic and emotional development in collaboration with schools and families.
- 60-credit comprehensive curriculum
- NASP and NY State approved
- 1,200 clinical internship hours
- Bilingual extension available
- Minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA
- No mandatory GRE scores
- Experience with children preferred
- Professional portfolio development
Master's - Master of Science in Education Program in School Counseling
Concentration: Bilingual School Counseling - Campus Based - Visit Website
CUNY Brooklyn College's Master of Science in Education in School Counseling with a Bilingual School Counseling concentration prepares graduates for advocacy in diverse settings, offering additional certification for bilingual candidates. This 60-credit program includes 720 hours of fieldwork, emphasizing multicultural competence, social justice, and urban school counseling. It leads to New York State provisional certification and develops skills in assessment and intervention. No entrance exam is required, and the cohort-based model supports professional growth in academic, emotional, and social student development.
- 60-credit Master's program
- Bilingual School Counseling specialization available
- 720 hours total fieldwork experience
- New York State certification preparation
- Cohort-based learning model
- Social justice focused curriculum
- Urban school counseling emphasis
Master's - Master of Science in Education in School Psychology
Concentration: Bilingual Extension - Campus Based - Visit Website
CUNY Brooklyn College's Master of Science in Education in School Psychology with a Bilingual Extension focuses on preparing for NYS Bilingual Certification and the NCSP credential. This 60-credit NASP-approved program requires demonstrating competence in a target language and includes 1,400 hours of fieldwork and internship. Admission requires a bachelor's degree with a 3.0 GPA and experience with children, with no GRE needed. It blends theory and practice to support diverse student populations in academic and emotional growth, emphasizing research and practical application.
- 60-credit curriculum
- NASP approved
- Bilingual Extension available
- 33-credit M.S.Ed.
- 27-credit Advanced Certificate
- NYS Bilingual Certification
- 3.0 GPA requirement
- Fieldwork included
- 1400 hours total fieldwork
- Competence in target language needed
CUNY Queens College
Queens, NY - Public 4-Year - qc.cuny.edu
Master's - School Counseling
Campus Based - Visit Website
CUNY Queens College's School Counseling MSED is a 60-credit program preparing counselors for Pre-K to 12th grade settings, leading to New York State initial and professional certification. The curriculum covers foundations, assessment, child/adolescent counseling, and career development, with practical fieldwork in K-8 and 9-12 schools. It boasts a 94% job placement rate and 100% certification exam pass rate, emphasizing hands-on experience. This master's program does not require an entrance exam, focusing on building advanced counseling skills for impactful educational support.
- 60-credit MSED program
- NYS Initial & Professional Certification
- Pre-K-12 Counseling Preparation
- 100% Certification Exam Pass Rate
- 94% Job Placement Rate
- K-8 and 9-12 Fieldwork Experience
- Comprehensive Counseling Curriculum
Master's - Master of Science in Education in School Psychology
Campus Based - Visit Website
The Master of Science in Education in School Psychology at CUNY Queens College is a 61-credit specialist-level program meeting NY State Certification requirements, with options for Bilingual and Multicultural tracks. It employs a scientist-practitioner model, covering ten NASP training domains through practica and a one-year internship. Designed for full-time (three-year) or part-time (four-year) study, it prepares ethical, culturally responsive psychologists to support diverse students and collaborate with educators. This master's program does not require an entrance exam, emphasizing applied skills and theoretical integration.
- 61-credit specialist-level program
- Meets NY State Certification requirements
- Bilingual and Multicultural specializations
- Three-year full-time or four-year part-time
- One-year internship included
- Scientist-practitioner training model
- Ten NASP training domains covered
Master's - Master of Science in Education in School Psychology
Concentration: Bilingual - Campus Based - Visit Website
CUNY Queens College's MSED in School Psychology with a Bilingual concentration is a 61-credit specialist program focusing on serving diverse linguistic communities. It includes additional coursework and specialized internships, using a scientist-practitioner model to develop expertise in psychological and educational services. Graduates gain skills for working with students, families, and educators across settings, promoting educational equity. Eligible for NY State Certification, this master's program does not require an entrance exam, prioritizing cultural responsiveness and ethical practices in child development.
- 61-credit specialist-level program
- NY State Certification in School Psychology
- Bilingual or Multicultural Specialization
- Three-year full-time or four-year part-time
- Scientist-practitioner training model
Master's - Master of Science in Education in School Psychology
Concentration: Multicultural - Campus Based - Visit Website
CUNY Queens College's MSED in School Psychology with a Multicultural concentration is a 61-credit specialist program emphasizing cultural responsiveness and social justice. It prepares professionals to address learning challenges and work with diverse populations through supervised practica and a year-long internship. As a NASP-approved training program, it offers full-time study over three years and leads to NY State Certification eligibility. This master's program does not require an entrance exam, focusing on advanced skills in psychology and education for constructive change in schools.
- 61-credit specialist-level program
- NY State Certification eligible
- Multicultural concentration available
- Three-year full-time study option
- NASP-approved training program
- Scientist-practitioner training model
- One-year internship included
- Focuses on cultural responsiveness
Columbia University in the City of New York
New York, NY - Private 4-year - columbia.edu
Master's - Psychological Counseling: School Counselor EdM
Campus Based - Visit Website
Columbia University's Ed.M. in Psychological Counseling: School Counselor prepares students for New York State certification with a strong emphasis on racial-cultural and social justice. The 60-credit program integrates experiential training and self-awareness, covering human development, counseling theory, and psychopathology. Students benefit from research opportunities and practitioner training, preparing them for diverse educational settings. Admission requires transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a statement of purpose; no entrance exam is mentioned as required. Graduates often work in schools, colleges, and community agencies, with many advancing to doctoral studies.
- 60 points of study required.
- Focus on racial-cultural and social justice.
- Experiential training and self-awareness emphasized.
- Prepares for NY State school counselor certification.
- Includes coursework in human development.
- Counseling theory and psychopathology covered.
- Research opportunities available.
- Admission requires transcripts and recommendations.
- Graduates work in diverse educational settings.
- Many advance to doctoral studies.
Master's - Master of Education in Applied Developmental and Learning Psychology: School Psychology
Campus Based - Visit Website
Columbia University's Master of Education in Applied Developmental and Learning Psychology: School Psychology is a NASP-accredited program offering 69 credits for New York State certification. It focuses on supporting children's academic and mental health needs through rigorous coursework, clinical practica, and optional certifications like Board Certified Behavior Analyst. The program emphasizes psychological theory, research skills, and direct application in diverse settings such as schools and clinics. Admission details do not specify an entrance exam requirement, allowing students to gain practical experience and bilingual extensions for broader professional opportunities.
- NASP-accredited Master's program
- 69-credit curriculum
- NY State school psych certification
- Optional BCBA certification
- Bilingual extension available
- Clinical experience opportunities
- Diverse research-focused faculty
- Serves multiple professional settings
Master's - Psychological Counseling: School Counselor EdM Online
Online Learning - Visit Website
Columbia University's Online Master's in School Counseling program delivers a social justice-focused curriculum through live virtual sessions and a year-long internship, preparing students for K-12 roles and NY State certification. The 60-credit program includes training in individual and group counseling, college advising, and mental health support, with a Vanguard Scholarship available. Admission requires transcripts, recommendations, and a statement of purpose, with no entrance exam mentioned. This full-time cohort model offers research opportunities and a College Advising Certificate, emphasizing community impact and faculty expertise.
- Focus on social justice.
- Live virtual training sessions.
- Year-long on-site internship.
- Vanguard Scholarship available.
- 60 credits for completion.
- NY State certification eligible.
- Full-time cohort model.
- Access to faculty expertise.
- Research opportunities included.
- College Advising Certificate option.
New York University
New York, NY - Private 4-year - nyu.edu
Master's - MA, School Counseling
Online Learning - Visit Website
New York University's Master of Arts in School Counseling prepares students for K-12 or bilingual counseling roles, blending theoretical foundations with practical internships in NYC schools. This MPCAC-accredited program requires 48-51 credits and offers full-time or part-time flexibility, focusing on counseling theory, group dynamics, and cross-cultural approaches. Graduates are eligible for New York State certification, with electives in areas like bereavement counseling and social justice. No entrance exam is required, making it accessible for those passionate about educational support in diverse settings.
- Accredited by MPCAC
- Eligible for NY certification
- Full-time or part-time
- 48-51 credits
- Internships in NYC schools
- Focus on bilingual counseling
- Hands-on learning
- Flexible elective options
- Prepares for K-12 counseling
- Cross-cultural counseling focus
Master's - MA, Bilingual School Counseling
Concentration: Bilingual School Counseling - Online Learning - Visit Website
NYU's Master of Arts in Bilingual School Counseling emphasizes cross-cultural communication and data-driven strategies to support K-12 students, particularly English language learners. This concentration delves into socio-historical contexts and power dynamics, preparing graduates for certification in New York State and roles in schools or community agencies. The MPCAC-accredited curriculum includes hands-on internships and requires 48-51 credits, with full-time or part-time options. No entrance exam is needed, focusing on applied learning for aspiring bilingual counselors.
- 48-51 total credit hours
- Full-time or Part-time options
- MPCAC accredited program
- New York State certification eligible
- Bilingual concentration available
- Internship in NYC schools
- Cross-cultural counseling focus
- Hands-on applied learning
Mercy University
Dobbs Ferry, NY - Private 4-year - mercy.edu
Master's - Master of Science in School Counseling
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Mercy University's Master of Science in School Counseling is a 60-credit hybrid program preparing counselors for K-12 settings with advanced skills in counseling techniques, cultural diversity, and ethics. It offers flexible full-time or part-time options, covering assessment, interventions, and evidence-based practices. Graduates are eligible for initial certification and can work in various school environments. The program requires a 3.0+ GPA and includes practicum and internship components, with CAEP accreditation and no entrance exam mentioned.
- 60-credit comprehensive program
- Hybrid learning options
- Initial school counselor certification
- 3-year completion timeframe
- 8% projected job growth
- Practicum and internship included
- GPA requirement 3.0+
- CAEP accredited program
- Professional ethics training
- Cultural diversity focus
Master's - School Psychology
Concentration: Bilingual Extension - Campus Based - Visit Website
Mercy University's Master of Science in School Psychology with a Bilingual Extension is a 66-credit campus-based program focusing on student assessment, intervention strategies, and psychological support for diverse learners. It emphasizes creating inclusive environments and does not require the GRE for admission. Students can enroll full-time or part-time, with fieldwork and internship experiences, and the program is nationally recognized by NASP, offering mentorship and multiple career pathways.
- 66-credit nationally accredited program
- No GRE required for admission
- Full or part-time enrollment options
- Nationally recognized by NASP
- Fieldwork and internship experiences
- $79,000+ average annual salary
- Bilingual Extension available
- Experienced faculty mentors
- Multiple career pathway options
Master's - School Psychology
Campus Based - Visit Website
Mercy University's Master of Science in School Psychology is an intensive 66-credit campus program developing skills in assessment, intervention, and professional practice to support educational settings. It includes options for a bilingual extension and does not require the GRE. The nationally accredited program prepares graduates for provisional certification in New York State, with full or part-time enrollment, mentorship, and fieldwork opportunities, and it highlights an average national salary of $79,820.
- 66-credit comprehensive program
- No GRE required
- Nationally accredited program
- Full or part-time enrollment
- Mentorship from experienced faculty
- Fieldwork and internship experiences
- Average salary $79,820 nationally
- Career growth expected at 3%
- Bilingual extension available
NYC School Counseling Certification: What You Need to Know
To become a certified school counselor in New York State (and work in NYC public schools), you must meet specific NYSED requirements. A Provisional Certificate is your initial license to work as a school counselor in NY. After gaining two years of full-time experience, you can apply for Permanent Certification, which has no expiration. Both require a master's degree and specific supervised fieldwork hours.
Certification Pathway Snapshot
| Requirement | Provisional Certificate | Permanent Certificate |
| Degree | Master’s in School Counseling | Provisional + 2 years experience |
| Practicum | 100 hours supervised experience | Same |
| Internship | 600 hours in a K–12 school setting | Same |
| Exams | School Counselor CST (if required) | None additional |
| Workshops | DASA, Child Abuse, School Violence | Same |
| Additional Requirements | U.S. citizenship or eligibility | 2 years of paid, full-time experience |
Tip: Choose a program that is NYSED-approved to ensure it qualifies you for school counselor certification in NYC.
What to Expect in an NYC School Counseling Master's Program
Most master's programs take 2–3 years to complete (full-time), with part-time options available. Programs typically include 48–60 credits and require both classroom learning and field experience.
Sample Curriculum:
- Foundations of School Counseling
- Multicultural & Urban Counseling
- Human Growth & Development
- Career Development & College Readiness
- Crisis Intervention and Trauma
- Ethics and School Law
- Practicum (100 hours)
- Internship (600 hours in a NYC-area school)
Fieldwork typically includes a 100-hour practicum and a 600-hour internship in a school setting under the supervision of a certified school counselor. In New York City, these hours are often completed in public schools (NYC DOE), charter networks, or private schools across the five boroughs. Students may have opportunities to work in elementary, middle, or high schools, and can often select placements that align with their interests, such as college access, special populations, or bilingual student support.
Capstone Projects: Many programs require a final portfolio or project presentation tied to your internship experience.
Learn more about New York Counseling Schools.
Can I Earn My Degree Online in NYC?
Yes, many NYC-area universities now offer online or hybrid master’s programs in school counseling. These are designed to provide flexibility for working professionals, career changers, and parents.
Features of Online and Hybrid Options:
- Online coursework (asynchronous or live sessions)
- NYC-based practicum and internship placements
- Access to virtual advising, faculty mentorship, and peer collaboration
- Evening and weekend course options
- Identical NYSED certification eligibility as on-campus programs
Important: Even fully online programs require in-person fieldwork hours at approved schools in New York City or nearby regions.
How to Choose the Right Master's Program in NYC
With so many options across New York City, it’s important to evaluate school counseling programs not just by name recognition, but by how well they match your career goals and life circumstances.
Factors to Consider:
- NYSED Approval: Will the degree lead to certification in NY?
- Program Format: Online, on-campus, or hybrid: what fits your lifestyle?
- Field Placement: Does the school help place you in NYC-area schools for internships?
- Faculty Expertise: Do instructors have experience in NYC public or charter schools?
- Schedule Flexibility: Are there evening or weekend classes available?
- Support Services: Does the program offer help with certification prep, licensing paperwork, or career placement?
- Cost and Financial Aid: Are scholarships, grants, or employer reimbursement options available?
Pro Tip: NYC students may be eligible for:
- New York State Masters-in-Education Incentive Scholarships
- TEACH Grants
- Loan forgiveness for service in high-need schools
- NYC Department of Education partnership opportunities
Career Outlook for School Counselors in NYC
New York City has one of the largest and most dynamic school systems in the country, making it a strong job market for certified school counselors. Graduates with a master's in school counseling can find opportunities across public, private, and charter schools, as well as in community organizations and higher education settings.
Common Job Titles:
- K–12 School Counselor
- College and Career Advisor
- School Mental Health Coordinator
- Crisis Response Specialist
- Transition Counselor for Special Populations
Typical Employers in NYC Include:
- New York City Department of Education (NYC DOE) – The largest public school system in the U.S., serving over 1 million students across all five boroughs
- Charter school networks – Such as Success Academy, KIPP NYC, and Uncommon Schools
- Private and parochial schools – Including independent K–12 institutions across Manhattan, Brooklyn, and Queens
- Community-based nonprofits – Like Good Shepherd Services, Counseling in Schools, or The Door, which offer embedded school counseling services
- Higher education institutions – For roles supporting student advising, academic support, and transition services
Estimated Salary Ranges in NYC:
| Experience Level | Average Annual Salary |
| Entry-Level | $56,000 – $65,000 |
| Mid-Level (5–10 years) | $70,000 – $85,000 |
| Senior/DOE Leadership | $90,000+ |
Salaries may be higher in specialized roles or in high-need schools, and counselors working extended hours or with bilingual certification can qualify for additional pay incentives.
Ready to Find the Program That Fits?
Whether you're pursuing school counseling to make a difference in your community, transition into a student-centered career, or expand your impact as an educator, New York City offers the ideal backdrop. With diverse student populations, a wide range of program formats, and a high demand for qualified counselors, the path to licensure and employment is clear, but choosing the right program is key.
Start by identifying programs that are NYSED-approved, offer strong placement support within NYC schools, and match your schedule, whether that's full-time, part-time, online, or hybrid. The right master's program will not only prepare you for certification, but also connect you to meaningful opportunities to support students throughout the five boroughs and beyond.
Now is the time to invest in your future and help shape the futures of countless students in the process.
FAQs
Q: Do I need a teaching license to become a school counselor in NYC?
A: No, you do not need a teaching license to become a school counselor in New York City. However, you must earn a master's degree in school counseling from a New York State Education Department (NYSED)-approved program and meet all certification requirements, including fieldwork, mandated workshops, and in some cases, passing the School Counselor CST exam.
Q: Do NYC programs offer help with certification paperwork?
A: Most reputable programs provide guidance on the NYSED certification process, including help with TEACH account setup, fingerprinting, and submitting your certification application after graduation.
Q: Will I be placed in a school for my internship, or do I need to find it myself?
A: Most NYC-based programs assist students in securing approved internship placements. Many have established partnerships with public schools, charter networks, and private institutions across the five boroughs. However, students are often expected to take an active role in the process by expressing preferences (e.g., age group, borough, type of school) and attending placement interviews.
Q: Are bilingual school counselors in higher demand in NYC?
A: Yes. Given the linguistic diversity of New York City's student population, bilingual school counselors, especially those fluent in Spanish, Mandarin, Arabic, or Haitian Creole, are in high demand. Some schools offer additional compensation or hiring preference for bilingual candidates, and counselors may also pursue a Bilingual Extension Certificate through NYSED to serve multilingual learners more effectively.
