Master of Arts in Counseling

Program Details

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 once a week Monday-Friday in the late afternoon/evenings, and alternating Saturdays.

Average Class Size

15-18 learners per cohort. Cohort members in the program form a learning community. Your success starts with connections.

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.

Master of Arts (MA) degree in Counseling — either a general degree or with a specialization in one of these areas:

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.

Common Questions:

  • Can I specialize in more than one area?
    Yes, but you must get permission from your academic advisor and successfully complete all field placement requirements for chosen specializations.
  • If I choose a specialty, what are my career options?
    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.

"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)