Counseling Program: Low Residency Format

Classes are taught on WSC's campus in Wayne, Neb.

In addition to your regular 16-week courses across the entire semester, eight of your approximately 20 classes are taught in an intensive eight-week format. Each of these classes begin with an in-person residency weekend. The corresponding residency will occur on the weekend following the first week of the eight-week term.

• Readings, writings, and discussions are based on cutting-edge theory and practice and support the learning of individuals seeking an MSE in counseling. 
• Participants support one another through face-to-face and online discussions throughout the program.
• Courses focus on the integration of research literature and practical counseling competencies and skills application.
• Courses are facilitated by faculty who are licensed mental health practitioners or by highly qualified practitioners in the field. 
• Counseling competencies and experiential skills building are integrated throughout the entire program.

Residencies will take place in-person on Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sundays from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. at the Wayne State College main campus in Benthack Hall in Wayne, NE. There are no virtual options to attend residency. If you become ill or are unable to attend the weekend residency, you will need to drop the corresponding class for that semester. Students must arrive on time and attend the entire residency in order to successfully remain in the class for that semester. Students who do not attend 100% of the residency weekend may be required to take the course at a later date.

Cohort groups begin each fall semester. However, students who are accepted for a spring or summer start date are eligible to take online introductory courses during those semesters.

Officially you have 10 years from the date you begin the program to complete. If you need an extension of more than one semester to complete the program of study, you will have to make special arrangements with the Counseling Department chair and the Graduate Office - this circumstance should be rare.

Most students complete their respective 60 credit hour program in 2.5 to 3 years if attending at a full-time pace. Part-time attendance is also an option if a slower completion pace is preferred.

You would need to notify your advisor.

The Counseling Program: Low Residency Format is a 60-hour graduate program. Costs per credit hour vary, depending on residency. View current tuition and fees.

Payment options:

View instructions on making payments, including payment method options and policies. Contact the Student Financial Services Office at 402-375-7229 for additional inquiries.

Yes. Because you will be enrolled at least half-time, you may qualify for a federal Direct Unsubsidized Stafford Loan (DL). The DL program provides loans of up to $20,500 per year for graduate students. Unsubsidized loans accrue interest while the student is enrolled. Students must complete the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) each year. This form can be completed online at www.fafsa.ed.gov. For further information, contact the WSC Student Financial Services Office at 402-375-7229 or by email at [email protected].

If you are receiving financial aid and it is not processed prior to the payment due date, you must be prepared to pay the balance due from other means by the due date. All fees must be paid in full before you can register for the next semester. Students qualifying for Veterans Administration benefits should contact the Records and Registration Office at 402-375-7239.