Director of School Counseling Services Certification (Online)

Teacher Certification

An educator speaks to a group of K-12 students in a classroom setting.

If you’re ready to lead a school counseling department and shape the future of student support services, Montclair’s Director of School Counseling Services Certification program will prepare you to take that next step.

This 12-credit, fully online program is designed for experienced, licensed school counselors who want to move into administrative leadership roles. You’ll gain the skills to oversee counseling staff, manage departmental operations, and design comprehensive, data-driven counseling programs that meet the needs of diverse student populations.

Coursework explores leadership theory, program evaluation, legal and ethical issues in school counseling, and strategies for creating equitable, inclusive student support systems. You’ll learn from faculty with real-world administrative experience and have opportunities to apply concepts to your current school or district setting.

The flexible, asynchronous format allows you to balance your professional responsibilities while earning your certification. Upon completion, you’ll meet the academic requirements for the New Jersey Department of Education requirement for the Director of School Counseling Services endorsement—opening the door to leadership positions that influence policy, practice, and student outcomes.

If you’re ready to lead with vision and elevate the role of counseling in education, Montclair’s Director of School Counseling Services Certification can get you there.

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Online

Take advantage of Montclair’s flexible, entirely online offerings and earn your certification.

You’ll take four courses over one year, and our asynchronous format allows you to do them on your time. You’ll level up at work without sacrificing your life.

See the curriculum. 

Admission Requirements

  • Applicants with non-U.S. degrees: Please visit the international applicants page to review U.S. degree equivalency information.
  • Master’s degree or higher from a regionally accredited college or university.
  • A standard NJ educational services certification with a school counseling endorsement or its out-of-state equivalent.
  • *Students seeking an F1/J1 visa are not eligible for this certification program unless they are currently pursuing a master’s degree at Montclair State University and are able to simultaneously pursue both programs while maintaining their student visa requirements.

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.
  • Essay/Personal Statement: Two Short Answer Questions (250-350 Words each).
    1. Describe a time when you demonstrated leadership in your school/district OR describe a challenge you have faced that has influenced your leadership approach.
    2. The Educational Leadership Department at Montclair State University aims to prepare culturally responsive and anti-racist leaders who create more equitable schools and a more just society. Describe some ways you could contribute to supporting equity and diversity in your school/district.
  • NJ School Counselor Certification (or out-of-state equivalent)
  • Resume: Required.

Questions? We’re Here to Help.

For questions about this program or information about how to enroll, please contact the Office of Graduate Admissions.

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: Dr. Joseph Oluwole

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.

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