Requirements

Requirements for Initial Licensure Pathway (Arkansas)

Program Admission Requirements

• Apply to and be admitted to the four-course Education Certificate Program through SAU’s Graduate Admissions Portal.  Once admitted, communication with advisors regarding the intention to pursue the school counseling degree is a must.  
• Upon successful completion of the four required classes, apply for the Education Certificate on the Graduate Admissions page and notify the Director of the School Counseling Program via e-mail requesting a major change from Education Certificate Program to the School Counseling Program.  This e-mail will prompt the director to send needed information whereby the candidate will then be able to return the following:
  • Science of Reading Awareness Agreement
  • Copy of Unofficial Transcript reflecting the Education Certificate
  • Statement of Purpose

*Current Requirements for Initial Licensure from DESE at School Counseling Program Completion:

Please know that SAU faculty are dedicated to helping guide in this process and will provide avenues to help initial licensure candidates obtain the current licensure requirements while in their program of study.

• Initial Licensure Application
• Official SAU Transcript
• Proof of Successful Completion of Required Praxis Test
• Proof of Required Professional Development Trainings
• Proof of Science of Reading Awareness Level
• Approved Background Check in AELS

*Note DESE Licensure requirements may be subject to change