Master of Arts in Counseling

Prospective students should access the graduate application online at connect.westfield.ma.edu/apply/

The following material must be received for an application to be reviewed:

1. Completed graduate application and $50 application fee. In your application, please indicate your concentration preference: Mental Health Counseling, Forensic Mental Health Counseling, Law Enforcement Co-Response Concentration in Mental Health Counseling, School Adjustment Counseling, or School Counseling. Additionally, please specify if you will be attending full-time or part-time.
2. Official transcripts indicating a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university. 
3. Applicants must submit three letters of reference, including at least one academic reference. 
4. Applicants must submit a personal statement that describes (1) reason for interest in the field, (2) assessment of personal strengths and limitations, and (3) goals of graduate study. 
5. Applicants must submit a professional vitae or resume, including information on prior and/or current volunteer and/or employment positions. 
6. Applicants applying to the School Counseling program or School Adjustment Counseling must submit passing scores on the Communication and Literacy Skills portions of the Massachusetts Educators Certification Tests (MTEL). 

The closing date for receipt of all admissions materials is February 1st for fall admission.

Applicants with a firm foundation in psychology, education, or related field are highly preferred. Note - applicants with degrees in unrelated fields may enhance their application through the successful completion of undergraduate courses in Statistics, Child or Adolescent Development, Personality, Abnormal Psychology, Counseling, and/or Behavior Modification, as appropriate to the targeted degree program.

Applicants selected for interviews must attend a formal interview with members of the graduate admissions committee. 

Notice of acceptance will occur on or about April 15th for study beginning the following September. 

Due to the competitive nature of these programs, we require a nonrefundable program deposit of $150.00 within 10 days of acceptance. This deposit is used to ensure your space in the program. The deposit is applied to your first registration as a matriculated student in the fall semester immediately following your acceptance. If we do not hear from you within 10 days, we will assume you have selected an alternative direction, and we will close your matriculation.

Full-time students typically complete the program in three years, while part-time students take about four years, offering flexibility to accommodate diverse schedules.

Most courses are offered in-person during the evening on campus with the some online or remote synchronous courses offered, providing a convenient schedule for our students. It's essential to note that an exception to this is the flexibility required to complete practicum hours during the daytime.

No, we do not require a GRE or MAT.  However, applicants applying to the school counseling or school adjustment counseling programs must submit passing reading and writing scores on the Communication and Literacy Skills portions of the Massachusetts Educators Certification Tests (MTEL). 

Discover graduate living at Welch Hall Apartments – your gateway to a vibrant community and tailored amenities. Choose from four-person apartments featuring single and premium single rooms, all inclusive of utilities and internet. Make connections by signing up as a group or embark on an individual adventure with like-minded roommates. Revel in the comfort of fully furnished apartments, boasting a well-equipped kitchen with a breakfast bar, cozy bathrooms, and inviting shared living spaces.

Your convenience is our priority – enjoy free laundry facilities on campus and parking at an affordable rate. Immerse yourself in academic pursuits with easy access to the campus library or prioritize your well-being at our fitness centers.

Whether you prefer cooking with your roommates or opting for a meal plan, relish access to an array of campus dining options, including late-night and takeaway choices. Elevate your graduate experience with Welch Hall Apartments – where living meets exceptional comfort and convenience.

For more information contact housing@westfield.ma.edu or 413-572-5402.

Westfield State University offers a comprehensive university experience at an affordable cost—with many options for financial aid. Visit our Cost and Aid page to learn more. 

Yes, a limited number of graduate assistantships are available each year for graduate students. These opportunities are competitive and are awarded to students with excellent academic records who are enrolled in a graduate degree program.

This valuable opportunity can enhance your academic journey and provide valuable experience. Don't miss out on the chance to be part of this enriching program!

Learn more about graduate assistantships.

Yes, students have a dedicated advisor – your compass through class choices and beyond. Beyond academics, your advisor becomes a mentor, guiding you on further education and career paths. We're not just about classes; we connect you to resources like the Banacos Center and the Reading & Writing Center. At every step, we're here to ensure your success is our priority.

Candidates will be subject to an ongoing dispositional assessment coordinated by the faculty advisor in collaboration with cooperating course instructors, faculty supervisors, and site supervisors. In order for a candidate to advance academically from semester to semester, advance to a Field Placement or graduate with an M.A. Counseling degree, they must hold no unresolved “0” or “-1” scores in their dispositional record. 

Any candidate who fails to achieve and maintain a satisfactory level on the Dispositional Assessment will be subject to review by the Graduate Committee in Counseling, who may determine that the candidate can proceed without intervention or may work with the candidate (or provide a designated faculty member to work with the candidate) on a remedial plan. The Graduate Committee in Counseling may also decide the candidate is not eligible to proceed academically or proceed to Field Placement. If a candidate's assessment displays “0” or “-1” scores, the Graduate Committee in Counseling may remove them from a Field Placement.

The M.A. program must be completed within seven years of the first course counted toward the degree. Since courses are offered in a sequence rather than each semester, planning with advisors is imperative. Upon acceptance into the program, the student is assigned an advisor who will assist in planning a program to fit individual needs. There will be continual evaluation during the course of study with students apprised of their progress. A favorable evaluation is necessary for continuation in the program. The granting of the degree is based on professional competence, completion of the program of study, and satisfactory performance in a comprehensive exam or professional portfolio. 

To accommodate students who work and/or have other substantial demands placed upon their time, courses are offered during the evenings and/or late afternoon. Important exceptions to this schedule are the Pre-practicum, Practicum, and Internship experiences. While some placements permit flexible scheduling, many place restrictions on scheduling. Since these experiences are an essential component of counselor training, students must plan for the flexibility that will allow them to complete these requirements.

Yes, we offer the Supporting Our Schools Scholarship for school and adjustment counseling concentrations.