Counseling (M.A.) Admission Requirements

M.A. degrees

In addition to the University’s admissions requirements:

Baccalaureate degree from an accredited college or university
A minimum cumulative grade point average of 3.0 is required for admission consideration
Official transcripts from all institutions attended
Three letters of recommendation: Applicants should select references who can evaluate their academic readiness, interpersonal and professional qualities, and potential for success in graduate-level counseling training and the counseling profession. Recent graduates are encouraged to include at least one faculty member who can speak to their academic performance and readiness for advanced graduate study. Employers, supervisors, or volunteer coordinators familiar with the applicant’s work, and professional development may also serve as references. Family members and personal friends are not appropriate references.
Departmental interview may be required
Personal statement addressing the applicant’s interest in counseling and the qualities that may support their development in the profession
Professional résumé/CV detailing academic, work, and volunteer experiences relevant to counseling
Official TOEFL or IELTS score reports for applicants whose native language is not English or whose degree was earned in a non-English-speaking country. Applicants must meet the university’s English proficiency requirements.
- Because counseling training and clinical practice require strong interpersonal and communication skills, applicants may also be evaluated on their overall communication readiness for graduate-level counseling education and supervised clinical work.
This program does NOT require the GRE for admission

Admissions decisions are based on a holistic review of each application, including academic performance, relevant experiences, professional potential, communication skills, recommendation letters, and overall fit for graduate-level counseling training.

Note: The program offered at Kean Ocean follows a part-time course sequence.

Degree Requirements

60 credits
All students conditionally admitted, following successful completion of core courses; faculty meet to assess whether the student will advance to full admission.
Practicum and 2 internships
CPCE (comprehensive examination)

Certification for Student Assistance Coordinator

In addition to the University’s admission requirements:

Baccalaureate degree from an accredited college or university
3.0 cumulative grade point average (lower GPA’s will be considered based on overall strength of application)
Official transcripts from all institutions attended
A valid New Jersey or out-of-state standard instructional certificate or certification as school psychologist, school social worker, school counselor, director of school counseling services or school nurse
Personal statement
Professional Resume/CV
Official TOEFL, IELTS or Duolingo score reports (International Students Only)

PROGRAM REQUIREMENTS