Academics

Advanced Counseling

Certificate

A professor and a student meet in a lounge area with a laptop and a notebook full of notes open on the table.

Are you a counseling professional who completed a 48-credit Master’s in Counseling program and want to reach the 60-credit requirement for licensure? Montclair State University offers a flexible, streamlined solution to help you achieve your goals. The Advanced Counseling Certificate is a post-master’s program designed for professionals with a Master’s Degree in Counseling who need additional coursework to meet New Jersey licensure requirements. Course requirements vary depending on your previous graduate coursework. Personalized advising ensures the most efficient path to licensure.

A master’s degree in counseling form an accredited US institution is required for admission into this program.

Why Choose Montclair State’s Advanced Counseling Certificate?

  • Courses align directly with New Jersey’s educational requirements
  • Personalized program of study, so you only take the courses you need
  • Flexible scheduling for working professionals
  • Montclair is recognized as a Research Doctoral University with a strong track record in counseling education

Ideal for:

  • Counselors needing to meet NJ LPC requirements
  • Professionals looking to expand their credentials, increase career opportunities or meet state regulatory requirements

Take the next step toward licensure—and career advancement—with a trusted leader in graduate counseling education.

Apply NowRequest Info


Admission Requirements

  • Equivalent of a U.S. bachelor’s degree.
  • Applicants with non-U.S. degrees: Please visit the international applicants page to review U.S. degree equivalency information.
  • Candidates must have a master’s degree in counseling, which equates to a minimum of 48 semester hours.
  • Applicants with a GPA below 2.9 will not be considered for admission.
  • *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 (1-2 pages) on your long term professional goals, addressing the following questions:
    • How has your master’s in Counseling degree influenced your current position as a counseling professional or intern?
    • What population(s) do you plan to work with in your professional discipline, and what special knowledge will this certificate afford you?
    • If this certificate will enable you to change your professional direction in terms of setting/population, please explain why you desire this change? (For example, if you have a master’s in School Counseling and would like to gain an LPC).
  • Letters of Recommendation: Two
  • Standardized Test Scores: Not required.

Questions? We’re Here to Help.

Office of Graduate Admissions

Get guidance on every step of the application process, from admission requirements and deadlines to transcripts, test scores and next steps toward enrollment. The Office of Graduate Admissions provides the information and resources needed to put forward a strong application.

Program Coordinator: Allison Dickens

Get detailed information about the program itself—from curriculum and faculty expertise to research, internships and career outcomes. The program coordinator can explain how the program connects to your academic and professional goals.

Next Steps

Wherever you learn—on campus or online—Montclair State University offers the programs, community and support to help you reach your goals. Take the next step today.

Apply NowRequest Information

Learn on Campus

Immersive classes, vibrant campus life and hands-on experiences that put you at the center of it all.

Explore Majors & Minors The Campus Experience

Learn Online

Montclair Online offers the same nationally recognized faculty, engaging coursework and supportive community as our on-campus classes - designed to fit your life. With multiple start dates each year, you can begin when the time is right for you.

Explore Majors & MinorsThe Online Experience