Overview
Contact: Debra Phebus
The primary role of the graduate program in counseling is to prepare mental health at the Masters level in Counseling with specializations in either School Counseling (51 credits) or Clinical Mental Health (60 credits). Through a combination of research, theory, and practice, the counseling program encourages graduate students to become reflective practitioners. Our graduates are employed in a variety of settings, including public and private schools, community colleges, hospitals, clinics, private practices, and human service agencies.
The Master of Science degree in Counseling (School Counseling Specialization) is 51 credits and ensures the student is eligible to apply for School Counseling Certification through the Maryland Department of Education or Pennsylvania Department of Education. This will occur upon successful completion of the school counseling practicum (100 hours in a school setting), internship (600 hours in a school setting), and all degree requirements. The counseling program has been evaluated and approved by the Maryland State Department of Education, National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education and is approved by the Pennsylvania State Department of Education.
The Master of Science degree in Counseling (Clinical Mental Health Specialization) is 60 credits and ensures eligibility for licensure in both MD and PA upon successful completion of required courses, to include a practicum (100 hours) and an internship (600 hours). Students are eligible to sit for their National Counselor Exam upon graduation and are able to apply for their respective states for licensure (see relevant State Board requirements for NCE and other exams required).
Admissions Requirements
• Completed application for graduate study
• Official transcripts verifying completion of an undergraduate degree from an accredited college or university with a minimum cumulative grade point average of 2.75.
• Three recommendations from faculty or employers
• Final criterion when all the above has been met: invitation for an in-person interview with counseling coordinators.