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SMU excels in counseling education, with students highly sought for internships and positions. Earning SMU’s Master of Science in counseling provides you with education, training and credentials to excel in the job market and make a significant impact on clients’ lives.
Dive into the dynamic field of counseling with SMU’s Master of Science program, designed to empower you with the knowledge and skills necessary for profound professional and personal impact. This CACREP-accredited program offers specialties in Clinical Mental Health; Marriage, Couple and Family; and School Counseling, preparing you for a variety of roles in different settings. Gain a comprehensive understanding of psychological principles, therapeutic techniques, and ethical practices under the guidance of expert faculty committed to your success.
Take the first step towards a rewarding career in counseling by joining a community that values transformative education and personal growth. Our program not only focuses on developing competent counselors but also nurtures compassionate individuals ready to make a meaningful difference in people’s lives. Engage in hands-on learning experiences, from practicums to internships, in diverse environments to refine your skills and deepen your understanding of client needs. Discover how SMU can help you achieve your professional goals and become a leader in the field of counseling.
in the nation for Best Master’s in Counseling Programs (Best Value Schools 2024)
of our SMU graduate Counseling students pass the National Counselor Exam (NCE)
of Simmons graduates have jobs within 6 months of graduation
Curriculum highlights of SMU’s M.S. in counseling program
Students acquire knowledge in the disciplines that underlie counseling, including education, psychology, human development, learning and social change. Students develop skills in counseling and assessment and become familiar with the legal and clinical considerations that confront practitioners. Students engage in repeated practice and role-playing with feedback and strategic modification and complete a year-long practicum and internship experience.
Curricular concentrations are available in Addiction, Art & Trauma, Child & Adolescent Counseling, and LGBTQ+ Affirmative Therapy.
Career readiness for graduates of the program
The counseling program provides the educational and clinical requirements necessary for certification, licensure and actual counseling practice.
Successful graduates are able to pursue state licensure as marriage and family therapists (LMFT), licensed professional counselors (LPC), or school counselors. The opportunity to be licensed as a chemical dependency counselor (LCDC) in the state of Texas can be incorporated in an elective concentration.
Common workplaces for professional counselors
An M.S. in counseling will prepare you in areas such as:
SMU’s counseling program equipped me to work with a variety of populations from all walks of life.
Farina Tahir ’21