Capella University Master's Specialization in School Counseling Receives State Approval

Graduation from a state-approved program is a licensure requirement in many states.

Minneapolis, MN (PRWEB) July 31, 2008 -- Capella University (NASDAQ: CPLA), an accredited*, fully online university based in Minneapolis, announced that the Arizona Department of Education has approved Capella's master's specialization in School Counseling, designating it a "highly effective" program. As a result of the approval, graduates of Capella's Master of Science, School Counseling specialization, are automatically eligible to apply for certification as a school counselor in Arizona. Because completion of a state-approved program is a requirement for licensure in many states, the approval may allow Capella graduates to automatically apply for school counselor certification in other states as well. Capella's program is one of few online, state-approved master's specializations in School Counseling.

"School counselors are important members of each student's academic team," said Kelly Coker, PhD, accreditation lead and core faculty in Capella's Counselor Education program. "They support student achievement by helping to address academic, social, and behavioral issues that may be hindering student success, and by working with students to develop plans for their future. We're pleased to play a role in educating professionals interested in pursuing this challenging career." The curriculum for Capella's School Counseling specialization is based on the American School Counselor Association (ASCA) National Model.
   
"There is a strong need for qualified school counselors," added Amanda Costin, PhD, LMHC, lead faculty for Capella's School Counseling specialization. "More states are recognizing the importance of counseling and are mandating that their elementary schools employ school counselors. Expanded responsibilities for school counselors and increases in postsecondary and college enrollments are also expected to lead to increased employment opportunities for school counselors."
For more information on Capella's Master of Science in Human Services, School Counseling specialization, please call 1.888.CAPELLA (227.3552), option 3, or e-mail info@capella.edu.

There is a strong need for qualified school counselors

State regulations vary regarding course requirements for professional licensure. For assistance with state-mandated course requirements for licensure, contact the designated school representative.

Capella University cannot guarantee licensure, certification, or endorsement. State regulations vary. It is the learners' responsibility to understand and comply with requirements for their state.

Prior to enrollment, Washington state learners are advised to contact the Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction at 360-725-6320 or profed@k12.wa.us to determine teacher certification or endorsement requirements, and contact their school district regarding qualifications for salary advancement.

Graduates of this specialization are not eligible for licensure in South Carolina. Learners residing in South Carolina should check with the state licensing agency.

About Capella University
Founded in 1993, Capella University is an accredited*, fully online university that offers graduate degree programs in business, information technology, education, human services, psychology, public health, and public safety, and bachelor's degree programs in business, information technology, and public safety. Within those areas, Capella currently offers 109 graduate and undergraduate specializations and 15 certificate programs. The online university currently serves more than 23,400 students from all 50 states and 45 countries. It is committed to providing high-caliber academic excellence and pursuing balanced business growth. Capella University, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Capella Education Company (NASDAQ: CPLA), is headquartered in Minneapolis, with offices in Phoenix. For more information, please visit www.capella.edu or call 1-888-CAPELLA (227-3552).

*Capella University is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission and a member of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools (NCA), www.ncahlc.org.
Capella University, 225 South Sixth Street, Ninth Floor, Minneapolis, MN 55402, 1.888.CAPELLA (227.3552), www.capella.edu.

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