Counseling Psychology Master's Degree Program

• Overview of the Degree: The Counseling Psychology Master's Degree programs prepare students for potential careers in various specializations including health, career, correctional and family psychology for children through adults. Striking a balance of understanding in counseling theory and developing testing and diagnosis skills, this degree program prepares graduates for employment in a professional mental health practice.

Career Possibilities

• Guidance Counselor
• Marriage Counselor
• Family Therapist
• Career Counselor
• Counseling Psychologist

Professional Demand:

The job outlook appears to be very positive for counselors in all fields, with an expected growth between 18 and 26 percent through 2014, which is faster than average in all considered industries, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics in the U.S., www.bls.gov. Average annual salary earnings for marriage and family therapists in 2004 were $38,980, and $33,620 in the broader encompassing field of individual and family social services.

Specifics of the Degree

• Typical Coursework would involve a balance of classroom learning and practicum, including courses in History of Psychology, Career & Lifestyle Development, Research and Program Evaluation, Family Psychology, Ethics in Psychology, Psychological Statistics, Cross Cultural Psychology, Systems Intervention and Group Work.
• Skills Acquired: Graduates with a Master's Degree in Counseling Psychology will be educated in psychology theory and experienced through clinical study, and be able to effectively deal with the causes, diagnosis, treatment and prevention of psychological problems. These professionals will be prepared to deal with a variety of intervention situations among the various age groups.