College of Health, Education and Social Transformation
Counseling and Guidance in Educational Diagonistics (M.A.)
College of Health, Education and Social Transformation
Counseling and Guidance in Educational Diagonistics (M.A.)
Guide Learners with Confidence — Master Educational Diagnostics at NMSU.
The Master of Arts in Counseling and Guidance with a focus in Educational Diagnostics at New Mexico State University prepares professionals to understand and evaluate student learning, behavior, and development through comprehensive diagnostic assessment. This specialized graduate program emphasizes evidence-based measurement, classroom assessment, standardized testing, and interpretation of data to support academic decision-making and instructional improvement. Grounded in psychological theory and educational practice, the degree bridges research and application, giving graduates the tools to support student success across diverse school environments.
Whether you aspire to work as an educational diagnostician, assessment specialist, or related professional supporting learner achievement, this degree builds the advanced skills needed to interpret complex data, guide interventions, and promote equitable educational outcomes.
Admission Deadlines
February 1 (fall) September 1 (spring)
- Total credits: 30
Delivery Format
In-person
Career Pathways
Graduates with a Master of Arts in Counseling and Guidance (Educational Diagnostics) are equipped for roles that center on assessment, interpretation of learning data, and evidence-driven educational support. Possible career pathways include:
- Educational diagnostician — Conduct assessments of student learning needs and interpret results to guide instruction and intervention
- Assessment specialist — Design, administer, and analyze educational assessments at school, district, or state levels
- Student support specialist — Guide teachers and administrators in using diagnostic data to support individualized learning plans
- School data coordinator — Manage and interpret student performance data to inform school improvement and accountability
- Instructional specialist — Work with educators to apply assessment results in curriculum and instructional planning
- Academic intervention specialist — Develop and monitor interventions based on diagnostic evidence
- Program evaluator — Analyze educational programs for effectiveness and equity
- Consultant in educational measurement and assessment — Provide expertise for schools, agencies, and educational organizations
Degree questions, answered
Have questions about the Master of Arts in Counseling and Guidance? Fill out our inquiry form.
Why choose a M.A. in Counseling and Guidance at NMSU?
Choosing the Master of Arts in Counseling and Guidance (Educational Diagnostics) at NMSU means gaining a specialized graduate degree rooted in research-based assessment practice and educational relevance. The program combines rigorous coursework with hands-on application, giving you both the theoretical foundation and practical experience to interpret diagnostic data and support learning outcomes effectively.
Students benefit from mentorship by experienced faculty within the Department of Counseling, Educational Psychology, and Special Education — professionals who bring real-world experience in assessment, diagnostics, and educational support systems. The curriculum prepares you to apply assessment data ethically and equitably, understand learner variability, and support decisions that improve student success.
With a focus on equity, culturally responsive practice, and data-informed instructional improvement, this degree prepares you for impactful work in schools and educational settings where assessment drives student support and instructional innovation. NMSU’s strong emphasis on applied learning ensures that you graduate ready to interpret complex data, guide teams, and lead educational improvement efforts with confidence.
No GRE Required
We’re removing barriers to graduate education, which is why we don’t require the GRE.
Candidates admitted to the Specialist in Education (Ed.S.) or Ph.D. School Psychology Programs will have an opportunity to complete this MA degree before the completion of the Ed.S. or Ph.D. degree.
Please note that this is not a stand-alone program, only students admitted to the programs mentioned above are considered for this degree.
Take classes like:
- CEPY 6130 - Psychology of Multiculturalism
- CEPY 5310 - Appraisal of Psychoeducational Achievement in a Diverse Society
- CEPY 6140 - Cognitive & Affective Basis of Behavior
- CEPY 6510 - Practicum in School Psychology: Psychoeducational
Ready to take the next step?
Request Information
Scholarships and Financial Aid
At NMSU, we strive to offer competitively priced tuition to keep your tuition costs affordable. If you need financial aid, we’re ready to work with you to determine the best ways to finance your education.
Financial assistance includes loans, grants, and scholarship opportunities. To apply, use NMSU’s convenient Scholar Dollar$ one-stop scholarship application, which serves all students in the NMSU system.
NMSU students are also eligible for loans and grants. The first step in applying for financial aid is to complete a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Learn more about financial aid opportunities at NMSU.
Contact Financial Aid
Phone: 1-888-729-6678
Email: financialaid@nmsu.edu
Accreditation
New Mexico State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, an institutional accreditation agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. Specialized accreditation from other accrediting agencies is also granted for some programs. NMSU’s accreditation ensures that your education meets high-quality standards and that your credits are transferable.