Abilene Christian University

Program Information

Degree Offered

Master of Science in Counseling Psychology

Format: Campus

Program Description:

The Master of Science in Counseling Psychology prepares graduates to pursue employment in various fields of psychology, become licensed as professional counselors, begin a college teaching career, or continue graduate studies through doctoral programs. All students become proficient in the basic areas of clinical intervention, including diagnostic interviewing, case conceptualization, crisis intervention, goal-setting, treatment planning, and the psychotherapy process.

Why the Master of Science in Counseling Psychology?

Graduates of ACU's M.S. in Counseling Psychology are prepared for positions in mental health intervention and consultation, along with prevention of mental health disorders. In addition to the traditional techniques of psychological assessment, students have opportunities for training and experience in the rapidly growing areas of neuropsychological, educational and behavioral assessment.

Why the Master of Science in Counseling Psychology at ACU?

• Small class sizes maximize training quality and efficiency

• Acclaimed faculty is comprised entirely of professional psychologists and psychiatrists

• Ample research opportunities

• Extensive counseling opportunities

Degree Process

ACU's M.S. in Counseling Psychology is a two-year, 48-hour program. Students will complete 450 clock hours of practicum experience and an optional thesis project.

Affordability/Financial Aid

Graduate assistantships are available on a competitive basis (students work from 10 to 20 hours per week). Benefits include a monthly salary and tuition reduction. GAs will gain valuable experience by working with professors in research and the classroom, giving them an edge when applying to doctoral programs.

Accreditation:

ACU is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, the regional body responsible for accreditation of degree-granting higher education institutions in Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia and Latin America.

Eligibility Requirements:

In order to be considered for admission to the Counseling Psychology program, the following conditions must be met:

• Graduate School application and fee

• Official transcripts of all undergraduate work (indicating the acquisition of a Bachelor of Science degree and a GPA of at least 3.0)

• Three Graduate School recommendation forms (at least two from psychology professionals)

• A two-page purpose statement describing career goals, professional interest, and reasons for wishing to enter the psychology program at ACU

• Applicants must have completed at least 12 hours of psychology coursework (See website for details).

If a student fails to meet one or more of the requirements outlined above for unconditional admission to a graduate program, the appropriate admission committee may choose to grant conditional admission with the understanding that in order to stay in the program, the student must satisfy certain conditions.

# of Credits Required:

48

Tuition & Financial Aid

Cost Per Credit Hour:

787 USD

Tuition In-State Full Time:

15662 USD

Tuition Out of State Full Time:

15662 USD

Financial Aid Offered: Yes

Classification: Master's Colleges & Universities I

Institution Sector: Private not-for-profit

Locale: Midsize City

Size & Settings: 1,000 - 4,999