MS in Counseling Courses & Curriculum

The Counseling curriculum is designed to help students develop core-helping skills and engage in concentrated study in one of three degree emphases two of which has specialized accreditation from the Council for the Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP). These programs also prepare students to apply for state licensing and national certification in professional counseling (Minnesota Board of Behavioral Health & Therapy and North Dakota Board of Counselor Examiners). Many of the required counseling classes are delivered with a combination of online and face-to-face classroom learning. The Counseling masters program can be completed in two (full-time) to five years. All course syllabi are available upon request by contacting Dr. Taryn Akgul.

The Clinical Mental Health Counseling emphasis prepares students for positions in community mental health settings as well as college and universities counseling services. A counseling practicum and an internship in a community counseling setting or college counseling center is required. Graduates may work in settings such as community mental health clinics, hospital in-patient facilities, marriage & family centers and college and university settings. Students pursing a license in clinical mental health counseling are often required to complete the National Counselor Examination for initial their initial license and may be required to complete an additional exam when applying for a higher tier license. The test required and any other post-graduation requirements differ by state. Please contact the licensing board in the state you plan to work in following graduation for correct licensing exam(s).

The School Counseling emphasis prepares students for licensure or certification as a school counselor. Students complete coursework as well as one semester of practicum and two semesters of internship in elementary schools, middle schools, and high schools. Some states do require completion of the Praxis exam or portions of the Praxis exam.

The Addiction Counseling emphasis prepares students to meet the growing need in the community for highly trained counselors to work with an increasing population of individuals struggling with addiction in various work settings. Addiction counseling licensure requirements vary by state, as do the exams required. Minnesota and North Dakota licensing exam requirements.

Counseling Graduate Degree Options

• Master of Science in Counseling
  • Addiction Counseling
  • Clinical Mental Health Counseling emphasis
  • School Counseling emphasis

Graduate Certificates

• Addiction Counseling Certificate
• School Counseling Certificate
• Professional Counseling Certificate