For candidates wishing to join the Region 4 Inspire Texas Counselor Certification program, the state of Texas requires a 48-hour master’s degree in counseling for school counselor certification.
In collaboration with the University of St. Thomas, the School Counselor Certification program is intended to provide candidates with the required 48-hour master’s degree in counseling and the Texas School Counselor certificate. Counselors are essential members of a school leadership team who focus on campus programs, college and career readiness and advancement, and student mental health.
Candidates are concurrently enrolled with the University of St. Thomas and Region 4 for coursework and practicum. Effective September 1, 2023, the state is removing the requirement for School Counselors to have two years of credible teaching experience as part of the admission to a certification program.
During the six-term/semester program, candidates will complete 48 college credit hours and earn 160 hours on a TEA-accredited campus during a supervised practicum. Eighty hours of the practicum will be directly working with students, and 80 indirect hours will be assisting teachers, parents, and planning.
All candidates will undergo a background check prior to being admitted into the program.
School counselor candidates must successfully complete the state certification exam for the Standard Certificate.
IF YOUR ACTIONS INSPIRE OTHERS TO DREAM MORE, LEARN MORE, DO MORE, AND BECOME MORE, YOU ARE A LEADER.
– JOHN QUINCY ADAMS
Counselors are a pivotal part of a student’s development, helping tomorrow’s leaders make the right choices about coursework, careers, and personal interests. Your role as a counselor is important in helping students be open to new possibilities and be more confident in their decisions. We offer the tools that will help you guide the children of Texas toward successful futures.
The Region 4 Inspire Texas Counselor Certification Program teaches you how to advise students and assess their potential.
Your comprehensive training includes a 12-month supervised internship that can be completed anywhere in Texas. As an intern, you will complete approximately 360 hours of counselor program training, which includes coursework, seminars, field experience, and active research.
