Counseling

The Master of Arts (MA) in Counseling Psychology and the Master of Education (MEd) in Guidance and Counseling degrees are designed to provide the knowledge and skills necessary for practice in counseling and related human service professions within the military and civilian communities.

The MA in Counseling Psychology degree prepares counselors to work primarily with adults in a range of community counseling settings. The MEd in Guidance and Counseling degree prepares counselors to work with school children and youth across all levels from primary through high school (K-12).

Both degrees require completion of 48 credit hours and have a common core of courses. Integrating the theoretical with the practical, the programs combine academic preparation in the areas of behavioral sciences as well as related areas of counseling and research, with relevant practical experiences. The programs provide a basic understanding of 1) individuals as cultural, economic, physical, and social beings, 2) the setting in which a counselor works, and 3) counseling theory and practice.

Students learn and develop counseling competencies through curricular experiences and clinical instruction. Curricular experiences include 1) human growth and development, 2) social and cultural foundations, 3) helping relationships, 4) group work, 5) career and lifestyle development, 6) appraisal, 7) research and program evaluation, 8) professional orientation, and 9) legal and ethical counseling issues. Clinical instruction includes weekly group supervision class meetings and experiences that allow students the opportunity to refine and integrate the skills necessary to assume the role of a professional counselor. Most adults working full time will need approximately 24 to 36 months to complete either degree.

These degrees are designed to meet requirements for certification through the National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC). Students may need to take additional coursework and examinations to meet licensure requirements for a particular state. Graduates, depending on their degree and subsequent professional credentials, are employed in a variety of settings, including Department of Defense and civilian education centers, schools, colleges, universities, substance abuse programs, correctional facilities, mental health centers, family services, career centers, and private practices.

For more information please contact the program director.