Master of Arts with Director of Instruction (WI 5010)

Overview

Our Director of Instruction program prepares school administrators to have more focused instruction and preparation in the area of Curriculum and Instruction. When chosen as your area of emphasis, your master's degree will be 14 courses (39-credit hours).

Blended delivery, with M.A. core coursework online:

  • 12-credits of M.A. core coursework (5 courses)
  • 21-credits of Educational Leadership core coursework (7 courses)
  • 6-credits of required Director of Instruction coursework (2 courses)

To add Principal Licensure (WI 5051), students will take an additional 3 credit hours.

Policy

Admissions

Admission Requirements for all Graduate Programs in Education (degree, license, endorsement, or certificate) include the following, but may include additional program-specific admission requirements:

  • A minimum cumulative undergraduate GPA of 2.75 or at least a 3.0 cumulative GPA for 12 graduate credits from an accredited institution in order to be admitted in good standing
  • Earned teaching or administrative license
  • One academic reference contact required for Wisconsin and Iowa Educational Leadership programs

All requirements for any graduate program in education must be completed within seven years from the date of application to the graduate program. Coursework must have been taken within the last seven years from the date of application to be applied to program requirements, with the exception of Iowa Educational Leadership programs which is limited to five years.

A student must have a cumulative grade point average of 3.0 to complete any graduate program in education and a grade of C or higher earned in all Viterbo University coursework.

Proseminar

In order to attend EDUC 604 Proseminar and engage in commencement ceremonies, students must have completed all required courses in their program of study. Proseminar is the culminating course in the MAE program; it is offered on campus each summer only. Proseminar provides students with the opportunity to present their research and to participate in commencement ceremonies. Degrees are conferred in August after successful completion of all required coursework including EDUC 604 Proseminar.

Registration

Students must apply online and be accepted into the program of their choice before registering for courses. Students will be assisted by their advisor/program specialist when registering for the first semester. In all subsequent semesters, the student will register online in VitNet/Student Planning.

Transfer Credit
Master of Arts in Education and Educational Leadership
Upon acceptance, student may transfer up to six credit hours of graduate credit taken within seven years of application date to be applied to the MAE degree program.  Up to six credit hours taken within seven years of application may be considered for the Wisconsin Educational Leadership program for equivalent graduate courses. Up to six semester credit hours taken within five years of application may be considered for the Iowa Educational Leadership program for equivalent graduate courses.

Learning Outcomes
  • Action Research: Synthesize information and experiences to grow professionally and actively participate in the educational community of which he/she is a part.   
  • Leadership: Apply quality principles of teacher leadership - including the skills of effective communication, collaboration, and motivation to shape, change, and improve student learning.
  • Synthesis: Integrate opportunities to grow professionally and actively participate in the educational community of which they are a part.        
  • Ethics: Integrate historical, philosophical, and social foundations of education into their educational practices.  
  • Pedagogy: Demonstrate the ability to provide different approaches to learning and create instructional opportunities that are equitable, based on developmental needs of students, and that are adapted to the diverse needs of students.  
  • Assess: Integrate student achievement data, local, state, and national standards, and district initiatives into plans for instruction.        
     

Master of Arts with Director of Special Education and Pupil Services (WI 5080)

Overview

Our Director of Special Education and Pupil Services program prepares school administrators to have more focused instruction in the areas of Special Education and Pupil Services at the district and site levels. When chosen as your area of emphasis, your master's degree will be 16 courses (45-credit hours).

Blended delivery, with M.A. core coursework online:

  • 12-credits of M.A. core coursework (5 courses)
  • 21-credits of Educational Leadership core coursework (7 courses)
  • 12-credits of required Director of Special Education and Pupil Services coursework (4 courses)

To add Principal Licensure (WI 51), students will take an additional 3 credit hours.

Policy

Admissions

Admission Requirements for all Graduate Programs in Education (degree, license, endorsement, or certificate) include the following, but may include additional program-specific admission requirements:

  • A minimum cumulative undergraduate GPA of 2.75 or at least a 3.0 cumulative GPA for 12 graduate credits from an accredited institution in order to be admitted in good standing
  • Earned teaching or administrative license
  • One academic reference contact required for Wisconsin and Iowa Educational Leadership programs

All requirements for any graduate program in education must be completed within seven years from the date of application to the graduate program. Coursework must have been taken within the last seven years from the date of application to be applied to program requirements, with the exception of Iowa Educational Leadership programs which is limited to five years.

A student must have a cumulative grade point average of 3.0 to complete any graduate program in education and a grade of C or higher earned in all Viterbo University coursework.

Proseminar

In order to attend EDUC 604 Proseminar and engage in commencement ceremonies, students must have completed all required courses in their program of study. Proseminar is the culminating course in the MAE program; it is offered on campus each summer only. Proseminar provides students with the opportunity to present their research and to participate in commencement ceremonies. Degrees are conferred in August after successful completion of all required coursework including EDUC 604 Proseminar.

Registration

Students must apply online and be accepted into the program of their choice before registering for courses. Students will be assisted by their advisor/program specialist when registering for the first semester. In all subsequent semesters, the student will register online in VitNet/Student Planning.

Transfer Credit
Master of Arts in Education and Educational Leadership
Upon acceptance, student may transfer up to six credit hours of graduate credit taken within seven years of application date to be applied to the MAE degree program.  Up to six credit hours taken within seven years of application may be considered for the Wisconsin Educational Leadership program for equivalent graduate courses. Up to six semester credit hours taken within five years of application may be considered for the Iowa Educational Leadership program for equivalent graduate courses.

Learning Outcomes
  • Action Research: Synthesize information and experiences to grow professionally and actively participate in the educational community of which he/she is a part.   
  • Leadership: Apply quality principles of teacher leadership - including the skills of effective communication, collaboration, and motivation to shape, change, and improve student learning.
  • Synthesis: Integrate opportunities to grow professionally and actively participate in the educational community of which they are a part.        
  • Ethics: Integrate historical, philosophical, and social foundations of education into their educational practices.  
  • Pedagogy: Demonstrate the ability to provide different approaches to learning and create instructional opportunities that are equitable, based on developmental needs of students, and that are adapted to the diverse needs of students.  
  • Assess: Integrate student achievement data, local, state, and national standards, and district initiatives into plans for instruction.  
     

Master of Arts with Reading Specialist (WI 5017)

Overview

Our Reading Specialist (WI 5017) prepares educators to lead and supervise district-wide reading programs. Educators will increase their knowledge of assessment tools and diagnostic practices to plan and develop reading programs that increase student learning and achievement. When chosen as your area of emphasis, your master's degree will be 11 courses (31-credit hours).

Online delivery:

  • 15-credits of core coursework (6 courses)
  • 10-credits of coursework specific to the Reading Specialist 5017 license (3 courses)
  • 6-credits of approved elective credits (2 courses) - varied delivery modes
Policy

Admissions

Admission Requirements for all Graduate Programs in Education (degree, license, endorsement, or certificate) include the following, but may include additional program-specific admission requirements:

  • A minimum cumulative undergraduate GPA of 2.75 or at least a 3.0 cumulative GPA for 12 graduate credits from an accredited institution in order to be admitted in good standing
  • Earned teaching or administrative license
  • One academic reference contact required for Wisconsin and Iowa Educational Leadership programs

All requirements for any graduate program in education must be completed within seven years from the date of application to the graduate program. Coursework must have been taken within the last seven years from the date of application to be applied to program requirements, with the exception of Iowa Educational Leadership programs which is limited to five years.

A student must have a cumulative grade point average of 3.0 to complete any graduate program in education and a grade of C or higher earned in all Viterbo University coursework.

Proseminar

In order to attend EDUC 604 Proseminar and engage in commencement ceremonies, students must have completed all required courses in their program of study. Proseminar is the culminating course in the MAE program; it is offered on campus each summer only. Proseminar provides students with the opportunity to present their research and to participate in commencement ceremonies. Degrees are conferred in August after successful completion of all required coursework including EDUC 604 Proseminar.

Registration

Students must apply online and be accepted into the program of their choice before registering for courses. Students will be assisted by their advisor/program specialist when registering for the first semester. In all subsequent semesters, the student will register online in VitNet/Student Planning.

Transfer Credit
Master of Arts in Education and Educational Leadership
Upon acceptance, student may transfer up to six credit hours of graduate credit taken within seven years of application date to be applied to the MAE degree program.  Up to six credit hours taken within seven years of application may be considered for the Wisconsin Educational Leadership program for equivalent graduate courses. Up to six semester credit hours taken within five years of application may be considered for the Iowa Educational Leadership program for equivalent graduate courses.

Wisconsin Reading Specialist License (WI 5017)

  • Possess a current Wisconsin Reading Teaching 316 License
  • Demonstrated three years of regular full-time teaching experience
  • Have a master's degree in education OR be enrolled in Viterbo University's MAED program
  • Earn a passing score on the Wisconsin Foundations of Reading Test, as required by the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction
Learning Outcomes
  • Action Research: Synthesize information and experiences to grow professionally and actively participate in the educational community of which he/she is a part.   
  • Leadership: Apply quality principles of teacher leadership - including the skills of effective communication, collaboration, and motivation to shape, change, and improve student learning.
  • Synthesis: Integrate opportunities to grow professionally and actively participate in the educational community of which they are a part.        
  • Ethics: Integrate historical, philosophical, and social foundations of education into their educational practices.  
  • Pedagogy: Demonstrate the ability to provide different approaches to learning and create instructional opportunities that are equitable, based on developmental needs of students, and that are adapted to the diverse needs of students.  
  • Assess: Integrate student achievement data, local, state, and national standards, and district initiatives into plans for instruction.  
     

Master of Arts with Reading Teacher (WI 1316)

Overview

Our Reading Teacher (WI 1316) emphasis is designed for practicing educators who wish to increase their instructional skills and expand their knowledge and expertise in areas of literacy and reading. Coursework will focus on preparing teachers to utilize research-based practices to assess, diagnose, and remediate struggling readers. When chosen as your area of emphasis, your master's degree will be 10 courses (30-credit hours).

Online delivery:

  • 15-credits of M.A. core coursework (5 courses)
  • 15-credits of coursework specific to the Reading Teacher 1316 license (5 courses)
Policy

Admissions

Admission Requirements for all Graduate Programs in Education (degree, license, endorsement, or certificate) include the following, but may include additional program-specific admission requirements:

  • A minimum cumulative undergraduate GPA of 2.75 or at least a 3.0 cumulative GPA for 12 graduate credits from an accredited institution in order to be admitted in good standing
  • Earned teaching or administrative license

All requirements for any graduate program in education must be completed within seven years from the date of application to the graduate program. Coursework must have been taken within the last seven years from the date of application to be applied to program requirements, with the exception of Iowa Educational Leadership programs which is limited to five years.

A student must have a cumulative grade point average of 3.0 to complete any graduate program in education and a grade of C or higher earned in all Viterbo University coursework.

Proseminar

In order to attend EDUC 604 Proseminar and engage in commencement ceremonies, students must have completed all required courses in their program of study. Proseminar is the culminating course in the MAE program; it is offered on campus each summer only. Proseminar provides students with the opportunity to present their research and to participate in commencement ceremonies. Degrees are conferred in August after successful completion of all required coursework including EDUC 604 Proseminar.

Registration

Students must apply online and be accepted into the program of their choice before registering for courses. Students will be assisted by their advisor/program specialist when registering for the first semester. In all subsequent semesters, the student will register online in VitNet/Student Planning.

Transfer Credit
Master of Arts in Education and Educational Leadership
Upon acceptance, student may transfer up to six credit hours of graduate credit taken within seven years of application date to be applied to the MAE degree program.  Up to six credit hours taken within seven years of application may be considered for the Wisconsin Educational Leadership program for equivalent graduate courses. Up to six semester credit hours taken within five years of application may be considered for the Iowa Educational Leadership program for equivalent graduate courses.

Learning Outcomes
  • Action Research: Synthesize information and experiences to grow professionally and actively participate in the educational community of which he/she is a part.   
  • Leadership: Apply quality principles of teacher leadership - including the skills of effective communication, collaboration, and motivation to shape, change, and improve student learning.
  • Synthesis: Integrate opportunities to grow professionally and actively participate in the educational community of which they are a part.        
  • Ethics: Integrate historical, philosophical, and social foundations of education into their educational practices.  
  • Pedagogy: Demonstrate the ability to provide different approaches to learning and create instructional opportunities that are equitable, based on developmental needs of students, and that are adapted to the diverse needs of students.  
  • Assess: Integrate student achievement data, local, state, and national standards, and district initiatives into plans for instruction.       
     

Master of Arts with Cross-categorical Special Education (WI 2801)

Overview

Our Cross-categorical Special Education emphasis brings educators from across the state together to learn best practices in the field of special education. Our classes view individuals with disabilities from a strengths-based model, and help educators work toward successful inclusion of individuals with disabilities. When chosen as your area of emphasis, your master's degree will be 13 courses (34-37 credit hours).

Online delivery:

  • 15-credits of core coursework (6 courses)
  • 19-21 credits of coursework specific to the Cross-categorical Special Education (7 courses)
Policy

Admissions

Admission Requirements for all Graduate Programs in Education (degree, license, endorsement, or certificate) include the following, but may include additional program-specific admission requirements:

  • A minimum cumulative undergraduate GPA of 2.75 or at least a 3.0 cumulative GPA for 12 graduate credits from an accredited institution in order to be admitted in good standing
  • Earned teaching or administrative license

All requirements for any graduate program in education must be completed within seven years from the date of application to the graduate program. Coursework must have been taken within the last seven years from the date of application to be applied to program requirements, with the exception of Iowa Educational Leadership programs which is limited to five years.

A student must have a cumulative grade point average of 3.0 to complete any graduate program in education and a grade of C or higher earned in all Viterbo University coursework.

Proseminar

In order to attend EDUC 604 Proseminar and engage in commencement ceremonies, students must have completed all required courses in their program of study. Proseminar is the culminating course in the MAE program; it is offered on campus each summer only. Proseminar provides students with the opportunity to present their research and to participate in commencement ceremonies. Degrees are conferred in August after successful completion of all required coursework including EDUC 604 Proseminar.

Registration

Students must apply online and be accepted into the program of their choice before registering for courses. Students will be assisted by their advisor/program specialist when registering for the first semester. In all subsequent semesters, the student will register online in VitNet/Student Planning.

Transfer Credit
Master of Arts in Education and Educational Leadership
Upon acceptance, student may transfer up to six credit hours of graduate credit taken within seven years of application date to be applied to the MAE degree program.  Up to six credit hours taken within seven years of application may be considered for the Wisconsin Educational Leadership program for equivalent graduate courses. Up to six semester credit hours taken within five years of application may be considered for the Iowa Educational Leadership program for equivalent graduate courses.

Learning Outcomes
  • Action Research: Synthesize information and experiences to grow professionally and actively participate in the educational community of which he/she is a part.   
  • Leadership: Apply quality principles of teacher leadership - including the skills of effective communication, collaboration, and motivation to shape, change, and improve student learning.
  • Synthesis: Integrate opportunities to grow professionally and actively participate in the educational community of which they are a part.        
  • Ethics: Integrate historical, philosophical, and social foundations of education into their educational practices.  
  • Pedagogy: Demonstrate the ability to provide different approaches to learning and create instructional opportunities that are equitable, based on developmental needs of students, and that are adapted to the diverse needs of students.  
  • Assess: Integrate student achievement data, local, state, and national standards, and district initiatives into plans for instruction.        
     

Master of Arts with Principal Licensure (WI 5051)

Overview

Our Principal Licensure 51 program prepares educators to become school leaders at the Dean, assistant, or Principal level.  When chosen as your area of emphasis, your master's degree  will be 13 courses (36-credit hours).

Blended delivery, with M.A. core coursework online:

  • 12-credits of M.A. core coursework (5 courses)
  • 21-credits of Educational Leadership core coursework (7 courses) 
  • 3-credits of required Principal coursework (1 course)

To add Director of Instruction (WI 5010), students will taken an additional 6 credit hours.

Policy

Admissions

Admission Requirements for all Graduate Programs in Education (degree, license, endorsement, or certificate) include the following, but may include additional program-specific admission requirements:

  • A minimum cumulative undergraduate GPA of 2.75 or at least a 3.0 cumulative GPA for 12 graduate credits from an accredited institution in order to be admitted in good standing
  • Earned teaching or administrative license
  • One academic reference contact required for Wisconsin and Iowa Educational Leadership programs

All requirements for any graduate program in education must be completed within seven years from the date of application to the graduate program. Coursework must have been taken within the last seven years from the date of application to be applied to program requirements, with the exception of Iowa Educational Leadership programs which is limited to five years.

A student must have a cumulative grade point average of 3.0 to complete any graduate program in education and a grade of C or higher earned in all Viterbo University coursework.

Proseminar

In order to attend EDUC 604 Proseminar and engage in commencement ceremonies, students must have completed all required courses in their program of study. Proseminar is the culminating course in the MAE program; it is offered on campus each summer only. Proseminar provides students with the opportunity to present their research and to participate in commencement ceremonies. Degrees are conferred in August after successful completion of all required coursework including EDUC 604 Proseminar.

Registration

Students must apply online and be accepted into the program of their choice before registering for courses. Students will be assisted by their advisor/program specialist when registering for the first semester. In all subsequent semesters, the student will register online in VitNet/Student Planning.

Transfer Credit
Master of Arts in Education and Educational Leadership
Upon acceptance, student may transfer up to six credit hours of graduate credit taken within seven years of application date to be applied to the MAE degree program.  Up to six credit hours taken within seven years of application may be considered for the Wisconsin Educational Leadership program for equivalent graduate courses. Up to six semester credit hours taken within five years of application may be considered for the Iowa Educational Leadership program for equivalent graduate courses.

Learning Outcomes
  • Action Research: Synthesize information and experiences to grow professionally and actively participate in the educational community of which he/she is a part.   
  • Leadership: Apply quality principles of teacher leadership - including the skills of effective communication, collaboration, and motivation to shape, change, and improve student learning.
  • Synthesis: Integrate opportunities to grow professionally and actively participate in the educational community of which they are a part.        
  • Ethics: Integrate historical, philosophical, and social foundations of education into their educational practices.  
  • Pedagogy: Demonstrate the ability to provide different approaches to learning and create instructional opportunities that are equitable, based on developmental needs of students, and that are adapted to the diverse needs of students.  
  • Assess: Integrate student achievement data, local, state, and national standards, and district initiatives into plans for instruction. 
           

Master of Arts in Education with Create Your Own Emphasis (Iowa)

Overview

Our Master of Arts in Education (Generalist) allows you to create your own path, enabling you to grow in areas that support your personal and professional development. Electives can be selected from the various licensure and certificate programs, and the two additional courses from the MA core. When chosen as your area of emphasis, your master's degree will be 10 courses (30-credit hours).

  • 15-credits of core coursework (6 courses) - online
  • Minimum of 15-credits of elective coursework - online
Policy

Admission

Admission Requirements for all Graduate Programs in Education (degree, license, endorsement, or certificate) include the following, but may include additional program-specific admission requirements:

  • A minimum cumulative undergraduate GPA of 2.75 or at least a 3.0 cumulative GPA for 12 graduate credits from an accredited institution in order to be admitted in good standing
  • Earned teaching or administrative license
  • One academic reference contact required for Iowa Educational Leadership programs

All requirements for any graduate program in education must be completed within seven years from the date of application to the graduate program. Coursework must have been taken within the last 7 years from the date of application to be applied to program requirements, with the exception of Iowa Educational Leadership programs which is limited to five years.

Proseminar

In order to attend EDUC 604 Proseminar and engage in commencement ceremonies, students must have completed all required courses in their program of study. Proseminar is the culminating course in the MAE program; it is offered on campus each summer only. Proseminar provides students with the opportunity to present their research and to participate in commencement ceremonies. Degrees are conferred in August after successful completion of all required coursework including EDUC 604 Proseminar.

Registration

Students must apply online and be accepted into the program of their choice before registering for courses. Students will be assisted by their advisor/program specialist when registering for the first semester. In all subsequent semesters, the student will register online in VitNet/Student Planning.

Transfer Credit
Master of Arts in Education and Educational Leadership

Upon acceptance, student may transfer up to six credit hours of graduate credit taken within seven years of application date to be applied to the MAE degree program. Up to six semester credit hours taken within five years of application may be considered for the Iowa Educational Leadership program for equivalent graduate courses.

Learning Outcomes
  • Action Research: Synthesize information and experiences to grow professionally and actively participate in the educational community of which he/she is a part.   
  • Leadership: Apply quality principles of teacher leadership - including the skills of effective communication, collaboration, and motivation to shape, change, and improve student learning.
  • Synthesis: Integrate opportunities to grow professionally and actively participate in the educational community of which they are a part.        
  • Ethics: Integrate historical, philosophical, and social foundations of education into their educational practices.  
  • Pedagogy: Demonstrate the ability to provide different approaches to learning and create instructional opportunities that are equitable, based on developmental needs of students, and that are adapted to the diverse needs of students.  
  • Assess: Integrate student achievement data, local, state, and national standards, and district initiatives into plans for instruction.          

Master of Arts in Education with Licensures and Certificates

Overview

This option offers a Master of Arts in Education degree with academic study that aligns with licensures and certificates in one of the following areas:

  • Innovative Teacher Leadership and Instructional Coaching
  • Principal (WI)
  • Principal/Supervisor of Special Education (IA)
  • Director of Special Education and Pupil Services (WI)
  • Director of Instruction (WI)
  • Cross-categorical Special Education (WI)
  • Reading Teacher (WI)
  • Reading Specialist (WI)
  • School Business Administrator (WI)
Policy

Admissions

Admission Requirements for all Graduate Programs in Education (degree, license, endorsement, or certificate) include the following, but may include additional program-specific admission requirements:

  • A minimum cumulative undergraduate GPA of 2.75 or at least a 3.0 cumulative GPA for 12 graduate credits from an accredited institution in order to be admitted in good standing
  • Earned teaching or administrative license
  • One academic reference contact required for Wisconsin and Iowa Educational Leadership programs

All requirements for any graduate program in education must be completed within seven years from the date of application to the graduate program. Coursework must have been taken within the last seven years from the date of application to be applied to program requirements, with the exception of Iowa Educational Leadership programs which is limited to five years.

A student must have a cumulative grade point average of 3.0 to complete any graduate program in education and a grade of C or higher earned in all Viterbo University coursework.

Proseminar

In order to attend EDUC 604 Proseminar and engage in commencement ceremonies, students must have completed all required courses in their program of study. Proseminar is the culminating course in the MAE program; it is offered on campus each summer only. Proseminar provides students with the opportunity to present their research and to participate in commencement ceremonies. Degrees are conferred in August after successful completion of all required coursework including EDUC 604 Proseminar.

Registration

Students must apply online and be accepted into the program of their choice before registering for courses. Students will be assisted by their advisor/program specialist when registering for the first semester. In all subsequent semesters, the student will register online in VitNet/Student Planning.

Transfer Credit
Master of Arts in Education and Educational Leadership

Upon acceptance, student may transfer up to six credit hours of graduate credit taken within seven years of application date to be applied to the MAE degree program.  Up to six credit hours taken within seven years of application may be considered for the Wisconsin Educational Leadership program for equivalent graduate courses. Up to six semester credit hours taken within five years of application may be considered for the Iowa Educational Leadership program for equivalent graduate courses.

Learning Outcomes
  • Action Research: Synthesize information and experiences to grow professionally and actively participate in the educational community of which he/she is a part.   
  • Leadership: Apply quality principles of teacher leadership - including the skills of effective communication, collaboration, and motivation to shape, change, and improve student learning.
  • Synthesis: Integrate opportunities to grow professionally and actively participate in the educational community of which they are a part.        
  • Ethics: Integrate historical, philosophical, and social foundations of education into their educational practices.  
  • Pedagogy: Demonstrate the ability to provide different approaches to learning and create instructional opportunities that are equitable, based on developmental needs of students, and that are adapted to the diverse needs of students.  
  • Assess: Integrate student achievement data, local, state, and national standards, and district initiatives into plans for instruction.          
Addendum

Accreditation/State Approval

Viterbo University undergraduate and graduate programs in education are accredited by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE); 2010 Massachusetts Ave. NW, Suite 500; Washington, DC 20036; 202-466-7496; www.ncate.org.

The education program is approved by the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction for the certification of teachers in the elementary and secondary schools and for the training of veterans. The Iowa Educational Leadership Program is approved by the Iowa State Board of Education and other endorsement programs are recognized by the Iowa Board of Educational Examiners.

Gainful Employment

Dual DNP and MBA

Overview

If you already hold a BSN or MSN degree, our MBA/DNP dual degree prepares you for leadership roles, to educate future nurses, and to influence systems of care. This integrated dual degree program provides registered nurses a direct path to their career goals with critical business and management skills needed for successful health care leaders. Save time and money with this integrated program.

  • Leadership Pathway (Does not lead to National Board Certification) 
  • 3 year plan; 54-62 credits 
  • For students with a BSN who are in or aspire to be in leadership roles where critical business and management skills are needed in the ever-changing health care environment
     

Master of Science in Mental Health Counseling (MSMHC)

Overview

The Viterbo University Master of Science in Mental Health Counseling degree is accredited by The Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs. The program is designed to meet state requirements for licensure as mental health counselors in the states of Wisconsin, Minnesota, and Iowa. The key content areas include professional identity, social and cultural diversity, human growth and development, helping relationships, career development, group work, assessment, diagnosis, research, program evaluation, and evidence-based counseling, prevention, and intervention skills.

Policy

Grades 

Students must maintain a cumulative grade point average of 3.0 for all MSMHC coursework, with no individual course grade lower than C.

Attendance

All graduate students are expected to attend all class meetings. If a student is unable to attend a class, the student must contact the instructor and take responsibility to meet the class objectives. This makeup will ordinarily require additional written work. It is the duty of the student to make arrangements for missed work. If more than one class meeting is missed within a course, the student shall contact the instructor and the MSMHC director in advance to discuss whether the student should enroll in the course at another time.

Transfer Credit

Individual consideration will be granted in the awarding of transfer credits in order to ensure the student meets the licensure requirements as a professional counselor. Up to 15 credits may be transferred from another CACREP-accredited program.

Requirements

All students are required to complete 60 credits and maintain a 3.0 grade point average to be awarded the Master of Science in Mental Health Counseling degree. Those credits include core courses to be completed by all students, as well as electives to fulfill requirements of one of the program’s optional concentrations. The core courses will include practicum experiences and research activities. Initial contact with one’s academic advisor will focus on developing an academic plan.

Research Project Requirements

All students will complete an action research project prior to graduation. This advocacy and research project will be completed in conjunction with their internship experiences. This research project will address an issue, need, or problem relevant to the counseling profession. The student will develop a research proposal, as well as methodology for the identification, collection, and analysis/synthesis of project data. A final research paper will be submitted to the program director, archived in the Viterbo University Todd Wehr Memorial Library, and presented at the annual graduate research symposium, which will be opened to the professional public.

Learning Outcomes
  • Professional Orientation and Ethics: Construct a philosophy of counseling based on the history and future trends of the profession, professional roles and responsibilities, with an emphasis on ethical practice within the framework of American Counseling Association Ethical Guidelines
  • Diversity and Advocacy: Prioritize and respond to all aspects of social and cultural diversity, optimizing human development with clients
  • Human Growth and Development: Compare and contrast theories of human development across the life span and the full continuum of mental health issues to facilitate effective life transitions
  • Career and Life Planning: Utilize theories and skills to facilitate career and life decisions with clients
  • Helping Relationship: Demonstrate the foundational framework for establishing a therapeutic alliance with clients
  • Counseling Continuum: Work effectively in a variety of modalities (individual, group, family) and to use crisis intervention, brief counseling, and long-term mental health approaches with clients
  • Group Work: Articulate group theory and assess their ability to deliver effective group therapy with clients
  • Research and Evaluation: Utilize relevant research strategies within an evidence-based counseling perspective 
  • Assessment: Accurately select assessment instruments for client needs and program evaluations 
  • Diagnosis: Conceptualize and apply relevant diagnostic procedures for clients
Addendum

Accreditation

The Master of Science in Mental Health Counseling program is accredited by The Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP).

MSMHC Pathway to Ed.D.

MSMHC students may enroll in a maximum of four doctorate level courses (12 credits) that will meet the requirements of the MS in Mental Health Counseling, which also satisfies coursework requirements for the Educational Doctorate in Counseling Education and Supervision. Students will be approved by the graduate faculty to enroll in doctorate level graduate course(s). The following coursework is available to approved MSMHC graduate students:

Educational Doctorate Courses MSMHC Equivalent Courses
COUN 715 Supervision Foundations  
COUN 750 Brain, Behavior, and Psychopharmacology Sub for COUN 650 Psychopharmacology for Counselors
COUN 720 Clinical Trauma Informed Counseling Sub for COUN 580 Trauma and Crisis
COUN 772 Health Care Promotion, Policy, Ethics Sub for  MSMHC Concentration Area
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