Student Assistance Coordinator Certification

  • Certificate
A red-haired student in a leather jacket converses with a faculty member in a blue and white checkered shirt.

Prepare to support students in mental health, substance use, and wellness with Montclair State University’s Student Assistance Coordinator (SAC) Certification Program. The SAC program will prepare you, as a school professional, to serve as a vital component to support student wellness in areas such as substance use, behavioral health and mental well-being. With this certification, you work within school counseling departments and play a key role in prevention, intervention and student support. This New Jersey Department of Education–approved program has 24 credits and meets state educational requirements for the SAC Certificate of Eligibility with Advanced Standing (CEAS). 

SAC responsibilities include:

  • Counseling and referrals related to substance use and behavioral health
  • Supporting staff training and policy development
  • Coordinating school and community services
  • Developing prevention and intervention programs
  • Serving as a liaison between student, school, families, and the community

See the curriculum.

Admission Requirements:

A master’s degree in counseling or a closely related field from a regionally accredited institution. Upon completion, students will be eligible for CEAS and can pursue employment or internships as a provisional SAC in New Jersey schools. NOTE: *F1/J1 visa seeking students are not eligible for this program.

Application Checklist

  • Application Deadline: Rolling admission.
  • Online Application: Submit application and $60 non-refundable fee (or waiver if applicable).
  • Transcript: One from each college attended.
  • Essays/Personal Statement: Please write an integrated essay providing a response to each of the following questions.
    • What are your goals for graduate study and your future career?
    • In what ways do your academic background and your professional experiences provide evidence of your potential for success in the program you selected and in your eventual career? Please give specific examples of relevant coursework and/or experience.
    • Is there any further information we should consider in assessing your candidacy?
  • Letters of Recommendation: Two.

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Program Coordinator: Allison Dickens

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