Montclair State University

Apply Now

Student Toolbox
Department Home  •  About  •  Academic Programs   •  Licensure Programs   •  Faculty & Staff  •  Student Advisement  •  Special Projects  •  Links  •  FAQs  •   Application Requirements   •   Announcements

Counseling, Human Development, and Educational Leadership

Department FAQ

  1. Office Location and Information?

    Main Office Location: University Hall, Room 3162
    Phone Number: (973) 655-7216
    Secretary: Nancy Rosario-Layne
    Email: rosariolaynn@mail.montclair.edu

  2. General Contact Information?

    Dr. Catherine B. Roland
    Department Chairperson
    Email: rolandc@mail.montclair.edu
    (973) 655-7216

    Dr. Amanda Baden
    Coordinator Counseling Program
    Email: badena@mail.montclair.edu
    (973) 655-7334

    Ms. Eunice Grippaldi
    Coordinator Educational Leadership
    Email: grippaldie@mail.montclair.edu
    (973) 655-7718

    Dr. Vanessa Alleyne
    Coordinator Substance Abuse Program
    Email: alleynev@mail.montclair.edu
    (973) 655-6996

  3. Where do I get Graduate School Forms (e.g., comps, change of program, etc.)?

    Follow this link to get various forms needed throughout graduate school:
    http://www.montclair.edu/graduate/ssoformspol.shtml

  4. How do I apply for admission to the Graduate School at Montclair State University?

    Follow this link to apply online or to download forms:
    http://www.montclair.edu/graduate/getapplic.shtml

  5. What are some important deadlines/dates?

    Follow this link for the academic calendar for Montclair State University:
    http://www.montclair.edu/admincalendar/academiccalendar.html

  6. What courses are offered in CHDEL?

    Follow this link to view the courses offered by the department: Courses in CHDEL

  7. Tips for Success in the Programs in CHDEL?

    Some links for learning more about APA writing style:
    Resources for Effective and Professional Writing

FAQs - Counseling Program

Where do I get information about the Comprehensive Exams?

Please go to the "Announcements" link, on the Department Homepage for information about the Comprehensive Exams.

For the preparation materials, click on the following link: Counseling Comprehensive Exam Study Guide

I am interested in becoming a counselor, but to be honest, I am not exactly sure what a counselor does. Where can I learn about the counseling profession?

Two excellent sources for information about the counseling profession are the American Counseling Association ( www.counseling.org) and the National Board of Certified Counselors (www.nbcc.org). To learn about specific specializations within the profession, consult the websites of the various divisions within ACA. We also encourage you to conduct several informational interviews with professional counselors in a variety of settings in order to get a more personal perspective.

As of January 20, 2004 do I need a teaching degree and/or experience before enrolling in this masters program?

No. The State Department of Education eliminated the teaching requirements for a license in school counceling. however, you will need to complete a 48-credit masters degree in counseling.

What are the admission requirements?

Candidates for admission to the Counseling Program are required to submit a letter of application, a personal statement, official transcripts of previously attended undergraduate and graduate programs, and two letters of recommendations. You must also submit scores for the GRE or the MAT. For further information about the admissions process and additional requirements, please consult The Graduate School website (www.montclair.edu/graduate/admissions.shtml).

I am planning on enrolling full time. How long is the program?

In generally, our full-time students complete their program in two years.

I have a full-time job and a family. Can I attend your program part-time?

Most of our students are just like you and attend classes on a part-time basis. For this reason, the many of our classes are in the evenings. Some Saturday and weekend courses will be offered as well.

What is the application deadline?

Currently, we accept applications on a rolling admissions basis. However, it is to your advantage to submit your application as early as possible in order to facilitate timely processing and review of your application before the beginning of the term. We encourage you to apply by April 1 for Fall and December 1 for Spring.

Where are students placed for Internship/Fieldwork?

Students are placed fieldwork settings consistent with their chosen specialization area. These settings include, but are not limited to, K-12 schools, mental health agencies, substance abuse facilities, district offices, and college settings.


FAQs - Administration and Supervision Program

Why am I having difficulty registering for a curriculum course?

The Curriculum and Teaching Department has restrictions on its courses. Please email Laura Foresta at forestal@mail.montclair.edu. Be Sure to incloude the course number, section number and your student Id number. She will enter permission in the computer system and you will be able to register through the WESS system.

Why am I having trouble registering for Field Experience?

Prior to registering for field experience, you must receive permission from the Department Administrator. Call (973) 655-6844 to initiate the process. If you receive voice mail, leave your name, program (Administration and Supervision or Educator/Trainer), social security number, and telephone number. Once approved, permission will be entered into the computer system and you will be able to register through WESS.

Why is your Supervisor’s program 18 credits?

The MSU program is 18 credits because the faculty feels that the student will benefit from taking courses in Education Law and Educational Administration in addition to the 12 credits required by the State. In addition, the University will recommend you for certification, file the paperwork needed for certification through the Registrar.

Do your programs meet the new certification requirements passed by the State in January 2004?

Yes, the certification programs for principal and supervisor meet both the old and new requirements.

Is there a comprehensive examination in all programs?

The comprehensive examination is only part of the Master of Arts program. It is Once per given semester. It is not offered in the summer. Informational sessions are held prior to the examination. An application to take the exam must be completed and submitted to the Department Administrator for approval at least one month prior to the administration of the test. Please go to the "Announcements" link, under "Department Home" for information.

Who actually certifies administrators and supervisors?

The State of New Jersey, Department of Education, is the certifying agent. You should contact the county office of the State Department ( County Superintendent of Schools) for the application and evaluation of your credentials. MSU will coordinate the paperwork for certification if you are enrolled in a formal certification program; e.g., MA in Administration and Supervision.

What is the Certificate of Eligibility (CE)?

A Certificate of Eligibility, or CE, is a temporary certificate that leads directly to a permanent certificate. You qualify for the CE by obtaining the Master’s degree and passing the state test (Praxis). The CE enables you to seek and obtain employment as a vice principal or principal. Upon completion of mentorship (one-two years), you will receive the permanent certification. A similar process is in place for the School Business Administrator’s certificate; however, there is no state test.

What Certificates require a State test or School Leaders Licensure Assessment (SLLA)?

The certificates for principal and superintendent have test requirements.