Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
About the Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
The Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling (CMHC) utilizes full-time daytime training that integrates immediate practicum and internship experience with local mental health partners, resulting in the skills to help make a difference in others’ lives. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, one in five adults live with a mental illness, including anxiety or depression; the need for qualified mental health professionals is more significant than ever. At CBU, we train you to embody the Lasallian values of faith, service, and academic excellence so that you have the advanced tools to support individuals facing these challenges.
- Two-Year Cohort Model with Daytime Classes: Students progress together through a structured, full-time two-year program. The daytime cohort format fosters strong peer support, collaboration, and professional identity development.
- Practitioner-Faculty with Real-World Experience: All teaching faculty are licensed mental health practitioners who remain active in the field, bringing current clinical expertise, case examples, and professional insight directly into the classroom.
Extensive Hands-On Clinical Experience: Students gain practicum and internship placements through more than 20 local mental health partners, including hospitals, schools, and community agencies, ensuring diverse, real-world preparation.
Our MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling program highlights the multidisciplinary nature of mental health care—all mental health professionals have a role to play in a client’s health and overall well-being. From social workers and psychiatrists to psychologists and medical assistants, it takes a dedicated team to understand how to serve, diagnose, and treat individuals with diverse backgrounds and circumstances. Our graduate students learn to approach each client with respect for their background, experiences, and needs, while also learning how every member of a care team contributes to a person’s well-being.
Are you ready to join the mission and want to make a lasting difference in someone’s life?
MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling Accreditation
The Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling degree program will be seeking accreditation through the Council for the Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP). Therefore, the program’s student-to-teacher ratio is 12 to one, and the courses follow the highest standards and core values related to counseling and therapy. Students benefit from close mentorship, small classes, and coursework that reflects the core values of ethical, evidence-based counseling practice.
What You’ll Study in the CMHC Program
To graduate from CBU’s clinical mental health counseling graduate program, you must complete 60 credit hours, including 16 core courses that cover critical areas like counseling theories, clinical techniques, group counseling, addiction support, and human development.
In addition to the core coursework, you can personalize your studies with electives on topics such as military mental health, the role of religion and spirituality in counseling, and alternative methods like art and animal-assisted therapy.
REVIEW DEGREE REQUIREMENTS FOR THE CLINICAL MENTAL HEALTH COUNSELING GRADUATE PROGRAMClinical Field Placement
Hands-on experience is at the core of the master’s in clinical mental health counseling degree program. To bridge the gap between theory and practice, the master’s program includes three clinical field placements—one practicum and two internships. These opportunities allow you to put your knowledge into action, working for 700 hours in supervised counseling settings to enhance your counseling skills and build confidence by applying the skills you’ve built in class.
Admissions Requirements
We accept applications for the clinical mental health graduate program year-round for a fall semester start. Our admissions process is designed to help CBU understand your academic background, professional social work experience, and commitment to the counseling profession. To apply, submit the following:
- A Completed Graduate Program Application
- One official transcript of previous academic credits from each of the colleges or universities previously attended. 3.0+ undergraduate GPA (Students with a lower GPA may receive a letter of exception from an interviewing faculty member)
- A current resume/CV
- Two letters of recommendation from former teachers or immediate supervisors qualified to attest to the applicant’s preparation for and ability to perform graduate study and one letter of recommendation from a professional contact (e.g., former employer)
- Statement of Purpose
- Individuals who report GRE test scores will have priority. Documentation of previously earned graduate degree or professional certification may be accepted as a waiver of this requirement at the discretion of the Program Director.
In-person interviews with at least two (2) members of the full-time faculty
International Applicants Must Also Submit
- Course-by-course NACES credential evaluation
- Official English proficiency test scores. A minimum proficiency in English equivalent to TOEFL ibt of 94, IELTS of 7.0, or PTE of 64 must be demonstrated.
- Copy of passport
- Current bank statement
- Current affidavit of sponsorship
The Program Director will notify the student regarding his/her/their acceptance to the program and will make arrangements to register the student for select courses. All records will be maintained by the Registrar’s office at CBU. Academic advising and counseling will be performed by the Program Director. Graduation requirements include completion of the required 60 semester credit hours, including the 48 semester credit hours in the 16 core courses and 12 credit hours in practicum and internship.
Careers in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
The demand for skilled mental health professionals is growing rapidly. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment of mental health counselors is projected to grow 22% from 2021 to 2031, much faster than the average for all occupations. Over 77,000 new positions are expected to be created in this timeframe, driven by increased demand for mental health services to support individuals and communities.
With an MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, you’re qualified for careers in various settings, including hospitals, outpatient mental health clinics, private practice, and social service agencies. As a licensed mental health counselor, you work with individuals, couples, and groups to address a wide range of challenges, including anxiety, depression, trauma, addiction, and relationship issues.
In addition to traditional counseling roles, your degree in clinical mental health counseling may help you pursue specialized fields such as addiction counseling, crisis intervention, or trauma-informed care and contribute to community-based work, program development, or even mental health policy. With a master’s degree in CMHC, you have the flexibility to work in both public and private sectors and encounter opportunities to advance your career, increase your earning potential, or build your own practice.
Additional Benefits
- Meaningful Work: Counselors make a direct and lasting impact on individuals’ lives by helping them navigate challenges and improve their well-being.
- Job Stability: The growing demand ensures a steady job market for years.
- Competitive Compensation: Graduates of the MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling program are well-positioned for competitive salaries, which can increase further with advanced certifications, specialized training, or leadership roles.
Related Programs
Looking to expand your graduate studies in counseling or human services? Explore other master’s degrees at CBU that complement the MS in CMHC, including degrees in leadership, project management, and education. These programs offer additional pathways to enhance your skills, broaden your professional opportunities, and deepen your impact in helping others:
- Master of Arts in Teaching
- Master of Science in Educational Leadership
- Master of Business Administration
Meet the Faculty
Deepen Your Impact on Mental Health Care
Elevate your counseling skills to support individuals through their mental health challenges with CBU’s master’s in clinical mental health counseling degree program. This graduate program equips you with the knowledge, clinical experience, and professional guidance necessary to address a wide range of mental health challenges. Begin your journey toward licensure—apply today!
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