counseling psychology phd ranking

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• Best Online Ph.D.s In Counseling

Best Online Ph.D.s In Counseling Of 2024

Updated: Mar 21, 2024, 1:45pm

For aspiring counselors, psychologists and therapists, a Ph.D. in counseling is the last rung of the educational ladder—the springboard to an advanced role in the field.

A doctorate in counseling requires specialized understanding and training that can lead to positions in clinical practice, consulting, research and administration. And if you want to teach at a higher learning institution, a Ph.D. can qualify you for prestigious academic roles like tenured professor, department head or dean.

Earning a doctorate is a major commitment that entails years’ worth of classroom study, clinical practice and fieldwork, and researching and writing a dissertation. That’s why an online Ph.D. in counseling can be a practical and attractive option.

Online programs offer learners the flexibility to study at their own pace at their convenience, and they can also be a much more affordable alternative to traditional on-campus learning.

Below, we survey the best online counseling Ph.D. programs as determined by key criteria like affordability, flexibility and student outcomes. We also explain the importance of accreditation and explore factors to consider before earning a Ph.D. in counseling online.

Why You Can Trust Forbes Advisor Education

Forbes Advisor’s education editors are committed to producing unbiased rankings and informative articles covering online colleges, tech bootcamps and career paths. Our ranking methodologies use data from the National Center for Education Statistics , education providers, and reputable educational and professional organizations. An advisory board of educators and other subject matter experts reviews and verifies our content to bring you trustworthy, up-to-date information. Advertisers do not influence our rankings or editorial content.

• 6,290 accredited, nonprofit colleges and universities analyzed nationwide
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Our Methodology

We ranked five accredited, nonprofit colleges offering online Ph.D. in counseling degrees in the U.S. using 15 data points in the categories of student experience, credibility, student outcomes and affordability. We pulled data for these categories from reliable resources such as the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System ; private, third-party data sources; and individual school and program websites.

Data is accurate as of February 2024. Note that because online doctorates are relatively uncommon, fewer schools meet our ranking standards at the doctoral level.

We scored schools based on the following metrics:

Student Experience:

• Student-to-faculty ratio
• Socioeconomic diversity
• Availability of online coursework
• Total number of graduate assistants
• Portion of graduate students enrolled in at least some distance education

Credibility:

• Fully accredited
• Programmatic accreditation status
• Nonprofit status

Student Outcomes:

• Overall graduation rate
• Median earnings 10 years after graduation

Affordability:

• In-state graduate student tuition
• In-state graduate student fees
• Alternative tuition plans offered
• Median federal student loan debt
• Student loan default rate

We listed all five schools in the U.S. that met our ranking criteria.

Find our full list of methodologies here .

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Best Online Ph.D. in Counseling Options

Should you enroll in a ph.d. in counseling online, accreditation for online doctorate programs in counseling, how to find the right online ph.d. in counseling for you, frequently asked questions (faqs) about online ph.d.s in counseling, concordia university-irvine, university of the cumberlands, the chicago school at los angeles, colorado christian university, denver seminary.

Graduate Tuition

$795/credit (in-state)

Percentage of Grad Students Enrolled in Distance Education

Overall Graduation Rate

The Ph.D. in counselor education and supervision from Concordia University Irvine , a private Christian college located in Southern California’s Orange County, is a hybrid program that requires coursework, two in-person residencies and an internship before concluding with a dissertation project that draws on original research.

Noteworthy in CUI’s approach is an “integrated dissertation track” that involves students in research from the outset of the program. Introducing the dissertation process at the start of the program lets students integrate their coursework subject matter with dissertation seminar discussions.

The doctorate is meant for licensed professional counselors and does not lead to licensure. Applicants need a master’s in counseling or a related field, preferably from a program accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP).

• Our Flexibility Rating: Learn around your 9-to-5
• School Type: Private
• Application Fee: $50
• Degree Credit Requirements: 60 credits
• Program Enrollment Options: Accelerated, part-time, full-time
• Example Major-Specific Courses: Advanced multicultural issues in counselor education and supervision, models and application of trauma-informed practice
• Concentrations Available: N/A
• In-Person Requirements: Yes, for in-person residencies and campus-based courses

$415/credit (in-state)

The University of the Cumberlands ’ Ph.D. in counselor education and supervision is a three-year program designed to accommodate students who work full time. A private Christian institution, the University of the Cumberlands demonstrates its commitment to affordability through a “One Price Promise” pledge, which makes all textbooks free.

The curriculum encompasses advanced clinical work, leadership and advocacy, research and scholarship, supervision and teaching. All students enroll in the same core courses before choosing a specialization such as leadership, addiction counseling or advanced counseling.

Applicants to this program must have a valid professional certificate or license in their home state.

• Application Fee: $30
• Degree Credit Requirements: 66 credits
• Program Enrollment Options: Full-time
• Example Major-Specific Courses: Theories and techniques of clinical supervision, online teaching and learning in counselor education
• In-Person Requirements: No

$1,703/credit (in-state)

Designed for students who are already licensed counselors or are eligible for licensure, the Chicago School ’s online Ph.D. in counselor education and supervision is a full-time program that usually takes three years to complete.

Touted as “sensitive to difference,” the program trains students to apply best practices and principles toward specific populations, with the goal of being able to serve those communities more effectively.

Doctorates require 60 credits of coursework, a 600-hour internship and a dissertation. Two in-person residencies at the school’s Los Angeles campus are also mandatory. California residents are eligible for financial aid through the state’s Cal Grant.

• Our Flexibility Rating: Learn on your schedule
• Example Major-Specific Courses: Advanced multicultural/diversity issues in counselor education and supervision, telebehavioral approaches in counseling and supervision
• In-Person Requirements: Yes, for an internship

$698/credit (in-state)

A fully accredited, non-licensure program rooted in biblical teaching, Colorado Christian University ’s Ph.D. in counselor education and supervision prepares students for various leadership roles in the counseling profession.

Degrees are contingent on completing a 600-hour internship, two in-person residencies at the school’s Lakewood, Colorado, campus, and a dissertation. Students usually take two courses at a time, in seven- or 14-week blocks, and the program can be completed in nine semesters of consecutive coursework.

On top of tuition, all students pay a resource fee that covers technology resources, course materials and textbooks.

• Application Fee: Free
• Degree Credit Requirements:60 credit hours
• Program Enrollment Options: Part-time, full-time
• Example Major-Specific Courses: Leadership, ethics, and advocacy in CES, research skills I and II
• In-Person Requirements: Yes, for an internship and two residencies

$870/credit (in-state)

Rooted in Christian precepts, Denver Seminary ’s Ph.D. in counselor education and supervision promotes a “cohort” learning model wherein students bond in a close-knit group that studies and ultimately graduates together.

Faculty mentoring is also a program priority. Faculty mentor students primarily virtually but also in person during three required residencies on Denver Seminary’s campus, located in the foothills of the Rockies.

Coursework for the four-year, full-time program centers around two live online evening sessions plus two hours of asynchronous learning activities and assigned reading and writing every week. In addition to the core coursework, requirements include a 600-hour internship, a clinical practicum and a fourth-year dissertation.

• Application Fee: $45
• Example Major-Specific Courses: Advanced cultural foundations in counseling, advanced marriage and family counseling
• In-Person Requirements: Yes, for three in-person residencies and an internship

Several factors will determine whether enrolling in a Ph.D. in counseling online makes sense for you. Important points to consider include:

• Career goals. Weigh whether a Ph.D. in counseling matches your career aspirations. For instance, if you’ve set your sights on academia, clinical practice, research or some other goal in the counseling field, talk to a program representative about how their program will help you get there.
• Accreditation. Confirm that an accrediting body vetted by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) or the U.S. Department of Education has accredited the online program you’re considering. This ensures the program meets certain quality standards and that your degree will be recognized by licensing boards and potential employers.
• Licensing. If your goal is to become a licensed counselor, make sure the program fulfills the education requirements for licensure in the state where you plan to practice.
• Flexibility. Online college offers flexibility, but not everyone has the self-discipline and time management skills needed to succeed in a distance program. Conduct an objective assessment of whether your learning style would suit online learning. Then research whether your prospective program offers support services like academic advising and counseling.
• Financial considerations. Evaluate the total cost of the program, including tuition, fees and all additional expenses. Explore whether you’re eligible for funding options like grants, scholarships, assistantships or employer tuition reimbursement programs.
• Admissions requirements. Many counseling doctoral programs require applicants to hold a master’s in counseling or a related field. Make sure you meet the admissions criteria for any program you apply to.

Institutional accreditation verifies the overall quality and effectiveness of an entire college or university. This accreditation status depends on a rigorous third-party assessment of an institution’s mission, educational programs, faculty qualifications, student services and financial governance, among other factors.

To qualify for federal student aid, you must attend an institutionally accredited university. Employers, credentialing bodies and other higher learning institutions may not recognize your degree if it comes from an unaccredited school. You can confirm a college’s accreditation status by looking for the accreditation page on its website or searching the directories on CHEA’s website .

Programmatic accreditation applies to specific programs and departments within broader educational institutions. Any program receiving programmatic accreditation must be part of an institutionally accredited college or university.

CACREP accredits counseling programs in the United States. Check whether your prospective online Ph.D. in counseling program is accredited by using CACREP’s online directory. Some states require counselors to hold a CACREP-accredited degree to qualify for licensure.

Ready to start your search for an online counseling doctorate? Let’s narrow down your options.

Consider Your Future Goals

Several factors will influence your choice of an online Ph.D. in counseling program. Of these, arguably the most important are your career expectations and how they align with what the program provides.

If you intend to pursue counseling licensure after earning your doctorate, make sure the program meets your state’s educational requirements to become a licensed clinical professional counselor .

Do you want to specialize in a particular area of counseling? Prioritize programs that offer coursework focused on your area of interest or whose faculty have similar specialties. Also, consider whether each program helps students find local practicum and internship opportunities in your desired counseling field.

At a more general level, look for facts and figures on student outcomes from your program. Graduation rates, job placement rates and citations in academic research can all indicate a program’s quality and the potential career opportunities it offers.

Understand Your Expenses and Financing Options

Total tuition for the online Ph.D. in counseling programs ranked on this page ranges from approximately $27,000 to more than $100,000. Financing possibilities for these programs vary from school to school—and your personal financial situation will determine your eligibility for financial aid. To find out what you may qualify for, you’ll need to do some research.

Start by completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®) to determine your eligibility for federal student aid programs, such as direct PLUS loans , direct unsubsidized loans and federal work-study programs . Online students are usually eligible for federal aid, but some programs may have specific eligibility requirements, so check with your school’s financial aid office. (It’s a good idea in general to consult with your school’s financial aid office for personalized guidance.)

Other financing options to consider include:

• Scholarships. Some schools offer scholarships and grants specifically for doctoral students, including those enrolled in online programs. They can be merit-based, need-based or specific to certain disciplines.
• Fellowships. Some Ph.D. programs offer fellowships—financial support in the form of a stipend or tuition remission in exchange for research or teaching assistance.
• Employer sponsorship. If you currently have a job, check with your employer to see if they offer tuition reimbursement or sponsorships. If your Ph.D. program is relevant to your present role or a potential future role at the company, some employers may be willing to cover part of its cost.
• Private student loans. Private student loans from banks, credit unions and online lenders are available if you need additional funding beyond federal and institutional aid.

Before you commit to any financing option, carefully review all terms and conditions, including interest rates and repayment terms. Stay on the lookout for any potential impact on your financial situation after you graduate.

Is getting a Ph.D. in counseling worth it?

A Ph.D. can lead to more and better career options. It’s usually necessary, for instance, if you aspire to become a licensed psychologist, counselor educator or leading researcher. If tuition costs seem like an insurmountable hurdle, explore whether you can get funding through research grants, scholarships or an assistant position. Ultimately, only you can decide whether a Ph.D. program’s potential benefits justify the time and money you’ll commit.

Can you do a Ph.D. completely online?

It’s possible to earn a Ph.D. in counseling entirely online through accredited institutions that offer distance learning programs. Programs like those above feature the same rigorous curriculum and academic standards as in-person programs along with the flexibility of distance learning.

What is a Ph.D. in counseling called?

A Ph.D. in counseling is commonly known as a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in counseling psychology , general counseling, or counselor education and supervision. The exact degree title depends on its specialization.

How hard is a Ph.D. in counseling?

Earning a Ph.D. in counseling requires a major investment of time and intellectual effort. In advanced coursework, students will be expected to demonstrate mastery of challenging subject material. Many doctoral programs also incorporate clinical training, in which students work directly with clients under the supervision of licensed professionals. Additionally, Ph.D. programs usually require you to complete a dissertation and defend it in front of a committee.

How long does it take to get your Ph.D. in counseling?

Ph.D. programs usually require four to six years to complete, if you enroll full time. Part-time students may need longer. The time needed to research, write and defend a dissertation varies and can impact program length.

Jeff Tompkins is a writer and teacher of English as a Second Language living in New York City. He was born in Hartford, Connecticut, in 1967 and was educated at Brown University and University College London. His articles and reviews have appeared in CHA Review of Books and Films, the Brooklyn Rail, the Chicago Review of Books, PopMatters, Words Without Borders, and other outlets.

Dr. Joseph H. Hammer

Associate Professor of Counseling Psychology

Best Doctoral Programs in Counseling Psychology

Applicants to doctoral programs (PhD, PsyD, or EdD) in counseling psychology often want to know what “the best” counseling psychology doctoral programs are.  However, there is no good one-size-fits-all method to rank these programs accurately.  What makes a program “the best” depends on that student’s career goals .

Therefore, instead of giving you a misleading list of “the best’ doctoral programs, I’m going to tell you about the program characteristics that I think define the best programs.  Below is a clickable table of contents for this page.

Characteristics Important to Everyone

Apa-accredited, full funding, high apa-accredited internship placement rate, low student attrition, high job placement rate, low student to faculty ratio, great fit with faculty advisor, cultural diversity of students and faculty, good program location, characteristics important to future clinicians, short time to degree, practicum site variety & quality, characteristics important to future faculty.

• Faculty Publish
• Faculty Seek Extramural Research Grant Funding
• Students Can Teach
• Students Can Provide Clinical Supervision

Characteristics You Don’t Need to Worry About

Institutional prestige, core course offerings, a warning about internet lists of “the best” programs.

There are several online “best programs” lists published by for-profit companies that have no expertise in counseling psychology.  I encourage you to take the information they provide with a truckload of salt because they are often more interested in making money from your website visit (e.g., by referring you to the websites of unaccredited online degree programs) than giving you valid information.  For example, one popular website uses “percentage of recent program graduates who are licensed” to rank counseling psychology doctoral programs.  Why is it a bad idea to rank programs based on this one characteristic?   Because not all graduates from counseling psychology programs need to get licensed to do the type of job they want to do, such as becoming a counseling psychology professor who does research and teaches non-practicum classes, working in certain industries and administrative roles, etc.  Thus, those programs that are great at training students who get these kinds of jobs may get unfairly ranked because some of their students won’t need to get licensed to pursue their chosen career path.  (You only need to get licensed if you are going to provide clinical services or supervise those who are providing those services.)  For example, some of the programs that have the strongest track record of producing future counseling psychology professors are poorly ranked on this list.  It’s frustrating to me that applicants are led astray by flawed ranking lists like this.

Some Essential Background Info

Please note that I have picked these characteristics based on my professional judgment; I respect that some counseling psychology faculty may have different opinions than mine and thus encourage you to consult with multiple mentors.

Some of these characteristics (e.g., low student to faculty ratio) are going to favor PhD programs over PsyD programs.  Therefore, it may be fairer to use these criteria to compare programs of the same type, i.e., compare PhD to PhD, PsyD to PsyD, but not PhD programs to PsyD programs.

These program characteristics are also relevant to identifying the best clinical psychology doctoral programs and some of these characteristics are relevant to identifying the best counseling psychology master’s programs .  For example, the best counseling psychology master’s programs: have a significant percentage of students who get funding, matriculate into doctoral programs or obtain gainful employment soon after graduation, offer master’s students interested in applying to PhD programs the opportunity to get mentored research experience, and provide assistance in obtaining practicum placements.

Before learning about the program characteristics, you need to know about the typical structure of doctoral counseling psychology programs.  Typically, you will complete two to four years of heavy coursework and you’ll have to complete one or more projects and/or comprehensive exams before you can start on your dissertation.  All of this is done “in residence,” meaning that you are physically attending classes on that institution’s campus.  Once you are done with most of the coursework and projects/exams, you’ll be able to propose a dissertation project to your advisory committee, which you then must complete and defend.  Once your dissertation is proposed, you’ll be eligible to apply for predoctoral psychology internship in the fall.  Applying for predoctoral internship means submitting applications to about 12 mental health agencies around the country in the fall, interviewing at some of those agencies in the winter, and then being matched to one of those agencies in early spring.  You will then complete your 12 month predoctoral psychology internship at that agency, starting that summer through the following summer.  Ideally, students will defend their dissertation before starting internship, though some students will defend their dissertation sometime during their year on internship.  For example, at our program the typical plan of study is as follows:

• Year 1: Full course load, provide clinical services to clients as a supervised practicum student.
• Year 2: Full course load, complete a Research Portfolio, provide clinical services to clients as a supervised practicum student.
• Year 3: Course load starts to lighten, Qualifying Exams are completed, Dissertation project is proposed, provide clinical services to clients as a supervised practicum student.
• Year 4: Apply for predoctoral psychology internship, complete dissertation, optional opportunity to provide clinical services to clients as a supervised practicum student.
• Year 5: Work full-time as a predoctoral psychology intern at a mental health agency for 12 months.  Once internship and dissertation are complete the student graduates with their PhD.

Most students enter a doctoral program after completing a two- or three-year master’s degree in counseling psychology, clinical psychology, counseling, social work, marriage and family therapy, rehabilitation counseling, or a related mental health degree.  These students may be able to count some of their master’s courses toward the requirements of the doctoral degree, especially if the courses were earned from a counseling psychology master’s program that also housed a counseling psychology doctoral program.  Students with strong resumes may have the opportunity to enter a doctoral program immediately after completing their bachelor’s degree.  We call these students “post-bac” students.  Post-bac students will have to take the basic master’s-level coursework before they can start on the doctoral-level coursework, which tends to add about 3 semesters of additional coursework to the doctoral program of study, which means it will take one or two more years to earn their PhD.  Often, these post-bac students earn a master’s in counseling psychology along the way to their PhD. Before we jump to the characteristics, I have a final warning : this page is very detailed (can you tell I’m a perfectionist?) and has more information than you’ll be able to fully digest at this point in your professional development.  Please don’t get bogged down in the tiny details.  Just get a general sense of the key program characteristics you should be considering and use that to inform your upcoming application decisions.

The following program characteristics can be used by all students to identify the best counseling psychology programs:  APA-accredited, full funding, high APA-accredited internship placement rate, low student attrition, high job placement rate, low student to faculty ratio, great fit with faculty advisor, cultural diversity of students and faculty, and good program location.

Doctoral programs accredited by the American Psychological Association are held accountable to providing high quality training to their students.  It’s hard to get an APA-accredited internship if you don’t go to an APA-accredited doctoral program.  It’s harder to get a job if you don’t go to an APA-accredited doctoral program and complete your internship at an APA-accredited internship agency.  For these reasons, I recommend applying only to APA-accredited doctoral programs.  There can be good programs that are not accredited, but you take a risk if you enter one.  Here’s the Society of Counseling Psychology’s List of Accredited Counseling Psychology PhD and PsyD Programs , which has handy links to each program. You can also search the clunkier  official list on APA’s website .

It is common for counseling psychology doctoral students who get PhD’s to be “fully funded” during their time in the program.  Traditionally, fully funded means that the student:

• Please note that, even if tuition is waived, most programs will require that students pay the university/institution mandatory fees for graduate students.  You can find out the fees for the first year of study (fall semester and spring semester combined) by looking at the program’s “Student Admissions, Outcomes, and Other Data” table called “Program Costs”.  You can always find the link to a given program’s “Student Admissions, Outcomes, and Other Data” tables by going to their program’s main webpage and looking for the hyperlink that says “Student Admissions, Outcomes, and Other Data” table.
• will receive a monthly stipend to help defray the cost of living expenses such as housing rental and food.  The amount of this monthly stipend can vary depending on how the student is funded.  A higher stipend is better, but more important is how far that stipend will go, given the cost of living in that town.  For example, a $1000/mo stipend will pay the rent in Lexington, KY but not in Washington, DC.
• will not have to pay monthly premiums (or you’ll pay reduced premiums) for the health insurance offered to that university’s graduate students.  This benefit varies from institution to institution though, so don’t assume that just because you are being offered funding that you will get free health insurance.

There are three main ways to be funded: assistantships, fellowships/scholarships, or a combination of the two.

Fellowships/scholarships typically mean that the student gets free money without having to do work, but this is not always the case.  Fellowships can be merit-based, identity-based (e.g., funding for racial minority students), need-based, or a combination.

Assistantships typically mean that the student must do work in exchange for the tuition waiver and monthly stipend.  This work can be as a graduate assistant (GA), a teaching assistant (TA), or a research assistant (RA).  It’s best when your assistantships require you to use skills relevant to your future career (e.g., conducting mental health workshops, teaching psychology courses to undergraduates, doing program evaluation research).  Fully funded students typically must do 20 hours of work a week to earn the funding, which can be called a “20/hr/wk assistantship” or a “.50 FTE assistantship” or a “half-time assistantship” depending on the institution.

However, it is also possible for students to be “partially funded” via an assistantship that requires them to do 10 hours of work a week to earn the partial funding, which can be called a “10/hr/wk assistantship” or a “.25 FTE assistantship” or a “quarter-time assistantship”.  Traditionally, partially funded means that the student will have half of their tuition waived and will receive half of the monthly stipend.  However, the tuition waiver aspect can vary across programs, such that a partially funded student may not get any tuition waived or may get all of their tuition waived, though these two variations are less common.

It can be confusing and anxiety-provoking to figure this stuff out.  However, it is super important to know the funding situation at the programs you are considering. as this can have a huge impact on your quality of life and future financial well-being.

If you are going to get a PhD in counseling psychology (see last paragraph of this section for info about PsyD’s), ideally you will go to a program where you will be fully funded during those “in residence” years before you go off on predoctoral psychology internship.  Full funding means less student loan debt.  It is most important to be fully funded during the early years when you are taking the most course credits (i.e., when tuition would be highest).  It is less important to be fully funded during the later years prior to predoctoral psychology internship when you are not taking many (or any) courses, but it’s still worthwhile because of the monthly stipend and insurance premium waiver.  Most APA-accredited internships are paid internships, so you will not need funding from your program during that internship year.

Therefore, I recommend applying to PhD programs whose students have full funding during their “in residence” years.  Ideally, that full funding will be “guaranteed up front” if and when you are made an offer to join the program.  However, very few counseling psychology programs are able to guarantee funding up front because of how the financial structure works at most departments that house these counseling psychology programs.

Therefore, it is best to try to learn what percentage of “in residence” doctoral students who wanted full-time funding have gotten that full-time funding the last few years.  A history of successful full funding of all “in residence” doctoral students is not a guarantee  that you would be fully funded as a future doctoral student, but it is the best predictor of whether or not you would be fully funded.  Please note that some programs make this percentage available on their website and some do not; some programs can provide this information if you tactfully inquire about it, some may only have an approximate percentage, and some may not have this information.  If you can get this information, you should, as it will dictate how much student loan debt you’re likely to accrue over the course of your doctoral studies.

Most PsyD programs cannot fully fund their students.  When considering a PsyD program, make sure you know what percentage of students are fully and partially funded, what that funding looks like (tuition, stipend, health insurance), and how much you’ll likely pay in tuition each year of the program.  Make informed decisions based on this information.  The Psychology Graduate School website has thoughtful information regarding the difference between PhD and PsyD programs as it relates to student loan debt, so I won’t repeat it here. I should also mention “research funding” and “travel funding” while we’re at it. The best programs offer their students access to (often a small) amount of travel funding that they can use to defray the expense of attending professional conference such as the American Psychological Association’s Annual Convention.  Plane tickets to national conferences often costs $300 to $600 round trip, hotel is often $100 per person per night, conference registration can be $40 to $100, plus daily meal and local transportation costs.  International conferences cost even more in airfare.  Graduate students with limited financial means really benefit from having the department help out with the cost.  So, try to find out how much travel funding is available from the program’s department (and sometimes the larger college, graduate school, or university) per year.  For example, our program offers students $500 a year in conference travel funding.  Likewise, some programs make a pool of research funds available that student can competitively apply for to help pay for research expenses such as participant incentives.  Such research/travel funding is nice, but also not nearly as essential as fellowship/assistantship funding and the accompanying tuition remission.

Lastly, let’s talk about summer funding.  Summer funding is nice.  Most assistantships/fellowships only cover you for the 9 month academic year (fall and spring semesters), but not for the summer months.  This means that, if you want a stream of income during the summer months (to pay for non-school expenses like rent and food), you need to think about how you’ll get that money.  Are you going to take a summer job unaffiliated with the program?  Will you just count on student loans to cover your summer expenses? Do the assistantships that students get allow you to work and get the stipend during the summer months?  These questions take on particular urgency if you will be taking summer classes.  Some programs require students to take courses during the summer, some offer optional summer courses, and some offer no summer courses.  If you are going to attend a program where you’re likely to take summer courses, then it’s important to determine if summer funding is available so that you can get a waiver on that summer course tuition.

You must complete an internship if you want to graduate from an APA-accredited counseling psychology doctoral program, regardless of what career path you want to take after graduation.  Most internships are one year full-time (12 full months) and a few are two year part-time (24 months).  There are both APA-accredited internships and internships that are not accredited by APA.  You will have fewer job options if you complete an internship that is not accredited, which is why all APA-accredited counseling psychology programs strongly encourage their students to only apply to APA-accredited internship sites.

Nationwide, there are more applicants than there are APA-accredited internship slots.  This imbalance means that students are at risk for not getting an APA-accredited internship, which puts them in a bad situation that can delay their degree or send them to a non-accredited internship that may hamper their future career.

Therefore, it is best to go to a counseling psychology doctoral program that has an excellent track record of helping their students get matched to APA-accredited internships that are paid.

To discover each program’s track record, look at the program’s “Student Admissions, Outcomes, and Other Data” tables called “Internship Placement”.  Examine the last few years (the far right columns) to see how well their students have been placing lately.  There are at least 2 things you should examine.

In Table 1, look at the first row called “Students who obtained APA/CPA-accredited internships.”  Ideally, 100% of their students during each year of application will have matched to an accredited internship.  If less than 100% of their students have been matching to accredited internships in the last few years, then that means you may also have trouble matching to an accredited internship if you attend that program.  Of course, every student has a unique circumstance and it is mostly up to the student, rather than the program, whether or not they will match to an accredited internship.  However, programs differ in how much support and guidance they provide to students during this process, and that support can make a difference in how effectively students approach the internship application process.  In other words, the best programs have a stronger track record (i.e., close to 100%) of placing students in accredited internships, but even the best programs may occasionally have a student (or a few, if we’re talking very large cohorts) that do not match to an accredited internship. In Table 2, look at the second row called “Students who obtained paid internships.”  Ideally, 100% of their students during each year of application will have obtained paid internships.  Because you won’t be getting funding from your home institution while away on internship, you need to make sure you’ll be paid by the internship site so that you can cover cost of living expenses.  Annual pay varies from site to site, with a typical dollar amount of 20k to 30k for the 12 months.  Most APA-accredited internships are paid.

By the way, APAGS has helpful resources related to internship  that you can peruse.

Not everyone who starts a doctoral program finishes it.  Dropping out (i.e., student attrition) after putting in a few years of time, effort, and money into pursuing a doctorate is inefficient and something to be avoided.  There are many reasons that students drop out of a doctoral program.  Some are purely personal (e.g., medical or family issues, desire to pursue different career path), some are purely about the program (e.g., a hostile interpersonal culture among students and faculty), and some are a mix (e.g., difficulty coping with the stress of overly-intensive doctoral program requirements).  Like I said with internship placement rate in the previous section, just because some students drop out of a given doctoral program over the years does not necessarily mean that the program has problems, but when there is a clear pattern of attrition over the years this may suggest the program needs to be doing something different.  When there is a pattern, this is more suggestive that the program itself has some problems; when there is no pattern, this is suggestive that the occasional student dropping out may or may not be more about those students’ personal situations.  It’s a little more complicated than this, but I think this is reasonable general advice.

To discover each program’s rate of attrition, look at the program’s “Student Admissions, Outcomes, and Other Data” table called “Attrition”.  Look at the row called “Students no longer enrolled for any reason other than conferral of doctoral degree” to see how many students from that cohort (i.e., that group of students who entered the program in that same year listed at the top of the column) have dropped out.  Compare this number to the number of “Students whose doctoral degrees were conferred on their transcript” for those cohorts that entered long enough ago that they have had a chance to complete all program requirement and graduate (i.e., cohorts who entered the program about 6+ years ago).  Cohorts from the last few years will not have any students who have graduated, so you’re mostly comparing the number of students who attritioned to the number of “Students still enrolled in the program”.  Ideally, most students will either be still enrolled (the last 5 or 6 years worth of cohorts) or will have earned their doctoral degree, while a minimum number will have attritioned.  Again, look for patterns that might raise questions.  Perhaps during interviews you can tactfully ask the more advanced graduate students in that program about what may have led to those students who attritioned to drop out when they did.  This may help you get a sense of the degree to which that attrition is due to program-specific factor versus personal factors.  For example, in our program, we had some students attrition because they discovered that they were more interested in other professional degrees that better aligned with their career goals.  However, just looking at the numbers in the Attrition table would not reveal that information; it would have to be gleaned through conversations with folks in the program. To add some further nuance: it can be valuable to know the kinds of students who tend to attrition from the program to see if there is a pattern there.  Each university, geographic community in which the university is situated, department, and program have their own interpersonal and cultural climate.  For example, some environments are more hostile to members of minority groups (e.g., people of color, LGBTQIA+ people, immigrants and international students, those with worldviews other than Christianity) than other environments.  Therefore, some programs may demonstrate a pattern where minority students tend to be the ones that attrition while privileged students do not.  This is important information for minority applicants to doctoral programs.  If people who share your cultural identities are more likely to attrition from a given program, you may want to think twice about applying or accepting an offer to that program.  Of course, the names and personal identities of those who drop out of a given program is protected by FERPA law, so it can be hard to get a sense for the cultural identities of those students who have attritioned from the program in recent years.  My advice is to have a tactful conversation with graduate students currently enrolled in that program that share your salient cultural identities to ask them what the climate has felt like to them.  This may help shed light on whether that program’s attrition may or may not be related to cultural climate. In summary, the best programs have low attrition.  Look for patterns of attrition.  When such patterns exist, use tactful inquiries with current graduate students (this is easier during interviews when you have some face-time and rapport built with the current graduate students) to gather additional context.  If the program (or larger department, etc.) seems to be doing something to create a less supportive educational environment for students, or certain groups of students, take that into consideration.

APA-accredited programs are required to track their program alumni after graduation to see when and if they obtain gainful employment (i.e., getting a steady paying job in the occupation for which a program was designed).  A strong job placement rate (close to 100%) is a marker of a high-quality program.  However, this information is not often posted directly on the program’s website, so you may need to obtain this information via other tactful means.  This information can also be obtained from APA’s Graduate Study in Psychology book, though the information for each program may not always been updated for that publication year.

One wrinkle you should know about: after graduation, some counseling psychology doctoral graduates will go on to complete a “ post-doc ” to help them accrue additional training that will make them competitive for entry-level positions in our field.  For example, this is quite common when seeking university counseling center staff psychologist positions.  Often, post-docs are to help people prepare for practice careers, but sometimes counseling psychologists will do a post-doc to become more competitive for academic/faculty careers.

Program faculty are busy people.  The more students they are responsible for providing academic advising, research mentoring, classroom instruction, and/or clinical supervision, the less time and effort they can spend on each student.  The less time and effort the faculty can spend on you, the slower your professional development will be.

Therefore, I recommend looking for programs with a lower student to faculty ratio.  In other words, programs with 5 students per faculty member (5:1) afford more personalized attention per student than programs with 10 students per faculty member (10:1).  You will be able to find out how many faculty there are in the program by looking at the program’s faculty page and you can find out how many students there are by looking at the program’s “Student Admissions, Outcomes, and Other Data” tables.  Scroll down to the “Attrition” table and count the number of “Students still enrolled in the program” in the third row of the table across all columns.  Then, go on the program website and count how many faculty (ideally, core faculty… see definition below) are associated with the program.  Lastly, divide the number of students by the number of faculty to get the ratio.  Some programs list their student:faculty ratio to their website.

It’s important for me to acknowledge at this point that PsyD programs tend to have larger cohorts while PhD programs tend to have small cohorts.  Thus, as I noted above, it may be fairer to use this ratio to compare PhD programs to other PhD programs, and PsyD programs to other PSyD programs, rather than PhD programs to PsyD programs.

Many counseling psychology doctoral programs use an apprenticeship model of mentorship.  This means that doctoral students apply to work under a specific core faculty member in that program.  When I say “core” I mean that the faculty member is responsible for providing primary research mentoring and academic advising to a group of students.  Core faculty are different from “Clinical” or “Lecturer” or “Adjunct” faculty who may teaches classes or run a clinic but typically do not provide primary mentoring/advising to doctoral students.

For example, our program has 5 core faculty members, each with their own research team/lab that is composed of the doctoral students they advise, and sometimes interested master’s students and undergraduate students.  When people apply to our doctoral program, they must articulate in their Statement of Purpose/Cover Letter how their research interests/experience is a good fit for the research focus of one (possibly two) faculty member.  This helps the core faculty make a judgment about which of the many well-qualified applicants has the best alignment with their program of research.  For example, I do help-seeking research (i.e., what helps/stops people from getting talk therapy when they need it) among other topics, so I only seriously consider those applicants to our program that provide convincing evidence in their application that they have a genuine interest in (and, ideally, experience with) help-seeking research.  In short, we want to work with doctoral students who love to study what we love to study.  We’re going to be spending 4+ years working side by side with this student on research, so we need to make sure we’ll be a good fit.

Therefore, when applying to programs that use the apprenticeship model, you’ll need to be ready to articulate how your research interests match up with one ( maybe two) of the core faculty members at the program.  This brings up a larger question: what are your research interests?  You need to know what your research interests are in order to determine which apprenticeship-model-using programs are worth applying to… if your research interests don’t match up well with the core faculty a given program, you are not going to have a realistic chance of getting into that program, so it’s not even worth applying to it.  Even if we could find a magic criteria to determine the #1 best counseling psychology program in the universe, this does not matter at all if your research interests don’t match up with any of the faculty at that program!

This is why fit with advisor is such a powerful factor when considering doctoral programs.  However, because every applicant has different research interests, your “top 10 best counseling psychology doctoral programs” is going to look different than most other applicants.  It’s tricky like that.

Here’s a big caveat: not all counseling psychology programs use an apprenticeship model of mentorship.  Some programs do not require that applicants articulate a research interest fit with one faculty member in their program because they instead look to recruit a strong cohort of students who, once they have spent some time in the program, can pick one of the faculty members whose research and style they like the most to be their faculty advisor and research mentor.  For programs like these, it’s less about fit with a single faculty member and more about how much you like the core faculty as a whole (and how much they like you). At this point, I want to broaden the definition of “fit with advisor” beyond just fit with their research interests.  Fit can also include things like mentoring style (e.g., flexible vs. structured, autonomous vs. close hand-holding), personality (business-like vs. warm and process oriented, type-A vs. relaxed), and performance expectations (e.g., moderate vs. intense).  You may or may not be able to get a sense of a given faculty member’s style during the application stage (some may have a website where they talk about their work and style), but you certainly will be able to get a sense of their style if you attend an interview at the program and get to experience their style first hand.

Ethical counseling psychologists possess the ability to work effectively with clients and colleagues from cultural backgrounds different than their own.  Working effectively requires knowing about the historical and modern experiences of different cultural groups (e.g., racial/ethnic, LGBTQIA+,  rurality) as well as how privilege, discrimination, and disenfranchisement operate in the United States and abroad.  It requires becoming aware of the privileges you may hold, the marginalization you may experience, and the cultural biases you have internalized over time, due to certain facets of your cultural identity.  It requires learning cognitive and behavioral techniques that will help you reduce the influence of these socialized biases on how you interact with people who are in the same or a different social location than you.

You can receive effective training in these things in any counseling psychology doctoral program, regardless of the cultural background of the students and faculty in that program.  That being said, programs that have a culturally diverse body of students and faculty will be able to draw upon a rich array of personal and professional experience that can maximize the quality of the multicultural competence training that occurs in that program. Furthermore, it is nice when you can be part of a program where you can find community with people who share your cultural worldview.  Therefore, seek to determine if people from communities you identity with are represented among the students and faculty of that program.  It can also help when the program is located in a city where people from your communities work and live, as it’s important to be able to connect with people outside of your program.  The cultural makeup of the students and faculty can potentially have a strong influence on how safe and included you may feel if you go to that program.

Look at the program website to see if you can glean information about the demographic makeup of the student and faculty body.

While you will spend much of your time focused on your professional work, you also need to have a life outside of your program.  Work-life balance is essential to preventing burnout and your own potential attrition from the program.  Thus, it is preferable when the program is located in an area where you would enjoy living.  Think about what your needs are.

Do you need the amenities a big city offers?  How do you feel about gridlock traffic?  Would you be depressed if your town was surrounded by miles of cornfields?  Do you want to live in a place where the cost of living is low and, therefore, you won’t have to go into as much student loan debt as you might otherwise?  As noted above, are there people from my cultural communities that I’ll be able to connect with in this locale?  Is there a sizable population of young educated professionals in this place?  Do I plan to raise a family here and what would that be like?  Are there enough craft breweries to satisfy my thirst for highbrow libations? Write down your “musts” and your “prefers” and give each program a grade based on its geographic livability.  Like the characteristics of “fit with advisor” and “cultural diversity”, when it comes to ranking programs based on “geographic livability”, your list of top counseling psychology doctoral programs is going to be different than other applicants.

If your goal is to become a licensed psychologist who primarily provides clinical services (e.g., treatment, assessment, consultation, clinical supervision, prevention) to clients (e.g., individuals, couples, families, groups, or organizations), then you will care most about those program characteristics that impact the quality of your clinical training.

Time is money.  The sooner you can graduate and get your desired job, the sooner you can get on with your life and start to make money.  Therefore, a shorter time to degree is preferable for those who want to go into practice (i.e., spend most of their professional working hours providing clinical services). Shorter time to degree is not listed in the “universally-important characteristics” section because students who want to get a faculty job at a high-research productivity university (e.g., University of Kentucky, University of Missouri, Virginia Commonwealth University) must publish a lot of peer-reviewed journal articles before they graduate if they want to be competitive for these kinds of research-heavy faculty positions.  If you accelerate your program schedule and zip through graduate school, leaving yourself with less time to develop your program of research, you may come to regret that decision.

Time to degree can be determined by looking at the program’s “Student Admissions, Outcomes, and Other Data” table called “Time to Completion for all students entering the program.”  Bear in mind that this table does not differentiate between time to degree for students entering with a completed master’s degree versus those who are coming in post-bac, so try to get a sense of the percentage of students in that program who are post-masters vs post-bac and interpret these Time to Completion table results with that context in mind.

After learning the basic therapy skills in class, doctoral counseling psychology students will start to do clinical practica.  A clinical practicum involves providing clinical services to clients at an agency for typically 10 to 20 hours each week for a semester/year.  You will receive weekly clinical supervision from a licensed mental health professional who works at that agency (typically) and, at least in the first few years of doctoral training, you will attend weekly program faculty-taught practicum classes with the other students in your cohort.  Practica is the primary way students gain clinical experience; you learn to do therapy by doing therapy under careful supervision from experienced professionals.

The best programs will provide students the opportunity to do practica at a variety of practicum sites, including university counseling centers, community mental health agencies, in-house department clinics, Veteran Administration (VA) Medical Centers, Hospitals, Prisons, etc.  Having a variety of practicum sites that you can apply to do practica is helpful for several reasons:

• it will help you maximize the breadth of your experience, which can be attractive to some predoctoral internship agencies and future employers
• it will give you exposure to a variety of treatment environments, training modalities, and client presenting concerns / mental illness, which will broaden your skill set and help you develop informed preferences regarding the kinds of treatment settings that you might like to work in after graduation
• it is a sign that the program has strong partnerships with agencies in the surrounding community, which can help programs adapt to sudden changes (e.g., certain practicum sites closing down will not put some students at risk for not getting a practicum site)

In addition to the benefits of practicum site variety, the quality of the sites matters a great deal.  Unfortunately, this can be harder to determine prior to going on an interview, where you’ll get to ask current students their opinions about the sites they have been to.  Quality indicators include:

• some sites intentionally give practicum students few clients and then balance this by providing in-depth supervision around those few clients
• sites focused on assessment, rather than talk therapy, often involve fewer hours face to face with clients and more hours spend analyzing and writing up assessment results and integrated reports
• the opportunity to get reliable weekly supervision from an on-site supervisor who works at the agency and is licensed as a psychologist or other doctoral-level mental health professional.  Being supervised by master’s-level clinicians is less valuable and APA-accreditation requires that a critical mass of students’ supervision be provided by doctoral level psychologists.  Some sites are structured in such a way that students’ weekly supervision meetings often get cancelled or cut short, which may limit student’s ability to get quality one on one supervision time (a key factor that helps students grow clinically).

The characteristics that are important to students who want to become future faculty members (i.e., “go into academia”) vary depending on the type of institution you want to work at.  There are different ways to classify the types of programs that counseling psychologists may find jobs in, but for simplicity I’ll put programs in three categories: research-intensive programs , training-intensive programs, and teaching-intensive programs.

Research-Intensive Programs

Research-intensive programs require their faculty to publish lots of peer-reviewed journal articles and seek grant funding for their research in order to get tenure .  These programs are typically housed in “high research productivity” (often called “R1”) universities such as the University of Kentucky.  The intensity of these requirements varies from institution to institution.  For example, as of 2018, a common tenure benchmark includes:

• 2 first-author publications (plus a few supporting-author publications) per year in good peer-reviewed journals relevant to your field of study
• evidence of seeking external funding (e.g., applying for a grant from the National Institute of Mental Health) by the time you go up for tenure around the start of your sixth year on faculty
• evidence of good teaching, based on teaching evaluation scores and peer review of your teaching etc.

Thus, if you want to be a viable candidate for a faculty job at a research-intensive program, you need to publish a lot of peer-reviewed journal articles, get experience applying for research funding, and get teaching experience, all when you are still a graduate student.  Doing this will be easier at some doctoral counseling psychology programs than others because the resources, opportunities, and mentoring will vary from program to program.  Therefore, the “best” counseling psychology doctoral programs for people who want to find employment in research-intensive programs will have the following:

• Look at the faculty member’s CV to see if they are publishing at a sufficient rate in good journals.  Productivity can ebb and flow depending on what stage of professional life the faculty member is in, so pay attention to their productivity from the last three years, as this will be a better predictor of their future productivity than what they were doing 5 or 10 years ago.
• Look at the faculty member’s CV and see if their students are publishing a lot of papers with them.  Generally, students start off by being supporting authors on the faculty member’s papers, then, as they get more experienced over time, those students start to be first authors while the faculty member is a supporting author.  Just because a given professor is productive does NOT mean their students are also productive.  This can be for different reasons.  On one hand, if a given professor’s students tend to be focused on pursuing practice careers, they may be less interested in publishing papers.  On the other hand, the professor and/or program may not be providing the resources, incentives, or supports that help students publish.  It is also possible that the professor’s students tend to be publish with other faculty members or students inside or outside of the department, so it’s even better if you can track down the CVs of that professor’s students.  For example, half of my publications during graduate school were with a team of social scientists unaffiliated with my program and advisor, so looking at my advisor’s CV would make you think I was only half as productive as I actually was.
• How many publications should you have by the time you are applying for this kind of faculty job?  The bar for “publishing enough” keeps getting higher every year.  As of Fall of 2018, my informal conversations with faculty colleagues at counseling psychology programs across the country suggest that 12 publications (with 4+ of those being first author, majority in good journals published by recognized publishers with impact factors greater than 1.00) is a solid minimum that applicants should strive to meet by the time they apply.  There are plenty of folks who get jobs with fewer publications, especially if those publications are high quality or in top tier journals.  Given this, try to find the CV’s of graduating students who are seeking R1 faculty jobs who worked with the faculty member you are interested in– were they meeting this 12 pub threshold?
• Look at the faculty member’s CV to see if they have applied for (and ideally received) funding.  Often, professor will seek internal funding from their institution, which helps them collect initial pilot data that serves as the basis for seeking larger extramural funding.  Evidence of seeking internal funding is good, but not as compelling as evidence of seeking external funding.
• Look at the CVs of that faculty member’s students (if available) to see if they have shown evidence of seeking funding for their own research.  Because they are students, it is more likely their efforts have only involved seeking internal funding or small amounts of external funding.  Sometimes this funding can come in the form of fellowships or training grants rather than traditional research grants.  Professors are often very involved in helping their students get such fellowships, and it’s a good sign that you may be eligible to pursue such funding with their help if you enter that program.
• Look for evidence that students have been involved in that faculty member’s pursuit of grant funding.  Students can often help the professor out with literature reviews or helping to draft certain portions of the funding proposal.  This sort of exposure to the process of seeking funding is valuable experience that can help students later pursue their own funding.
• Look at the program’s website, handbook, or current students’ CVs to see if there is evidence that students get the opportunity to teach.  Teaching experience comes in many forms, with some forms being more valuable than others.
• It is most valuable when you can teach an official university credit-bearing course as the “instructor of record” (meaning that you are the person primarily responsible for the teaching of the course).  Because faculty members in research-intensive programs often teach graduate counseling psychology courses and sometimes undergraduate psychology courses, it is ideal if you get the opportunity to teach graduate students and undergraduate students.  However, it is common to only have the opportunity to teach undergraduate students (only some universities allow doctoral students to teach master’s students, for example), so don’t be too worried if this is the case.  As the instructor of record, you are ideally responsible for creating the lesson plan, teaching the curriculum yourself, grading coursework, and responsible for the logistics (e.g., managing student behavior).  By getting experiences with all of these aspects of the teaching role, you will be in a better position as a job applicant to make the case that you will be ready to handle your future teaching responsibilities.  Also, by teaching an official course, you will get teaching evaluations from your students, which puts you in a position to offer empirical data to prospective employers about the quality of your teaching (as perceived by your students, at least).
• The second most valuable type of experience is being a Teaching Assistant (TA).  As a TA, you may only have to do the grading, teach a lab section, and/or guest lecture a few times.  The more of these tasks you can be responsible for the better (the closer the experience is to being an instructor of record), in terms of building your resume.
• Likewise, it can be valuable to teach or facilitate an unofficial course or didactic experience (e.g., teaching helping skills or cultural competence skills to a group of people).  These sorts of “teaching-ish” experiences can help you learn many of the same skills as you would if you were an instructor of record or TA, even though they won’t necessarily sound as substantial to job search committee members reviewing your faculty job application.
• Lastly, some programs may allow certain doctoral students to guest lecture in faculty member’s graduate courses, especially when the topic for that week is an area of strength/expertise for the doctoral student.  This is a great way to get some initial teaching experience and/or get some practice with teaching graduate students, which often requires a different style than teaching undergraduates.

Training-Intensive Programs

Training-intensive programs are those that offer a counseling psychology PsyD degree or a counseling psychology/counseling master’s degree (but no PhD degree).  Faculty in these programs may or may not teach undergraduate students, but they do teach and train graduate students how to become good clinicians.   Training-intensive programs typically do not require their faculty to publish lots of peer-reviewed journal articles or seek grant funding for their research.  These activities are appreciated but not strongly incentivized.  Rather, faculty are expected to some light to moderate publishing/presenting of work (perhaps one supporting-author manuscript a year or a few first-author symposium presentations or poster presentation at a conference) but are primarily judged on the quality of their instruction.  Excellent teaching and light to moderate publication/presentation will earn them tenure.  Teaching may include instruction of traditional courses but also providing clinical supervision of graduate students.

Thus, if you want to be a viable candidate for a faculty job at a training-intensive program, you need to publish/present a light to moderate amount and gain substantial teaching/training/supervision experience while you are still a graduate student.  Doing this will be easier at some doctoral counseling psychology programs than others because the resources, opportunities, and mentoring will vary from program to program.  Therefore, the “best” counseling psychology doctoral programs for people who want to find employment in training-intensive programs will have the following:

• A faculty member who shares your research interest that publishes some, and has current doctoral advisees who publish/present some.  More than just “some” is great, but not required, in this case.  If the faculty member also has some experience with seeking/obtaining funding, that’s great to.
• Opportunities to teach while a doctoral student: see the description in the research-intensive programs section… it all applies equally here.  If anything, because of the training-intensive programs’ focus on teaching and training graduate students, there can be an even stronger incentive for job applicants to have had some experience teaching graduate students, not just undergraduates.
• Opportunities to clinically supervise and train graduate student clinicians: because of training-intensive programs focus on training graduate students to become clinicians, it is ideal if you can gain experience training graduate student clinicians while still a graduate student yourself.  This is most commonly achieved by advanced doctoral students providing clinical supervision to masters students.  For example, in my doctoral program, I was able to provide weekly individual supervision to first year graduate students who were providing therapy to volunteer clients.  I was also able to teach an undergraduate course that allowed me to teach, train, and supervise the students around basic counseling skills.  I also provided clinical supervision to undergraduate paraprofessionals who were providing basic career counseling.  These are just some of the many forms that “getting experience providing clinical supervision” can take.  Bottom line is that you want to engage in activities, whether paid or not, where you get to coach people on therapy-related skills.  The closer the clinical supervision experience you are getting is to bona fide clinical supervision of students with actual clients, the better.

Teaching-Intensive Programs

Teaching-intensive programs are typically found at Small Liberal Arts Colleges (SLACs).  Faculty in these programs typically do not teach graduate students.  Rather, they typically only teach undergraduate students, most often in that institution’s Psychology Department. Teaching-intensive programs typically do not require their faculty to publish lots of peer-reviewed journal articles or seek grant funding for their research.  These activities are appreciated but not strongly incentivized.  Rather, faculty are expected to some light to moderate publishing/presenting of work (perhaps one supporting-author manuscript a year or a few first-author symposium presentations or poster presentation at a conference) but are primarily judged on the quality of their instruction and mentoring of undergraduate students.  Excellent teaching/mentoring and light to moderate publication/presentation will earn them tenure.

Counseling Psychologists who become faculty in such departments are typically the only counseling psychologist on faculty.  There may be one other counseling psychologist and typically two to four clinical psychologists, plus a smattering of social/personality, cognitive, experimental, neuro, industrial/organizational, etc. psychologists.  Together, these faculty from various specialties of psychology are responsible for teaching the core psychology courses (Psych 101, Research Methods, Research Lab) plus specialty courses tied to their area of expertise.  Thus, as a counseling psychologist, you would like be responsible for teaching courses like abnormal psychology, multicultural psychology, theories of counseling, basic counseling techniques, introduction to psychological assessment and measurement, introduction to counseling psychology, and perhaps a course related to your research interests such as psychology of religion and spirituality or psychology of gender.

Thus, if you want to be a viable candidate for a faculty job at a teaching-intensive program, you need to publish/present a light to moderate amount and gain substantial undergraduate teaching experience while you are still a graduate student.  Doing this will be easier at some doctoral counseling psychology programs than others because the resources, opportunities, and mentoring will vary from program to program.  Therefore, the “best” counseling psychology doctoral programs for people who want to find employment in teaching-intensive programs will have the following:

• A faculty member who shares your research interest that publishes some, and has current doctoral advisees who publish/present some.  More than just “some” is great, but not required, in this case.  If the faculty member also has some experience with seeking/obtaining funding, that’s great to.
• Opportunities to teach undergraduate students while a doctoral student: see the description in the research-intensive programs section… it all applies equally here.  If anything, because of the teaching-intensive programs’ focus on teaching and mentoring undergraduate students, it is most important to get experience teaching undergraduate students.  It is also helpful if you can be in a faculty member’s research lab that hires undergraduate research assistants, so that you try to get experience managing the work of these undergraduate RA’s.  In my doctoral program, I was a sort of lab manager for our team of undergraduate RA’s in the lab, and this experience was valuable in helping me learn how to guide undergraduates in the research process.  Some SLAC programs will really appreciate faculty candidates who have had not only classroom teaching experience, but also research mentoring experience with undergraduates.

The quality of counseling psychology doctoral programs is not judged by the same criteria used to judge other kinds of graduate or undergraduate programs.  However, many applicants don’t realize this.  Heck, many organizations that create “best programs” lists don’t realize or don’t care about this either (see my soapbox rant at the top of this page).  So, let’s set the record straight.  Here are some characteristics that, in my reasonably-informed opinion, you do NOT need to worry about because they are not likely to substantially impact the quality of your educational experience or your job prospects after graduation.  Like with many things, there may be some exceptions where some of these characteristics would end up being important, but those would be exceptions rather than the rule.

Ask counseling psychologists if they think institutional prestige is a key factor that students should use when selecting which doctoral programs to apply to.  I think you will find that the overwhelming response is “No.”  Counseling Psychology program are not MBAs or Medical Schools, where there is dominant and fairly well-accepted metric that can be used to rank programs. Instead of Prestige, we talk about more direct measures of quality such as those listed above.

All APA-accredited programs are required to offer core courses in 10 “Discipline-Specific Knowledge” areas and 9 “Profession-Wide Competencies” that our profession has deemed essential for all health service psychologists to be competent in by the time they graduate with their doctorate.  The courses that cover these 19 areas are quite similar across all counseling psychology doctoral programs, so this is not a useful characteristic by which to judge the quality of programs.  Certainly the manner in which these courses are taught will vary program to program and faculty member to faculty member, but such differences will likely be hard to determine prior to submitting applications and even after interviews.  It’s typically not something we focus a great deal on in our discussions with applicants, as programs tend to be more similar than different when it comes to these core course offering.

That being said, courses on topics  beyond the 19 required areas may differ from program to program.  Thus, if you are really interested in, for example, family therapy or substance abuse counseling or sex therapy or LBGTQ psychology or some other topic, then you can check to see if a given program offers coursework in those areas or not.  Bear in mind that you are going to be up to your eyeballs in academic, clinical, and research work your entire time in graduate school, so you won’t have the luxury on loading up on a bunch of extra non-required courses… so don’t undue emphasis on this piece of the puzzle.

After reading this page, you’re probably feeling anxious.  That’s a healthy emotional reaction to being presented with so much complex information.  You came to this page wanting and expecting to see a list of the top counseling psychology programs and all you got was coaching on what characteristics define the best programs, some of which are dependent on one’s career aspirations.  But this is how (I think) reality is when it comes to applying to counseling psychology doctoral programs.  Reality is messy and nuanced and individually subjective.  I do hope that you’ve learned some new things that you didn’t know before, and encourage you to share this page with other prospective applicants.

Be sure to check out my other Psych Grad School  resources using the menu above, such as  Graduate School Advice ,  Counseling Psychology Faculty Research Interests List , , and  What the Ideal Graduate School Applicant Looks Like .  I also recommend completing the  Mental Health Professions Career Test , which will give you interest scores on 21 different mental health occupations, including counseling psychology and clinical psychology. If you’re wondering how these two psychology specialty areas are different from each other, check out my counseling psychology vs. clinical psychology page.  Consider applying for my Social Justice Advocacy Internship . Finally, if you have any suggestions for edits or additions to this page, contact me .

Counseling Psychology PhD

Doctor of philosophy in counseling psychology.

The Ph.D. Program in Counseling Psychology is dedicated to the preparation of counseling psychologists who facilitate the optimal development of individuals, groups, and organizations that is culturally relevant and psychologically appropriate across the lifespan. Our students are taught to use strategies of prevention, intervention, and remediation to assist others in developing effective coping skills and responses to their environments.

The program prepares students to meet the following profession wide competencies:

Individuals who successfully complete programs accredited in health service psychology (HSP) must demonstrate knowledge, skills, and competence sufficient to produce new knowledge, to critically evaluate and use existing knowledge to solve problems, and to disseminate research. This area of competence requires substantial knowledge of scientific methods, procedures, and practices.

Doctoral students are expected to: 

• Demonstrate the substantially independent ability to formulate research or other scholarly activities (e.g., critical literature reviews, dissertation, efficacy studies, clinical case studies, theoretical papers, program evaluation projects, program development projects) that are of sufficient quality and rigor to have the potential to contribute to the scientific, psychological, or professional knowledge base. 
• Conduct research or other scholarly activities. 
• Critically evaluate and disseminate research or other scholarly activity via professional publication and presentation at the local (including the host institution), regional, or national level.

Doctoral students are expected to demonstrate competency in each of the following areas:

• Be knowledgeable of and act in accordance with each of the following: 
• the current version of the APA Ethical Principles of Psychologists and Code of Conduct; 
• relevant laws, regulations, rules, and policies governing health service psychology at the organizational, local, state, regional, and federal levels; and 
• relevant professional standards and guidelines. 
• Recognize ethical dilemmas as they arise, and apply ethical decision-making processes in order to resolve the dilemmas.
• Conduct self in an ethical manner in all professional activities. 

Trainees must demonstrate knowledge, awareness, sensitivity, and skills when working with diverse individuals and communities who embody a variety of cultural and personal background and characteristics. The Commission on Accreditation defines cultural and individual differences and diversity as including, but not limited to, age, disability, ethnicity, gender, gender identity, language, national origin, race, religion, culture, sexual orientation, and socioeconomic status. 

Doctoral students are expected to demonstrate: 

• An understanding of how their own personal/cultural history, attitudes, and biases may affect how they understand and interact with people different from themselves.
• Knowledge of the current theoretical and empirical knowledge base as it relates to addressing diversity in all professional activities including research, training, supervision/consultation, and service. 
• The ability to integrate awareness and knowledge of individual and cultural differences in the conduct of professional roles (e.g., research, services, and other professional activities). This includes the ability apply a framework for working effectively with areas of individual and cultural diversity not previously encountered over the course of their careers. Also included is the ability to work effectively with individuals whose group membership, demographic characteristics, or worldviews create conflict with their own.
• Demonstrate the requisite knowledge base, ability to articulate an approach to working effectively with diverse individuals and groups, and apply this approach effectively in their professional work.
• Behave in ways that reflect the values and attitudes of psychology, including integrity, deportment, professional identity, accountability, lifelong learning, and concern for the welfare of others. 
• Engage in self-reflection regarding one’s personal and professional functioning; engage in activities to maintain and improve performance, well-being, and professional effectiveness. 
• Actively seek and demonstrate openness and responsiveness to feedback and supervision.
• Respond professionally in increasingly complex situations with a greater degree of independence as they progress across levels of training. 

Communication and interpersonal skills are foundational to education, training, and practice in psychology. These skills are essential for any service delivery/activity/interaction and are evident across the program’s expected competencies. 

• Develop and maintain effective relationships with a wide range of individuals, including colleagues, communities, organizations, supervisors, supervisees, and those receiving professional services. 
• Produce and comprehend oral, nonverbal, and written communications that are informative and well-integrated; demonstrate a thorough grasp of professional language and concepts. 
• Demonstrate effective interpersonal skills and the ability to manage difficult communication well. 

Trainees should demonstrate competence in conducting evidence-based assessment consistent with the scope of HSP. 

Doctoral students are expected to demonstrate the following competencies: 

• Demonstrate current knowledge of diagnostic classification systems, functional and dysfunctional behaviors, including consideration of client strengths and psychopathology.
• Demonstrate understanding of human behavior within its context (e.g., family, social, societal and cultural).
• Demonstrate the ability to apply the knowledge of functional and dysfunctional behaviors including context to the assessment and/or diagnostic process.
• Select and apply assessment methods that draw from the best available empirical literature and that reflect the science of measurement and psychometrics; collect relevant data using multiple sources and methods appropriate to the identified goals and questions of the assessment as well as relevant diversity characteristics of the service recipient.
• Interpret assessment results, following current research and professional standards and guidelines, to inform case conceptualization, classification, and recommendations, while guarding against decision-making biases, distinguishing the aspects of assessment that are subjective from those that are objective.
• Communicate orally and in written documents the findings and implications of the assessment in an accurate and effective manner sensitive to a range of audiences.

Trainees should demonstrate competence in evidence-based interventions consistent with the scope of HSP. Intervention is being defined broadly to include but not be limited to psychotherapy.  Interventions may be derived from a variety of theoretical orientations or approaches. The level of intervention includes those directed at an individual, a family, a group, an organization, a community, a population, or other systems. 

Doctoral students are expected to demonstrate the ability to: 

• Establish and maintain effective relationships with the recipients of psychological services. 
• Develop evidence-based intervention plans specific to the service delivery goals. 
• Implement interventions informed by the current scientific literature, assessment findings, diversity characteristics, and contextual variables. 
• Demonstrate the ability to apply the relevant research literature to clinical decision making. 
• Modify and adapt evidence-based approaches effectively when a clear evidence-base is lacking, 
• Evaluate intervention effectiveness, and adapt intervention goals and methods consistent with ongoing evaluation. 

Supervision involves the mentoring and monitoring of trainees and others in the development of competence and skill in professional practice and the effective evaluation of those skills. Supervisors act as role models and maintain responsibility for the activities they oversee. Doctoral students are expected to demonstrate knowledge of supervision models and practices. 

Consultation and interprofessional/interdisciplinary skills are reflected in the intentional collaboration of professionals in health service psychology with other individuals or groups to address a problem, seek or share knowledge, or promote effectiveness in professional activities. 

Doctoral students are expected to demonstrate knowledge and respect for the roles and perspectives of other professions, as well as knowledge of consultation models and practices.

Strengths and highlights of our training program include:

In-depth infusion of racial-cultural and social justice emphases throughout program components. Although our curriculum features certain courses with words like "multicultural" in the titles, our multicultural-social justice instruction does not just reside in those courses. Rather, we conceptualize every course and program experience within the context of a social justice and racial-cultural framework. Not only is this orientation consonant with our belief that socially-just practice is ethical, effective practice, it also allows us to align our work with broader movement toward social equity.

Research exposure and opportunities.  At Teachers College, you have the opportunity to get first-rate practitioner preparation in the context of first-rate scholarship. Our faculty includes researchers whose work has shaped the counseling profession, and every faculty member maintains ongoing research teams to which students at any level of training may apply. To find out more about our faculty's research interests, please consult their individual pages on the TC website.

A commitment to the crucial role of experiential training and self-awareness within psychotherapist preparation.  As a counselor or therapist, the instrument that you use to enact your professional work is you -- so the more aware you are of your own interpersonal style, skills, and biases, the more effectively you can use your instrument. Many students find that some of the most important, challenging, and transformational aspects of their TC training results from courses like Foundations, Group Counseling, and Racial-Cultural Counseling Lab, where students learn about themselves as they learn about the practice of psychology.

TC's program of study leading to the doctorate in Counseling Psychology is guided by criteria adopted by the  American Psychological Association  for accredited programs in professional psychology.

The course of study includes:

• Scientific and professional ethics and standards
• Psychological measurement, statistics, and research design and methodology
• Knowledge and understanding of a) history and systems of psychology b) the biological basis of behavior c) the cognitive-affective bases of behavior d) the social bases of behavior (e.g., social psychology) and e) individual behavior (e.g., personality theory, human development)
• Intervention strategies and methods of inquiry; and
• Preparation to undertake a doctoral dissertation.

In developing the necessary mastery of these areas, students are expected to be attentive to the historical roots of counseling psychology, i.e., the study of individual differences, the vocational guidance movement, and the mental health movement. Similarly, they are expected to be prepared for the probable future of counseling psychology in the areas of expertise represented by the faculty, especially the influence of social and cultural systems (home, family, workplace, and environment) on human development and change.

Mentorship model.  Students are advised by the faculty mentor with whom they selected during the application process. The advisor serves the important roles of orienting students to the program and helps them to develop their curriculum plans. Students receive mentorship in research by serving on the research teams of their advisors and ordinarily do research practicum on their mentor’s research team.  The doctoral mentors are:

• Melanie E. Brewster: ( Not interviewing new Ph.D. students to enroll in Fall 2025) Mental and physical health correlates of marginalization and/or objectification; atheism and nonreligious identities; collective action and well-being; instrument development and psychometric evaluation. Co-directs the Sexuality, Women, and Gender Project, which offers a graduate certificate. Link to website . 
• Whitney J. Erby: (Interviewing new Ph.D. students to enroll in Fall 2025) The relationship between the experience of racism, racial identity, and well-being; career development; Black women’s mental health; couple’s therapy; psychological assessment.
• George V. Gushue: (I nterviewing new Ph.D. students to enroll in Fall 2025) The influence of racial/cultural attitudes, beliefs, and values on social cognition (e.g., perception, judgment, memory, and attribution) in the areas of client evaluation and counseling practice, career development, and health; group and family counseling; psychosocial dimensions of HIV/AIDS. Link to website. 
• Marie L. Miville: (I nterviewing new Ph.D. students to enroll in Fall 2025) Multicultural counseling; universal-diverse orientation; Latina/o psychology; LGBT issues; women's issues; intersections of identities; supervision and training. Link to website.  
• Laura Smith: (I nterviewing new Ph.D. students to enroll in Fall 2025)
• Social inclusion/exclusion and wellbeing; psychological dimensions of social class, poverty, and classism; intersections of race and class; Whiteness and antiracism; participatory action research; community-based psychological interventions.  Link to website.
• Derald Wing Sue : Multicultural counseling and therapy, cultural competency, multicultural consultation and organizational development, psychopathology, racism and antiracism, law and ethics.  Link to website.
• Brandon L.  Velez (Director of Clinical Training ) [Not i nterviewing new Ph.D. students to enroll in Fall 2025]
• The associations of discrimination and identity-related attitudes with mental health and career outcomes among sexual, gender, and racial/ethnic minority individuals, as well as populations with multiple minority identities. Link to website. 

For detailed information about the program and its requirements, please see the Doctoral Student Handbook available for download below.

The Ph.D. program also offers a  Bilingual Latinx Mental Health Concentration .

Questions related to the program's accredited status should be directed to the Commission on Accreditation: 

Office of Program Consultation and Accreditation American Psychological Association 750 1st Street, NE Washington, DC 20002 Phone: (202) 336-5979 / Email: [email protected] Web:  www.apa.org/ed/accreditation

Admissions Information

Displaying requirements for the Spring 2025, Summer 2025, and Fall 2025 terms.

Doctor of Philosophy

• Points/Credits: 90
• Entry Terms: Fall
• Enrollment Formats: Full-Time

Application Deadlines

Entry Term Available	Priority Deadlines	Final Deadlines	Extended Deadlines
Spring	N/A	N/A	N/A
Summer	N/A	N/A	N/A
Fall	December 1, 2024	December 1, 2024	N/A

Select programs remain open beyond our standard application deadlines , such as those with an extended deadline or those that are rolling (open until June or July). If your program is rolling or has an extended deadline indicated above, applications are reviewed as they are received and on a space-available basis. We recommend you complete your application as soon as possible as these programs can close earlier if full capacity has been met.

Application Requirements

	Requirement
	, including Statement of Purpose and Resume
	Results from an accepted (if applicable)
	$75 Application Fee
	Two (2) Letters of Recommendation
	Academic Writing Sample

Requirements from the TC Catalog (AY 2023-2024)

Displaying catalog information for the Fall 2023, Spring 2024 and Summer 2024 terms.

View Full Catalog Listing

The program of study that follows is described in terms of full-time study. Some of the courses may be taken on a part-time basis. However, full-time study after the first 30 applicable credits is required unless the student can present persuasive evidence that his or her living and working circumstances have not prevented, and will not prevent, him/her from taking full advantage of the College’s resources. Certain essential subjects and practica are offered only in the morning and early afternoon hours.

The doctorate degree is granted after successful completion of a minimum of 90 points of planned, sequential study beyond the bachelor’s degree, of which at least 60 points must be taken at Teachers College. The doctoral program is accredited by the American Psychological Association and requires at least five years, including the equivalent of four years of academic study beyond the bachelor’s degree and one calendar year of internship.

Please note that upon admission to the Ph.D. program in Counseling Psychology, students will receive a Doctoral Student Handbook for the Ph.D. program in Counseling Psychology which will provide updated policy, program features, and requirements. (The most recent handbook is available on the Program website). The program of study leading to the Doctorate in Counseling Psychology is guided by criteria adopted by the American Psychological Association for accredited programs in professional psychology.

The course of studies includes: scientific and professional ethics and standards; psychological measurement, statistics, and research design and methodology; knowledge and understanding of: (a) history and systems of psychology, (b) the biological basis of behavior, (c) the cognitive-affective bases of behavior, (d) the social bases of behavior (e.g., social psychology), and (e) individual behavior (e.g., personality theory and human development), intervention strategies and methods of inquiry; and preparation to undertake a doctoral dissertation.

In developing the necessary mastery of these areas, the student is expected to be attentive to the historical roots of counseling psychology, i.e., the study of individual differences, the vocational guidance movement and the mental health movement. Similarly, she or he is expected to be prepared for the probable future of counseling psychology in the areas of expertise represented by the faculty, especially the influence of social and cultural systems (home, family, workplace, and environment) on human development and change.

In addition to core requirements, courses in specific and specialized areas of counseling psychology are available. Courses in the department are supplemented by appropriate offerings in other Programs and Departments at Teachers College, and Columbia University.

Please note that satisfactory performance in the degree program is defined as no incomplete grades and no courses in which the grade earned is lower than B. Academic dishonesty and unethical behavior may be grounds for immediate dismissal from the program (master’s or doctoral). Specific information regarding curriculum requirements are contained in the Doctoral Student Handbook. In addition to coursework, a number of other academic experiences are required.

Doctoral Certification

Candidacy as a doctoral student expires after a certain number of years. Ph.D. candidates must complete all degree requirements within seven years of first entering the program (six years if they have an applicable master’s degree or 30 points of advanced standing prior to doctoral admission).

Counseling Psychology students do not become official candidates for the degree of Doctor of Philosophy until they have passed: 1) a College-Wide Psychology Research Methods Exam, and 2) a Program Comprehensive exam which includes both a written exam and the submission of a Research Competence project paper. The written exam covers several areas in Counseling Psychology, including: (1) theoretical concepts; (2) core psychology course work; (3) clinical interventions; (4) assessment in career work and personal/social counseling; (5) professional issues such as ethics, professional trends, and developments in counseling psychology. Cultural issues will be infused into the content questions in the exam. In addition, they must satisfy all other requirements for certification prescribed by the Office of Doctoral Studies (ODS). Students who fail to take the certification examination at the appropriate point in their studies are subject to certain penalties. Also there are evaluations done annually to facilitate students’ timely completion of the Ph.D. degree (See Doctoral Student Handbook for more information).

Practicum and Externship

Practicum placements are available both on-campus and off-campus. The Dean Hope Center for Educational and Psychological Services (CEPS) is an in-house training clinic located at 657 528 Building. Students may petition program faculty to complete practicum placements off-campus and should contact the Fieldwork Coordinator for further information. A year-long externship placement may be required of students who do not obtain sufficient clinical hours during their practicum rotations.

For doctoral students only: Supervised experience in approved and appropriate agencies, institutions, and establishments. Students are required to petition faculty for internship training and must be approved to apply for an internship. Students must have completed all coursework during the academic year in which they are applying for an internship. Students must have passed all certification and comprehensive examinations as well as have an approved dissertation proposal.

The Dissertation

For most doctoral students, the completion of course requirements presents few problems. Successful completion of a dissertation is usually less easily managed. Unless carefully planned in advance, it can prove a difficult hurdle. Accordingly, the degree program has several built-in features designed to facilitate the formulation and successful execution of an acceptable dissertation proposal and assistance in completing the dissertation. These include the completion of a research competence project, the Dissertation Seminar course, and a Review of Research course.

• View Other Degrees

Teachers College, Columbia University 428 Horace Mann

Contact Person: Jacob Holober

Phone: (212) 678-3397 Fax: (212) 678-3397

Email: jsh2239@tc.columbia.edu Admissions Inquiries: CCPadmission@tc.columbia.edu

APA-Accredited Programs

Find a program that's right for you., search for accredited programs.

IMPORTANT NOTE REGARDING 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023 SITE VISITS: Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, site visits for the majority of programs scheduled to be visited in 2020, 2021, 2022, and 2023 have been shifted. Please note that the “next site visit date” listed for each program does not represent an expiration of accreditation. It represents a timeline for a program’s next periodic review. The accreditation status of the 2020, 2021, 2022, and 2023 programs will not be impacted by site visit delays. Cycle shifts are listed here . 

Other Accreditation Statuses

Accredited program lists, related pages.

Choosing a Program

Get Accredited

Why APA Accreditation Matters

Office of Program Consultation and Accreditation

750 first st, ne  washington, dc 20002-4242 [email protected], telephone: (202) 336-5979  tdd/tty: (202) 336-6123  fax: (202) 336-5978 .

PhD Program Rankings (Adapted from US News and World Report)

Below are reputation scores and ranks of the top 27 PhD programs in Psychology, including top-ranked schools in each of six subspecialties. From US News and World Report, “America’s Best Graduate Schools” rank/school average reputation score.

Rank                                      School Average reputation score

1                                 Stanford Univ.                                                         4.8

2                                 Univ. of California-Berkeley                                       4.6

2                                 Univ. of Michigan-Ann Arbor                                     4.6

4                                 Univ. of Illinois-Urbana-Champaign                         4.5

4                                 Yale Univ.                                                                 4.5

6                                 Harvard Univ.                                                        4.4

6                                 Univ. of California-Los Angeles                             4.4

6                                 Univ. of Minnesota-Twin Cities                             4.4

9                                 Carnegie Mellon Univ.                                             4.2

9                                 Princeton Univ.                                                          4.2

9                                 Univ. of Pennsylvania                                                4.2

9                                 Univ. of Wisconsin-Madison                                        4.2

13                               Indiana Univ.-Bloomington                                          4.1

13                               Univ. of California-San Diego                                         4.1

13                               Univ. of North Carolina-Chapel Hill                               4.1

16                               Johns Hopkins Univ.                                                       4.0

16                               Univ. of Colorado-Boulder                                              4.0

16                               Univ. of Texas-Austin                                                  4.0

19                               Cornell Univ.                                                               3.9

19                               Duke Univ.                                                                   3.9

19                               Northwestern Univ.                                                  3.9

19                               Univ. of Chicago                                                      3.9

19                               Univ. of Washington                                                    3.9

24                               Columbia Univ.                                                             3.8

24                               Ohio State Univ.                                                             3.8

24                               Univ. of California-Irvine                                                 3.8

24                               Univ. of Virginia                                                              3.8

Top Specialty Programs

C linical Psychology

1. Univ. of Minnesota-Twin Cities

2. Univ. of Illinois-Urban a-Champaign

3. Univ. of Michigan-Ann Arbor

4. Univ. of California-Los Angeles

5. Univ. of Washington

Co unseling Psychology

1. Univ. of Maryland-College Park

2. Ohio State Univ.

3. Univ. of Minnesota-Twin Cities

4. Univ. of Missouri-Columbia

5. Univ. of Iowa

Developme n tal

2. Univ. of Virginia

2. Stanford Univ.

4. Univ. of Michigan-Ann Arbor

5. Univ. of Illinois-Urban a-Champaign

5. Univ. of California-Berkeley

Expe ri menta l P sychology

1. Stanford Univ.

2. Univ. of Michigan-Ann Arbor

3. Univ. of California-Berkeley

4. Univ. of Illinois-Urban a-Champaign

5. Carnegie Mellon Univ.

I ndustrial / Organizational

2. Univ. of Maryland-College Park

3. Michigan State Univ.

4. Ohio State Univ.

5. Bowling Green State Univ.

5. Univ. of Illinois-Urbana-Champaign

Schoo l Psychology

1. Univ. of Wisconsin-Madison

2. Univ. of Texas-Austin

3. Univ. of South Carolina-Columbia

3. Univ. of Nebraska-Lincoln

3. Columbia Univ.

(The response rate for psychology was 34%, the lowest response rate for the six PhD fields surveyed. Political Science had the highest response rate, at 54%.)

Reprinted with permission from US News and World Report. Copyright, 1995, US News and World Report.

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The PhD in Counseling Psychology program at Northeastern is designed to train the next generation of mental health professionals.

In The News

A Toolkit for Healthier Population

Critical Need in Tracking Young Students’ Progress

PhD Candidate Wins Prestigious Fellowship

The PhD Program in Counseling Psychology offers doctoral education and training in psychology and prepares students for entry-level practice in counseling psychology. Doctoral level counseling psychologists conduct research, teach at the university level, supervise students and professionals, consult with community agencies, and provide clinical services to people across the developmental lifespan. Counseling psychologists also enhance the science of health promotion and health psychology and emphasize community-based interventions.

Mission:  It is the mission of the PhD in Counseling Psychology program to train multiculturally competent counseling psychologists who are: (1) clinically adept in multiple settings with a variety of psychological and health-related issues; (2) able to conceptualize, conduct, and evaluate research across biological, cultural, and relational systems in numerous social contexts, such as families, schools, neighborhoods, and communities.

Our clinical training prepares counseling psychologists to work in various settings with individuals presenting with a variety of psychological and health-related issues. We emphasize an ecological model which encourages the conceptualization of relationships and research across multiple systems: biological, cultural, and relational. These relationships occur in various social contexts, including families, schools, neighborhoods and communities.

• Translational research related to health promotion of individuals, groups, families, and communities
• Empirically-based practice in urban community centers, agencies, schools, and hospitals
• Merging of science and practice within multicultural and urban contexts
• Development of consultation and leadership skills in researchers and practitioners
• To prepare graduates for the role of professional psychologists, to include advanced skill development in behavioral observations, interviewing, psychological assessment, counseling and treatment planning and practice, consultation, effective use of supervision and an understanding of and commitment to the profession’s ethical codes.
• To foster understanding and application of the scientific basis of clinical practice in psychotherapy and clinical assessment.
• To produce graduates who possess advanced and applied research skills within an ecological perspective.
• To produce graduates who are committed to and demonstrate ethical practice as counseling psychologists.
• To produce graduates who are multiculturally competent across sources of difference, including race, ethnicity, gender, class, religion/spirituality, disability, and sexual orientation, in both clinical and research settings.
• To advance the field of counseling psychology using program strengths: (a) an interdisciplinary and interprofessional approach to clinical services provision and enhancement of the science of health promotion and health psychology; (b) stress on urban, community-based interventions using an ecological approach.

Northeastern’s Counseling Psychology Program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of the American Psychological Association (APA) The next APA accreditation site visit will be held in 2024.

At least two years of intensive clinical training is required. This preparation includes advanced fieldwork at various mental health settings in the Boston area. Students are expected to be at their site for 20 hours each week. Approximately half of their time is direct service delivery. Training goals include advanced skill development in behavioral observations, interviewing, psychological assessment, counseling and treatment planning and practice, consultation, effective use of supervision, and an understanding of and commitment to the profession’s ethical codes. Students must complete a one year, full-time pre-doctoral internship that has been approved by the program.

Where They Work

• McLean Hospital
• Boston Children’s Hospital
• Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center
• Arbor Counseling Services

What They Do

• Healthcare Services
• Community and Social Services
• Business Development
• Entrepreneurship

What They’re Skilled At

• Mental Health
• Psychotherapy
• Public Speaking

Application Materials

Application.

• Application fee – US $100
• Three letters of recommendation
• Masters degree in psychology or related field
• Transcripts from all institutions attended (All international applicants will need to provide a transcript evaluation from WES, ECE, or Scholaro.)
• Personal Statement (The applicant may wish to highlight: Specific research and clinical interests, long-term career goals, current and past clinical and research experiences, fit with program emphasis)
• TOEFL or IELTS for applicants who do not hold a degree from a U.S. institution and whose native language is not English
• Strong academic record (3.5 GPA and above preferred)
• Demonstrated interest in and commitment to counseling psychology
• Official GRE General is optional

Application Deadline: December 6th

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10 Best Graduate Programs in Counseling Psychology

• By Kristen Fescoe: BA Psychology; MS Clinical and Forensic Psychology
• Published November 12, 2015
• Last Updated November 14, 2023
• Read Time 12 mins

According to the American Psychological Association, counseling psychology is a health service provider specialty in professional psychology. Counseling psychologists focus on how individuals function personally and in their relationships. They have the skills needed to help individuals improve their sense of well-being and resolve crises. Counseling psychology programs focus on topics that include:

• relationships
• family issues

We created this ranking to showcase some of the best counseling psychology master’s degree programs in the country. We focused on programs offered by regionally accredited schools that offer a comprehensive curriculum with experiential learning opportunities. Hands-on training is critical in counseling psychology training, and we noted those opportunities. We noted programs that have a curriculum that leads to licensure.  We then applied our methodology to rank the best programs based on affordability and student to faculty ratio.  It’s our goal to make the research and selection processes as seamless as possible, allowing you more time to focus on what really matters — your future education and professional goals.

Methodology

Student to Faculty Ratio

• 10:1 or less= 5 Points
• 11:1 to 15:1= 3 Points
• Greater than 15:1= 1 Point

Average Graduate Tuition Rate

• Less than $8,000 per year= 4 Points
• $8,001 to $12,999 per year= 3 Points
• $13,000 to $15,000 per year= 2 Points
• More than $15,000 per year= 1 Point

See Also:  What does a Counseling Psychologist Do?

Ranking Top 10 Graduate Degree Programs in Counseling Psychology

10. southern wesleyan university – central, south carolina, m.s. in counseling psychology.

Program Website

Average Graduate Tuition Rate: $13,560

Student to Faculty Ratio: 13:1

Southern Wesleyan University features the D. Clifton Wood Master of Science in Counseling Psychology, a 60-credit hour program with online courses and an internship/practica experience. Courses are delivered in seven-week terms in a flexible online format designed for working professionals. The comprehensive curriculum focuses on evidence-based practice and whole person health. Students will learn about:

• contemporary mental health counseling theories and techniques
• ethical and professional values and legal standards
• whole-person development and self-evaluation

Graduates are prepared for a variety of exciting career options in areas like behavioral therapy and addictions counseling.

9. Albizu University – Miami, Florida

Master of science in counseling psychology.

Average Graduate Tuition Rate: $11,774

Student to Faculty Ratio: 12:1

Albizu University features a budget friendly master’s in counseling psychology that incorporates a variety of educational techniques that help train high quality mental health professionals. The low student-teacher ratio promotes active participation between faculty and students. Courses are offered online, in a hybrid format and on-campus at the Mayaguez location. The program follows a practitioner-scholar model that allows students to learn theory and integrate it into practice. Courses are taught by faculty with professional experience in the field, who are excited to share their first-hand experiences with their students.

8. Anna Maria College – Paxton, Massachusetts

Counseling psychology ma/lmhc.

Average Graduate Tuition Rate: $10,530

Anna Maria College offers a top value master’s in counseling psychology with a curriculum that prepares students to work in a variety of settings. Students can choose to complete a traditional 12 course MA in Counseling Psychology or a 20-course program that prepares students for licensure as a Licensed Mental Health Counselor. Electives allow students to gain specialized skills in areas that include:

• Marriage and Family Counseling
• Substance Use, Addiction, and Recovery
• Forensic Psychology

Students will develop critical thinking skills to create ethically sound solutions that make a positive impact on their communities.

7. Tennessee State University – Nashville, Tennessee

Average Graduate Tuition Rate: $9,276/year in-state and $19,752/year out-of-state

Tennessee State University features a low-cost master’s in counseling psychology that offers a solid psychological core curriculum focused on issues throughout the lifespan. Course offerings include:

• Professional Issues and Ethics in Counseling Psychology
• Abnormal Psychology
• Multicultural Counseling Theory and Practice

Full and part-time program options are available. Recognizing the importance of both practice and research, TSU offers a thesis and non-thesis program track. Courses are offered during the evening hours. Applicants should have an undergraduate degree in psychology or a related field and a cumulative undergraduate GPA of at least a 2.5.

6. Holy Names University – Oakland, California

Master of arts in counseling psychology.

Average Graduate Tuition Rate: $18,054

Student to Faculty Ratio: 7:1

The top on-campus Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology from Holy Names University prepares students for licensure as a Marriage and Family Therapist and as a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor. Courses are offered at convenient times including evenings and weekends. Course offerings include:

• Psychopathology
• Psychological Development and Spiritual Growth
• Human Diversity in Counseling

Students gain real-world experience through a field placement/internship with an approved partner agency. Professional development opportunities are available through regular campus workshops and lectures with local industry experts.

5. Azusa Pacific University – Azusa, California

Ms in counseling psychology.

Average Graduate Tuition Rate: $16,571

Student to Faculty Ratio: 10:1

Azusa Pacific University features the only counseling psychology master’s program in our ranking to offer a specialization in children and adolescents. This 60-credit hour program prepares clinicians to meet the specialized needs of children and youth. Full and part-time program options are available. Courses are offered during the evening hours to accommodate work schedules. Fieldwork opportunities give students 280 clock hours of experience required by the Board of Behavioral Sciences. Courses are taught by experienced faculty who have worked in areas like youth substance abuse and childhood trauma.

4. Dominican University of California – San Rafael, California

Average Graduate Tuition Rate: $16,000

The affordable MS in Counseling Psychology from Dominican University of California offers a flexible schedule that is great for working students. Courses are offered during the late afternoon and evening hours with some courses held on the weekends. Interactive instruction helps students develop excellent clinical skills. Concentrations are available in Marriage and Family Therapy and Professional Clinical Counseling. All students complete a practicum experience at one of over 50 different community agencies. Part-time and full-time program options are available.

3. Frostburg State University – Frostburg, Maryland

Average Graduate Tuition Rate: $7,866/year in-state and $10,080/year out-of-state

Student to Faculty Ratio: 14:1

Frostburg State University features a high-value master’s in counseling psychology that prepares students to become a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC). This MPCAC accredited program is committed to science-based training. Students spend two years focused on classroom study and complete a one-year internship. The one-year internship allows students to graduate with over 1,000 clock hours of supervised clinical experience, updating their status to Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and boosting their resume. Class size is kept small which is great for facilitating group interaction and learning. Courses are taught by full-time counseling psychology faculty members who are dedicated to the professional development of their students.

2. Avila University – Kansas City, Missouri

Average Graduate Tuition Rate: $7,798

A career as a licensed mental health counselor is within reach with the affordable master’s in counseling psychology from Avila University. This 60-62 credit hour program is MPCAC accredited and meets the educational requirements for licensure in Kansas and Missouri. Courses include:

• Personality Assessment
• Differentia Diagnosis of Mental Disorders
• Ethics and Professional Development

The program follows a scientist-practitioners model to train students to deliver mental health services in a variety of settings. Students complete:

• a 750-clock hour field experience
• a practicum
• at least two semesters of internship.

1. Alaska Pacific University – Anchorage, Alaska

Average Graduate Tuition Rate: $11,700

Student to Faculty Ratio: 8:1

Our top master’s in counseling psychology is offered by Alaska Pacific University. This rigorous program explores a variety of counseling modalities while allowing students to develop their own unique interests. With synchronous online evening courses and on-campus intensives every six weeks, the program is a great choice for working professionals. Students move through the program as a cohort, supporting one another to achieve their goals. This three-year program includes courses in:

• Interventions for Children and Families
• Interventions for Anxiety and Affective Disorders
• Psychology of Measurement

Graduates are prepared to work in roles like child and family counselor or chemical dependency counselor. The program also provides a solid foundation for doctoral study.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the career options for a graduate degree in counseling psychology.

Although psychologists work in different settings, from mental health facilities to research departments of academic institutions, many people associate the career with counseling. Counselors are licensed mental health professionals who help clients or patients cope with social and emotional problems as well as life changes. Whether you are already working in the field with your master’s degree or you are considering a career in counseling, there are a number of careers you can enter with a graduate degree in counseling psychology.

Apart from the traditional career choice of group or private practice, there are many other counseling psychology positions that allow graduates to implement what they have learned in their graduate education. Some of the counseling positions include helping people with:

• Domestic violence
• Substance abuse and rehabilitation
• Suicide intervention
• Marital problems
• Mental health and PTSD
• Age-related issues
• Child abuse
• Career guidance
• Corporate consulting
• Anger management
• Assessment and testing
• Disabilities

Counseling psychologists may seek employment in a range of settings. These include private practices as well as self-employment. Many counseling psychologists may also work as school psychologists or in education in testing. Others find positions in healthcare environments, including in rehabilitation clinics or in hospitals. Counseling psychologists may prefer to work as part of a comprehensive healthcare team or in group practices.

Keep in mind that not all counseling psychologists work as therapists. Some counseling psychologists may seek employment opportunities in government agencies or in private research facilities. Others perform research or conduct tests. Counseling psychologists may also go on to teach at the college or university level or work to improve public education and knowledge about the field of professional psychology. Depending on your interests and skills, there are many different opportunities that you may pursue with a graduate degree in counseling psychology.

What Type of Work Do Counseling Psychologists Do?

As you can see by the number of career options, counseling psychologists can perform many roles and carry out a number of different functions. These may include carrying out individual therapy sessions, conducting studies, or providing therapeutic counseling. Other activities counseling psychologists may be responsible for include:

• Identifying resources to help patients and clients more effectively manage their problems.
• Developing educational programs for hospitals, rehabilitation centers, communities, the public, or other programs.
• Working together with family members.
• Working with case managers, social workers, and/or other healthcare providers.
• Developing treatment plans for patients and clients and determining whether these plans are successful.
• Diagnosing conditions.
• Looking for patterns of behavior that will help them to analyze and better predict certain behaviors.
• Using surveys and observations to collect information.

How Much Can You Earn in This Field?

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) groups counseling psychologists with clinical and school psychologists. These professionals diagnose and treat:

• learning disabilities
• mental disorders
• emotional, behavioral, and cognitive problems

They use group, family, child, and individual therapies. The salary range one can expect will depend on a number of factors, including level of education, experience in the field, and the location in which one intends to practice. Industries with the highest level of employment in this occupation include:

• elementary and secondary schools
• offices of other health practitioners
• family and individual services
• outpatient care centers
• general medical and surgical hospitals

According to the BLS, counseling psychologists earned a median salary of $75,090 as of May 2019. The highest 10 percent earned $123,920, while the lowest 10 percent earned $42,460. The highest-paid states for this occupation include New Jersey, Alaska, Hawaii, California, and Oregon. Top-paying industries for clinical, counseling, and school psychologists include:

• Home health care services
• Specialty, except substance abuse and psychiatric hospitals
• Management of enterprise and companies
• Offices of other health practitioners
• Local government, excluding hospitals and schools

What is the Difference Between a Master’s Degree and a Doctoral Degree in Counseling Psychology?

A master’s degree is an important part of the path to obtaining licensure as it fulfills most state requirements for becoming a professional counselor. Of course, master’s degrees also prepare students to work in counseling specialties such as family and marriage counseling or to become mental health counselors. Graduates of a master’s in counseling psychology program are eligible to become Licensed Professional Counselors, but they are not considered “psychologists.”

Since most entry-level positions require a master’s degree, prospective students may wonder why a doctoral degree is worth the time, energy, and cost. Earning a doctorate opens the door to additional career opportunities as well as a higher salary. If your career goal extends beyond working in or owning a private practice, you may consider earning a doctorate. This terminal degree might be a requirement for acquiring a high-level job in:

• a community center
• school system

In addition, a doctoral degree in counseling psychology is often required for academic positions such as deans, department heads, and university professors.

Counseling psychologists specialize in facilitating interpersonal and personal functioning in patients of all ages. A specialty of professional psychology, counseling psychology addresses developmental, health, educational, social, vocational, and emotional issues.

Whether you are considering this career path for the first time or you are looking to further your education to increase your opportunities in your current position, the above best graduate programs in counseling psychology can help you meet your professional goals.

This concludes our ranking of the top graduate programs in counseling psychology.

By OPD Staff

• Top 29 Master’s in Clinical Psychology Online Degree Programs
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This page contains links to 40 psychology departments rank-ordered in research productivity according to Delgado, E. A., & Howard, G. S. (1994). Changes in research productivity in counseling psychology: Revisting Howard (1983) a decade later. 69-73. The Canadian Psychological Association is a good source of information on graduate study in Canada, and John Krantz also maintains an extensive international list of . The rankings below should be considered no more than a rough approximation. You would be well advised to consult as many faculty members as possible for feedback on your top school choices before applying to graduate school. Admission to graduate school is competitive, so apply to as many schools as possible; have your friends, family, and academic advisors look over your application materials; and if you receive letters of rejection, don't lose your sense of ! Rank School Department Productivity Index 1 8.455 2 7.521 3 5.232 4 4.676 5 4.270 6 4.210 7 4.034 8 3.830 9 3.660 10 3.618 11 3.244 12 3.237 13 3.196 14 3.054 15 2.987 16 2.881 17 2.716 18 2.677 19 2.632 20 2.623 21 2.561 22 2.514 23 2.397 24 2.365 25 2.332 26 2.321 27 2.285 28 2.270 29 2.255 30 2.211 31 1.937 32 1.904 33 1.837 34 1.776 35 1.650 36 1.506 37 1.389 38 1.335 39 1.287 40 1.286 Psychology Headlines From around the world. Police Officers Begin Using AI Chatbots to Write Crime Reports Diabetes Complications Strongly Tied to Mental Health, Study Concludes Study Reveals What Has Worked to Fight Climate Change Ozempic-Like Weight Loss Drugs May Protect Against Alzheimer's Inflammation in Childhood Linked to Mental Health Issues in Adulthood Blood Tests Revolutionize Alzheimer's Diagnosis Vaccination Could Shield Against Mental Issues After Severe COVID Americans Have Mixed Feelings About AI in Healthcare, Poll Finds Source: Psychology News Center Graduate School Counseling psychology (ph.d.), counseling psychology (ph.d.) | graduate. We train counseling psychologists based on the scientist/practitioner model of psychology. We integrate counseling and psychological theory, scientific inquiry, and supervised practice to facilitate the optimal development of individuals and groups in diverse settings, including counseling centers, school-based mental health, state and federal agencies, and universities. The Ph.D. program in Counseling Psychology at Howard prepares students for careers as counseling psychologists who facilitate the optimal development of individuals and groups in a variety of settings, including but not limited to counseling centers, school-based mental health, state and federal agencies, community mental health centers, and universities. Our program is based on the scientist/practitioner model of professional psychology and integrates counseling and psychological theory, scientific inquiry, and supervised practice. A major emphasis of the program is the biological, affective, cognitive, racial-cultural, and social bases of behavior and training in diagnoses, assessment, and evidence-based clinical intervention. The program also emphasizes the prevention of psychological problems, teaching practical coping skills (to prevent problems), and developing effective problem-solving skills to remediate negative coping behaviors. You will benefit from the close mentorship of graduate faculty whose research work on mental health disparities, cross-cultural resilience factors in the process of recovery from traumatic injury; counseling and therapy with youth; multicultural counseling; co-occurring disorders; and psychometric assessment, has shaped the counseling profession. Our students have numerous opportunities to present their research findings at key meetings in and outside of the Washington, D.C. area including at meetings of the American Psychological Association, the Association of Black Psychologists, and the Annual Winter Roundtable at Teachers College-Columbia University. Program Snapshot       ❱  108 credit hours        ❱  Full-time       ❱  On-campus format       ❱  Degree: Ph.D.       ❱  Advanced certification: Graduates are eligible for licensure to practice psychology. Application Deadlines Spring 2024 entry:         ❱  No spring entry  Fall 2024 entry:         ❱  Dec. 1, 2023  (final deadline)     Applicants should submit their applications as early as possible for earlier consideration of departmental funding opportunities. Applicants have until the final deadline to apply. However, applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis throughout the admissions cycle.  Dr. Shareefah Al'Uqdah Dr. kyndra middleton, dr. angela ferguson, shadonna whitten, program details. Degree Classification: Graduate Related Degrees: Ph.D. Admission Requirements Application for admission . Online PSYCAS application Statement of purpose/ Statement of academic interest ( 500-1,000 words ) GRE scores required Official transcripts sent to PSYCAS 3 letters of recommendation Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university or the international equivalent  Resume or Curriculum Vitae Autobiographical statement ( 500-750 words ; May  include background information that may be related to your desire to seek a doctoral degree in Counseling Psychology) Interview (Qualified applicants) GRE Required? Gre preferred minimums. GRE Verbal Reasoning: N/A GRE Quantitative Reasoning: N/A GRE Analytical Writing: N/A GPA Required Minimums Overall GPA minimum: N/A Undergrad GPA minimum: N/A Reference Requirements Evaluator type accepted: Professor (Required) Supervisor/Manager Evaluator type not accepted: Family Member Personal Statement Guidance Statement of purpose/academic interest should highlight why you wish to pursue a career in counseling psychology and address the following: Describe your academic and research interests, identifying a specific faculty member with whom you want to work. Describe your personal, professional, and educational goals related to the Ph.D. in Counseling Psychology. How will obtaining your Ph.D. in Counseling Psychology enhance you in your   current position and/or future career? Letter of Recommendation Guidance Provide three (3) letters of recommendation from individuals who are familiar with your ability and/or potential for rigorous graduate study, clinical work, and/or research. Whenever possible, Howard University recommends seeking recommendations from faculty members in psychology or practicing professionals in psychology or other mental health disciplines. Letters of recommendation should be submitted through the PSYCAS system.  Best Counseling Psychology colleges in the U.S. 2024 Over the last decade, we’ve seen an increase in the awareness and importance of overall health and well-being. Tragedies at the international level have opened our eyes to the need for healthy ways to cope with grief and loss. High-profile individuals who lost their battles with depression, like Robin Williams and Amy Winehouse, have woken us up to this serious problem and started powerful conversations. An estimated 43.6 million Americans struggle with mental illness, according to the National Institute of Mental Health. What used to be seen as a shameful stigma for nearly 20% of the population is starting to be seen as a health issue that can and should be treated and prevented. At the forefront of these conversations are professionals who make a huge impact on individuals’ lives, like counseling psychologists . Counselors, psychologists , and other mental health professionals enter into the challenging and rewarding work of helping people overcome their problems and realize their full potential. The field of mental health is growing. Not only are we increasing awareness on the importance of mental health, but health insurance reforms are allowing access to preventative and therapeutic care to more and more Americans. The Department of Labor Statistics predicts that opportunities in this field will grow by 19 percent in the next decade, a much higher growth rate than other professions. Our world needs people to help others through therapy and counseling. Whether you have been impacted by the help of a counselor or see the growing need for caring professionals to come alongside others, considering a profession as a counselor or psychologist is an honorable way to make an impact in your community. If this is something you’re interested in, take a look at our comprehensive overview of this rewarding career. Best Counseling Psychology colleges in the U.S. for 2024 Location: Evanston, IL and online Programs Offered: Master of Arts in Counseling This top-ranked school offers a cutting-edge program for those who want to make an impact in the world of mental health. Set just outside of the culturally rich metropolis of Chicago, students at Northwestern have an opportunity to be immersed in the dynamic world of providing therapy to a diverse set of clients. For those needing more flexibility, Northwestern offers a high-quality online master's program as well. The program prides itself on being at the forefront of research and breakthrough therapy approaches. Students are taught to be reflective practitioners in a “learning-by-doing” model that immerses them in clinical work from the beginning. The fact that 100% of their counseling graduates passed the National Counselors Examination is a testament to their strong academic program. Boston College offers 2 Counseling Psychology degree programs. It's a large, private not-for-profit, four-year university in a small city. In 2022, 7 Counseling Psychology students graduated with students earning 7 Doctoral degrees. University of Chicago offers 3 Counseling Psychology degree programs. It's a large, private not-for-profit, four-year university in a large city. In 2022, 49 Counseling Psychology students graduated with students earning 35 Bachelor's degrees, 9 Doctoral degrees, and 5 Master's degrees. Location: New York City, NY Programs Offered: Clinical Psychology MA, Ph.D., Counseling Psychology MA, Ed.M, Ph.D Right in the heart of Manhattan, Columbia University has a platform to speak into the issues of diversity that are growing in our nation. In addition to raising awareness about the narratives of non-white Americans, they offer one of the only counseling degree programs with an emphasis on Latina/o Mental Health. Their program has a commitment to have experiential training and self-awareness as integral in their courses. The exposure to field-shaping research and a range of opportunities prepare students at Columbia University to be well equipped in a variety of careers. Lehigh University offers 2 Counseling Psychology degree programs. It's a medium sized, private not-for-profit, four-year university in a small city. University of Denver offers 2 Counseling Psychology degree programs. It's a large, private not-for-profit, four-year university in a large city. In 2022, 62 Counseling Psychology students graduated with students earning 56 Master's degrees, and 6 Doctoral degrees. Northeastern University offers 3 Counseling Psychology degree programs. It's a very large, private not-for-profit, four-year university in a large city. In 2022, 28 Counseling Psychology students graduated with students earning 23 Master's degrees, and 5 Doctoral degrees. Boston University offers 2 Counseling Psychology degree programs. It's a very large, private not-for-profit, four-year university in a large city. In 2022, 1 Counseling Psychology students graduated with students earning 1 Bachelor's degree. University of Houston offers 1 Counseling Psychology degree programs. It's a very large, public, four-year university in a large city. In 2022, 5 Counseling Psychology students graduated with students earning 5 Doctoral degrees. Fordham University offers 2 Counseling Psychology degree programs. It's a large, private not-for-profit, four-year university in a large city. In 2022, 11 Counseling Psychology students graduated with students earning 11 Doctoral degrees. Find local colleges with Counseling Psychology majors in the U.S. What is counseling psychology. The American Psychological Association (APA) recognizes  counseling psychology  as a specialty within professional psychology. Counseling psychology practitioners talk with patients to gain an understanding of the situations or behaviors negatively affecting their lives. Using this knowledge, counseling psychologists work with the person seeking counseling on decision-making, possible solutions, and coping mechanisms.  Professionals in this field  analyze everyday life stresses—work, social, school, family—at different times in a patient’s life and help them better their emotional and mental health to improve their overall wellbeing. Counseling psychologists also assess, diagnose, and treat more severe psychological symptoms. While pursuing a degree in counseling psychology, you enhance your analytical and critical thinking skills in order to teach future clients how to improve their lives and cope with distress. Bachelor's Degree in Counseling Psychology A career in counseling psychology generally starts with an undergraduate degree in psychology. Some students may complete their  bachelor’s degree  and find entry-level work in environments like:  Mental health centers Substance abuse facilities Community outreach programs However, the majority of counseling psychology positions require a  master’s degree or higher. While the field of counseling psychology requires a post-graduate degree, there are several undergraduate areas of study that would be helpful if this is a career you are interested in pursuing. A bachelor’s degree in psychology or mental health would provide a great foundation for counselors or psychologists. If you have an area that you want to specialize in, you may consider getting a degree that caters to that. If you want to work with children or in a school setting, an education degree would be beneficial. If you are wanting to help underprivileged demographics, a degree in social work would make sense. Many people choose counseling psychology as a second career, so regardless of your background, or experience, counseling programs accept a variety of people. Admission requirements and standards for undergraduate psychology programs vary by institution. Things applicants may need to submit when applying to a school include: A high school transcript listing classes, GPA, and graduation date Letters of recommendation Standardized test scores (SAT or ACT) A personal essay or response to essay prompts Courses in Undergraduate Counseling Psychology Programs The exact courses you take in a counseling psychology bachelor’s program vary by interests and institutional offerings. However, all prospective undergraduate psychology majors should anticipate classes such as: Introduction to psychology — a general overview of the discipline. Research methods in psychology – coming up with topics to explore and designing studies to collect that information. Statistical methods in psychology – a look at how to interpret data and judge validity. Neuroscience – understanding the brain and nervous system and their effect on psychological response . Cognitive development – how people think, learn, and problem-solve at various stages of their lives. Abnormal psychology – understanding unusual patterns of behavior, thought, and action that may signify a mental disorder. Personality – examining theories about individual differences in thinking, feeling, and behaving. Social psychology – looking at the effects other people have on an individual’s behavior. How Long Does It Take to Get a Counseling Psychology Bachelor’s Degree? A bachelor’s degree in psychology typically takes four years to complete. Accelerated online studies may help ambitious students shave off some of that time. Likewise, someone who previously completed an associate’s degree may be able to count some coursework towards the requirements of the bachelor’s degree. Master's Degree in Counseling Psychology To be a practicing counselor, you must pursue graduate level work. Typically, counseling programs are within the education department at universities. In addition to approximately 60 hours of coursework, programs often have internship components as well as several thousands of hours in supervised practice. In addition to training, counselors must pass state testing in order to become licensed. If you are considering a master's in counseling, you will want to look for programs that are accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Counseling and related Educational Programs (CACREP). A master’s degree in counseling psychology gives students the educational experience to start their careers. When you choose a counseling psychology graduate program, a world of career options can open for you. You can go down one of many avenues— school counseling , social work, private practice, organizational counseling, and more. Depending on your passions and choice of specialty, common career outcomes include: School or organizational counselor Social worker Group counselor A master of counseling psychology can work with almost any patient population: K-12 students, professionals, athletes, geriatric patients, parents, and more. Master of Counseling Psychology Salaries and Career Outlook The job outlook for master of counseling psychology graduates is good, especially considering the many opportunities available in various settings. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, psychology careers are projected to grow 3% every year for the next ten years. Median pay in 2021 is $82,180 per year or $39 per hour. Keep in mind that projections do not guarantee job growth or a career as a counseling psychologist. Master of Counseling Psychology Career Paths, Salaries, and Outlook Individuals who pursue a graduate counseling psychology degree have dozens of options and career paths based on their specialization or special interest.  Social workers , counselors who work in healthcare settings, sports and athletic counselors, and career counselors are only a few opportunities you can take with a master’s degree in counseling psychology. Career Salary Projected Job Growth (2020-2030) About the Position $37,530 per year 10% These counselors assist those with physical, mental, or developmental disabilities live fuller, more independent lives. $82,180 per year 8% Psychologists study cognitive and emotional behavior and note how people relate to one another in different environments. They conduct research, work directly with patients, or assist school counselors and social workers. $58,120 per hour 11% School and career counselors assist students in developing academic and social skills to help them succeed as adults and decide their future careers. $51,760 12% Social workers assist various people, from health clinics to schools, and solve problems in their daily lives. Pros and Cons of Master’s Programs in Counseling Psychology There are several benefits to pursuing a master’s in counseling psychology, including: A high median income of $80,000 The option to specialize in population groups that interest you Steady job outlook growth A fulfilling career for students who love people and analytics The career path has some cons, as well: High-stress environment Requisite continued education training Time and cost of additional years of study A master’s in counseling psychology can be an excellent choice for those who enjoy learning and stay calm under pressure or in high-stress and emotionally taxing situations. MA in Counseling Psychology vs. Master of Counseling People from counseling psychology and other counseling program backgrounds aim to help individuals make sense of their current stressors and support their mental and emotional health. Still, the two are very different in scope and educational requirements. A Master of Arts (MA) in Counseling Psychology is, at its core, a scientific discipline with a focus on human behavior. Clinical research, research analysis, and application of this knowledge to patients are components of counseling psychology and any other psychology degree. This degree is also a stepping stone to doctoral programs, like a  PsyD , if desired. The MA in Counseling Psychology takes approximately 2-4 years and 60 credit hours to complete, and this is after first earning a bachelor’s degree. Some common specializations include: School/child psychology Behavioral psychology Clinical psychology (which lead to careers in mental health counseling) Organizational psychology Social work Someone with a master’s degree in counseling is more focused on diagnosing, treating, and supporting the mental health of their patients while drawing on psychological research. This is a slightly more interdisciplinary approach to mental health that incorporates ethics, art, literature, and philosophy. A master’s in counseling takes about 18 months to three years to complete (in addition to an undergraduate degree). Specialization programs focus on overcoming personal issues through different modalities. Completing the program will help sharpen a student’s skills in preparation for a career in the field and working with various patients. How Long Does it Take to Get a Counseling Psychology Master’s Degree? There’s no exact answer to how long a counseling psychology master’s degree takes to complete. Degree completion times range from 2-4 years in addition to a bachelor’s degree. Factors that influence how long the master’s degree takes to complete include: Previous education Online learning Part-time vs. full-time learning Accelerated program availability Your program’s course load also plays a role in how long it takes you to earn your degree. Admission Requirements for Master of Counseling Psychology Programs Standard admission requirements for the different master of counseling psychology programs include: GRE - The GRE test covers verbal, quantitative reasoning, and writing. Although some master’s programs no longer require the GRE, psychology programs typically do. Transcripts - The program requires a full transcript from your undergraduate college with an average 3.0 GPA.  Resume - Programs want to see your personal and professional accomplishments, like volunteer and work experience. Essay - Much like a cover letter, the essay helps you stand out. You should describe qualifications, explain why you chose the field, and outline career goals. Letters of Recommendation - Plan two or three letters from mentors, past professors, and employers. Background Check - In most programs, you’ll need to undergo a background check, especially when participating in internships and fieldwork. Counseling Psychology Master’s Degree Costs The median annual tuition for a master’s degree in counseling psychology is about $20,000. This can vary considerably depending on several factors, including whether you attend online or on campus, in-state or out-of-state tuition costs, financial aid packages, and whether you’re in full-time or part-time attendance. Courses in Graduate Counseling Psychology Programs Graduate programs often allow you to specialize in specific counseling areas. Thus, many of the classes you take are geared toward your desired career outcome, such as marriage and family therapy or vocational counseling.  However, all enrolled in master’s programs in counseling psychology tend to receive instruction in core areas such as: Ethical and legal issues in counseling Counseling skills Counseling theory Case conceptualization Psychological assessments Developmental psychology Psychopathology Psychophysiology Statistical techniques and research methods Group counseling Multicultural counseling Students should also expect to complete a supervised practicum/internship in a counseling or mental health setting. This hands-on experience proves vital to both future careers and licensure qualifications. An online seminar in which students and faculty discuss the experience may accompany the training, but students should plan on fulfilling the actual training at a physical location.  For specifics on how practical experience requirements are being handled in light of the COVID-19 pandemic, consult individual schools of interest. How Long Does It Take to Get a Counseling Psychology Master’s Degree? Earning a master’s in counseling psychology involves completing 45-60 credits. The exact number varies by institutional program and your desired concentration. In terms of completion time, this translates to a range of 2-5 years.  Factors influencing length include: Previous education/transferable credits Online vs. on-campus learning Whether you select an accelerated program or not Doctoral Degree in Counseling Psychology People wishing to become counseling psychologists usually earn either a PsyD ( Doctor of Psychology ) or a PhD (Doctor of Philosophy) in psychology. These advanced degrees allow a wider scope of practice and the ability to provide patients with more therapy and treatment options. A PsyD takes 4-6 years to complete, while a PhD program runs 5-7 years. Admission to either type of program can be quite competitive. Doctorate in Psychology (PsyD or Ph.D.): If you are more intrigued by the research aspect of this field, you may consider getting a Ph.D. in Psychology. This degree is also required if you would like to become a counseling psychologist. A Doctorate of Psychology or PsyD, on the other hand, is one of the highest degrees in the field of psychology. The cream of the crop, if you may. This would be the ideal degree to pursue if you plan to teach within the field. However, these programs are a real commitment. They can often take four to six years to complete. In addition to the courses and clinical experiences that are similar to a master’s program, Ph.D. students also complete a dissertation and a year-long internship in their field of interest. Accreditation for these programs comes from the American Psychological Association, or (APA). Certification and Licensure in Counseling Psychology In many areas, counseling psychology positions require a license and certification. Prospective students should review licensure requirements for their desired industry to understand exactly what they’ll need to qualify. Other essential factors include regional requirements, educational requirements, and requirements for specific careers. Counseling Psychology Certification and Licensure When considering a counseling psychology career, it is important to look into specific licensing requirements from the get-go. Licensing requirements may play a significant role in the educational institution and path a student chooses. In most states, counseling psychologists need a doctorate in psychology, an internship, at least 1-2 years of supervised professional experience, and a passing score on the Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology. Hospitals and clinics may require counseling psychologists they hire to possess certification from the  American Board of Professional Psychology . Other types of counseling occupations also require licensure and potentially a specific degree. Marriage and family therapists, for example, need a master’s degree, 2,000-4,000 hours of post-degree supervised clinical experience, and a passing score on a state-recognized exam.  Good sources of information on state licensure include: The Association of State and Provincial Psychology Boards The National Board for Certified Counselors The Association of Marital and Family Therapy Regulatory Boards Commission on Rehabilitation Counselor Certification Note that some states and employers require that a prospective employee’s degree come from an  APA-accredited program . Finding out the status of institutions of interest before pursuing a degree is a smart move. Another important thing for aspiring counselors and psychologists to remember is that licensure requirements differ by state. Schools oftentimes gear their counseling psychology program toward the standards set by the state in which they are located.  A student who chooses an on-site or online program from an institution in one region but ultimately wants to work somewhere else geographically should figure out how the qualifications translate. This certainly isn’t to say one can’t pick a school based in a different state – just keep an eye on licensure requirements to avoid an unpleasant surprise down the line. What Can I Do with a Degree in Counseling Psychology? A degree in counseling psychology prepares you for a career assisting others with personal and/or relationship problems. People who choose this course of study generally cite a desire to improve the well-being of others as their main reason for pursuing this field. Pursuing a career in counseling psychology requires at least a master's degree, but you could go on to pursue even higher degrees.  The discipline also offers promising job prospects. The U.S. Department of Labor includes mental health counselors, marriage and family therapists, substance abuse and behavioral disorder counselors, and rehabilitation counselors on its list of  Bright Outlook occupations . These careers are projected to grow faster than average during the time period of 2020-2030. Also, with the U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC) reporting  40 percent of American adults struggling with mental health or substance use  during the COVID-19 pandemic, demand for services continues to soar. Earning an Online Counseling Psychology Degree Can you earn a counseling psychology degree online. Now more than ever before, many schools offer a counseling psychology degree partially or entirely online. Online studies are an excellent alternative for busy and working students as they come with more flexibility, less expensive fees, and no commute. Working professionals often favor this way of learning so they can continue holding a job and fulfilling familial obligations while earning a degree. Online education also eliminates additional costs like campus housing and transportation. Of course, there’s nothing like the whole college experience, and many great programs are offered on college campuses nationwide. Also, h ands-on components such as internships and practicums, however, get completed at a physical location under professional supervision. Students work with their institution to find sites in line with their geographical location and interests. Some online programs also require a short period of residency on campus. How Long Do Online Courses Take to Complete? Online grad programs are not all the same and may have varying options that define how long the program takes to complete. For example, synchronous courses that are taught online and start/end at predetermined times move much faster than asynchronous courses. However, an asynchronous course is prebuilt and self-paced, ideal for anyone who wants more flexibility. Hybrid courses combine online and in-person elements but stick to a more traditional timeframe. If a class is offered online only and is also self-paced, there’s usually an undefined period of time for you to complete the course. Some schools offer accelerated online courses that shrink the timeline of a course from 16 weeks to 8-10-weeks. Online accelerated degrees can be a great choice if you want to jump into your career quickly; however, they do take a substantial amount of energy and focus to complete. There isn’t a set timeline for finishing most online programs, but the typical student finishes within five years. It’s best to check with your program to determine if and when credits expire. Online Master’s in Counseling Psychology Earning a  master’s in counseling psychology  positions you for greater career possibilities. Applicants to counseling psychology graduate programs usually hold a bachelor’s degree in psychology but sometimes earned a degree in a related field like education or  social work .  Just as for undergraduate psychology studies, a variety of online programs exist at the graduate level. This setup allows greater flexibility in choosing an institution and creating a schedule that works with your lifestyle. Applying for admission to an online master’s program in counseling psychology may involve submitting: An official college transcript from undergraduate studies listing classes, GPA, and degree awarded with date A resume of work history with dates and duties Descriptions of relevant activities such as volunteer work or participation in professional associations A personal statement or responses to essay prompts Scores from the GRE (Graduate Record Exam) Counseling Psychology Career and Salary Overview Life on this planet has changed significantly over the last few years. One of the most significant changes has been the increase in awareness and normalization of mental health disorders, leading to a greater need for those with a master’s degree in counseling psychology. What was considered taboo in years past is now accepted, and, as more and more people seek mental health counseling, opportunities in this field are expected to increase. According to the U.S.  Bureau of Labor Statistics , mental health counseling jobs will increase by 23% in the next eight years. Entering a career in counseling psychology can be both rewarding and scary. Is a master’s degree in counseling psychology right for you? Before deciding, learn more about the field, what to expect, and how to get started. Schools and universities, hospitals, clinics, employee assistance programs, crisis centers, and social service agencies are some of the many places that hire people with a background in counseling psychology. Some professionals opt to go into private practice as therapists, counselors, or psychologists. This chart provides specifics for a few common career outcomes for graduates of counseling psychology programs: Career Salary Projected Job Growth (2020-2030) About the Position $82,180 8% Counseling psychologists help people understand and cope with personal and relationship problems. $51,340 16% Therapists help couples and families better understand one another and work through challenging life situations. $37,530 10% Rehabilitation counselors help individuals with mental, emotional, or physical disabilities find employment and develop independent living skills. $47,660 23% These counselors advise, treat, and support people suffering from alcoholism, drug addiction, and mental health problems. Counseling Psychology Career Resources People interested in counseling psychology may find the following organizations helpful to their educational and career endeavors: Counseling Psychology Overview – American Psychological Association A Career in Counseling – American Psychological Association Counseling Psychology Information and Resources Practice Resources – Society of Counseling Psychologists American Psychological Association  – Consider this long-respected group boasting 122,000+ members an ideal starting place for information on all matters related to psychology. Its website includes publications, webinars, databases, career development advice, academic guidance, and articles on both evergreen and current topics in psychology. American Counseling Association  – This professional and educational organization has been dedicated to the growth and enhancement of the counseling profession since 1952. Members gain access to award-winning publications, job boards, networking opportunities, and industry updates. American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy  – Professional education and job development are two of the many areas covered on the website of this leading organization representing the interests of marriage and family therapists. Members receive free legal consultations, discipline-related magazine and journal subscriptions, and opportunities to interact with colleagues across the world. The Association for Addiction Professionals  – Since 1972, this organization (commonly known as NAADAC) has been representing the professional interests of counselors, educators, and others involved in addiction prevention, treatment, recovery, and support. Its website includes a special resource section designed for student members.  American Mental Health Counselors Association – This organization is dedicated to helping counselors meet the needs of those they serve as well as advancing the profession. Individuals still in school may find the organization’s student community particularly supportive and interesting. Internships in Counseling Psychology Supervised professional experience is a vital component of counseling psychology doctoral programs. Students pursuing online studies should think of their program as a hybrid arrangement rather than purely virtual. Doctoral candidates work with their institution to find suitable on-site settings in which to gain counseling experience. Counseling Psychology FAQ What does a counseling psychologist do? Counseling psychologists help people understand and cope with personal and relationship issues. They assist clients in making decisions and adjustments that improve well-being. What is an example of counseling psychology? The COVID-19 pandemic led many people to seek the services of counseling psychologists for assistance with anxiety, depression, and other feelings of distress. Is counseling psychology a good career? Based on their skills and interests, individuals need to decide for themselves what constitutes a good career. Counseling psychology might be of interest to someone who enjoys helping others. A variety of career paths exist for those with a degree in counseling psychology. Many of these occupations pay well and possess promising job prospects. Is a counseling psychologist a therapist? The two professions are similar but not completely alike. A counseling psychologist holds a doctorate, while a therapist usually possesses a master’s degree. Both must meet state licensure requirements in order to practice, but the qualifications differ. Because of their more extensive education and training, counseling psychologists are able to offer a wider variety of treatment options and may handle more complex cases. What can you do with a master of counseling psychology? You can go into various specialties, including rehabilitation counseling, social work, clinical counseling, school and career counseling, and family counseling. Can you be a counseling psychologist with a master’s degree? Yes, you can be a counseling psychologist in a variety of areas of practice. Is it worth getting a master’s in counseling? If you’re interested in a fulfilling career helping others be the best version of themselves in a field that’s growing steadily, it’s worth the time and financial investment. How much can you make as a master of counseling psychology? You can make an average of $82,000 per year, according to the BLS. How is Counseling Psychology different than Clinical Psychology? Counseling psychology focuses on a holistic approach to health, with an emphasis on psychotherapy, typically through counseling sessions with a trained professional. Clinical psychology is a related field that also deals with mental health but approaches that through a scientific lens, or psychopathology. Clinical psychologists typically work with clients who have more severe mental illnesses, whereas counseling psychologists typically work with people who are less debilitated by their struggles. What Types of Courses Are Included in Counseling Psychology Programs? While each university or program has a different approach or focus, there are some common concepts, theories, and skills that you will need to learn on the road to becoming a licensed counselor or counseling psychologist. Human Development: Understand the developmental stages of the journey of the human experience and how they impact individuals. An overview of cognitive, emotional, moral, and physiological development over the life-span is discussed and analyzed. Psychopathology: Become familiar with various mental illnesses; what causes them, how to classify and diagnose them, and how to approach therapy. Students become familiarized with the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM), which is the recognized manual used by professionals in the field. Counseling Theory: Understand and apply various philosophies and approaches to providing therapy. Different schools of thought for techniques and strategies are discussed and analyzed. Research Methods: Utilize theories and relevant research methods to evaluate therapy approaches and overall mental wellness in specific demographics. Ethics: Develop a professional understanding of sound ethical codes and laws surrounding the field of mental health. Theory and Technique for Specific Demographics: Understand the unique needs and realities of various subgroups of clients. This may vary depending on your emphasis or specialization but may include grief counseling, substance abuse, specific needs of minority groups, or various relationship dynamics. Case Management: Study systems and skills used to assess, set goals, implement intervention strategies, and monitor the process of therapy. The flow and organization of information necessary for documenting care and treatment are discussed. Internship/Practicum: Put the knowledge and theory into practice in a supervised therapy setting. Some counseling sessions may be recorded and analyzed with a supervisor and/or peers for self-reflection and growth in the practice. How Does Licensing Process Work? After you have completed your graduate degree courses, there are a few requirements needed to be a practicing counselor, therapist, or psychologist. These requirements differ from state to state, so you will want to research what is needed for the state you are in. Most states require that you pass an examination, such as the National Counselor Examination for Licensure and Certification. It is a 200-item multiple-choice test. Questions may cover your knowledge of the code of ethics, understanding of psychopathology disorders, and theories on therapy approaches. It may also include clinical simulation scenarios or evaluating case studies. In addition to the master’s degree and passing the examination, you will likely need to practice under a supervisor for a period of time. The National Board for Certified Counselors requires 3,000 hours of counseling experience and 100 hours of supervision both over a two-year post-master's time period. Again, your specific state may have slightly different expectations. You can read about different state’s particular requirements here:  http://www.counselor-license.com/ Once you have obtained your licence, you may be required to take continuing education requirements in order to maintain and update your licensure. As the field of mental health is changing with up and coming research, it is important for practicing therapists to have a dynamic and changing approach to their practice. What are some next steps I can take to become a counseling psychologist? If you’ve made it this far through the ultimate guide, it’s safe to say that you are interested in exploring this career option further! Getting a broad overview of counseling psychology is a great first step, but what are some other ways to explore this growing and important field? Seek Counseling: Many people who pursue this profession started out on the other side of the couch. You don’t need to have a debilitating mental illness or a major life tragedy to seek professional counseling. Talking with a professional therapist can help you get a better understanding of your life goals and help you experience what therapy is like. Making an appointment with a vocational counselor, signing up for an art therapy session, or asking if you can observe at a group therapy session are all ways that you can experience counseling. Volunteer: Are you interested in counseling a certain group of people or demographic? Chances are you don’t have to wait to get a graduate degree to do so. Check in your community to see if there are outreach programs already in place. Whether it’s being a mentor to a kid in the Big Brother Big Sister program, volunteering to help at a refugee clinic, or being a small group leader in your church. Not only do these opportunities give you experiential insight into what counseling might be like, they also make your resume or application to a program look much better. Ask Questions: Do you know anyone who is a counselor or counseling psychologist? Ask if you can buy them a cup of coffee and pick their brain about the realities of the profession. Is there a specific school that intrigued you from the top ten list? Get on their website and request more information. As a generalization, people in the field of counseling psychology are generous, kind-hearted people who want to help and who see the need for more people like you in the field. Research: With today’s wealth of knowledge and easy access to information, there’s no reason to wait to learn about new ideas or trends in psychology. See if any colleges or universities in your area offer free lectures or online resources. Subscribe to online magazines or communities within the areas of mental health that intrigue you. What Do Counselors Have To Say About Their Job? Sometimes it’s best to hear it from someone who’s actually living it. Here are some quotes from people in the field, working with clients currently. Barb LoFrisco, Ph.D. Couples and Individual Counselor:  "My job isn’t always easy, but it’s always interesting. I never wake up in the morning and dread going in. I love the fact that I never really know on any given day what will happen. So far, no matter how much experience I gain, there is always a new skill to learn, a new way to grow, or a new problem to tackle. Each day, my clients surprise, and therefore challenge, me all of the time." Frewin Hermer, MA, LMFT:  "I like to offer walk and talk therapy for those who wish to take therapy off the couch. Movement propels people forward - literally and figuratively. Many clients prefer to take their sessions out of the office and into the outdoors. Somehow, the simple act of walking while talking out life’s issues creates change through forward movement. Through the rhythm of walking and talking, there is a sync between the therapist and client. At a moderate pace, healing and breakthroughs occur!" Clair Fish, LPC: "I love being a counselor because in some ways it is like being a doctor but instead of taking part in the physical healing of the person, I get to take part in the emotional healing. Both of them affect the other--which is really cool. I love the privilege of having the opportunity to join people on their journey in a vulnerable way and take part in their joy and in their sorrow. Nobody should be alone in grieving or in celebration. I learn way more from them than they probably do from me, and that's a gift to be treasured." Raelyn Koop, LPC: "Counseling is one of the most intimate and mysterious endeavors I've ever taken on, both as the therapist and also as a patient. I believe that our "insides" are constantly attempting to heal, grow, and expand whether a person is conscious of it or not. I sometimes see myself as just helping people get in and stay in that space where movement happens. You know when you're sitting on your couch between activities and your mind starts racing with things to be done or relationship concerns or thoughts about yourself, that's "the space." And tolerance for whatever comes up right here IS the work. I see it over and over again. Relationally speaking, I have people say to me often, "No one gets it like you do" or "I've never told anyone this." When a therapist commits all of his/her attention, thoughts, and humanity to a person for 50 minutes on a regular basis, the human spirit responds to that. It is what we long for and holds the potential to be corrective of our deepest sources of repetitive hurt." Do I Have What It Takes To Become a Counseling Psychologist? Entering into the field of Counseling Psychology isn’t something to do lightly. The daily work of coming alongside individuals, families, and groups of people with a variety of issues and struggles requires a lot. But the statistics at the beginning of this guide show that this is a field that is growing. Practitioners in the mental health field need to be: Self-Reflective: Many programs that train counselors to point out that in order to provide quality therapy, individuals must be willing to do inner work themselves. Counselors must have a high level of self-awareness, able to understand and articulate how their own development, disposition, and experiences have shaped them. They must bring a level of self-reflection in their approach to therapy. Sensitive to Diversity: Effective therapy requires a counselor to be aware of both the commonalities and the uniqueness that individuals have. Understanding the realities of people that come from different backgrounds or ethnicities is crucial. The most effective approach or therapy you provide may vary greatly depending on your client’s age, race, gender, upbringing, or disposition. Perceptive Listeners: A large portion of therapy is listening and observing. Asking the right questions and giving a client space to unpack an issue or struggle is key. Counselors must be able to give their full attention to others, picking up on what they say, as well as what they communicate non-verbally. Effective Communicators: People in the counseling psychology field must be able to express ideas or concepts in effective ways. With clients, their words educate, advocate, encourage, reflect, and challenge. In therapy sessions, they need to explain ideas or present strategies to their clients in ways that are understandable. They also need to share their research findings and collaborate with others in their field. Rooted in a Healthy Lifestyle: Being present with others in their trauma or struggles is not easy. Counselors need to take self-care seriously in order to remain healthy and stable. Those who provide therapy in the mental health field must find ways to decompress, find work-life balance, and maintain a lifestyle that is sustainable. In your first years as a practicing counselor, your supervisor can help you manage the weighty aspects of the job. Many counselors seek their own therapy as a way to stay mentally healthy. Empathetic Advocates: Above all, the people who become counselors need to have a strong sense of empathy with the individuals who are coming to them for help. Many clients are in the midst of difficult situations or struggling with debilitating issues. Compassion and an empathetic presence can often be the starting point for healing and wholeness for others. The need for passionate, empathetic, committed counselors and psychologists is not going away anytime soon. If the thought of being a part of a highly rewarding and growing profession intrigues you, take the next step in your career today. List of all Counseling Psychology colleges in the U.S. School Average Tuition Student Teacher Ratio Enrolled Students Evanston, IL 5/5 15 : 1 23,161 Chestnut Hill, MA 5/5 17 : 1 15,287 Chicago, IL 5/5 11 : 1 18,339 New York, NY 5/5 21 : 1 34,782 Bethlehem, PA 5/5 13 : 1 7,394 Article Sources Adler University: https://www.adler.edu/  American Psychological Association: http://www.apa.org/  California Institute of Integral Studies: http://www.ciis.edu/  Columbia University in the City of New York: http://www.columbia.edu/  Counsel for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs: http://www.cacrep.org/ Counseling Psychology: http://www.counselingpsychology.org/  Counselor-Licence: http://www.counselor-license.com/articles/becoming-a-counselor.html  Bureau of Labor Statistics: http://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes193031.htm http://www.bls.gov/ooh/community-and-social-service/mental-health-counselors-and-marriage-and-family-therapists.htm http://www.bls.gov/ooh/life-physical-and-social-science/psychologists.htm  Lamar University: http://www.lamar.edu/ Lindsey Wilson College: http://www.lindsey.edu/  National Institute of Mental Health: https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/statistics/index.shtml  Naropa University: https://www.naropa.edu/  National Board for Certified Counselors: http://www.nbcc.org/Exam/NationalCounselorExaminationForLicensureAndCertification/ Northwestern University: http://www.northwestern.edu/  The Seattle School of Theology & Psychology: http://theseattleschool.edu/  University of Pennsylvania: http://www.upenn.edu/  Webster University: http://www.webster.edu/ http://www.psychology.uct.ac.za/psy/career/graduateskills   2024 Best Counseling Psychology Master's Degree Schools Choosing a great counseling psychology school for your master's degree, a great overall school, other factors we consider, one size does not fit all, best schools for master’s students to study counseling psychology in the united states, 25 top schools for a master's in counseling psychology, rest of the top best counseling psychology master's degree schools, additional noteworthy schools. Rank College Location 27 Los Angeles, CA 28 San Francisco, CA 29 Kalamazoo, MI 30 Lexington, KY 31 Lubbock, TX 31 Williamsburg, KY 32 Saint Paul, MN 33 Newberg, OR 34 Philadelphia, PA Counseling Psychology by Region Region Other Rankings Best associate degrees in counseling psychology, best doctorate degrees in counseling psychology, best bachelor's degrees in counseling psychology, best overall in counseling psychology, rankings in majors related to counseling psychology, most popular related majors. Related Major Annual Graduates 3,834 2,410 2,017 1,694 1,343 1,245 764 419 223 70 Notes and References Popular reports, compare your school options. 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Overview:   The MS in Counseling Psychology Program Information Session will be an opportunity to learn about the application process, degree requirements, and career objectives from program faculty and Graduate Studies Office Staff. Reservations for these information sessions are required, please RSVP . If you would like to request accommodations, please contact the Bob Murphy Access Center at least 72 hours in advance before the information session at 562.985.5401 or  [email protected] . marquette.edu // Contacts // A-Z Index // Give to Marquette Marquette.edu  //  College of Education  //  Graduate Studies  //  Counselor Education and Counseling Psychology  //  Master's Degrees Admission Process and Requirements The Department of Counselor Education and Counseling Psychology offers a Master of Arts degree program in school counseling or a Master of Science degree program in clinical mental health counseling, with the option to specialize in addictions counseling or child and adolescent counseling. Prerequisites for admission Applicants to all graduate programs in the Department of Counselor Education and Counseling Psychology should have graduated with, or be about to graduate with, a bachelor's or a master's degree from an accredited institution appropriate to their chosen field of graduate study. Experience in human service (field work, or service learning, or volunteer or employment) is helpful. Admission Process For more information on the application and admission process for the online Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, please visit that program's How to Apply page. Admission applications that are incomplete or received after the deadline will not be reviewed. To ensure your file is complete and on time, please contact the Graduate School at 414-288-7137 or email at [email protected] . Master's admission applications due to the Graduate School: Wednesday, February 1, 2024 Master's virtual interviews (approximately 8am-4pm CST): Friday, March 3, 2024 Expand all   |   Collapse all   Materials to be submitted for application All of the following materials must be submitted to the Graduate School by the appropriate deadline. Graduate School application form and application fee If coursework was completed within the United States, submit copies of all current and previous college/universities except Marquette. If coursework was completed outside of the United States, a transcript evaluation is required. A copy of a course-by-course evaluation is approved for the application process. Test scores on the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) general test are normally required, not the GRE subject test (psychology). Please see the GRE website for score reporting schedules. NOTE: The GRE is optional for 2024-2025. A statement of purpose. Please use the guidelines listed on the Marquette Graduate School webpage on drafting a SOP . Resume or Vita. Three letters of recommendation from individuals who can address one's academic and professional potential. International applicants only must submit a TOEFL score or other acceptable proof of English proficiency. For further application information, please contact the Graduate School at 414-288-7137, find Marquette's admissions materials online or email Coreen Bukowski , academic coordinator. Virtual Interviews After all applications are reviewed, the highest-ranking applicants will be contacted for an interview, which is required for admission. International applicants and others for whom the timeline/CST wouldn't be conducive can request to interview over the phone on a mutually agreed date/time prior to the listed interview date. Master's interviews will be periodically all day (8am-4pm CST) on Friday, March 8, 2024 . Applicant evaluation by departmental faculty Department faculty comprehensively review applicant files, emphasizing all aspects of applicants' backgrounds. Our assessments of potential for graduate study and success in the field are based on all components of the application, and we do not use cutoff scores with regard to previous grades or test scores. The previous median GRE combined test score of our recent master's in counseling students was 303, and the median undergraduate GPA was 3.5. The median score on the GRE writing assessment for master's students was 4.5. The faculty admits students with lower test scores or grades when there are significant compensating factors that are important for determining success in the field. If relevant, applicants should highlight these factors in their Statement of Purpose. Those applicants who are judged to show good potential for graduate study in our department are then invited for an interview with the departmental faculty and a group of current graduate students. After the interviews have been completed, faculty review each application and make a decision about admission to the program. Tuition and financial aid information Tuition for a graduate education student can be found on the Graduate School tuition page . This level of tuition is fairly competitive with other institutions. Most of the scholarships and assistantships that we offer go to doctoral students, but occasionally there are assistantships given to master’s students. Master’s students who are primary and secondary school teachers in southeastern Wisconsin are eligible for two scholarship opportunities: the Milwaukee Area Teachers Scholarship, which provides scholarships for K-12 teachers from the greater Milwaukee area, and the Catholic Schools Scholarship, which covers part of the tuition for students employed by Archdiocese of Milwaukee schools. These scholarships are available only to students enrolled at Marquette. More information is available at the Graduate School's financial aid page. We will not know the number of assistantships available to next year's students until our admissions offers are sent out during the middle of the spring semester. Visiting the department You are welcome to visit the department to find out more about our programs. We are located in room 146 of the Walter Schroeder Health and Education Complex, 560 N. 16th Street. See our campus map we are building number 29. Please contact Coreen via email or 414-288-5730 to let us know you are interested in visiting or would like someone to contact you. Contact the Graduate School to schedule a campus visit/tour . Marquette's Graduate School also holds a fall open house. Stay tuned for more information. We look forward to meeting you! Quick Links Resources for Current Students Resources for Admitted Students Our Commitment to Diversity Ph.D. in Counseling Psychology Ph.D. Program Outcome and Disclosure Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling Online Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling Master of Arts in School Counseling Master's Degrees Program and Student Outcomes Faculty Expertise Faculty and Staff Directory Research Centers and Clinics PROBLEM WITH THIS WEBPAGE? Report an accessibility problem To report another problem, please contact [email protected] . Marquette University Schroeder Health and Education Complex Milwaukee, WI 53233 Phone: (800) 222-6544 Campus contacts Search marquette.edu A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z Privacy Policy Legal Disclaimer Non-Discrimination Policy Accessible Technology © 2024 Marquette University Skip to Content Current Students Interested in more? Search Courses Search Input Submit Search Admission Steps Professional/clinical psychology - psyd, admission requirements. Terms and Deadlines Degree and GPA Requirements Prerequisites Additional standards for non-native english speakers, additional standards for international applicants. For the 2025-2026 academic year See 2024-2025 requirements instead Fall 2025 quarter (beginning in September) Final submission deadline: December 2, 2024 Final submission deadline: Applicants cannot submit applications after the final submission deadline. Degrees and GPA Requirements Bachelors degree: All graduate applicants must hold an earned baccalaureate from a regionally accredited college or university or the recognized equivalent from an international institution. University GPA requirement: The minimum grade point average for admission consideration for graduate study at the University of Denver must meet one of the following criteria: A cumulative 2.5 on a 4.0 scale for the baccalaureate degree. A cumulative 2.5 on a 4.0 scale for the last 60 semester credits or 90 quarter credits (approximately two years of work) for the baccalaureate degree. An earned master’s degree or higher from a regionally accredited institution or the recognized equivalent from an international institution supersedes the minimum GPA requirement for the baccalaureate. A cumulative GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale for all graduate coursework completed for applicants who have not earned a master’s degree or higher. Program GPA requirement: The minimum undergraduate GPA for admission consideration for this program is a cumulative 3.0 on a 4.0 scale. Please visit for more details on the program specifc GPA requirement. Applicants WITHOUT a psychology background (major or minor), must meet the department's psychology prerequisite prior to matriculation.  The psychology prerequisite can be met either through psychology coursework or by obtaining a score of at least 660 or higher on the psychology subject GRE exam. Applicants should state how they plan to meet the psychology prerequisite in their application. For the psychology coursework prerequisite, applicants must complete four (4) psychology courses earning a 'B' or better in these classes from a regionally accredited institution. Applicants offered admission should be aware that all psychology classes must be completed before registration in September. Official scores from the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL), International English Language Testing System (IELTS), C1 Advanced or Duolingo English Test are required of all graduate applicants, regardless of citizenship status, whose native language is not English or who have been educated in countries where English is not the native language. Your TOEFL/IELTS/C1 Advanced/Duolingo English Test scores are valid for two years from the test date. The minimum TOEFL/IELTS/C1 Advanced/Duolingo English Test score requirements for this degree program are: Minimum TOEFL Score (Internet-based test): 80 Minimum IELTS Score: 6.5 Minimum C1 Advanced Score: 176 Minimum Duolingo English Test Score: 115 Additional Information: Read the English Language Proficiency policy for more details. Read the Required Tests for GTA Eligibility policy for more details. Per Student & Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) regulation, international applicants must meet all standards for admission before an I-20 or DS-2019 is issued, [per U.S. Federal Register: 8 CFR § 214.3(k)] or is academically eligible for admission and is admitted [per 22 C.F.R. §62]. Read the Additional Standards For International Applicants policy for more details. Application Materials Transcripts, letters of recommendation. Required Essays and Statements We require a scanned copy of your transcripts from every college or university you have attended. Scanned copies must be clearly legible and sized to print on standard 8½-by-11-inch paper. Transcripts that do not show degrees awarded must also be accompanied by a scanned copy of the diploma or degree certificate. If your academic transcripts were issued in a language other than English, both the original documents and certified English translations are required. Transcripts and proof of degree documents for postsecondary degrees earned from institutions outside of the United States will be released to a third-party international credential evaluator to assess U.S. education system equivalencies. Beginning July 2023, a non-refundable fee for this service will be required before the application is processed. Upon admission to the University of Denver, official transcripts will be required from each institution attended. Two (2) letters of recommendation are required.  Letters should be submitted by recommenders through the online application. Essays and Statements Essay instructions. Please respond to both essay prompts below and upload one PDF document, which should include your two essay responses, to your online application. The word limit for each essay is 500 words. Please number or label your essays. • We do not require a personal statement. • Both essay responses are required. **Note: Please read the essay prompts carefully and be sure to align your response with what is requested in the prompts.** Essay 1 Describe someone you know, other than a parent or guardian, about whom you have strong ambivalent or conflicting feelings. Describe the person in such a way that they “come alive” for the reader. How do you understand your reactions to this person? How might your personal history influence how you react? Essay 2 What life experiences and personal motives have most influenced your decision to pursue graduate study in psychology in GSPP’s PsyD Program? *This question is about your personal motives and requires a degree of self-disclosure. *Avoid writing about the wish to help others or about how you want to contribute to society. *There is no need to list your credentials or professional experience (this is already on your CV/resume which will be read). Résumé Instructions The résumé (or C.V.) should include work experience, research, and/or volunteer work. Faculty review completed applications December through early February.  We will notify applicants via email with an admissions status update sometime in late January/early February.  If invited to interview, interviews will be held online in late February. For more information about the programs that the Graduate School of Professional Psychology (GSPP) offers, please refer to GSPP's admissions webpage.  If you have any questions or concerns regarding admission requirements, deadlines, and late application materials, please contact [email protected] or call (303) 871-3736. Start the Application Online Application Financial Aid Information Start your application. Your submitted materials will be reviewed once all materials and application fees have been received. Our program can only consider your application for admission if our Office of Graduate Education has received all your online materials and supplemental materials by our application deadline. Application Fee: $65.00 Application Fee International Degree Evaluation Fee: $50.00 Evaluation Fee for degrees (bachelor's or higher) earned from institutions outside the United States. Applicants should complete their Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) by February 15. Visit the Office of Financial Aid for additional information. « All Events Graduate School Application Support Session: Clinical Mental Health Counseling Master’s Degree September 12 @ 6:00 pm - 7:00 pm. This Graduate School Application Support Session will be led by UW-Madison alum, Evann Zima, who successfully applied to and was recently admitted to a Clinical Mental Health Counseling Master’s Degree program. Evann will share details about her application process, provide advice about navigating Clinical Mental Health Counseling applications, and address students’ questions. REGISTER HERE Related Events Graduate School Application Support Session: School Psychology EdS and PhD Graduate School Application Support Session: Sport Psychology Master’s Degree Mental Health Graduate Programs Resource Fair + Sync Events 425 IMAGES Columbia University Psychology Ranking Ranking 30 Best Graduate Programs in Counseling Psychology 2019 Top Counseling Masters: Psychology Graduate Degrees 2022+ (2023) Online PhD Counseling Psychology APA Accredited 2023 Clinical & Counseling Psychology Degree Guide UH Clinical Psychology Doctoral Program Ranked Among Nation’s Best COMMENTS Counseling Psychology Doctoral Ph.D. Programs Of 2024 The University of Oregon's Ph.D. in counseling psychology offers an optional Spanish language specialization. Students can enter the doctoral program with a bachelor's or master's degree. Foundational coursework provides training in mental health diagnosis, counseling diverse populations, and microcounseling skills. 2023-2024 Top Counseling Psychology Graduate Programs 1 review. Master's Student: Overall, the University of Florida seems to be a great school as far as rankings and attendance rates go. Despite the political turmoil going on in the state of Florida, there seems to be a relatively strong student body of undergraduate students. Graduate students, however, are less cohesive. Best Doctoral Programs in Counseling Psychology Counseling psychology Ph.D. programs, as the highest level of education, create a secure path for the top-paying careers in the field. A Ph.D. in counseling psychology provides access to fast-growing careers. With a greater need for counseling services in schools and hospitals, the Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 3% job growth from 2019 ... The Best Clinical Psychology Programs in America, Ranked Harvard University. Cambridge, MA. #10 in Clinical Psychology (tie) Save. 4.3. Clinical psychologists diagnose and treat mental illness and psychological disorders. Graduates may find work in ... 2024 Best Counseling Psychology Doctor's Degree Schools For its 2024 ranking, College Factual looked at 62 schools in the United States to determine which ones were the best for counseling psychology students pursuing a doctor's degree. When you put them all together, these colleges and universities awarded 481 doctor's degrees in counseling psychology during the 2020-2021 academic year. Best Online Ph.D.s In Counseling Of 2024 Understand Your Expenses and Financing Options. Total tuition for the online Ph.D. in counseling programs ranked on this page ranges from approximately $27,000 to more than $100,000. Financing ... Best Doctoral Programs in Counseling Psychology Applicants to doctoral programs (PhD, PsyD, or EdD) in counseling psychology often want to know what "the best" counseling psychology doctoral programs are. However, there is no good one-size-fits-all method to rank these programs accurately. What makes a program "the best" depends on that student's career goals. Counseling Psychology PhD Programs Guide Most graduates from counseling psychology Ph.D. programs seek to engage in the professional practice of psychology as professors/researchers or counseling psychologists. Read on for more information about professional avenues for counseling psychologists. Salary: $79,010. Counseling Psychology PhD Please note that upon admission to the Ph.D. program in Counseling Psychology, students will receive a Doctoral Student Handbook for the Ph.D. program in Counseling Psychology which will provide updated policy, program features, and requirements. (The most recent handbook is available on the Program website). APA-Accredited Programs PDF, 185KB. Find APA-accredited programs, including doctoral graduate programs in clinical, counseling, school psychology and combination programs; internships, a required component of doctoral training; and postdoctoral residency programs in traditional and specialty practice areas of psychology. PhD Program Rankings (Adapted from US News and World Report) Below are reputation scores and ranks of the top 27 PhD programs in Psychology, including top-ranked schools in each of six subspecialties. From US News and World Report, "America's Best Graduate Schools" rank/school average reputation score. NRC Ranking of U.S. Psychology Ph.D. Programs NRC Ranking of U.S. Psychology Ph.D. Programs. This page contains links to 185 psychology Ph.D. programs rank-ordered in quality according to the most recent study conducted by the National Research Council (with "quality scores" taken from a summary of the NRC report published by the APS Observer ). The Canadian Psychological Association ... Counseling Psychology The PhD Program in Counseling Psychology offers doctoral education and training in psychology and prepares students for entry-level practice in counseling psychology. Doctoral level counseling psychologists conduct research, teach at the university level, supervise students and professionals, consult with community agencies, and provide ... PhD Counseling Psychology The PhD program in Counseling Psychology has been accredited by the American Psychological Association (APA) since 1980. As of July 2020, the following states accept APA-accredited doctoral programs as meeting the educational requirements for licensure in that state: Best Student Counseling Programs Ranked in 2024, part of Best Education Schools. A degree in student counseling and personnel services trains graduates to work in schools, mental health centers and other organizations. 10 Best Graduate Programs in Counseling Psychology Average Graduate Tuition Rate: $9,276/year in-state and $19,752/year out-of-state. Student to Faculty Ratio: 12:1. Points: 6. Tennessee State University features a low-cost master's in counseling psychology that offers a solid psychological core curriculum focused on issues throughout the lifespan. 2024 Best Counseling Psychology Schools Counseling Psychology is of the hottest degree programs in the United States, coming in as the #90 most popular major in the country. This makes choosing the right school a hard decision. For its 2024 ranking, College Factual looked at 211 schools in the United States to determine which ones were the best for counseling psychology students pursuing a degree. Ranking of Counseling Psychology Programs This page contains links to 40 psychology departments rank-ordered in research productivity according to Delgado, E. A., & Howard, G. S. (1994). Changes in research productivity in counseling psychology: Revisting Howard (1983) a decade later. Journal of Counseling Psychology, 41, 69-73. Counseling Psychology (Ph.D.) We integrate counseling and psychological theory, scientific inquiry, and supervised practice to facilitate the optimal development of individuals and groups in diverse settings, including counseling centers, school-based mental health, state and federal agencies, and universities. The Ph.D. program in Counseling Psychology at Howard prepares ... Best Counseling Psychology colleges in the U.S. 2024 Boston, MA. Northeastern University offers 3 Counseling Psychology degree programs. It's a very large, private not-for-profit, four-year university in a large city. In 2022, 28 Counseling Psychology students graduated with students earning 23 Master's degrees, and 5 Doctoral degrees. Based on 12 Reviews. [2021] Top Master's in Counseling Psychology Programs What master's in counseling psychology program you should apply to in 2021? We've reviewed all U.S schools and chosen our top 20. 2024 Best Counseling Psychology Master's Degree Schools In 2024, College Factual analyzed 174 schools in order to identify the top ones for its Best Counseling Psychology Master's Degree Schools ranking. When you put them all together, these colleges and universities awarded 8,317 master's degrees in counseling psychology during the 2020-2021 academic year. Mental Health Graduate Programs Resource Fair Whether you're just exploring your options or getting ready to apply to graduate school in counseling, special education, social work, psychology, marriage and family therapy, art therapy, or occupational therapy, this event is for you! … Counseling Psychology Virtual Information Session: 10/9/2024 The MS in Counseling Psychology Program Information Session will be an opportunity to learn about the application process, degree requirements, and career objectives from program faculty and Graduate Studies Office Staff. Reservations for these information sessions are required, please RSVP. 2023-2024 Top Doctor of Counseling Psychology Graduate Programs Evanston, IL ·. Northwestern University ·. Graduate School. ·. 3 reviews. Master's Student: Northwestern's Master of Science in Energy and Sustainability is a first of its kind professionally focused master's program in the nation. Interdisciplinary by design, MSES covers the technical, policy, and business/economics of the energy and ... Fall 2024 ~ Newsletter ~ Counseling ~ Graduate Psychology ~ CHBS Department of Graduate Psychology Welcome Picnic (5-7pm, JMU Farm) September 9/3. Pizza & Process (12:10pm, Miller 1107) 9/9. Graduate Psychology Department Meeting (1pm to 2:30pm, Faculty & Staff) 9/10. Last day to withdraw from the university with cancellation of tuition charges and refund. 9/11-14. Counseling & Supervision 1st Fall Residency ... Master's Degrees Admission Process and Requirements The Department of Counselor Education and Counseling Psychology offers a Master of Arts degree program in school counseling or a Master of Science degree program in clinical mental health counseling, with the option to specialize in addictions counseling or child and adolescent counseling. ... Test scores on the Graduate Record Examination (GRE ... Professional/Clinical Psychology For more information about the programs that the Graduate School of Professional Psychology (GSPP) offers, please refer to GSPP's admissions webpage. If you have any questions or concerns regarding admission requirements, deadlines, and late application materials, please contact [email protected] or call (303) 871-3736. Graduate School Application Support Session: Clinical Mental Health This Graduate School Application Support Session will be led by UW-Madison alum, Evann Zima, who successfully applied to and was recently admitted to a Clinical Mental Health Counseling Master's Degree program. Evann will share details … Counselor I / II in Troy, NY for Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute Expected hiring range: Counselor I: $65,000 - $68,000 per year Counselor II: $75,000 - $80,000 per year Pay transparency disclosure: The selected candidate's salary will be determined based on factors that include the available budget, internal equity, and the final candidate's qualifications, experience, education and other job-related credentials. essay homework paper phd project resume review speech thesis