General Counseling
Degree Overview:
The MA in General Counseling program is designed for students who want to apply counseling skills in non-mental health settings that require a master’s degree. Career paths may include academic advising in higher education, career counseling, and behavioral health support in medical settings.
What the Program Prepares You For:
This degree provides a strong foundation for those planning to apply to and pursue doctoral study. It also prepares students for professional roles that apply counseling skills in educational, organizational, and community settings.
Program Duration
- Sequence of 48 units; designed to build skills that are applicable beyond the workplace and to help you grow and succeed
- Options for 2-3.5 year plans of study
Frequently Asked Questions
The 40 units of core courses, plus 8 units (below), for a minimum of 48 units:
- COUN 713: Psychological Perspectives of Gender (2 units): Introduction to psychology of gender, with emphasis on psycho-social effects of genderization of women and men from an ecosystemic, multicultural, and feminist perspective. Attention is paid to gender-specific issues pertinent to mental health and well-being.
- COUN 794: Counseling Field Experience (1-3 units each term; 6 units total): Students are engaged in fieldwork in clinical, school or college settings appropriate to department specialization(s) and career objectives. Weekly seminars held for specific specializations. Supervision provided by Counseling Department campus supervisors and department-approved field supervisors.
School and Department Information
We believe that education can transform lives and make a positive impact on our future and in our communities — particularly those that are underserved. Our curriculum prepares leaders who understand the causes of inequities within society and how these affect our communities, including students, parents and teachers.