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4 Questions on the Counselor Education Online Master’s Program

Through our online Master’s program in Counselor Education, students become culturally competent counselors and counselor educators who work collaboratively to help children, adults and families build healthier communities through a flexible online learning schedule.

With the application deadline for fall admission right around the corner, we want to take the opportunity to laud the online Counselor Education program for its commitment to the betterment and accessibility of counselor education.

To learn more about the program and its impact on students, we talked to Lauren Gardner, M.A., Ed.S., LPCA, a teaching assistant for the online certificate in Counselor Education.

Please explain your role in the Counselor Education program.

I am a teaching assistant for the online certificate in Counselor Education. In this role, I provide advising and career counseling to students interested in the program, entering the program, and completing the program.

I also grade assignments, facilitate discussion in the online forums, answer student questions, and support the program and its students.

How does the online Master’s program in Counselor Education help make learning more accessible? Why do you think accessibility for all students is important?

There is a high need for counselors in many rural parts of this state, and not very many people are trained to provide professional counseling in these remote locations. Online learning makes training in these areas possible without a daily commute to NC State.

Our programs, especially the online Master’s in Counselor Education, can help train people across North Carolina, as it’s important to have education options for those who already have lives established in the high-need areas.

What’s the most impactful thing you’ve learned in the Counselor Education program?

As a student, I have learned how important diversity is. Before coming here, I knew intellectually about diversity, but my peers in this program have helped me to actually see the benefits of diversity in a more personal way. I’m grateful to be a part of a cohort where there is such a wide range of cultural backgrounds and theoretical perspectives.

What would you say to a future student who is considering applying for the online Counselor Education Master’s program?

Take time to figure out what you want. It’s hard work being a counselor, but it can be very rewarding. The world needs good counselors!

To learn more about the online Master’s in Counselor Education, please read more here and apply by January 15th for 2016 admission. The program is also planning for another admission in summer for those who cannot achieve the January 15 deadline.