The Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology is a rigorous program of study that provides all the coursework necessary to meet one of the two primary requirements necessary to be eligible to sit for licensure exams on the path to becoming a licensed professional counselor. All licensing requirements vary slightly by individual state and by specific license*. It is important to note, that in addition to the earned credit hours provided by this program, students will still need to accumulate supervised hours after graduation in order to satisfy eligibility requirements for licensing exams. Those hours must be earned within a prescribed time frame determined by the respective state.
Beyond counseling, the program provides an in-depth understanding of human dynamics for those planning a career in human services, education, management, or many of the helping professions. This sixty-credit program is unique in the region for its comprehensive coursework, spanning topics from children & adolescents, family counseling, group process, and crisis intervention, to counseling theories and techniques, research methods and statistics, neurodiversity, career counseling, substance abuse, professional ethics, and psychopathology.
Nearly all faculty are currently employed in the field and are thus able to bring that experience to the classroom. The program concludes with two faculty-directed 300 hour practicums that provides invaluable experiential learning opportunities.
*Please note that requirements for licensure vary from state to state. Here is a link to Delaware’s requirements for licensure: https://dpr.delaware.gov/boards/profcounselors/newlicense/.
Program Goals:
Upon successful completion of the Masters of Arts in Counseling Psychology, graduates will:
- Demonstrate an advanced understanding of the principle constructs, concepts, theories and practices associated with the direct practical application of psychology for addressing individual and/or societal needs.
- Possess understanding of the Professional Ethical Principles and Guidelines of the American Psychological Association (APA) as well as demonstrate the ability to apply ethical decision-making models.
- Demonstrate an advanced understanding of contextual (family, school, peers, community, institutions) factors contributing to the development, maintenance, and treatment of psycho-emotional disorders.
- Demonstrate an advanced understanding of, and ability to utilize effective intervention strategies and prevention programs relevant to a range of mental health issues.
- Possess a depth of awareness of cultural sensitivity, and demonstrate understanding of the needs, assets, and challenges inherent in working with multicultural and diverse communities, families, and individuals.
- Possess the ability to articulate comprehension of essential scientific methodology and statistical skill needed to assess and apply empirical research relevant to the field.
- Demonstrate the capacity to apply human qualities of respect, compassion, empathy, congruence, self-awareness, and veracity within the context of the professional relationship.
- Develop a commitment to fostering autonomy while valuing the role of advocate as key components of professional skills and social responsibility.
