EmmanuelNorthwestern University offers an online Master’s in Counseling degree through their School of Professional Studies. This program prepares you to become a licensed professional counselor.
Benefits Of Northwestern Online Counseling Degree
Below are some of the benefits of obtaining an online counseling degree from Northwestern university
1. Flexibility and Convenience
The online program gives you the flexibility to complete your coursework on your own schedule from anywhere. You’ll progress through the program with a cohort of fellow students, taking two courses per quarter to complete the degree in just under two years.
2. Comprehensive Curriculum
The curriculum provides a strong foundation in counseling theories and techniques. You’ll take courses in areas like:
- Counseling Theory and Practice
- Counseling Techniques
- Human Growth and Development
- Diagnosis and Assessment
- Research Methods
3. Accredited and Respected
Northwestern’s counseling program is accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP).
As a CACREP-accredited program, it meets the highest standards for counselor preparation. Graduates are eligible to become Licensed Professional Counselors (LPC) in most states.
A counseling degree from Northwestern University carries prestige and opens up career opportunities. The skills and knowledge gained from this program will prepare you for a rewarding career helping others work through challenging life issues.
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Details of the Online Master’s in Counseling Degree Curriculum
Northwestern University offers an online Master of Arts in Counseling (MAC) degree through their School of Professional Studies.
This program provides the academic preparation to become a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in most U.S. states.
The 60-credit online MAC curriculum covers core areas of study for counselors including:
- Human Growth and Development: Study how individuals develop physically, cognitively and socially over the lifespan. Learn counseling theories and techniques appropriate for each stage.
- Social and Cultural Foundations: Develop an understanding of issues and trends in a multicultural society. Study how factors like ethnicity, nationality, age, sexual orientation, religious beliefs, and socioeconomic status influence clients.
- Helping Relationships: Focus on developing effective counseling skills like active listening, empathy, and challenging clients in a supportive manner. Learn therapeutic approaches for individuals, groups, couples and families.
- Group Work: Gain experience facilitating group counseling sessions. Develop skills for managing group dynamics, setting appropriate boundaries, and addressing challenges that arise.
- Career and Lifestyle Development: Study career counseling models and techniques. Learn how to guide clients through career transitions, help high school students explore options, and address work/life balance issues.
- Appraisal: Become familiar with assessment tools counselors frequently use like personality inventories, intelligence tests, and vocational interest assessments. Learn how to evaluate clients’ mental health and interpret the results.
- Research and Program Evaluation: Develop skills to critically analyze scholarly research studies and evaluate mental health programs. Apply evidence-based practices in your counseling work.
- Professional Orientation: Study the history and philosophy of counseling. Learn about licensure, legal and ethical issues, and professional counseling organizations. Develop your own professional counselor identity.
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FAQs About Northwestern’s Online Counseling Degree
Here are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about Northwestern’s online counseling degree.
1. How long does the program take to complete?
Northwestern’s online MA in Counseling can be completed in as little as 24 months. The program comprises 60 credits, including 30 credits of core courses, 12 credits of specialization courses, 9 credits of electives, and 9 credits of internship and capstone experience.
2. What specializations are offered?
Northwestern’s program offers four specialization tracks:
- Clinical Mental Health Counseling
- School Counseling
- Rehabilitation Counseling
- Addictions Counseling
3. Is the program accredited?
Yes, Northwestern’s MA in Counseling is accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP).
Accreditation signifies that the program meets high standards for quality and rigor. Graduating from a CACREP-accredited program will make you eligible for counseling licensure in most states.
4. What are the admission requirements?
To apply, you’ll need:
- A bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university
- A minimum 3.0 GPA (exceptions may be made for applicants with relevant work experience)
- Official transcripts from all postsecondary schools attended
- A personal essay discussing your interest in the counseling field
- Two letters of recommendation
- An interview (for select applicants)
- There is no GRE requirement for this program
5. Do I need to visit campus?
No, Northwestern’s online MA in Counseling is delivered 100% online. You will complete all coursework remotely, including virtual internship and capstone experiences. There are no required visits to Northwestern’s campus in Evanston, Illinois.
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