The Power in Positive Ed

Well-being matters, and today’s students and teachers need the tools to manage today’s world. 

That’s why Russell Sage College became the first college in the nation to partner with The Center for Positive Education. Each student in the Esteves School of Education graduates with training in Positive Education, and Russell Sage will extend the training to the greater education community with professional development opportunities.

School Counseling Program Tracks

There are several different tracks within our School Counseling program, including:

  • Learn to design and deliver developmentally appropriate activities and services directly to students (classroom lessons, small group lessons, and individual counseling) or indirectly for students (via consultation, collaboration, and referrals).
  • Our graduate programs in school counseling are accredited by the Association for Advancing Quality in Educator Preparation (AAQEP).
  • Our graduate programs in school counseling are accredited by the Association for Advancing Quality in Educator Preparation (AAQEP).
  • Our graduate programs in school counseling are accredited by the Association for Advancing Quality in Educator Preparation (AAQEP).
  • The only master’s program in Professional School Counseling in the Capital Region, we have a longstanding reputation for producing some of the best counselors in the field, including the 2023 New York State Counselor of the Year, who teaches in our program.
  • Professors are professional school counselors with advanced credentials who are active members of the American School Counseling Association. You’ll benefit from course content that is current and focused on best practices.

Program Objectives

  • Help elementary/secondary students gain understanding of their social, intellectual and emotional development
  • Be knowledgeable about educational, occupational, and social opportunities
  • Have decision-making and planning skills
  • Communicate effectively with school personnel, parents and particularly with students, about issues that facilitate or inhibit personal planning, self-esteem, achievement, and choice

You’ll work collaboratively with other students in the educational counseling master’s and certificate programs. Courses include instruction, hands-on learning and opportunities to practice your counseling skills.

The program includes a 100-hour practicum and a 600-hour internship experience. Both include a seminar class, which allows students to collaborate and consult with faculty and each other.

Easily Apply

Rolling admission, so apply anytime, and begin in the fall, spring, or summer semesters.

Application Requirements

  • Official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended
  • One letter of recommendation
  • A one- to two-page career goals essay
Personal advising, experienced faculty

Our professors are professional school counselors with advanced credentials who are active members of the American School Counseling Association.

“Our master’s in school counseling and certificate in school counseling has been the gold standard in the area for many years … You’re getting the education, the reputation, and the network that comes with Russell Sage College.”

Peter Stapleton, Ph.D., Chair, Professional Education Programs

Careers with a Master’s in School Counseling

Alumni of Sage’s school counseling programs are guidance counselors at public and private schools and education programs throughout New York state.

Recent graduates work as a post-secondary counselor at a private school in New York City; as elementary school counselors and a career education coordinator and College Board coordinator at public schools in the Albany area; and as an education services specialist for the National Guard.

Spotlights Pattern

Take the Next Step

It's time to take the next step. Choose yours below.