Best Master’s in School Counseling Programs in Tennessee
Tennessee offers a strong pathway for students pursuing careers in school counseling, with opportunities to train in urban, suburban, and rural school systems across the state. From large metropolitan districts to smaller community-based schools, Tennessee provides a diverse range of clinical environments that help future school counselors develop the skills needed to support K–12 students academically, socially, and emotionally.
A master's degree in school counseling is the required educational step for licensure in Tennessee. Choosing the right program is essential, not only for meeting state requirements, but also for gaining practical experience and preparing for the realities of school-based counseling roles.
In This Article, You'll Learn:
- Why Tennessee is a strong state for school counseling graduate education
- What master's in school counseling curricula typically include
- How practicum and internship experiences work in Tennessee
- Typical tuition ranges and cost considerations
- School counselor salary ranges and factors that affect pay
2026 Best Master's in School Counseling Programs in Tennessee
Freed-Hardeman University
Henderson, TN - Private 4-year - fhu.edu
Master's - Master of Science in School Counseling
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Freed-Hardeman University's Master of Science in School Counseling offers an efficient pathway to becoming a licensed K-12 school counselor. The program stands out with its concise 37-credit curriculum, which can be completed in just two years through flexible online and web-conferenced formats. Designed for working professionals, the program integrates counseling techniques with Christian principles, preparing graduates to make meaningful impacts in educational settings. Students benefit from experienced faculty, practical field experiences, and a comprehensive curriculum that leads to Tennessee school counselor licensure.
- 37 credit hours total
- Hybrid learning format
- Tennessee school counselor licensure
- Full-time or part-time options
- Christian faith integration
- Cost per credit: $665
- Flexible web-conference classes
- Professional experienced faculty
- Two-year completion time
The University of Tennessee-Martin
Martin, TN - Public 4-Year - utm.edu
Master's - Master of Science in Education with a major in Counseling
Concentration: School Counseling - Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of Tennessee at Martin's Master of Science in Education with a concentration in School Counseling prepares socially ethical professionals to support student development. This 100% online program offers comprehensive training in school counseling, with full degree and licensure options. Students can earn Tennessee school counselor licensure, gaining skills to address academic, career, and personal growth needs of students. The program is accredited by CAEP and CACREP, ensuring high-quality education that can lead to rewarding careers in educational support.
- 100% Online Coursework
- Full Degree: 60 Credit Hours
- Licensure Option: 30 Credits
- 12:1 Student/Faculty Ratio
- Tennessee Licensure Eligible
- CAEP and CACREP Accredited
- Advanced Counseling Preparation
Johnson University
Knoxville, TN - Private 4-year - johnsonu.edu
Master's - Master of Arts in Counseling
Concentration: School Counseling - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Johnson University's Master of Arts in Counseling with School Counseling concentration provides aspiring school counselors a comprehensive professional training program. Students gain advanced skills through a unique hybrid learning format, balancing theoretical knowledge with practical clinical experience. The 60-credit hour program prepares graduates for licensure as Professional School Counselors, emphasizing ethical practice, cultural responsiveness, and a holistic Christian approach. Graduates complete over 600 hours of practicum and internship, developing expertise in individual and group counseling, classroom guidance, and educational advocacy.
- CACREP-accredited school counseling program
- Hybrid learning format
- 600+ clinical experience hours
- Christian worldview integration
- Low 12:1 student-faculty ratio
- Licensure preparation
- Comprehensive curriculum
Lipscomb University
Nashville, TN - Private 4-year - lipscomb.edu
Master's - School Counseling
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Lipscomb University's School Counseling program prepares professionals to guide students through academic and career development. Offering both Master of Education and Education Specialist degrees, the program provides comprehensive training in supporting students' postsecondary success. With a flexible hybrid format and competitive tuition rates starting at $953 per credit hour, students can benefit from expert faculty, real-world practicums, and potential full tuition grants. The program emphasizes cultural mediation, collaborative techniques, and career exploration strategies across all educational levels.
- Hybrid online and in-person format
- 44-38 credit hour program
- $953 per credit hour
- No GRE generally required
- 25% in-service educator discount
- Practicum and internship opportunities
- Focus on college access strategies
- Multiple scholarship opportunities
- Located in Nashville, Tennessee
Tennessee Tech
Cookeville, TN - Public 4-Year - tntech.edu
Master's - Counseling and Psychology - School Counseling
Campus Based - Visit Website
Tennessee Tech's Master of Arts in School Counseling empowers professionals to support K-12 students through academic, social, and personal challenges. This nationally accredited program equips graduates with comprehensive counseling skills to assist diverse student populations. Candidates need a minimum 2.75 undergraduate GPA and complete coursework in psychology. The program provides a robust foundation for launching a meaningful career in school counseling, with opportunities for professional growth and licensure.
- CACREP Nationally Accredited
- On-Campus Master's Degree
- 3 Recommendation Letters Required
- 2.75 Minimum Undergraduate GPA
- K-12 School Counseling Focus
Why Study School Counseling in Tennessee
Tennessee is an appealing state for school counseling students for several key reasons:
Diverse Training Environments
Graduate students may complete clinical experiences in a wide variety of settings, including large urban districts, fast-growing suburban systems, and rural schools. This range of exposure helps counselors develop flexibility and cultural competence.
Strong Demand for Student Support Services
School counselors in Tennessee often play central roles in academic planning, attendance interventions, college and career readiness, and social-emotional learning initiatives. Many districts emphasize collaboration with teachers, administrators, school psychologists, and social workers.
Clear Licensure Structure
Tennessee licenses school counselors as school services personnel, and approved graduate programs are designed to align with state endorsement requirements. Selecting a program built around Tennessee licensure expectations is critical for long-term career success.
Learn more about how to become a school counselor.
Tennessee School Counselor Licensure Overview
To work as a school counselor in Tennessee, graduates must earn a school counselor endorsement through the Tennessee Department of Education. This typically requires:
- Completion of a state-aligned master's degree in school counseling
- Supervised practicum and internship experiences in school settings
- Meeting background check and licensure application requirements
Prospective students should confirm that any program they consider explicitly states that it prepares graduates for Tennessee school counselor licensure.
Tip: Always verify licensure alignment with the program's admissions or advising office before enrolling.
What to Expect From a Master's in School Counseling Curriculum
Most Tennessee school counseling programs follow a similar academic structure, combining counseling theory with school-specific applications.
Common Core Courses
- Human Growth and Development (child and adolescent focus)
- Counseling Theories and Techniques
- Group Counseling in School Settings
- Career Development and Postsecondary Planning
- Assessment and Appraisal in Education
- Ethics and Professional Issues in School Counseling
- Multicultural Counseling and Social Justice
- Crisis Intervention and Trauma-Informed Practices
- School Counseling Program Design and Evaluation
Curriculum Overview
| Area of Study | Skills Developed | Application in Schools |
| Academic Counseling | Graduation planning, scheduling, goal-setting | Supports student academic success |
| Social-Emotional Support | Coping strategies, referrals, behavior supports | Improves student well-being |
| Career & College Readiness | Career assessments, FAFSA support, planning | Prepares students for life after graduation |
| Data & Accountability | Needs assessments, outcome tracking | Demonstrates program effectiveness |
Practicum and Internship Experiences in Tennessee
Clinical training is a core component of all school counseling master's programs. These experiences allow students to apply classroom learning in real school environments.
Practicum
Typically completed earlier in the program, practicum experiences focus on skill development, observation, and limited direct counseling activities under supervision.
Internship
Internships are more immersive and involve extended time working in a school setting. Interns may assist with individual and group counseling, academic planning, crisis response, and collaboration with school staff.
Common Placement Settings
- Elementary, middle, and high schools in public school districts
- Suburban and rural school systems
- Schools serving diverse populations and student needs
Tip: In high-demand districts, securing a placement early can make the process smoother—especially for students balancing full-time employment.
Tuition Ranges and Cost Considerations
Tuition for master's in school counseling programs in Tennessee varies based on institution type and residency status.
Estimated Tuition Ranges (Per Credit Hour)
| Institution Type | Typical Range |
| Public (In-State) | $400–$700 |
| Public (Out-of-State) | $700–$1,000+ |
| Private Universities | $700–$1,200+ |
Additional costs may include background checks, professional liability insurance, assessment fees, and commuting expenses for clinical placements.
School Counselor Salary Outlook in Tennessee
School counselor salaries in Tennessee depend on district pay scales, years of experience, degree level, and contract length.
Tennessee Salary Estimates
| Level | Approximate Annual Salary |
| Entry Range | ~$44,000 |
| Median | ~$53,000 |
| Upper Range | ~$78,000 |
Nationally, school and career counselors earn a higher median salary, which can increase with experience, advanced credentials, or employment in larger districts.
Tip: Salary schedules are typically public and posted by school districts, making it easier to compare earning potential across regions.
How to Choose the Right Master's Program in Tennessee
When comparing school counseling programs, consider the following factors:
- Licensure Alignment: Explicit preparation for Tennessee school counselor endorsement
- Clinical Placement Support: Clear practicum and internship processes
- Program Format: Online, hybrid, or campus-based coursework that fits your schedule
- Student Support Services: Advising, supervision quality, and academic resources
- Career Outcomes: Job placement rates, district partnerships, and alumni networks
FAQs
Q: Do Tennessee School Counseling Programs Lead Directly to Licensure?
A: Graduating from an approved program is a required step, but licensure is granted after completing all state requirements and submitting an application to the Tennessee Department of Education.
Q: Can I Complete a School Counseling Master's Degree Online?
A: Many programs offer online or hybrid coursework. However, practicum and internship experiences must be completed in person at approved school sites.
Q: How Long Does a Master's in School Counseling Take to Complete?
A: Most programs take two to three years, depending on enrollment status and internship scheduling.
Q: Can I Transition Into School Counseling With a Different Master's Degree?
A: Some universities offer post-master's or endorsement pathways for individuals with prior graduate counseling degrees, though availability varies by institution.
