March 17, 1989

Douglas J. Mickelson, Chair
Counseling Area
School of Education
U.W.-Milwaukee
P.O. Box 413
Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53201

Dear Mr. Mickelson:

The certification code of the VTAE system requires counselors to have a masters degree in guidance and counseling or a bachelors degree plus 30 semester credits in counseling and guidance, including the practicum experience. U.W.-Milwaukee does not grant a masters degree in guidance and counseling, but rather grants a masters degree in educational psychology. This situation has caused some problems for individuals seeking preparation as counselors in the VTAE system. These individuals, since they are not granted a degree in guidance and counseling, often take courses which we cannot recognize towards the required 30 credits in counseling. This collection of courses does result in the individual obtaining a masters degree in educational psychology. These individuals are often disappointed after spending time and money taking courses that do not help them obtain their true objective.

We have reviewed the counseling certification program as approved by the Department of Public Instruction. The following courses are part of that program:

315-624 -- Educational Statistical Methods I - 3 credits
315-640 -- Human Development: Theory and Research - 3 credits
315-720 -- Techniques of Educational and Psychological Measurement - 3 credits
265-714 -- Essentials of Counseling Practice - 3 credits
265-715 -- Awareness: Counseling, Poverty and Urban Cultures - 3 credits
265-711 -- Foundations in Career Development - 3 credits
265-710 -- Counseling: Theory and Issues - 3 credits
265-774 -- Field Work in Counseling - 3 credits
265-970 -- Supervised Practicum in Counseling - 3 credits
265-800 -- Group Counseling Theory - 3 credits
265-811 -- Counseling in the Secondary School - 3 credits
265-900 -- Clinical Studies in Counseling - 3 credits

We are prepared to accept any of the courses listed above towards the 30 credit requirement. Individuals requesting counselor certification in the VTAE system will need the practicum as part of the 30 credit requirement.

It would be most helpful if individuals preparing as counselors in the VTAE system were informed of what requirements they need to meet. This would avoid problems in the future. Your cooperation would be greatly appreciated.

Sincerely,

John Orlofske

Personnel Certification Officer

cc: VTAE District Certification Officers