The Community and College Counseling concentration offers an interdisciplinary degree specifically for college graduates interested in preparing for counseling roles in community agencies working areas such as mental health, social services, youth development services, court services, or rehabilitation; or in college settings such as student affairs offices, counseling centers, or residence halls. A teaching license is not required for this concentration.

Students will receive solid grounding in research methodologies and human development theories relevant to counseling applications. They will learn the theoretical frameworks of counseling and how they translate into individual and group interventions based on researched strategies tailored to individual client needs. Graduates will assist clients in self-discovery, personal growth, and in making healthy lifestyle choices.

Students are cautioned to work closely with their advisor in planning their studies since some courses have prerequisites and are sequenced to begin with the fall semester.

Students interested pursuing licensure as a Professional Counselor in the Commonwealth of Virginia are advised to obtain and adhere to the regulations of the Virginia Board of Counseling.

Advising

Newly admitted students are assigned the appropriate advisor. The assignment of the advisor generally is not changed unless the student changes his/her degree program. Prior to registration, students are encouraged to consult with their academic advisor regarding course selection and sequence, career goals, and relevant academic policies. Although the academic advisor assists students with curriculum decisions and options, the student bears full responsibility for meeting graduation requirements.