Frequently Asked Questions

Is it possible to dual-track across the three specialty areas?

Mental health counseling (MHC) and marriage and family therapy (MFT) students can dual-track with the school counseling (SC) track (and vice versa). However, due to the MHC and MFT program overlap, a dual track within these programs is not encouraged.

Can I get a master's degree without getting an education specialist degree?

No, we only offer a combined for a 72-hour program. Students graduate with both a master’s and an education specialist degree.

Is the GRE required?

No. We do not require the GRE for the counselor education master’s/educational specialist program. However, it is required to apply to our on-campus Ph.D. program.

What if I'm having trouble submitting my official transcripts by the application deadline?

For the purpose of initial review, the UF Office of Admissions accepts unofficial transcripts. These should be uploaded as part of your application. The entire application packet must be complete for us to consider it.

However, applicants who receive an offer of admission must arrange to have official transcripts sent to the UF Office of Admissions.

Do you have an online program?

No. Our counselor education programs are classified as on-campus programs. While some courses may be offered online, classes are mainly taught at UF’s Gainesville campus.

What is the tuition cost for this program?

You can find up-to-date tuition information on the UF Admissions website.

Are there assistantships available?

The counselor education program does not directly provide assistantships or funding for joint master’s/educational specialist students. However, students may be eligible for assistantships elsewhere on campus. The UF Graduate School maintains a list of opportunities on its website.

How long is the program?

Students usually complete our program in program 2.5 to 3 years. More information on our cohort models is available on our program pages.

What should I focus on in my application materials?

Your application materials should include:

    • A personal statement that is 2-4 pages and double-spaced. It should highlight your career goals, interest in the counseling profession, and how you believe our program can help you achieve your goals.
    • 3 letters of recommendation from previous professors and/or other individuals (not friends or family members). These individuals should speak to your readiness for graduate work and your fit within the counseling profession
    • Résumé or CV
    • Providing official academic transcripts, even if you are a current University of Florida student
    • TOEFL scores to demonstrate English language proficiency (international applicants only)

How many students are accepted each year?

Each spring, we accept approximately 40 people for admission into our combination master’s and education specialist program. This cohort starts the program together in the Fall. This number includes students from all three tracks: mental health counseling, marriage and family counseling, and school counseling.

When will we hear if we are accepted?

You should know about acceptances by mid-April.

Should I attach my transcripts to the application AND send official ones directly to the university?

Yes, the UF Office of Admissions requires all students to provide official copies of transcripts.

Are there research opportunities for joint master's/educational specialist students?

Master’s/educational specialist students have opportunities to work with faculty to support their research, allowing our students hands-on experience early in their professional careers.

Who is the contact person for joint master's/educational specialist applications?

For all questions about applications, please email GradAdmissions@coe.ufl.edu.

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