Lincoln University's Master’s in Education in Counseling Earns National ASCA Recognition

Lincoln University’s Master of Education in Counseling program earned national recognition from the American School Counselor Association (ASCA) for meeting professional school counseling standards.

Lincoln University's Master of Education in Counseling program has earned national recognition from the American School Counselor Association, placing it among an elite group of only seven programs nationwide to achieve this distinction.

The ASCA Recognition for School Counselor Preparation Programs affirms that Lincoln's school counseling candidates are prepared to deliver comprehensive school counseling programs and are knowledgeable about the foundations and concepts of school counseling. The university was recognized in December 2025 alongside the University of Central Arkansas in Conway, Arkansas.

"This recognition validates the exceptional quality of our counseling program and the dedication of our faculty to preparing future school counselors who will make a real difference in the lives of K-12 students," said Stephanie Clark, department chair of Lincoln’s School of Education. "Our graduates are equipped not only with the theoretical knowledge but also with the practical skills needed to support students' academic, career and social-emotional development."

Programs receiving ASCA recognition must complete a rigorous review process, providing evidence that they meet each of the ASCA School Counselor Preparation Program Standards. These standards represent a unified set of principles guiding school counselor preparation programs in training effective future school counselors in areas of professional practice and ethical behavior. Program reports are reviewed by three ASCA-trained reviewers who are school counselor faculty with doctoral degrees.

"ASCA's recognition of Lincoln University's master's in education School Counseling program affirms Lincoln's commitment to preparing highly qualified candidates who not only deliver comprehensive school counseling but adhere to ethical and professional standards," said Kimberly Connor, professor of education. "Candidates demonstrate competencies in school counseling curriculum, academic, career and post-secondary planning, and counseling services that meet the needs of K-12 learners, which are valued by school districts and administrators."

Lincoln's M.Ed. in School Counseling program is designed for students seeking to serve as K-12 school counselors. It aligns with requirements set by the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education and is accredited by the Association for Advancing Quality in Educator Preparation.

The 42-hour graduate program provides comprehensive K-12 training to prepare graduates for elementary, middle and high school employment. To earn ASCA recognition, college and university school counselor preparation programs must be accredited by or seeking accreditation by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation or the Association for Advancing Quality in Educator Preparation, or their university must be accredited by a recognized regional or state accreditor. 

For more information about Lincoln University's M.Ed. in Counseling program, visit lincolnu.edu/school-of-education/graduate-programs/counseling.html or contact the GradSchool@LincolnU.edu.