Counseling, MA
Why the Master of Arts in Counseling?
Choose between a general Master of Arts in Counseling or an MA in Counseling with a specialization in one of seven different areas. Students may complete more than one specialization by taking additional courses and fulfilling the appropriate field experience requirements.
*For HNU Students: Contact our admissions team at ksoe@stmarys-ca.edu to learn more about transfer assistance*
2024 Spring Term Deadline - October 15th
2024 Fall Term Deadline - March 1st
Master of Arts (MA) degree in Counseling — either a general degree or with a specialization in one of these areas:
- Career Counseling
- General Counseling
- Higher Education & Student Affairs (HESA) - formerly College Student Services (CSS)
- Higher Education & Student Affairs/Professional Clinical Counseling (HESA/PCC) - formerly College Student Services/Professional Clinical Counseling (CSS/PCC)
- Marriage and Family Therapy and Professional Clinical Counseling (integrated emphasis)
- School Counseling (Includes PPS Credential)
- School Psychology (Includes PPS Credential)
We also offer a post-master's degree credential in Pupil Personnel Services (PPS) in:
Focus on What Interests You
The beauty of our Master of Arts in Counseling program is that seven different specializations are offered.
See below for more information about the required courses and timeline options for completing each specialization.
"The program not only met my academic goals, it exceeded my academic goals. I can’t speak enough to the intentionality that St Mary’s provides students in the counseling program, from small classrooms, to the books that you’re learning."
-Eric Handy '15, MA in Counseling (MFT/PCC)
Learn More
We're here to help you navigate the application process every step of the way. Here are some resources to give you more information about what you'll need as you get started.
Program Duration
Options for 2, 2.5, 3, or 3.5 year tracks. This is a program designed to help you grow and succeed.
Learning Environment
Fall and Spring semester courses meet in person Monday - Thursday in the late afternoon / evenings & alternate Saturdays
Average Class Size
Small class sizes. Cohort members in the program form a learning community. Your success starts with connections.
Meet With Us
Going back to school is a big step - our team is here to help you through it. To find out if our program meets your needs, fill out a quick form to schedule a meeting with an Admissions Counselor!
Common Questions
Yes, but you must successfully complete all field placement requirements for chosen specializations.
The short answer: Many! Our counseling specializations are designed for professionals who aspire to work in schools, colleges, community mental health, family service agencies, private practice, or a variety of other counseling settings.