Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
EMPOWER OTHERS TO BUILD AND SUSTAIN HAPPY AND HEALTHY LIVES
Valparaiso University’s master of arts in clinical mental health counseling (CMHC) program equips you with the tools and techniques to promote the well-being of individuals, families, organizations, and communities in diverse settings. Our CACREP-accredited program provides 1,000 hours of supervised clinical training experience in the field — preparing you for licensure in most states, including Indiana.
You will be equipped for a rewarding career in multiple settings, including private practice, clinical supervisory and director roles, mental health therapy positions in hospitals, and residential care treatment with families, couples, children, and veterans. And, with a 100% job placement rate for the last five years, Valpo CMHC graduates are highly sought after in the field.
Unlike other mental health counseling graduate programs, you can take the national counseling exam during your final semester at Valpo instead of waiting until after graduation, allowing you to become a licensed clinical mental health counselor more quickly.
With multiple program options available, you can complete our 60-credit accelerated program in as few as two years — or pursue your degree as a part-time student — with the support and collaboration of your cohort peers and our CMHC faculty who are practicing clinicians bringing real-life experiences and expertise to the classroom.
VALUE OF A VALPO GRADUATE DEGREE
Graduate tuition for the 20242025 academic year is affordable at $706 per credit. The program offers early-entry options and scholarships for especially qualified undergraduate students. Full-time CMHC students may qualify for the Back2Beacon Graduate Scholarship.
If you are a Valpo undergraduate alumni of the last three years, you may qualify for a 30% scholarship toward your graduate degree. Visit valpo.edu/back2beacon to learn more.
COUN 635 Introduction to Psychopathology
COUN 660 Helping Relationships: Counseling, Theories 3 Cr.
COUN 662 Helping Relationships: Counseling, Processes 3 Cr.
COUN 693 Foundation of Professional and Ethical Issues in Counseling
COUN 694 Counseling Proseminar (four semesters)*
COUN 545 Contextual Dimensions
COUN 570 Assessment in Counseling: Testing and Appraisal
COUN 602 Research Methods
COUN 605 Comprehensive Exam
COUN 620 Human Development: Biological and Learned Bases of Behavior
COUN 625 Social and Cultural Bases of Behavior
COUN 664 Career Counseling: Appraisal and Intervention
COUN 668 Group Counseling
COUN 689 Counseling Exit Interview
Successful completion of core classes as well as pre-practicum review are required prior to enrolling in any experiential training courses.
COUN 685 Counseling Practicum
COUN 686 Counseling Internship I
COUN 687 Counseling Internship II
COUN 688 Advanced Counseling Internship
15 credits of specialty electives are required in applied courses (six credits recommended), business management, research, and supporting courses. Please refer to the graduate catalog for courses.
Nine CMHC elective credits from the following options:
500 Understanding Trauma
PSY 510 Trauma Assessment
PSY 590 Special Topics in Trauma
PSY 600 Capstone: Trauma-Informed Systems
Any course from the trauma-informed care certificate program
* May be taken concurrently with practicum and internship.
Valparaiso University admits students of any race, color, national or ethnic origin, age, gender, disability, sexual orientation, or religion. (For a full statement, see valpo.edu.)
“I chose Valpo because of its strong commitment to diversity, community, and educational excellence. The CMHC program offers the perfect mix of theoretical knowledge and practical experience.
”
— Aleksandra Jevtic ‘26 M.A. Fulbright Scholar
A VALPO EDUCATION
At Valpo, you receive a comprehensive, rigorous education within the liberal arts tradition, learning to think critically, communicate clearly, and solve complex problems creatively. Our committed faculty invests in the success of students both in and out of the classroom, providing you the individualized attention and guidance fundamental to reaching your full potential.
ADMISSION CHECKLIST
■ Valparaiso University graduate application (online)
■ Certified bachelor’s degree transcript, plus transcripts for all other degrees earned and/or coursework completed
■ Two letters of recommendation
■ A reflective essay indicating your anticipated career goals and reasons for undertaking graduate study in the particular program you are applying for at Valpo
■ Supplemental application form which includes writing prompt
SCHOLARSHIPS AND AWARDS
For information on scholarships and awards, visit valpo.edu/financialaid
** International students are required to take GRD 500 Graduate Academic Success in their first semester of enrollment. Valparaiso
web: valpo.edu
email: grad@valpo.edu