Education and Counseling

If you're passionate about helping others learn and grow, explore Education and Counseling at NAU where you'll gain the skills to teach, mentor, and support people at every stage of life.

Education and Counseling is about supporting learning, development, and well-being. Whether you’re called to the classroom, counseling office, or community programs, this degree path prepares you to uplift others through teaching, guidance, and care.

A teacher reads to young students in class while they work on an arts project.

What is Education and Counseling?

Education and Counseling focuses on how people learn and how to support them through life’s challenges. You’ll develop skills in communication, human development, and leadership, preparing you to make a difference in schools, clinics, or communities.

What you'll study

You’ll build a strong foundation in education, psychology, and human development while gaining hands-on experience through internships or student teaching. Courses may include:

  • Curriculum design and classroom management
  • Inclusive education and special needs support
  • Early childhood development and assessment
  • Counseling theory and mental health basics
  • Education policy, leadership, and equity

NAU’s programs integrate coursework with fieldwork to help you graduate career-ready.

Career possibilities

With a degree in Education and Counseling, you can pursue careers in teaching, school counseling, community education, academic advising, or human services. Many roles offer certification pathways or lead to advanced study in graduate programs. Graduates with degrees in Education pursue job titles like:

  • Teacher (elementary, middle, high school, or special education)
  • School counselor
  • Curriculum developer
  • Principal
  • Dean
  • Librarian
  • Preschool director

Degrees in Education and Counseling at NAU

Explore NAU’s programs in education, human development, and counseling to find your fit and your future as a leader, teacher, or advocate.

Find your Education and Counseling degree

FAQs: Education and Counseling degrees

Do I need to decide what grade level I want to teach right away?

Not at all. You’ll have the chance to explore different age groups and settings before choosing your focus. NAU offers programs for early childhood, elementary, and secondary education.

Can I work in Education without teaching?

Yes! Many Education graduates work in academic advising, nonprofit leadership, curriculum design, student services, and more, inside and outside traditional classrooms.

What kind of support does NAU offer future educators and counselors?

NAU connects you with mentors, certification guidance, and placement opportunities through school districts and agencies across Arizona.

Do I need a master’s degree to become a counselor?

In most cases, yes. A bachelor’s degree in this area is the first step. NAU’s graduate programs in counseling and related fields help you continue your journey toward licensure.

Will I get hands-on experience?

Yes. Fieldwork is built into your program. You’ll gain practical experience in real schools, counseling centers, or community-based programs.