You’ve never stopped learning on the job, so why limit your academic learning? We embrace every dimension of the education spectrum: individualized instruction, collaborative learning, professional mentoring and everything in-between, which creates a deeper, more enriching experience.
College of Education,
Leadership & Counseling
One college, three areas of studyFind your program >>
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About the College
Personal attention, practical skills
Two schools, one
shared vision
Our graduates share the same DNA – a love for learning and a commitment to personal and professional growth. Our programs challenge students to think critically about what they are learning and its application to the broader world. Our students graduate with the knowledge, skills and experiences needed to be leaders in our communities.
Accredited, reputable programs
Our students don’t just graduate with impressive credentials – they leave with practical skills, pride in their accomplishments and a close network of peer support. No wonder our graduates have gone on to earn positions of power and influence in their communities.
Extending the network
At our schools, learning is a team activity. We carefully nurture the connections that enhance your post-graduate experience, through our network of business and organizational partnerships with alumni throughout the country. Because professional success doesn’t just come from what our students know; who they know is just as important.
About the College
Welcome to the College of Education, Leadership and Counseling at the University of St. Thomas. Located in the heart of downtown Minneapolis, the school has a rich history offering preparation for Minnesota's teachers, leaders and counselors. Comprised of more than fifty academic programs, the College offers you a breadth and depth of study, exposure to real-world problems and solutions, and the opportunity to develop your skills across disciplines.
Quick Facts
| Founded |
1950's- The University of St. Thomas began offering programs in Education and Counseling Psychology |
| Denomination | Catholic |
| Gender | 29% Male 71% female |
| Faculty | 97% of full-time have doctorates |
| Campus | 96 acres |
| Accreditation |
NCATE |
Welcome to your network.
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Jim Nikolai
Assistant Vice President of Government Relations at US Bancorp
M.A. in Public Policy
“I needed a program that was accommodating to my work schedule, because I was going to have to work all the way through. It was a program that allowed me to get the education I needed, but also allowed me to have a life outside of it.”
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Jessica Bell
Mental Health Counselor
M.A. in Counseling Psychology
"I really enjoy having both aspects to my life. My education, and being able to apply the things I learn in class to my work and vice versa. That has been a really rich part of the experience."
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JC Chipeco
Mental Health and Substance Abuse Counselor
M.A. in Counseling Psychology
“The network and the connections you have, with respect to getting a job after you graduate from your program, really are top-notch. The school itself fosters this uncanny sense of camaraderie between the students.”
Steven Bucko
Special Education Teacher, Richfield Middle School
M.A. in Special Education
“Sometimes in academia, you get into the real world and realize there is a disconnect, and you have to build those bridges on your own. With the cohort model, over that two year period, we were able to problem solve together and learn from each other.”
Mona Dohman
Minnesota State Commissioner of Public Safety
M.A. in Police Leadership
“Professionally, I wouldn’t have been police chief had I not had my Master’s degree. I would not be the Commissioner of Public Safety because I wouldn’t have had the step I needed prior to this ... Personally, I believe I’m a better person inside and out because of my rich experience at St. Thomas.”
Eriq Ho Duong
Math Instructor, Apple Valley High School
Education Specialist
“I am receiving a world class education ... I am earning not just a degree, but also the practical hands-on experience that will allow me to be an effective administrator.”
Sharon Bertrand
Independent Research Consultant
Doctorate in Leadership
“My experience in the program was transformational. I met faculty who were willing to match me step by step and take me as deep as I wanted to go. As a result, I’ve gained a depth of thinking ... What I once saw as problems, I now see as challenges.”
Bruce Beadell
Lead Senior Systems Engineer
Doctorate in Leadership
“The program exceeded all my expectations. Being an engineer for most of my life, I tend to be ‘thing’ focused. Solutions are implemented with things and processes. I learned to focus more on people – both myself and others – to become a better leader.”