Contemporary Theory in School-Based Services
Graduate Certificate in Counseling

Are you interested in creating safe and supportive learning environments for children and young adults? Our graduate certificate in contemporary theory in school-based services can be your first step toward meeting your goals as a school counselor. This program is designed to help you advance in your knowledge of school-based services.

This graduate certificate is not designed to meet licensure requirements for the counseling professions.

Work toward your next degree

Coursework completed in this program may be applied toward an MS in School Counseling at Capella.

Scholar-practitioner faculty

Learn the latest in academic theory and applied practice from experienced faculty members who are actively engaged in their professions.

Engage in blended, flexible learning

Access our engaging, online learning environment anytime, anywhere, with any device, and set your own schedule while meeting deadlines.

Classes start January 8

Use the code MSFALL to waive the $50 application fee.

At a glance

100% Online
5 Core courses

Explore counseling courses

This certificate requires a total of 20 program credits
You’ll need to complete five courses

Course number & name	Course description	Credits
COUN5002 Lifespan Development for the Counseling Professions	Learners examine theories and principles of lifespan development to include biological, cognitive, social, emotional, and moral frameworks. Learners analyze the diverse contexts that support typical and adaptive development in all stages of life and are exposed to current research and knowledge in the field. Must be taken during the learner's first quarter. Cannot be fulfilled by transfer.	4 quarter credits
COUN5238* Crisis Assessment and Intervention	Learners assess crisis intervention and emergency management models and strategies used in the counseling field and develop the crisis intervention skills needed to provide counseling services in mental health settings in a timely, effective, and ethical manner. Learners also investigate related topics, including working with situational crises, assessing suicide and other risks, and supporting the implementation of emergency management plans. *Prerequisite COUN-R5861.	4 quarter credits
COUN5239 Theories of the Counseling Profession	Learners investigate various theories of psychotherapy and their respective philosophical principles and assumptions. Learners evaluate the theoretical concepts and evidence-based practices of psychotherapy and examine appropriate application of theories and interventions to a diverse client population.	4 quarter credits
COUN5280 Introduction to School Counseling	Learners gain an understanding of the profession of school counseling. Learners examine the history and development of school counseling; investigate ethical and legal requirements for school counselors; explore the American School Counselor Association (ASCA) National Model and service delivery systems, including specific programs and interventions; and analyze the multiple roles and functions of school counselors with various stakeholders.	4 quarter credits
COUN5240 Child and Adolescent Psychopathology	Learners examine common characteristics, risk factors, and warning signs of mental health and behavioral disorders affecting children and adolescents. Learners also critically evaluate diagnostic models, methods, and approaches and explore current DSM classifications and diagnostic issues related to children and adolescents. In addition, learners investigate the impact of common medications on learning, behavior, and mood in children and adolescents.	4 quarter credits

*Course has prerequisite(s). See catalog for details.

How much does a graduate certificate in counseling cost?

The total cost of your certificate will depend on academic performance, transfer credits, tuition discounts and other factors. See cost information below.

A structured learning format with an active peer community and faculty guidance. We’ll set the schedule, you meet the deadlines.

Learn more about GuidedPath »

Based on the quarter system; 1–3 courses per 10-week quarter
1 semester credit = 1.5 quarter credits
Weekly assignments and courseroom discussions
Pay for what you take, price varies by courseload or quarter

$9,940 estimated tuition^*

$497 per credit, $175 resource kit fee, 20 total quarter credits, 0 max transfer credits

*This is only an estimate, effective July 10, 2023, and is subject to change. Your price will vary depending on your specialization, transfer credits, and tuition discounts. Books, supplies, and other fees are not included in this estimate. GuidedPath prices show the tuition you would pay if you brought in an average number of transfer credits or the maximum allowed transfer credits. New or recently revised program estimates are based on comparable programs.

Capella is committed to transparency in its tuition and pricing. In addition to tuition, you will be responsible for additional costs, which may include an application fee, travel expenses, and practicum costs. A resource kit fee of $50-$200, charged quarterly or per billing session, covers the cost of required books, software, and other course materials. Click here to review program-specific fee amounts in our University Catalog.

Find out more about financing and payment options to help you complete your program. Federal aid also is available to help manage the costs of higher education. Learn more about financing your education.

Get the details

Connect with an enrollment counselor to further discuss the cost of the program and explore your eligibility for scholarships and discounts.

Are there scholarships available for certificates?

Your education is an investment in your future. There are more ways to save than you might think.

Military discount

Capella offers a tuition discount to active-duty service members and their spouses, Guard and Reserve members, and veterans.

Employer and association discounts

If your employer or organization is a partner with Capella, you may be eligible for a tuition discount.

Employer reimbursements

Many employers offer affordable tuition and career building opportunities to employees. Talk to your manager or HR department to find out if you’re eligible.

Capella University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Accreditation and recognitions provide evidence that we meet standards for quality of faculty, curriculum, learner services, and fiscal stability.

See all our accreditations and recognitions.

What are the graduate certificate in counseling admission requirements?

Admission requirements

Applicants to the Graduate Certificate in Counseling, Contemporary Theory in School-Based Services program must provide the following information for admission:

Bachelor’s degree from an institution accredited by a U.S. Department of Education-recognized accrediting agency or an internationally recognized institution
Your official transcripts, minimum grade point average of 2.3 or higher on a 4.0 scale
A $50 nonrefundable application fee, required at the time of application, to cover transcript requests, transcript evaluation and other administrative costs
A valid, government-issued form of photo identification

GRE and GMAT are not required for admission.

International student requirements

If you completed your most recent academic coursework, degree, or credential at an institution outside the United States, regardless of your citizenship or where you currently live, you are considered an international applicant.

In addition to the above admission requirements, you will need to submit these materials:

Minimum score on acceptable test for proof of English proficiency
Transcript evaluation

Learn more about international student admissions.

What support does Capella offer online students?

Our programs are designed to meet the unique needs of a certificate student. We’ve structured the experience in manageable pieces to help you earn your certificate with support from faculty, staff and online resources.

Faculty

Our courses are taught by distinguished faculty members who hold top credentials and have practical expertise in their fields.

Enrollment counselors

Our enrollment counselors will help you find the right degree and program and answer all your questions about Capella. They can also help you with the admissions process.