School Counseling & Mental Health Counseling

Visit the Hofstra campus or connect with the graduate admission team. We will answer your questions and put you in touch with program faculty or degree candidates to learn more. Contact us at graduateadmission@hofstra.edu, or call 516-463-4723.

To be considered for graduate programs in school counseling or mental health counseling at Hofstra University, you must have completed an undergraduate degree from an accredited institution (preferably with a major in psychology, the behavior sciences, and/or human services). Personal experience in counseling or growth-oriented processes are desired. The Adv. Cert. in Mental Health Counseling is designed for practicing counselors who are master's prepared. The Adv. Cert. in Substance Abuse Counseling can be completed alongside select graduate programs or as a stand-alone program, post-baccalaureate or post-master's.

The following prerequisites are required for master's level study in MSED School Counselor, MA Mental Health Counseling, and Adv. Certificate in Addiction and Substance Abuse:

• Child psychology
• Adolescent psychology
• Personality theory or abnormal psychology
• Three additional courses in psychology and behavioral sciences (MA in Mental Health Counseling only requires these prerequisites).

Start your application online where you can upload the following documents:

• Transcripts from all previously attended colleges and universities. You may initially submit unofficial copies of your transcripts for your application review, but official transcripts will be required once you are accepted into the program.
• Three letters of recommendation (two letters required for Adv Cert in Mental Health Counseling)
• Personal essay describing your professional intent and pertinent background. (not required by Adv Cert in Mental Health Counseling)
• Admission interview with the program director and/or faculty representative. A writing sample also may be required on-site.
• Writing sample may be required at time of admission interview.

If you are a current Hofstra student interested in pursuing undergraduate/graduate joint programs please contact graduateadmission@hofstra.edu.

Visit the School Counseling and Mental Health Counseling program page to learn more.

International students: Please review additional admission requirements.*

*Students who require an F-I visa are able to apply for and enroll in the MA in Mental Health Counseling program, however, they will not be able to complete the mandatory 3,000 hours in the field post-graduation within the required 2-year time frame to receive licensure and practice within New York state. Skills learned within the program can be exercised within home countries and in other areas of the US.