The University of Puget Sound is proud to announce the launch of its new Hybrid Master of Education (MEd) Counseling Program, strategically designed to fill a widening gap in regional clinical mental health and school counseling education and provide aspiring counseling professionals with the flexibility and accessibility to advance their careers while balancing work and personal commitments.
The launch of the Hybrid MEd Counseling Program comes at a critical time when the demand for qualified mental health professionals is surging, and the capacity for training them is shrinking. With other regional counseling programs shifting, going on hold, or discontinuing altogether, Puget Sound’s new Hybrid MEd in Counseling is an essential step to addressing the immediate need for skilled counselors in the region.
“The need for skilled counselors has never been greater,” said Heidi Morton, associate professor and director of the MEd Counseling program in the School of Education. “This program not only equips students with the knowledge and skills they need to succeed but also provides the flexibility to make education accessible to a wider range of individuals, directly addressing regional needs.”
Applications for the program are now open, with classes set to begin Aug. 31, 2026. This innovative program combines the convenience of online learning with the personal connections forged during on-campus residency experiences each term, offering students the best of both worlds.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of counselors is projected to grow 17% from 2024–34. With a curriculum tailored to meet licensure requirements and real-world counseling challenges, the Hybrid MEd Counseling Program is ideal for working professionals, recent graduates, and career changers looking to make a meaningful impact in the mental health and counseling fields.
“We understand the challenges that many students face when pursuing higher education, especially those who are already working or managing family responsibilities,” said University of Puget Sound President Isiaah Crawford. “Our Hybrid MEd Counseling Program is designed to provide the flexibility they need without compromising on the quality of education or the personal connections that are so vital in the counseling profession.”
Program Highlights
- Flexible Hybrid Format: Students will complete coursework online and attend in-person sessions for hands-on learning and networking opportunities.
- Intentional Engagement: The program includes a mix of asynchronous and synchronous online learning. Students will also attend on-campus residency weekends once per fall and spring term.
- Expert Faculty: Learn from experienced educators and practitioners who bring real-world insights to the classroom.
- Licensure Alignment: The program meets the requirements for initial counseling licensure, ensuring graduates are prepared to enter the workforce.
- Networking Opportunities: Build connections with peers, faculty, and industry professionals.
Prospective students are encouraged to visit pugetsound.edu/MEd for more information and to apply. To help students explore the program, Puget Sound will host a series of live online information sessions, where they can learn more about the program, meet faculty, and ask questions. Sign up for an information session: admission.pugetsound.edu/portal/educationevents.
