Certificate in College Student Development & Counseling

The Certificate of Advanced Graduate Study in College Student Development and Counseling at Northeastern University aims to create mindful, action-oriented leaders in the fields of higher education and student affairs.

Boston, MA

Location

Full-Time

Commitment

2-3 Years

Duration of Program

No

Meets F1 Visa Requirements

Loading...

Overview

The certificate is for those who already hold a master's degree in higher education administration or other areas but want to gain an advanced knowledge in college student development and higher education administration. The program is individually tailored to the candidate’s specific curriculum needs from the courses offered as part of the M.S. degree. The program focuses on counseling, college student development, the history and philosophy of the student affairs profession, and the organization and administration of the field. The program has a long history of providing its students with practical experience in which they put the theories and skills that they learn in the classroom directly to use. With more than 120 colleges and universities within a 60-mile radius of Boston, we offer many opportunities for students to practice in various collegiate settings. These practicum experiences prepare students to work in entry-level and mid-level management in the field. Typical careers for which students are prepared for include:

Academic advising
Student activities
Orientation
Career counseling
Judicial affairs
Service learning
Cooperative education
Residential life

At the culmination of two years within the program, students are required to submit a portfolio that demonstrates their understanding of professional competencies through learning, practice, and reflection. The portfolio is intended to become a tool for candidates to use with potential employers. Students are asked to create two versions: print and online. The portfolio will be separated into different sections that will demonstrate the student’s level of mastery for each professional competency as it relates to the individual’s knowledge base and practice.

More Details

Unique Features

Development of professional portfolio
Opportunities for experiential learning at over 120 colleges and universities in the Boston area
Allows those who already hold a master's degree in higher education administration or other areas to gain an advanced knowledge in college student development and higher education administration

Program Objectives

The program offers emerging professionals the academic and experiential background that allows them to be able to design, create, and administer student personnel programs that teach leadership, foster development, value diversity, and complement the academic experience of college students.

Admissions

A graduate degree or certificate from Northeastern—a top-ranked university—can accelerate your career through rigorous academic coursework and hands-on professional experience in the area of your interest. Apply now—and take your career to the next level.

Program Costs

$79K

Tuition

Finance Your Education We offer a variety of resources, including scholarships and assistantships.

How to Apply Learn more about the application process and requirements.

Requirements

Application
Application fee
Resumé
Personal statement of goals and expectations
A minimum grade point average of 3.0
GRE or MAT, TOEFL or IELTS
Three letters of recommendation
Personal interview with faculty
Personal meeting with current students
Masters degree

Are You an International Student? Find out what additional documents are required to apply.

Admissions Details Learn more about the Bouvé College of Health Sciences admissions process, policies, and required materials.

Admissions Dates

Deadline for Fall Term: August 1

Deadline for Spring Term: December 1

Curriculum

Industry-aligned courses for in-demand careers.

For 100+ years, we’ve designed our programs with one thing in mind—your success. Explore the current program requirements and course descriptions, all designed to meet today’s industry needs and must-have skills.

Experiential Learning

Experiential learning is a hallmark of Northeastern University and its educational mission. As such, the MS in College Student Development and Counseling program provides students with field opportunities that will prepare new professionals for working in entry-level and beginning management positions in the college student development field. These positions are offered in departments and offices, which may not directly address the academic concerns of students, but are a vital part of the social, emotional, and moral development of students.

Faculty

Our Faculty

Northeastern University faculty represents a broad cross-section of professional practices and fields, including finance, education, biomedical science, management, and the U.S. military. They serve as mentors and advisors and collaborate alongside you to solve the most pressing global challenges facing established and emerging markets.

Students

By enrolling in Northeastern, you’ll gain access to students at 13 campus locations, 300,000+ alumni, and 3,000 employer partners worldwide. Our global university system provides students unique opportunities to think locally and act globally while serving as a platform for scaling ideas, talent, and solutions.

Below is a look at where our Psychology & Mental Health alumni work, the positions they hold, and the skills they bring to their organization.

Where They Work
- McLean Hospital
- Boston Children’s Hospital
- Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center
- UHS
- Arbor Counseling Services
What They Do
- Healthcare Services
- Education
- Community and Social Services
- Business Development
- Entrepreneurship
What They're Skilled At
- Mental Health
- Psychotherapy
- Psychology
- Public Speaking
- Medicine