M.Ed. International School Counseling

Our Master of Education in International School Counseling degree is designed for students living outside the United States who work at international schools with students from different countries, including the United States. 

This hybrid program has online asynchronous and synchronous classes during the school year and in-person classes during the Summer Institute in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania or in an international location. Graduates of the program who are U.S. citizens/residents can receive Pennsylvania certification as school counselors. Pennsylvania certification can be transferred to other states with or without additional requirements. International students may be able to receive certification in other states and should inquire with the states directly. Starting in 2025, new students will be required to attend a Summer Institute in Pennsylvania to receive a recommendation from Lehigh for certification in Pennsylvania. This is not a requirement for students applying for certification in other states.

The course of study prepares students to work with individuals and groups from diverse backgrounds and developmental stages, helping them to gain skills for living in a complex society. Students learn how to help children and families navigate the transitions they face living in a culture different from their own. 

The M.Ed. program starts once a year in winter and requires the completion of 16 courses (48 credits). A typical course load of one or two courses in the fall, one during winter intersession, one or two in the spring, and three in the summer enables students to complete the program in two to three years. Students may choose to move through the program at a slower pace if that better suits their needs. 

Practical experience is an important part of the degree with students expected to complete a minimum of 100 hours of fieldwork. The culminating experience is a two semester internship of 15-20 hours a week. The internship must be completed at a school outside of the U.S. If needed, students can take a break in their studies while they secure a volunteer or paid internship. The capstone is the student’s comprehensive portfolio.

Our faculty bring a wide variety of experiences to the curriculum as well as expertise in the latest research, best practices and techniques in counseling. A low student-to-faculty ratio allows master’s candidates to work closely with mentors. 

Graduates of Lehigh’s M.Ed. in International School Counseling program work as school counselors, college and career counselors, teachers and principals/heads of school.