Are you already a certified educator with a master’s degree in education and want to become a certified school counselor? If so, UCF’s Education Specialist (EdS) in School Counseling program prepares you to take the next step in your career — and expand your impact.
This advanced degree goes beyond initial certification, preparing you to take on leadership roles, implement evidence-based interventions and support students through increasingly complex challenges. Whether you’re aiming to refine your skills, move into supervisory a role or influence schoolwide mental health strategies, the EdS in school counseling equips you with the tools to lead with insight and compassion.
Through a blend of advanced coursework and meaningful field experiences, you’ll strengthen your ability to assess student needs, collaborate with educators and families, and advocate for best practices. You’ll also have the opportunity to explore specialized topics — from trauma-informed care to college and career readiness — and deepen your commitment to the ethical, holistic support of students.
Here, you’ll learn from experienced faculty who are dedicated to mentorship, innovation and student success. They’ll ensure that when you graduate, you’re prepared to pass the Florida Teacher Certification Examination (FTCE) — and ready to become a transformational leader in school counseling.
MA, MEd, and EdS in School Counseling — What’s the Difference?
Want to become a school counselor but not sure which degree to pursue? Here’s a quick and easy way to help you decide:
Have a bachelor’s degree in something other than education?
Try the MA.
Have a bachelor’s degree in education and/or are a certified education?
Pursue the MEd.
Already have a master’s degree in education?
The EdS is the way to go.
At a Glance
- In Person
- Full Time
- 9 Max Transfer Credits
- 2 Core Courses
- 11 Specialization Courses
- 4 Approved Elective Courses
- 1 Practicum Experience
- 2 Internship Experiences
- 1 Professional Portfolio
- 1 Comprehensive Exam
Counselor education graduate program in the nation
(U.S. News & World Report, 2025)
First-attempt FTCE Exam Passing Rate in 2023-24
(Download Assessment Data)
No GRE Required
Accreditation
UCF’s top-ranked graduate program in school counseling is nationally accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Counseling and Related Education Programs (CACREP).
A nationally recognized accrediting body, CACREP monitors, evaluates and accredits graduate-level counseling programs to assure a quality education for students that upholds standards approved by professional counselors. It serves as a benchmark for federal agencies, state licensing boards, national certification agencies, students, and employers, and is required in the state of Florida.

Program Details
- Modality
- Face-to-face
- Academic Requirements
- Total: 60 Credit Hours
- Coursework: 51 Credit Hours
- Clinical Experience: 9 Credit Hours of intensive fieldwork both in the Community Counseling and Research Center and the surrounding community.
Licensure
This program meets the educational requirements for certification in Guidance and Counseling (PK-12) in the State of Florida. Graduates of this Florida state-approved teacher preparation program, who have passed all three portions of the Florida Teacher Certification Examination (FTCE), will qualify for a Professional Florida Educator's Certificate.