School counselor consulting with female student

Certificate, International School Counseling

School counselors are vital to fostering healthy school environments so children can thrive. This program is designed for educators in international schools who want to advance their skills and knowledge and promote the social and emotional well-being of students inside and outside the classroom. 

Overview

Schools generally are seeing more children who are dealing with stress and mental health issues, and staff are frequently called on to be part of solutions to prevent problems from turning into something more critical. Our faculty teach educators how to help children with developmental issues within the context of an international setting in which children are navigating a culture different from their own. 

Lehigh’s International School Counseling students benefit not just from faculty expertise, but also in learning from—and networking with—each other about issues and strategies in school settings around the world. The program attracts a very diverse group of educators with a wide range of backgrounds who enrich the curriculum by sharing their experiences. 

Certificate students can apply for the M.Ed. in International School Counseling during their certificate program or on completion. If admitted into the master's degree, the certificate classes will automatically count towards the master's program. The following courses are required in the certificate program and are taken alongside the students in the International School Counseling master’s program. 

Application Requirements

  • Online application
  • Transcripts, minimum GPA of 2.75 (undergraduate) 
  • Proof of English proficiency
  • Resume

Quick Facts

Transcript Evaluations: Evaluations are required for applicants who have earned a degree outside the U.S.

Deadlines: 

Spring Start-Priority Deadline September 30 / Final Deadline October 31

Summer Start Priority Deadline January 31 / Final Deadline February 28

Modality: Online (fall and spring), In-Person (summer)

Please Note: International applicants should apply by the summer priority deadline to allow time to receive a visa before the Summer Institute. 

The application and all supporting materials are due by the listed deadlines.

Course Requirements: 4 courses (12 credits)

Typical Course Load: Spring - 1 online asynchronous course, summer - 2 in-person courses, fall - 1 online asynchronous course

Time to Completion: 1 year

Your best work is ahead.

Curriculum

All courses are 3 credits, unless otherwise noted. Course descriptions can be found in the course catalog.

course numbercourse name

CPSY 442

Counseling & Therapeutic Approaches

CPSY 452

Helping Skills in International Settings

CPSY 453

International School Counseling 1

CPSY 436

Culture Centered Career Intervention

Students can start the certificate program in the spring or summer term. In-person classes are held in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania or in an international location during the Summer Institute

Students may choose to spread out their classes over more than one year if a slower pace through the program is better suited to their needs. 

Certificate students who would like to pursue their master’s degree are advised to also take CPSY 456 in the summer.