This plan is appropriate if you are seeking graduate preparation in counseling with a specialization in student affairs within higher education.
Our plan is built on the philosophy that counseling is a foundation for student affairs work. When you complete this program, you are prepared for professional roles in student affairs positions in higher education.
This plan meets the CAS standards for professional preparation programs in student affairs and the coursework requirement for the national counselor certification of the National Board of Certified Counselors.
This degree is approved by the Western Regional Graduate Program.
If you have a desire for inspiring students to achieve career and life goals, and want to do so in a higher-education setting, earning a degree in student affairs counseling is the next step. Counseling is a good foundation for a profession in student affairs and you’ll be prepared for a job in student affairs at a college or university.
While courses focus on teaching and learning, innovation and technology, college student development, counseling, leadership, and diversity, you’ll also find opportunities to learn valuable skills through theory to practice opportunities in fieldwork, practicum, and intership in student affairs departments on campus. If you’re seeking an assistantship, they are available in departments like Residence Life, Multicultural Student Affairs, Student Life, Recreation Services, Academic Advising, and Academic Support. The program meets Council for the Advancement of Standards guidelines for student affairs preparation programs and the counseling courses meet Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs standards.
Entry and mid-level position on college and university campuses in:
To receive a master’s degree at Northern Arizona University, you must complete a planned group of courses from one or more subject areas, consisting of at least 30 units of graduate-level courses. Many master’s degree programs require more than 30 units.
You must additionally complete:
Read the full policy here.
In addition to University Requirements:
Students may be able to use some courses to meet more than one requirement. Contact your advisor for details.
| Minimum Units for Completion | 48 |
| Fieldwork Experience/Internship | Required |
| Progression Plan Link | View Program of Study |
Purpose Statement
The Counseling-Student Affairs MEd is for students seeking graduate preparation in counseling within the higher education realm of student affairs. Our approach is built on the philosophy that counseling is a foundation for student affairs work. Students develop strong counseling skills, including the understanding and application of student learning and development theory. Coupled with a foundation in the historical, philosophical, ethical, cultural, and research foundations of higher education, and knowledge of organization and administration of student affairs, our students have the well-rounded knowledge and skills to be successful in a broad range of Student Affairs areas (residence life, multicultural affairs, student life, recreation services international education, athletics and academic advising).
Student Learning Outcomes
Foundational Studies: study in the historical, philosophical, ethical, cultural, and research foundations of higher education that informs student affairs practice.
More Information
Individual program admission requirements over and above admission to NAU are required.
The NAU graduate online application is required for all programs. Admission to many graduate programs is on a competitive basis, and programs may have higher standards than those established by the Graduate College.
Admission requirements include the following:
Visit the NAU Graduate Admissions website for additional information about graduate school application deadlines, eligibility for study, and admissions policies.
Ready to apply? Begin your application now.
International applicants have additional admission requirements. Please see the International Graduate Admissions Policy.
Take the following 48 units:
Be aware that some courses may have prerequisites that you must also successfully complete. For prerequisite information, click on the course or see your advisor.