Educational Specialist (Ed.S.) Degree

The Department of Counselor Education Specialist (Ed.S.) degree program is for individuals who already possess a masters in counseling or a related field (e.g., social work, psychology, or marriage and family). The program is intended primarily for those seeking to obtain an additional professional credential (e.g., school counseling certification, mental health counseling license, clinical rehabilitation counseling certification).

Students enrolled in the Ed.S degree program primarily pursue one of two career goals:

To develop greater expertise and leadership skills in one's current position. The program provides advanced course work that will enhance professional competence in one's present position whether it be in school counseling, mental health counseling, or rehabilitation counseling. In addition, the advanced work in counselor supervision and training, as well as research skills in the counseling field, will help prepare students to assume supervisory and leadership positions in their place of employment.
To seek credentialing in another counseling specialty area. Counselors may wish to seek an additional professional credential in a different specialization in order to broaden and expand their career options. Ed.S degree students may design their program of studies to fulfill licensure or certification requirements in areas such as:
- Mental Health Counseling (LMHC)
- School Counseling (FDOE K-12)
- Clinical Rehabilitation Counseling (CRC)

Program Overview

Consult the FAU Course Catalog for course descriptions and other details.

Requirements

Programs are individually designed to meet the particular needs of each student based upon their transcripts, experience and certification/license goals. Students must complete an approved program for a minimum total of 72 graduate credits.

Admission Requirements:

Minimum Graduate GPA of 3.0
Masters degree in counseling or related field
Written goal statement describing your academic training, related work experience (3 years minimum) and professional goals
Three (3) letters of recommendation
Professional resume or vita
All graduate transcripts
GRE Scores (*required for Ed.S. in Mental Health Counseling and Ed.S. in Clinical Rehabilitation Counseling only)
Admissions interview with department faculty

Admissions decisions are made each semester.

How to Apply

Application Deadlines: Sept. 15 (domestic) or July 1st (international) for Spring admission; January 15 for Summer or Fall admission (domestic and international).

Please note: the GradCas application portal is currently open for Spring 2027 applications.

Upon receipt of all application materials, you may be notified and scheduled for an admissions interview. Please contact the Department at (561) 297-3602 or counseloreducation@fau.edu for additional information.