School Counseling Specialization
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Upon completion of the School Counselor program, the graduate is prepared to be an integral part of the academic services in public schools, trained to facilitate the growth and learning of students by providing services in guidance curriculum, responsive services, individual planning and systems support. The counselor also provides direct services to students as a counselor and coordinates services with programs and agencies within the school and in the community.
UTRGV Professional Certification Policy
Students in professional certification programs will have two years after program completion to take their certification exam. Within this two year period, program completers who are requesting test approval will be reviewed by the department chair/program coordinator before approval is granted to ensure that all TAC requirements have been met. After the two-year period, program completers requesting testing approval will be reviewed by the department chair/program coordinator so that a new certification plan can be created as needed. This certification plan may include additional coursework or professional development and must be completed before testing approval is granted.
Change in State Standards and Teacher Certification
If TEA certification standards change between the time that the program is complete and the time that certification is sought, the new standards must be met. This may mean taking additional courses or completing additional requirements in the form of a certification
Applicants are required to submit a Criminal Background Check (CBC).
Criminal History Acknowledgement:
As required by Texas HB1508, applicants need to be aware of the following.
- In order to receive certification in Texas, you must pass a criminal history background check.
- If you have been convicted of an offense that is considered not appropriate for an educator, you could be ineligible to earn this certification from the state of Texas.
- You have a right to request a preliminary criminal history evaluation letter from the Texas Education Agency prior to admission into this program. The Texas Education Agency currently charges a $50 fee for this criminal history evaluation.
For more information on Preliminary Criminal History Evaluation visit the TEA Frequently Asked Questions.