Counseling Program Frequently Asked Questions

Must I select a concentration?Students are admitted to the Master of Science in Counseling program and a specific concentration: Clinical Mental Health Counseling, Community Counseling or School Counseling. Students can request a concentration change after completing 18 credits. Students may combine concentrations, which will increase the number of required credits. Approval to change or combine concentrations will be decided by program faculty.

How long is the program? The length of time for degree completion varies depending upon the number of credits required for a counseling concentration (48 or 60 credits) and number of credits taken per semester. Typical range of completing 48 credits is 2 to 3.5 years. Students have seven years to complete their degree.

When do I need to apply? There is a rolling admission process for fall, spring and summer terms. Applications and other required materials must be received by the following deadlines: July 15 for the fall term, November 15 for the spring term, and April 15 for the summer term.

Is a thesis required? Students have the option of either writing a thesis, culminating with the thesis defense, or passing a comprehensive exam during the final semester of their studies.

Is field experience required? Yes, students are required to complete a total of 700 on-site clock hours for the Clinical Mental Health Counseling and Community Counseling concentrations. School Counseling students are required to complete a 600 hour experience in K-12 schools. See a list of current clinical and school sites.

May I complete my practicum/internship requirements at my place of employment?Yes, with prior approval from the Practicum/Internship Coordinator. The appropriateness of this type of arrangement may or may not be approved after a thorough assessment of potential conflicts of interest between students, supervisors and clients.

Will classes taken from another graduate program apply toward my degree? Only graduate credits earned at a regionally accredited university or college are eligible for transfer; however, there is no guarantee that graduate courses taken before admission will count toward the degree. For the School Counseling and Community Counseling concentrations up to 12 credits, and for the Clinical Mental Health Counseling concentration up to 18 credits, completed within the past seven years may be transferred in toward the degree. Credits taken for a previously earned master’s degree may not count toward a second master’s degree. Students with a master degree in counseling or a related field may consider completing a Post-master’s Certificate in one of the three counseling concentrations.

When are courses offered? The counseling program is designed to maximize student access. Graduate counseling courses largely are offered in the evening with some daytime and weekend offerings. Most courses are offered more than one term each academic year, with multiple sections to choose from. See our current course schedule.

How much does the graduate program cost? Tuition for graduate studies at Mount Mary College is billed on a per credit basis. Financial aid is available for accepted degree candidates in a master’s degree program who are enrolled at least half-time (three graduate credits). See graduate tuition and fees information.