MS in Mental Health Counseling, Pace University

30 Months

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About this course

Pursuing a master's degree in Mental Health Counseling from Pace University’s Dyson College offers a comprehensive blend of theoretical coursework and practical experience. The program includes 700 hours of supervised internships and practicum experiences to build essential skills for licensing as a counselor. Located in Westchester, students gain real-world experience by working in leading clinical settings such as NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital, St. Vincent’s Hospital, and Montefiore Medical Center. The program emphasizes cultural competence, ethical practice, and evidence-based approaches, preparing students to excel in hospitals, community organizations, or private practice. It aligns with the standards set by CACREP and prepares students for licensing in New York, with additional designations such as diagnostic privilege, which allows for formal client diagnoses post-licensure. The program’s mission is rooted in fostering diversity, ethical practice, and ongoing professional growth, providing students with the knowledge and skills needed to make a meaningful difference in mental health care.

Why this course is highly recommended

This program is highly recommended for students passionate about making a difference in mental health. It offers a strong balance of theoretical learning and practical experience, including 700 hours of supervised internships. The program’s CACREP accreditation ensures high standards and relevance to current clinical practices. Graduates benefit from opportunities to work in prestigious healthcare settings like hospitals and community organizations, and the diagnostic privilege designation enhances employment prospects and income potential. Additionally, the program prepares students for licensure and further study, such as a PhD in Mental Health Counseling. The emphasis on cultural competence and ethical standards makes it especially valuable for those committed to diverse and inclusive mental health practice.

Specialisation

This MS program focuses specifically on Mental Health Counseling, preparing students to become licensed counselors capable of working with children, adolescents, families, and adults. It emphasizes multicultural competence, ethical practice, and evidence-based methods tailored for diverse populations. The program also provides a diagnostic privilege designation, expanding employment opportunities and professional recognition in the field. Students can explore areas such as group, individual, and family counseling, and develop skills in crisis intervention, assessment, and research. The curriculum is designed to ensure a well-rounded, practical training experience, with coursework and internships directly aligned with real-world needs in mental health services.

Course fees

Application fees

1st year tuition fees

29.84L

Living cost

Degree requirements

Applicants need a bachelor’s degree in psychology or a closely related field. The program requires the completion of 60 credits over 30 to 36 months, in both full and part-time formats. A personal statement, a resume detailing employment and activities from the past five years, and two letters of recommendation are required for admission. Official transcripts from all attended institutions must be submitted. The total tuition cost is approximately $91,200, with a per-credit fee of $1,450. Admission deadlines vary by term, with January 1 for fall and April 1 for spring. Financial aid options, including scholarships and loans, are available to support students through the program.

English language test

IELTS

TOEFL

PTE

DUOLINGO

115

Want to learn more about the admission process, eligibility criteria, and acceptance rates for international students? Visit the Pace University admission page for complete details.

Career prospects

Graduates of this program are well-positioned for a variety of roles in mental health, including behavioral health counselors, case managers, child and adolescent counselors, private practice counselors, and substance abuse specialists. The diagnostic privilege designation allows licensed counselors to diagnose clients, broadening employment opportunities and increasing earning potential across hospitals, clinics, and private settings. The field is projected to grow, with a 19% job growth forecast from 2023 to 2033, and the role of mental health counselors is ranked highly among social services jobs. The program also provides pathways for further academic pursuits, like a PhD, or advanced training in specialized counseling approaches.

FAQs

What is the duration of the program?

The program can be completed in 30 to 36 months, with options for full-time and part-time study.

Is the program CACREP accredited?

Yes, the program is accredited by CACREP, ensuring that it meets professional standards for counseling education.

What are the employment prospects post-graduation?

Graduates are eligible for New York State certification in mental health counseling and have a high employment rate, with opportunities across hospitals, community organizations, and private practice.