This program requires 60 semester hours of coursework, which includes clinical experiences. According to the State of Tennessee certification requirements, clinical experiences must be completed in a partner school in the state of Tennessee. Furthermore, candidates who wish to meet the requirements for School Counselor certification in Tennessee must complete their degree and pass the Tennessee-designated Praxis II exam. Candidates are strongly advised to take this exam during their last semester in the program. Applications for Tennessee state certification must be sent from Southern’s Certification Officer to the Tennessee State Board of Education. No applications are made until candidates have completed their degree and passed the required Praxis II exam.
School Counselor certification is separate from the awarding of the Master of Science degree in School Counseling. If clinical experiences are not completed in a partner school in Tennessee, the degree may still be awarded, but the graduate will not be eligible for initial certification in Tennessee. Out-of-state candidates are strongly advised to consult their state certification authority to review all certification requirements pertaining to their home state.