MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Lebanon, Illinois, United States , United States
Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
McKendree University
Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Program Overview: MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
The Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling (CMHC) at McKendree University is designed to provide students with a practitioner model that fulfills the 60-hour educational requirements needed to obtain counseling licensure in many states, including Illinois and Missouri. The program follows a cohort model that begins every fall and is completed over three years, offering a structured and supportive learning community.
The CMHC program has a mission of training reflective, ethical practitioners who work in a variety of mental health settings. The counseling program faculty is committed to providing a dynamic education that prepares students to promote health and wellness in an ever-changing world, with an emphasis on both professional and personal development.
Students develop counseling competencies through a combination of didactic coursework, live supervision experiences, and real-world clinical placements. Practicum and internship courses provide hands-on skill development both on campus through the Stress Management Clinic and off campus at pre-approved clinical sites.
Key Program Highlights
- 60-credit-hour program designed to meet counseling licensure requirements in multiple states including Illinois and Missouri
- Three-year cohort model with evening classes, ideal for working professionals and adult learners
- Hands-on clinical training through the on-campus Stress Management Clinic and off-campus internship placements
- Comprehensive examination using the nationally recognized Counselor Preparation Comprehensive Examination (CPCE)
Curriculum and Course Modules
The MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling curriculum is built on a practitioner model that integrates theoretical knowledge with applied clinical skills. Students progress through a carefully sequenced series of courses delivered in 16-week and blended 8-week formats, culminating in supervised clinical experiences and a comprehensive examination.
Counseling Skills and Techniques
3 CreditsA foundational study of the helping relationship covering basic and advanced counseling skills, including listening, reflection, rapport building, therapeutic alliance creation, interviewing, goal-setting, session structuring, and confrontation.
Theories of Counseling and Psychotherapy
3 CreditsAn exploration of major counseling theories and psychotherapeutic approaches, equipping students with the theoretical frameworks necessary to understand client behavior and guide clinical interventions.
Practicum I: Stress Management Clinic
3 CreditsStudents develop counseling skills through live supervision on campus, providing free and confidential stress management services to university students, staff, and faculty within the Stress Management Clinic.
Practicum II: Clinical Field Experience
3 CreditsStudents apply counseling skills in real-world settings at pre-approved off-campus clinical sites, gaining direct client experience under professional supervision.
Internship in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
6 CreditsAn advanced clinical placement completed at off-campus sites where students accumulate supervised clinical hours, refine their counseling approach, and prepare for professional licensure.
Ethics and Professional Issues in Counseling
3 CreditsThis course examines the ethical, legal, and professional standards governing the counseling profession, including the ACA Code of Ethics, confidentiality, informed consent, and multicultural considerations.
Elective and Specialization Courses
Admission Requirements
McKendree University admits students who present evidence of their potential to complete graduate-level work. Applicants are considered on an individual basis without regard to sex, race, disability, nationality, sexual orientation, or religion. To begin your application, reach out to Uni4Edu for guidance through the process.
Academic Requirements
- Bachelor's DegreeA baccalaureate degree from a regionally accredited institution is required
- Minimum GPAA competitive undergraduate GPA is expected; contact Uni4Edu for current GPA requirements
- Graduate ReadinessEvidence of potential to complete graduate-level academic work
- Transfer CreditsA maximum of twelve transfer credit hours with a grade of B or better (3.0 on a 4.0 scale) may be applied
- Cohort EntryThe program follows a cohort model with new cohorts beginning each fall semester
Language Requirements
- Language of InstructionEnglish
- TOEFL (International Students)Contact Uni4Edu for current English proficiency requirements for international applicants
- IELTS (International Students)Contact Uni4Edu for current IELTS score requirements
Required Documents
Application Deadlines
For personalized admission guidance, document verification, and application support, please contact Uni4Edu
Scholarships and Funding
McKendree University and external organizations offer various funding opportunities to help graduate students manage the cost of their education. Graduate students may also be eligible for federal financial aid, including Federal Direct Unsubsidized Loans. Contact Uni4Edu for personalized guidance on funding options available for the CMHC program.
Graduate Tuition Discount Program
McKendree University offers graduate tuition discounts for eligible students. Specific discount amounts and eligibility criteria vary; reach out to Uni4Edu for the latest information on available graduate tuition reductions.
Military Tuition Assistance Discount
Discounted rate for eligible military studentsMilitary students eligible for tuition assistance may receive a discounted tuition rate. This benefit is available to active-duty service members and eligible veterans enrolled in the CMHC program.
Employer Tuition Reimbursement Deferment
Varies by employerStudents whose employers offer tuition reimbursement may defer the employer-covered portion of their tuition costs. A letter from the employer confirming eligibility is required to participate in this program.
For detailed tuition fee information, please contact Uni4Edu — we will guide you through the costs and available funding options for this program.
Career Prospects for CMHC Graduates
Graduates with a Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from McKendree University find employment in many clinical counseling settings. The 60-credit-hour program is designed to meet licensure requirements, positioning graduates to pursue Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) or Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) credentials.
Potential Career Roles
Types of Employers Hiring CMHC Graduates
Rankings and Recognition
McKendree University, founded in 1828 as the oldest institution of higher education in Illinois, is consistently recognized for its commitment to academic quality and student success. The university is recognized as a U.S. College of Distinction and has earned multiple national rankings from U.S. News and World Report.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Regional Universities Midwest | U.S. News & World Report | #101 of 161 |
| Online Bachelor's Programs | U.S. News & World Report | Top 33% Private Institutions |
| Online Master's in Nursing | U.S. News & World Report | #8 of 42 Private Programs |
| Best Colleges for Veterans | U.S. News & World Report | Nationally Ranked |
How to Apply
Applying for this program is easy with Uni4Edu. Our team will guide you through every step of the process — from document preparation to final enrolment.
Contact Uni4Edu
Reach out to our team via email or phone. We will assess your profile and confirm your eligibility for this program.
Prepare Your Documents
Our advisors will provide you with a personalised checklist of required documents and help you prepare your application package.
Submit Your Application
Uni4Edu will submit your application on your behalf and keep you updated on its progress throughout the review period.
Receive Your Offer
Once accepted, we will help you understand your offer, arrange visa support if needed, and guide you through the enrolment process.
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