Health Care Degrees Online

This 61-credit program prepares the student to sit for the examination for licensure as a mental health counselor in Massachusetts and equips student to help individuals who may have a variety of behavioral, cognitive, and emotional challenges. It may also serve as a stepping-stone to further graduate training (PhD or PsyD).

The MA in Psychology is a clinical program with a curriculum designed to provide a firm foundation in the understanding of human behavior and clinical disorders as well as specific skills in psychotherapy and psychological assessment. Research methods and statistics are emphasized as essential tools for clinical professionals – e.g., in performing clinical outcome studies and program evaluations, and in staying current with the empirical literature. Students are exposed to a range of empirically supported therapeutic methods, with special emphasis on cognitive-behavioral techniques. Experiential learning is an essential component of the program, with 15 credits of practica and internships required.

A minor in exercise physiology is available to students not major¬ing in physical education who desire in-depth study of how the body reacts to participation in physical exercise. Emphasis is on strength development, cardiovascular function, metabo¬lism, exercise prescription and the interaction of body systems. Career opportunities are available in health and fitness settings associated with industry, hospitals, agencies and human service organizations.

A minimum of 120 earned hours is required for graduation. These earned hours include the core curriculum requirements as specified in the “Undergraduate Academic Programs” section of this catalog. For additional graduation requirements, see the “Undergraduate Academic Policies” section of this catalog.

Application for admission should be made through the Office of Graduate and Continuing Education. Applicants who do not possess an adequate background in physical education and/or related areas will be required to make up course deficiencies. Such background coursework will not be applied to the graduate program’s minimum credit requirements.

The degree offered is a Master of Education. It is possible to enroll as a post-master’s or non-degree candidate to obtain professional development points (PDPs) or gain advanced knowledge in a specialized topic.

The program provides a strong basis for students to gain national certification as Certified Health Education Specialists (CHES). The program is supported by strong technological resources. Most courses, and all required courses, are offered in the late afternoon or evening, and during the summer to accommodate the working professional. Enrollment in graduate courses is small and instruction is personalized. When appropriate, individualized study can be provided through directed studies, theses or projects. A wide variety of course offerings range from professional courses to health science content. Opportunities exist to take elective courses outside the department.

The CAGS in Mental Health Counseling is designed for students who are practicing counselors and do not possess a 60 credit master’s degree in counseling or related field and need a CAGS to apply for licensure in Massachusetts as a Mental Health Counselor (CMR 262).

Students accepted in the CAGS in Mental Health Counseling will meet with a faculty advisor and design a program based on the current requirements for licensure in Massachusetts. The program will compliment previous Master’s level coursework but must include research, a practicum, an internship and a comprehensive examination. The program must be a minimum of thirty graduate credits.

eA bachelor’s degree in psychology or a related field which includes General Psychology, Abnormal Psychology, and Developmental Psychology. 2.8 undergraduate GPA. Composite score of 1000 on the quantitative and verbal parts of the GRE General Test. A passing score on the Communication and Literacy portion of the Massachusetts Tests for Educator Licensure (MTEL). Three letters of recommendation, at least one of which should be from a supervisor who has knowledge of the candidate’s aptitude for the counseling profession and counseling related experience. Applicants must have successful volunteer or paid experience in a counseling capacity specifically related to mental health counseling. All applicants will be required to interview with a faculty member. A completed application, including a five-hundred word personal statement that presents a synthesized, integrated, and self-reflective description of the applicant’s career goals as they relate to mental health counseling.

Graduates of the Mental Health Counseling - Dual License Program are trained to work effectively with children and adolescents in educational settings. This program prepares graduates who are seeking dual licensure as a Licensed Mental Health Counselors (LMHC) in the state of Massachusetts and a School Adjustment Counselor License with the Department of Education. Program requirements have been designed to meet current state licensing requirements.

A bachelor’s degree in psychology or a related field which includes General Psychology, Abnormal Psychology, and Developmental Psychology. 2.8 undergraduate GPA. Composite score of 1000 on the quantitative and verbal parts of the GRE General Test. Three letters of recommendation, at least one of which should be from a supervisor who has knowledge of the candidate’s aptitude for the counseling profession and counseling related experience. Applicants must have successful volunteer or paid experience in a counseling capacity specifically related to mental health counseling. All applicants will be required to interview with a faculty member. A completed application, including a five-hundred word personal statement that presents a synthesized, integrated, and self-reflective description of the applicant’s career goals as they relate to mental health counseling.

Graduates of the Mental Health Counseling Program are trained to work in a variety of mental health settings: clinics, hospitals, health care centers, educational and governmental institutions with children, adolescents and adults. This program prepares graduates who intend to become Licensed Mental Health Counselors (LMHC) in the state of Massachusetts.