Drive Lasting Impact as a Licensed School Counselor or School Social Worker
Embrace your calling and transform students’ lives.
Tell us about yourself.
Gain access to a program brochure, connect with an enrollment advisor and get a head start on your application.
DESE-Approved
We offer multiple DESE-approved pathways including master’s and post-master’s programs.
Online or On-Campus Study for Each Course1
Our flexible format allows you to choose online or on-campus classes for each course. With full- and part-time options, you can integrate the program into your schedule and life.
Two-Year Completion Time
You can finish our 48-credit master’s in education in as little as two years or the 16-20-credit post-master’s license in as little as six months.
Robust, Relevant Field Experience
Licensure tracks include 600–1,300 hours of field-based training in a setting that works best for you.
Fellowship Opportunities
Apply for a nine-month, on-campus fellowship position and receive a 50–100 percent tuition discount during your first year, covering up to 36 credits.
Overview
Prepare for rewarding careers in school- or community-based counseling, college readiness, career guidance, transitional services and more with our Master of Education in School Counseling or Post-Master’s License in School Social Work/Adjustment Counseling.
Career Outlook
No. 3
Massachusetts is the third highest-paying state for school counselors in the U.S.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), in 2024, Massachusetts ranked third highest in median annual salary for educational, school and career counselors and advisors ($79,670) with nearly 10,000 employed in this occupation throughout the state.
Choose From Multiple Pathways
M.Ed. in School Counseling
There are three tracks in our 48-credit master’s degree: two DESE-approved licensure tracks for students interested in working as a licensed school counselor or school social worker and one non-licensure track.
Apply for a nine-month, on-campus fellowship position and receive a 50–100 percent tuition discount during your first year, covering up to 36 credits.
School Social Work/Adjustment Counseling
(Post-Master’s License)
If you’re already a licensed school counselor or hold a master’s in school counseling, social work, or clinical mental health counseling, you may be eligible to earn a 16-20-credit Post-Master’s License in School Social Work/Adjustment Counseling.
What Our Students Say
Key Dates and Deadlines
No. 5
Most Innovative Schools
Merrimack College was named No. 5 in Most Innovative Schools, Regional Universities North, by U.S. News & World Report (2025).
No. 39
Regional Universities North
Merrimack College was named No. 39 in Regional Universities North by U.S. News & World Report (2025).
NECHE-Accredited
Merrimack College is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE).
Why Merrimack
Merrimack makes it easy and convenient to advance your career in school counseling.
- Online or on-campus classes1
- Aligned with the American School Counselors Association (ASCA) standards
- Three starts per year
- Massachusetts DESE-approved licensure tracks
- No GRE or GMAT required
- No application fee
- Financial aid-eligible program
Frequently Asked Questions
Students in the M.Ed. in School Counseling program are required to complete 48 credit hours. On average, students can earn their degree in as few as two years at a full-time pace or in three to four years at a part-time pace. This timeline may vary depending on how many credits are taken each semester.
The Post-Master’s License in School Social Work/Adjustment Counseling is a 16-20-credit license-only program that can be completed in as little as six months.
Yes. Students have a variety of options to fund their education. Request more information, and an enrollment advisor will contact you to answer your questions.
Connecting with an enrollment advisor will help you:
- Understand the program admission criteria and know whether you are eligible to apply
- Gain insight into application best practices and how to submit a strong application
- Know what to expect in your online or on-campus learning experience, including the level of faculty interaction, program outcomes and more
- Have an immediate line of support in the event you have questions or need clarification about the M.Ed. or Post-Master’s License
Empower Minds. Shape Futures.
Propel your education career with our M.Ed. or Post-Master’s License.
Begin Your Journey1 Students seeking licensure in Massachusetts are required to participate in occasional on-campus skills-based courses.