counselling psychology phd online

School Finder

Best online counseling psychology phd programs: students before profits 2021.

An online counseling psychology PhD program trains students with the skills needed for a career in counseling and prepares them for licensure. Students who graduate from an online counseling psychology PhD will be on their way to working with people to overcome their issues through counseling. By pursuing this program online, working professionals are able to prepare for a career pivot without interrupting their day-to-day work.

Top Affordable Online Counseling Psychology PhD: Methodology

We have compiled a list of the top programs available for students who want to pursue an online counseling psychology PhD degree. These programs have been selected for this ranking based upon a scoring system that considers the tuition cost, the program’s length, and program quality–weighted equally. These programs have been accredited by nationally recognized accreditation boards and have had their nonprofit status verified. The programs are ordered from highest to lowest score. Note that tuition rates listed below are based on cost per credit, and individual programs may have additional fees.

Ranking the Top PhD Counseling Psychology Online Programs

#1. university of west georgia, phd counseling psychology online, carrollton, georgia.

Students interesting in learning at the University of West Georgia can enroll in the school’s Online Doctor of Education in Professional Counseling & Supervision degree. This study program is one of the best ways for students to advance their understanding of mental health counseling techniques to prepare themselves for their own practice. Offered in an asynchronous format, the University of West Georgia’s program provides a great deal of flexibility to those enrolled. The University of West Georgia has received accreditation for this program from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges. University of West Georgia has earned the top spot among our best counseling psychology PhD programs.

Tuition:  $ 20,163

#2. University of the Cumberlands

Williamsburg, kentucky.

University of the Cumberlands students can enroll in this Online PhD in Counselor Education & Supervision degree. This program of study teaches students to hone their expertise in counseling. Those who have completed this degree program have become counseling psychologists, licensed professional counselors, psychologists, and more. A total of 60 credit hours are needed to complete this program. The University of the Cumberlands has received accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges. Through this curriculum, students will learn how to work in clinical settings to help provide counseling and supervise other counselors. This program is one of the best counseling psychology PhD programs.

Tuition: $24,000

Score: 99.75

#3. Adams State University

Online phd in counselor education & supervision, alamosa, colorado.

This Online PhD in Counselor Education & Supervision degree is offered to students by Adams State University. Students in this program will work to gain a stronger understanding of the skills needed to work in counseling and to work with other counselors to educate them or supervise them. A total of 60 credit hours are needed to complete this program. Adams State University has designed this program to be completed in about two years. This program has ranked among the top online PhD programs in counseling psychology. The Higher Learning Commission has provided Adams State University with accreditation for this program. Adams State’s strong program has earned it a top-five spot among our best counseling psychology PhD programs.

Tuition:  $ 29,380

Score: 99.5

#4. University of Louisiana at Monroe

Online doctor of philosophy in systemic studies, monroe, louisiana.

This Online Doctor of Philosophy in System Studies degree is made available by the University of Louisiana Monroe. Through this program, students will develop a greater understanding of systemic family therapy. They will work to understand this concept and apply it in a broader counseling context. This program requires a total of 60 credit hours and is designed to be completed in two years. This program is one of the top online PhD programs in counseling psychology. The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges has provided the University of Louisiana at Monroe with accreditation for this program.

Tuition:  $ 30,000

#5. Regent University

Online phd in counseling & psychological studies, virginia beach, virginia.

Upcoming Regent University students can enroll in this Online PhD in Counseling & Psychological Studies degree. This online PhD in counseling degree is designed to prepare students for a career in psychology or counseling. Regent University offers this program in several concentrations, including Addictions Counseling, Grief Counseling, Human Services Counseling, Life Coaching, and many others. A total of 51 credit hours are required to complete this degree. Regent University has received accreditation for this program from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges. Courses in this program include Addictive Behaviors, Appraisal & Psychometrics, Disaster Trauma & Psychological First Aid, and more.

Tuition: $34,425

Score: 99.25

#6. Liberty University

Online phd in counselor education and supervision, lynchburg, virginia.

Students can choose to enroll in this Online PhD in Counselor Education and Supervision degree. This study program is designed to be mostly online with a few required intensives throughout the course of the program. A total of 60 credit hours are needed to complete this degree. Liberty University forecasts that students should be able to complete this degree in about four years. This degree is one of the best online counseling psychology PhD programs. Through the pursuit of this degree program, students will learn about counseling techniques, counselor education, scholarship in counseling, and more. This program has received accreditation from the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs.

Tuition:  $ 35,700

#7. Grand Canyon University

Online phd in psychology – cognition and instruction – qualitative, phoenix, arizona.

Grand Canyon University currently offers students an Online PhD in Psychology – Cognition and Instruction degree. This program focuses heavily on teaching students cognitive psychology, as well as several counseling topics. Students will learn how to assess cognitive development, apply cognitive psychology to learning and instruction, and use cognitive processes in practice. A total of 60 credit hours are needed to complete this program of study. Grand Canyon University has received accreditation for this program from the Higher Learning Commission. Some of the courses in this program include History and the Systems of Psychology, Behaviorism, Cognitive Science, and many others.

Tuition: $41,700

Score: 98.75

#8. Hampton University

Online doctor of philosophy in counselor education & supervision, hampton, virginia.

Students who want to study at Hampton University can enroll in this Online Doctor of Philosophy in Counselor Education & Supervision degree. This program focuses primarily on training students in the skills needed to work in counseling as well as the skills required for training other counselors. Those who complete this degree will be prepared for careers managing other counselors. A total of 65 credit hours are needed to complete this program of study. Hampton University expects students to be able to complete this program in 3.5 years. The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges has provided Hampton University with accreditation for this online counseling degree.

Tuition: $45,175

#9. Touro University Worldwide

Online doctor of philosophy in human and organizational psychology.

Offered to students online, Touro University Worldwide’s Online Doctor of Philosophy in Human and Organizational Psychology degree is a great option for students looking for one of the top online counseling PhD programs. This program is designed to teach students the discipline of organizational psychology. A total of 66 credit hours are needed to complete this degree. Touro University Worldwide estimates that it will take three years to earn this degree. The Western Association of Schools and Colleges has provided Touro University Worldwide with accreditation for this program. Students who complete this degree will have developed expertise in organizational psychology and other counseling disciplines.

Tuition:  $ 46,200

Score: 98.5

#10. Amridge University

Online phd in marriage and family therapy, montgomery, alabama.

Offered at Amridge University, this Online PhD in Marriage and Family Therapy degree trains students with the skills needed for a career in marriage and family counseling. This online PhD in counseling degree program is a great option for those who want to develop skills applicable to a career that involves hands-on counseling with clients. This degree is one of the best online doctoral programs in counseling psychology. A total of 60 credit hours are needed to complete this program of study. Amridge University has received accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges. It is estimated that this program can be completed in four years if pursued full-time.

Tuition: $46,800

Score: 98.25

#11. Eastern University

St. davids, pennsylvania.

Students who want to learn at Eastern University can enroll in this Online PhD in Marriage and Family Therapy degree. This study program is designed to teach the latest in counseling techniques as they can be applied to marriage and family counseling. A total of 60 credit hours are needed to complete this degree. Eastern University students will complete this degree mostly online save for a few on-campus residencies during the program. Eastern University forecasts that this program can be completed in four years if taken full-time. The Middle States Commission on Higher Education has provided Eastern University with accreditation for this degree.

Tuition:  $55,920

Score:  98

#12. Lesley University

Online phd in expressive therapies, cambridge, massachusetts.

This Online PhD in Expressive Therapies is made available to students by Lesley University. Designed to be completed mostly online, Lesley University does require students to attend some residencies throughout the duration of the program. These residencies are typically held in the summer for just three weeks. A total of 45 credit hours are needed to complete this program of study. Lesley University has received accreditation from the New England Commission on Higher Education. Those who have completed this program have gone on to have careers as creative therapists, mental health therapists, art therapists, and more.

Tuition: $59,725

Score: 97.5

#13. Keiser University

Online phd in psychology, fort lauderdale, florida.

Keiser University currently offers students this Online PhD in Psychology degree. This study program is a great option for those students interested in pursuing a career in psychology or counseling. A total of 60 credit hours are needed to complete this degree. Students are required to attend a residency at certain points throughout their studies. Through this degree, students will develop a general understanding of psychological principles and theories. They will learn how to apply these understandings in a variety of settings and contexts. Keiser University has received accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Tuition: $67,680

#14. Sofia University

Online doctor of philosophy in transpersonal psychology, costa mesa, california.

This Online Doctor of Philosophy in Transpersonal Psychology degree is offered to students by Sofia University. Through the pursuit of this online counseling PhD, students at Sofia University will learn about various transpersonal psychology topics, including human behavior analysis, psychological research, and more. A total of 75 credits are needed to complete this program of study. Sofia University estimates that students can complete this degree in three years. This program is offered in a low-residency online format. Students will need to attend short residencies on the Sofia University campus at certain points during the program.

Tuition: $71,250

Score: 96.75

#15. Northcentral University

Online doctor of philosophy in psychology, san diego, california.

Northcentral University offers this Online Doctor of Philosophy in Psychology. This program is designed to provide students with the training needed for a career in counseling or psychology. Students can expect to complete this program in 46 months. A total of 60 credit hours are needed to earn this degree. Those who have graduated from this program have had gone on to have carers as behavior analysts, clinical case managers, mental health counselors, and more. Students in this program can choose from various specializations, including Health Psychology, Addictions, Trauma & Disaster Relief, and many others.

Tuition: $71,530

Score: 96.5

#16. Michigan State University

Online phd in educational psychology and educational technology, east lansing, michigan.

Michigan State University offers this Online PhD in Educational Psychology and Educational Technology to their students online. Through this program, students will learn about the various technologies that can help in education and how those technologies can affect learning and cognition. A total of 60 credit hours are needed to complete this program of study. Michigan State University has received accreditation for this program from the Higher Learning Commission. This program is offered in a hybrid format.

Tuition: $74,100

#17. Felician University

Online phd counseling psychology online, rutherford, new jersey.

Those who wish to study at Felician University can enroll in this Online Doctorate in Counseling Psychology degree. To complete this program of study, students must earn a total of 73 credits. This program is designed to be completed in about 4-5 years. Through this program, students will develop an understanding of key principles and concepts in psychology. They will learn how to execute these concepts in a clinical setting to provide counseling services to their clients. Courses in this program include Multicultural Counseling, History, and Systems of Psychology, Development Across the Lifespan, and more.

Tuition: $74,825

Score: 95.75

#18. Saybrook University

Online phd in clinical psychology, pasadena, california.

Students who want to study at Saybrook University can enroll in this Online PhD in Clinical Psychology degree. This program is provides training in topics including psychotherapy, developmental psychology, multi-cultural psychology, and more. This program is a great option for students who want to develop the skills needed for counseling psychology without spending time in physical classes. A total of 60 credit hours are needed to complete this program of study. Saybrook University has received accreditation for this degree from the Western Association of Schools and Colleges.

Tuition:  $76,500

Score: 95.5

#19. Mount Mary University

Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Mount Mary University offers students this Online PhD in Counselor Education & Supervision degree. This online counseling PhD teaches students the skills needed to become a mental health professional. Offered in a hybrid format, students can enjoy most of their classes online, while certain classes require an in-person component. A total of 78 credit hours are needed to complete this degree. Mount Mary University has received accreditation for this program from the Higher Learning Commission. Courses in this program include Supervision in Counselor Education, Instructional Strategies in Counselor Education & Supervision, and more.

Tuition: $80,340

Score: 95.25

#20. Fielding Graduate University

Santa barbara, california.

This Online PhD in Clinical Psychology degree is available at Fielding Graduate University. Accredited by the American Psychological Association, this degree is designed to provide students with the training and expertise needed for careers in mental health counseling or psychology. This degree is designed to be completed in about 5-6 years; it cannot be completed in less than five because of the way the course sequence falls. Students enrolled in this program can choose from many different concentrations, including forensic psychology, health psychology, neuropsychology, social justice & diversity.

Tuition: $87,300

#21. Oregon State University

Online phd in counseling, corvallis, oregon.

Those who would like to study at Oregon State University can enroll in this Online PhD in Counseling degree program. This program is offered to students in a hybrid format. Many of the classes are offered to students online, but certain courses must be taken in-person. Oregon State University has received accreditation for this program from the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs. Students in this program will develop skills in various counseling topics such as group counseling, counselor education, diversity, and more. A total of 150 credit hours are needed to complete this degree program.

Tuition: $88,500

Score: 94.75

#22. Chicago School of Professional Psychology

Chicago, illinois.

Chicago School of Professional Psychology offers this Online PhD in Counselor Education and Supervision. Through this study program, students will learn the skills needed to become counselors and the skills needed to manage and supervise counseling practices. A total of 60 credit hours and about four years are needed to complete this program of study. The Chicago School of Professional Psychology has received accreditation from the Western Association of Schools and Colleges. This program is a great option for those looking for an affordable PhD in counseling online.

Tuition:  $ 92,220

Score: 94.5

#23. Loyola University – Chicago

Online doctorate of education in school psychology.

This Online Doctorate of Education in School Psychology degree is offered to students by Loyola University Chicago. Students in this program of study will be trained with the skills needed to work in professional counseling and psychology. This program is designed to be completed in two years and taken part time. A total of 72 credit hours are needed to complete this degree. A Licensed Professional Counselor credential is also offered alongside this program. Loyola University Chicago has received accreditation for this degree from the Higher Learning Commission.

Tuition:  $ 97,200

Score: 94.25

#24. Duquesne University

Online doctorate in psychology, pittsburgh, pennsylvania.

Students enrolled at Duquesne University can enroll in this Online Doctorate in Psychology degree. This study program provides students with the training needed for a career as a clinical psychologist or counselor. This program of study requires 91 credit hours to complete. Duquesne University has received accreditation for this degree from the American Psychological Association. Courses in this study include Child Neuropsychology, History and Systems of Psychology, and Single Subject Methods for School Psychologists. This program is a great option for those looking for an affordable online PhD in psychology.

Tuition:  $ 124,033

#25. William James College

Online doctorate in leadership psychology, newton, massachusetts.

William James College offers this Online Doctorate in Leadership Psychology degree online. The New England Commission on Higher Education has provided William James College with accreditation for this degree program. A total of 98 credit hours are needed to complete this degree. Students can expect to finish this degree in its entirety in around 3-4 years. While most of the program is online, students are required to attend some on-campus residencies throughout. Courses in this program include Adult Development, The Neurobiology of Leadership, Advanced Dialogic Interventions, and more.

Tuition:  $ 148,470

Score:  93.5

Related to online doctoral programs in counseling psychology:

Free Colleges

Free College Courses

Largest Nonprofit Online Universities

Best Online Graduate Schools

Top Scholarships for Online Students

Affordable Nonprofit Online Colleges

This concludes our ranking of the best online PhD psychology/online PhD counseling.

NPCO Staff March 2021

• 10 Best Online Doctorates at Nonprofit Colleges
• Top 10 Nonprofit Online Colleges in Georgia
• Online Bachelor’s in Computer Science
• Top 10 Nonprofit Online Colleges in Virginia
• DIFFERENT TYPES OF LEGAL STUDIES DEGREES
• 15 Best Paying Jobs in Energy
• 10 Top Organizational Leadership Jobs by Salary
• Top 10 Affordable Online Colleges in NYC

Infographics

• How To Focus Despite Distractions
• Online College Enrollment: By the Numbers
• Most Profitable Non-Profit Organizations
• College Tuition Around the World

Search NYU Steinhardt

Doctor of Philosophy Counseling Psychology

The principles underlying our Counseling Psychology doctorate are a focus on a developmental understanding of clients; commitment to a health model of intervention; and appreciation of the gendered, cultural, and institutional contexts of people’s lives, as these contexts affect both clients and counselors.

Degree Details

Official degree title.

PhD in Counseling Psychology

About the Program 

The program follows the basic pattern of a scientist-practitioner model. The major components of the Counseling Psychology doctorate are course work, clinical training (practica, externships, internship), and research training (including dissertation). Solid training in teaching and mentoring, giving students the professional background toward a career in academics, is another key feature of our program. Across all components, attention is given to the integration of practice, theory, and research.

Licensure and Accreditation

The PhD in Counseling Psychology was first registered with the New York State Department of Education for the professional preparation of psychologists in 1971. Graduates of the program become fully qualified psychologists with specialized training in counseling and are eligible for licensure by the state. Learn more about licensure requirements in those states in which students are doing learning placements.

The Counseling Psychology program has been fully accredited since 1981 by the American Psychological Association, Office of Program Consultation and Accreditation, 750 First Street, NE, Washington DC 20002-4242 (202-336-5979). Questions related to the program's accreditation status may be directed to this office.

Center for Counseling and Community Wellbeing

The Center is part of the teaching and training program in Counseling Psychology and provides services to meet the local community's social, emotional, and behavioral health. We provide a range of services to children, adolescents, adults, and families.  Learn more about the Center , an important part of the Department of Applied Psychology at NYU Steinhardt.

Admissions Information

Careers and outcomes.

CNPS Student Handbook

Counseling Psychology Doctoral Program Online Info Session

Individuals interested in learning about and applying for the Doctoral Program in Counseling Psychology in the Department of Applied Psychology at New York University will have the opportunity to hear from the Chair of the Admission Committee, Dr. Anil Chacko, about the process. This will include information about the mission of the program, requirements for applying, and what makes for a successful candidate/application. There will also be an opportunity for Questions and Answers.

Registration Required. 

GRE Requirements: 

Although the GRE is typically required for this program, for the 2024 admissions cycle, the GRE general test score is optional, and the GRE subject test is not required. The Admissions Committee will review all applications holistically, and the applications submitted without GRE scores will not be disadvantaged in the review.

Research Mentors:

The doctoral program in counseling psychology at NYU is a small, individualized scientist-practitioner training program; thus, we pay close attention to the match between the candidate and the program’s faculty and resources. In particular, we seek to admit students whose professional interests align with the program as a whole and whose research interests are well-matched with those of more than one faculty member. Each new student will be matched with a primary research mentor and will also be supported by secondary faculty mentors in other research and clinical roles.

The faculty who are available to serve as primary research mentors for the Fall 2024 admission are:

• Anil Chacko
• Shabnam Javdani
• William Tsai

Other faculty are potentially available to serve as secondary mentors, so we encourage you to write about your interests and experiences that demonstrate that you are a good match with the program as a whole as well as with your potential primary mentor.

Questions: 

If you have questions regarding admission requirements, please review our How to Apply  page.

If you have any additional questions that are not addressed on the "How to Apply" page, please contact us at  [email protected] .

NYU Steinhardt offers a competitive funding package for PhD students who study full time.   Learn more about Steinhardt's funding opportunities .

Our program will prepare you for diverse roles in academia, social research, and clinical practice. In the academic arena, our students can go on to jobs in schools of psychology, public health, and public policy. In the area of social research, students are prepared to obtain positions in research, advocacy, and social service organizations. 

Additionally, our students are well-positioned for jobs in private-practice and healthcare organizations. Indeed, there is increasing demand for evidence-based strategies in health and social service organizations and our students are qualified to contribute to the design and implementation of such strategies, and the delivery of evidence-based interventions.

Learn more about Students Admissions, Outcomes, and Other Data .

Take the Next Step

Advance your personal and professional journey – apply to join our community of students.

Online Doctorate in Counseling

Online Counseling Doctoral Degree: An Overview

Jobs for doctorate in counseling degree holders, degree requirements, prerequisites for an online doctorate in counseling degree, online coursework.

• Ethics and law for school psychologists.
• Multicultural psychology.
• Research design. 
• Dissertation methodology or doctoral project.

Cost and Return on Investment (ROI) 

How much does a counseling doctorate degree cost , how to estimate the roi of your degree, job outlook and salary, example courses.

• Counselor education
• Counselor supervision
• Advanced group counseling
• Addictive behaviors
• Research methods in psychological sciences

What Doctorate in Counseling Degree Holders Have to Say

“Before starting, I was prepared to utilize my strong time management and organizational skills. The workload and expectations in a doctoral level program are substantial and different from my experience in graduate school. The time necessary to devote to research, coursework, internship and personal life is an important aspect to keep in mind. “I wish I knew that an online program does not equate to isolation and disconnection. There are several types of online CES programs. It is important to find one that is CACREP accredited. Initially, I was reluctant to enroll in an online program, questioning the overall quality, whether it would suit my learning style, and whether it would provide meaningful engagement with both faculty and peers. After all, I am considering an advanced degree in a people-focused profession. On the contrary, I found the structured remote format to be highly beneficial and effective. The faculty were consistently accessible, encouraging and inspiring throughout my journey. Given that since the COVID-19 pandemic, we are seeing an increase in working and engaging with students and clients online, I found the online format more relevant to how we are operating post-pandemic.”

“Achieving this degree was a monumental personal accomplishment. However, the biggest reward has been realizing my impact on future generations of counselors. This degree has allowed me to contribute significantly to the counseling field as a counselor educator. By equipping future counselors with a robust and diverse skill set, they are better prepared to effectively meet the evolving needs of communities. Witnessing students develop into knowledgeable, skilled, and compassionate counselors ready to make a significant difference in their communities has been extremely rewarding. These future counselors will go on to address a wide range of mental health needs, support diverse populations, and contribute to the well-being of individuals and communities. It is rewarding to know that my work plays a part in preparing them for these critical roles. It reinforces the belief that through education and mentorship, we can extend our reach and make a lasting, positive impact on the field and those we serve.”

“Prior to entering my program, I wish I had a more robust appreciation for the importance of prioritizing making connections with my faculty and peers. I learned as I progressed that the relationships which are cultivated in the doctoral journey can be nearly as professionally advantageous as the training. The most rewarding part of earning my Ph.D. was to have opportunities to further collaborate with peers in the academic space. This includes faculty colleagues and research partners. University of the Cumberlands made earning my Ph.D. accessible. While completing a dissertation is rigorous, the guidelines were clear and I was thoroughly equipped for the professional work I am now doing.”

• Best Online Programs
• Best Campus Programs
• Behavior Psychology
• Clinical Psychology
• Counseling & Mental Health
• Developmental Psychology
• Educational Psychology
• Forensic Psychology
• General Psychology
• Health Psychology
• Industrial/Organizational
• Marriage Family Therapy
• Social Psychology
• Social Work
• Educational Psychologist
• Forensic Psychologist
• Clinical Psychologist
• Family Psychologists
• Marriage Family Therapist
• School Psychologist
• Social Psychologist
• School Counselors
• Neuropsychologist
• I/O Psychologist
• Sports Psychologist
• Addiction Counselor
• Mental Health Psychologist
• Counseling Psychologist
• Occupational Psychologist
• Child Psychiatrist
• Connecticut
• Massachusetts
• Mississippi
• New Hampshire
• North Carolina
• North Dakota
• Pennsylvania
• Rhode Island
• South Carolina
• South Dakota
• West Virginia
• PsyD vs PhD

5+ Online PhD in Counseling Psychology Programs

If you have a professional and academic background in psychology, then you may want to consider advancing your career and education by completing a doctorate degree, which can either be a Ph.D. (research) or a Psy.D. (clinical practice). More and more students are interested in completing these types of degrees online, as it allows them to work and study at the same time.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics has stated that the field of counseling psychology is set to grow significantly over the next ten years. Indeed, a projected growth of around 29%, which is well above the national average, is expected. This is particularly true for those wishing to offer counseling to families and couples.

An online doctorate degree in counseling psychology will provide graduates with a comprehensive and advanced understanding of the field of psychology in general and counseling in particular, as well as focus on research methods. Often, the programs only accept those students who already hold a master’s degree, although there are some exceptions. Furthermore, some professional experience is also required to become a counseling psychologist .

In most cases, the school will also have a number of on campus requirements. Some will want their students to complete a residency or an internship, for instance. The online coursework is delivered through online faculty mentoring and virtual classrooms. Additionally, various online learning tools will be provided, which students must use independently.

Below are what we believe to be the top 6 online doctorates in counseling psychology programs.

#1 Capella University

Capella University offers an online Ph.D. in Counselor Education and Supervision that will help you to advance as an educator, leader, and researcher. This doctoral program offers students a way to practice real-world application of counseling theories with hands-on experience during internship and practicum courses. Students build vital skills in counseling, teaching, research, leadership and advocacy, and supervision.

*Visit Capella University

The Ph.D. program is accredited by CACREP and consists of 11 courses that you can complete in four years.

Courses include:

• Leadership and Advocacy in Counseling
• Research Theory and Philosophy
• Program Evaluation in Counselor Education and Supervision
• Advanced Counseling Practice

To be considered for admission into the Ph.D. program, students need the following:

• Master’s degree from a university accredited by the US Department of Education
• Submission of official college transcripts from undergraduate and graduate programs
• Minimum GPA of 3.25
• GRE and GMAT scores not required
• Application fees have been waived until further notice

#2 Walden University

Walden University offers an online Ph.D. in Counselor Education and Supervision where students gain the experience and knowledge to assume a leadership position in a community, academic, clinical, or research setting. They also can work as a counselor educator.

This four-year Ph.D. program equips you with advanced supervision, teaching, and counseling skills that can improve your ability to advocate for your clients and the profession.

Concentrations available are General Track, Advanced Research Methods, Consultation, Counseling and Social Change, Forensic Mental Health Counseling, Leadership and Program Evaluation, and Trauma and Crisis.

The program includes the following courses:

• Professional Orientation, Ethics, and Identity
• Teaching in Counselor Education
• Clinical Supervision
• Advanced Counseling Theories
• Survey Research Methods
• Quantitative Reasoning and Analysis

To be considered for this Ph.D. program, you need the following:

• Master’s degree from a university accredited by an organization recognized the U.S. Department of Education
• Official transcripts submitted from your undergraduate and graduate programs
• Master’s in counseling and license recommended or demonstrated curricular experience in counseling.
• 3.0 GPA or higher

Visit Walden University

#3 Grand Canyon University

Grand Canyon University offers a Ph.D. in Counselor Education and Supervision that provides students the practical and theoretical background knowledge needed to teach counseling students and supervise clinical mental health professionals.

Before graduating with this degree, students need to perform psychological research to test and develop new ideas and theories in the field. The research assures you that you will be an expert practitioner who can provide full support to clinical counselors and students.

During this four-year, online Ph.D. program, students will grow their expertise in these areas:

• Counselor supervision
• Leadership and advocacy
• Scholarship
• Statistics and research

Required courses are:

• Ethics, Laws, and Multicultural Issues
• Theories of Inquiry
• Leadership and Social Justice
• Special Topics in Counseling Education and Supervision
• Advanced Family Dynamics and Systems
• Advanced Integrated Theories and Practices

To apply for this Ph.D. program, the following are required:

• Master’s degree from a university accredited by the U.S. Department of Education
• Official transcripts submitted from your bachelor’s and master’s programs
• 75 GPA or higher
• Writing samples

Visit Grand Canyon University

#4 Northcentral University

Northcentral University offers an online Ph.D. in Counseling Psychology that is designed for mental health professionals to learn how to integrate practical application, theory, research and scholarship, resulting in the dissertation at the end of the four-year program.

Students enrolled in this accredited Ph.D. program will learn about psychopharmacology, clinical supervision, program evaluation, research, personality and cognitive assessments, and more.

Required courses include:

• Research Methods
• Tests and Measurements
• Advanced Qualitative and Quantitative Analysis and Design
• Research Design Planning
• Quantitative and Qualitative Methods

To be admitted, you must have the following:

• Master’s degree from an accredited university. If you have a degree in psychology, mental health counseling, marriage and family therapy or social work, you can enter the Ph.D. program immediately. If you have another master’s degree, you must have your transcripts reviewed to determine if you need to take additional coursework.
• 3.0 GPA in master’s work
• Current resume
• Official transcripts

Visit Northcentral University

#5 University of The Cumberlands

The University of the Cumberlands offers an online Ph.D. in Counselor Education & Supervision that provides students with the skills and knowledge needed to excel in a career in higher education teaching and research in counseling programs all over the US.

In this CACREP-accredited, four-year Ph.D. program, you will gain:

• Mastery of skills that will ready you for a teaching career in higher education
• Administrative skills that will equip you for leadership roles in educational and clinical settings
• Advanced clinical skills that will improve your proficiency in independent counseling practice

Specializations are available in Addiction, Advanced Counseling, and Leadership.

• Online Counseling and Supervision
• Andragogy in Counselor Education and Supervision
• Multicultural Issues in Counselor Education and Supervision
• Advanced Counseling Theories and Skills
• Theories and Techniques of Clinical Supervision
• Leadership & Advocacy in Professional Counseling]

Admission requirements are:

• CACREP-accredited master’s in counseling. If you do not have this degree, additional coursework could be required.
• Minimum GPA of 3.5 in all graduate work.
• NCE or NCMHCE test scores
• Two letters of recommendation

Visit University of the Cumberlands

Prerequisites:

Ph.D. applicants must:

• Hold a regionally accredited 30 hour master’s degree in a mental health field, such as counseling, psychology, social work or pastoral ministry. Completed coursework should include, but is not limited, to the following: research or statistics, counseling skills, ethics and group counseling, or family systems.
• Have a minimum of a 3.5 GPA in your graduate level coursework.
• Have at least one year of experience in a mental health field (highly desirable).
• International Applicants who have studied at institutions outside of the United States, will need to submit a course by course evaluation showing the completion of a regionally accredited graduate degree.

Regent University prepares students with the knowledge to excel and the faith to live with purpose. Our 20,000 alumni, from more than 110 countries, are changing the world as accomplished professionals. Named a top-15 school nationally for online bachelor’s programs (U.S. News & World Report, 2015), Regent is among the most affordable undergraduate Christian colleges (CCCU 2015). Fully accredited, challenging programs are available online and on campus. New classes begin every eight weeks.

#6 Oregon State University

At Oregon State University , students can take part in a hybrid Ph.D. in Counseling course. This aims to prepare graduates who are advanced practitioners, counselor educators or clinical supervisors in academic and clinical settings. Students are expected to contribute to the profession of counseling through research, while also being aware of and addressing the way today’s communities have changed. As such, graduates are not just leaders but change advocates as well.

The program is accredited through CACREP.

The course is offered in an online and face to face hybrid format. This means that there are only two classes during each quarter, always on a Friday through Saturday block. These classes take place at the Wilsonville, OR campus, which is easily accessible for students from all over the country.

The course requires 150 credits to graduate, at a cost of $541 per credit. Some of the courses included in the program are:

• Advanced theory and practice
• Diversity and social justice
• Counselor education

To be admitted to the program, students must:

• Hold a master’s degree in a counseling related field.
• Have professional, personal and/or academic experience in counseling.
• Have a GPA of 3.0 minimum.
• Supply 3 letters of recommendation.
• Submit a writing sample.
• Successfully complete an interview.

#7 Keiser University

Keiser University offers a highly specialized counseling psychology degree, which is the Counselor Education and Supervision, PhD. The program has been designed to provide challenges to students through experiential activities and rigorous coursework. Students will learn about clinical treatment and intervention, clinical supervision and research. Graduates are ready to take on positions of leadership in counseling, modeling the highest ethics and standards of the profession.

The program is accredited through CACREP and consists of 60 post master’s semester credit hours. These include such topics as:

• Counseling supervision
• Psychometrics
• Multicultural counseling and advocacy

To be admitted to the Ph.D., students must:

• Submit GMAT/GRE scores.
• Send transcripts.
• Provide two letters of recommendation.
• Write a formal resume.

#8 Amridge University

Like Keiser University, Amridge University offers a more specialized degree program, which is the PhD in Marriage and Family Therapy. The program focuses strongly on research and less on clinical practice, although that is certainly also an element.

This is a 60 semester hour program. It consists of courses that focus on the theories of family and marriage therapy , problems with abuse and addiction, human development, cultural diversity and a strong emphasis on research. The course is delivered in hybrid format, meaning that some on campus attendance will be required. However, much of the curriculum is delivered online.

• Provide transcripts.
• Hold a master’s degree.
• Complete an interview.

*Indicates school is a Featured Partner.  Click here  for disclosure on Featured Partners. 

• 8+ Online Psychology Ph.D. Programs 2020. (2019). Retrieved from  https://psydprograms.org/most-affordable-online-psychology-phd-programs/

20 Best PhD in Counseling Online Programs [2024 Guide]

Explore accredited PhD in Counseling Online Programs for 2024. Compare doctoral counseling programs & schools. Accelerated courses are also available.

After acquiring your traditional or online masters degree in counseling , one of the best options for advancing your future professional goals comes in the form of pursuing a PhD in this field. Those with a doctorate in counseling will likely benefit from a growing job market as projected by the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Editorial Listing ShortCode:

Most prospective students embark on the PhD journey with hopes of breaking into the academic field or gaining a similar well-payed stable job. In the field of Counselling, on the other hand, there is an additional reward at the end of the road: the opportunity to help people heal, improve, and transform their own lives.

List of Schools Offering an Online PhD Degree in Counseling

Methodology: The following school list is in alphabetical order. To be included, a college or university must be regionally accredited and offer degree programs online or in a hybrid format.

1. Adler University

Adler University was established in 1952 and can be found in Chicago, Illinois. They offer a PhD in Counselor Education and Supervision which can be completed with 3 years.

Classes are offered online and in the classroom. Physical classes are held evenings and weekends to accommodate the working professional.

• PhD in Counselor Education and Supervision

Adler University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

2. Adams State University

Adams State University was founded as a teacher’s college in 1921. It can be found on a 90-acre campus in the San Luis Valley. Their Counselor Education and Supervision Doctorate of Philosophy is delivered online.

There is the additional in-person requirement of a total of four separate one-week residences, which are completed in the summer.

• PhD in Counselor Education

ASU is regionally accredited by The Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.

3. Alliant International University

Alliant International University has its main campus in San Diego but also has campuses located in California and Mexico. Founded in 2001, the University came about from the combination of two institutes.

They currently offer a PsyD in Educational Psychology, which is completely delivered online. Created for professionals, you can attain this PsyD degree in 3 years.

• PsyD in Educational Psychology – School Counseling

Alliant International University  is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission.

4. Antioch University

Antioch University was established in 1852 as Antioch College. They offer an MFT Doctor of Philosophy. This degree is designed to prepare graduates for working in marriage and family therapy in Social Justice.

These include jobs in research careers, supervision, leadership, and academics. The doctoral degree has a considerable amount of focus on research training.

• PhD in Marriage and Family Therapy

Antioch University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. The Higher Learning Commission.

5. California Southern University

California Southern University was established in 1978. The doctoral degree is offered 100% online and is clinically focused. This program is designed to prepare students for clinical psychologist licensure upon successful completion.

The program is a 66-credit program, and students can transfer up to 30 credits to the program. The program can be completed in 4 years, and a practicum must be done at locally approved sites.

• Doctor in Psychology

California Southern University is regionally accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges.

6. Capella University

Capella University was established in 1993 and has headquarters in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Their PhD is in Advanced Studies in Human Behavior.

The program aims to equip graduates with the knowledge they need to step up the career ladder in social, behavioral, and higher education settings. With an emphasis on interdisciplinary leadership theory and research, it offers a large theory base.

• PhD in Advanced Studies in Human Behavior

Capella University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

7. Felician University

Felician University has two campuses, one in Rutherford and one in Lodi. The university was founded by the Felician Sisters.

The Doctorate in Counselling Psychology from Felician University is a 73-credit program with a length of 4 to 5 years. The program is offered with a mix of classroom and online instruction.

• Doctorate in Counseling Psychology (Hybrid)

Felician University is accredited by The Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

8. Fielding Graduate University

Fielding Graduate University was established in 1974 and is located in Santa Barbara, California. I offer a General PhD in Clinical psychology that can be completed in 5 or 6 years.

The program is designed with a sequential curriculum, making the minimum time to complete the degree is 5 years.

• PhD in Clinical Psychology – Social Justice and Diversity

Fielding Graduate University  is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission.

9. Hampton University

Hampton University was established in April of 1868. It is home to the oldest museum in the Commonwealth of Virginia and the oldest of the African diaspora in the US.

This program is geared toward licensed counselors who want to expand their careers into clinical and supervisory roles. The PhD is an accelerated degree in Counselor Education and Supervision, which is delivered online.

Hampton University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

10. Grand Canyon University

Grand Canyon University is a non-denominational Christian university that offers a PhD in Counselor Education and Supervision. It takes a practical and theoretical approach and includes research studies to test new theories and ideas.

The degree is designed to ensure that graduates will be able to support clinical counselors and counseling students.

Grand Canyon University  is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

11. Liberty University

Liberty University is an evangelical Christian university located in Lynchburg, Virginia. It offers a PhD in Counseling that is delivered entirely online.

The program’s emphasis is in Counselor Education and Supervision, and it is a 60-credit hour program that can be completed in 4 years, and students can transfer up to 15 credits.

Liberty University  is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

12. Mississippi College

Mississippi College can be found in Clinton and is a Baptist institution that was established in 1826.

They offer several graduate programs, including the Doctor of Professional Counseling, which is designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge they will need to be extremely effective in their roles as counselors.

• Doctor of Professional Counseling

Mississippi College  is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

13. National University

Founded in 1971, National University is a network of nonprofit educational institutions headquartered in San Diego, California. It has scholarships available for more exemplary students.

NU offers a variety of programs that can be beneficial for those interested in counseling, including:

• PhD in Psychology – Addictions
• PhD in Psychology – Counseling Psychology

National University  is regionally accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges.

14. Oregon State University

Oregon State University is a flagship research university. It was established in 1868 and is located in Corvallis, Oregon. It offers a PhD in counseling, which is designed to prepare graduates for becoming counselor educations, clinical supervisors, advanced practitioners, etc.

The degree has a major focus on research and how it can be used to understand and address the societal changes of today.

• PhD in Counseling

Oregon State University is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.

15. Regent University

Regent University is a Christian university established in 1977 and is located in Virginia Beach, Virginia. They offer international doctorate programs that are affordable and highly applicable.

Their programs and all their faculty and administrators have biblical principles at their foundation. The program is offered as a dual program with classes online and on-campus.

• PhD in Counseling & Psychological Studies
• PhD in Counselor Education & Supervision

Regent University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

16. Saybrook University

Saybrook University was established in 1971 and offers a PhD in Clinical Psychology. The degree is designed for those students who are looking for a program that will equip them with the practical skills necessary to start their professional practice.

The program covers multi-cultural psychology, psychotherapy, child and adolescent psychology, and more.

• PhD in Clinical Psychology

Saybrook University is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior College and University Commission.

17. University of Louisiana – Monroe

The University of Louisiana in Monroe offers a PhD in Marriage and Family Therapy. They have been offering this program since June of 1995. The program is delivered entirely online, and students require a Master’s degree.

This degree can help students increase their earning potential as they open up doors for career advancement.

The  University of Louisiana at Monroe  is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

18. University of the Cumberlands

The University of the Cumberlands can be found in Williamsburg, Kentucky. It is a Christian university that was founded in 1888 and later had a name change in 2005. It offers a fully online PhD in Counselor Education and Supervision.

This program is designed to provide students with the necessary skills to work as counselors, teachers, and to build a career in research.

The University of the Cumberlands  is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

19. University of West Georgia

The University of West Georgia can be found in Carrollton, Georgia. It offers an EdD in Professional Counseling and Supervision. This program aims to provide graduates with the skills needed to effectively practice in advocacy and leadership roles in their communities.

The program features a dissertation to defend a selected professional practice to evaluate and improve programs for a positive impact on clients and their communities.

• EdD in Professional Counseling and Supervision

The  University of West Georgia  is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

20. Walden University

Walden University offers many doctoral programs in Counselling completely online and is the # 1 conferrer of online doctoral degrees in the United States.

Their programs are geared towards the working professional who needs to tailor their studies to their lifestyle, where full-time studies are simply just not an option. Students entering the program have 4 different specializations to choose from.

• PhD in Developmental Psychology
• PhD in Psychology
• PsyD in Behavioral Health Leadership

Walden University is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission.

Types of PhD in Counseling Online Degrees

The expansion of online learning opportunities has opened many avenues for prospective counselors. The following programs are all available now. Click on one you’re interested in to jump to that part of the page.

PhD in Marriage & Family Therapy – Child & Adolescent Therapy

Phd in marriage & family therapy – couple therapy, phd in marriage & family therapy – general family therapy, phd in marriage & family therapy – medical family therapy, phd in marriage & family therapy – therapy with military families, phd in pastoral care and counseling, phd in psychology – counseling psychology.

Though related, each of these degrees and concentrations can help prepare you to work with patients in different life situations.

At the PhD level, specialists in Child and Adolescent Therapy primarily work with children between the ages of 6 of 16.

Their day-to-day practice typically consists of conducting intelligence and learning assessments, addressing learning disabilities, and helping young people affected by a mood disorder.

Many child or adolescent specialists often focus on children on the autism spectrum, from at-risk populations, or who need to be safely involved in family therapy.

This specialization focuses heavily on child development, family dynamics, and play-based therapy. Most programs now place a special emphasis on non-traditional family systems to ensure all their graduates can provide inclusive care.

Those who wish to focus on research rather than on a private practice may find new opportunities to test and design therapies that can affect a troublesome child’s outcomes for decades to come.

Counselors with a PhD in Couple Therapy focus on harmonizing the needs and dynamics of two different people. At the same time, they have an opportunity to affect the quality of life of society from its smallest level.

Up until very recently, Couple-focused therapy was largely seen as a private matter or the last resort for failing marriages. However, in a world with changing gender dynamics and a larger number of non-traditional families, this field has rapidly become much more complex and specialized.

This course of studies usually includes specialized coursework in couple therapy practice, the historical and sociological forces shaping families, and emotional management. Special emphasis is typically placed on the interpersonal dynamics within the couple, and on sexual health.

A PhD with a focus on General Family Therapy is not a generalist degree. The main goal of such a program is to provide the clinical and sociological competencies required to tackle family dynamics and to provide group therapy on a daily basis.

Because of the importance of families as a microcosm of general society, the coursework usually places a strong focus on sociology and social justice. In addition to building upon general clinical counseling, the ability to diagnose may be cultivated in a practical setting.

Further theoretical analysis will allow examining the effects of a traditional diagnosis on family systems and dynamics.

A doctorate in General Family Therapy can help counselors collaborate with occupational therapists, domestic violence units, or to open their own private practice. It may be a great value program for anyone who wants to keep their clientele diverse and still provide expert-level help.

The goal of Medical Family Therapy is to efficiently combine family counseling theory with more specialized knowledge on the clinical aspects of mental health.

These programs produce counselors who are uniquely qualified to examine the effects of a major mental diagnosis (such as bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, or autism) on the family at large.

Psychiatry and clinical psychology now see community-based mental health care as the goal standard. As part of this trend, a medical family therapist can enlist the family in aiding a patient’s recovery.

They work hand in hand with caretakers and help them identify the signs of an impending episode. They can also analyze and predicts the ways in which a catastrophic diagnosis will affect the rest of the family. In turn, this can be used to provide preventative care.

A military environment is often seen as a highly-structured, hierarchical one where weakness is rarely allowed.

However, it is also comprised of people who have been exposed to extreme situations, or who may be temporarily missing an important family member. This poses its own mental health issues and disruptions.

A specialist in Therapy with Military Families will acquire specific experience with the issues that are typical in this population. This includes adaptation disorder and PTSD for those returning from the battlefield.

They also learn how to better navigate the resources available for recently-relocated families, who may be lacking the support of their extended relations. Likewise, they can work with the children of military bases, who often require extra help settling down.

This may be a great specialty for anyone who wants to contribute to the country’s defense while still remaining in the counseling field.

A Doctor in Pastoral Care is a fully-qualified counseling professional who specializes in religious communities, or in providing mental health assistance with a spiritual background. A program devoted to educating a pastoral counselor focuses both on mental health theory and on specific ministry-related tasks.

This is a very advanced program meant to help ministers, priests, and divinity majors bridge the abyss between mental or psychological care and spiritual care.

It may be ideal for experienced, practicing ministers who also wish to take an active role in their communities, by intervening in their potential family conflicts or behavioral issues.

It can also provide a scientific background for anyone who wants to start a gospel-based addictions program, rehabilitation, or eating disorder therapy group.

Although they appear synonymous in the general vocabulary, there is a significant difference between a counselor and a psychologist. This encompasses both the certification and the specific curriculum necessary for each one.

Nevertheless, many psychologists and clinicians often choose to pursue a Counseling degree online , especially at the doctorate level.

A doctor in Counseling Psychology is uniquely qualified to provide evidence-based mental health care, including behavioral interventions, rehabilitation, and other types of structured psychological therapy.

On a daily basis, they deal with a variety of mental health diagnoses. They can also provide preventative care for those who are at risk of developing mental health issues, dealing with bereavement, or undergoing major life changes.

They often work hand in hand with psychiatrists and occupational therapists.

PhD in Counseling Curriculum

In programs such as this, the core curriculum typically covers a multitude of areas of study in order to ensure that students develop the skill sets needed for careers in the field. If you sign up for this kind of program, you can likely expect classes related to:

• Advanced Appraisal Techniques
• Qualitative Methodology
• Practice of Counseling Supervision
• Methods of Counseling Research
• Theories of Counselor Supervision
• Advanced Counselor Practicum and Techniques
• Statistical Methods for Counselor Education Research
• Advanced Counselor Theories
• Multivariate Methods for Counselor Education Research
• Applications of Counseling Research

Most doctorate degrees require a dissertation, but more and more colleges are offering PhD programs without a dissertation . Instead, students work on a capstone project.

PhD in Counseling Career Outlook

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, some careers in the counseling field include:

Your salary may be higher or lower based on your years of experience, the type of practice for which you work, and the region of the country in which you live.

Professional Organizations for those with a Counseling PhD

A family or marriage counselor has access to confidential information on a daily basis. Their interventions have the ability to enact deep change in the happiness of people. Handling this amount of power requires a responsible, well-rounded professional.

To ensure a minimum standard of quality of care and to regulate the potential ethical dilemmas that may arise, there are different professional organizations that group counselors. These include:

• The American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy : This organization represents more than 50,000 family therapists across the United States and Canada. Their main goals are to facilitate research in their field and to establish clinical standards for ethical practice.
• The American Counseling Association : The ACA is the world’s largest network of counselors. They are based in Alexandria, Virginia, and their nearly 60,000 members encompass almost all practice settings and subtypes. They are well-renowned for their code of ethics.
• The Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP) : Unlike the other two organizations mentioned above, the CACREP focuses on counseling programs and training seminaries rather than on existing practitioners. Their main role is to set the minimum standards that all counselor training programs must follow.

Consider joining one of these organizations as a student to take advantage of industry publications, conferences, and job and internship opportunities.

Accreditation for an Online PhD Counseling Degree

There is now a wide variety of opportunities were a prospective student can train to become a certified counselor. This has led to the onset of many new names in the industry, which can generate confusion for students and employers alike.

A program’s accreditation can help potential employers or fellow researchers check that the training you have received was thorough and evidence-based.

This can also help you ensure that the education you will receive covers all the basic areas needed to perform as a professional and that the organization is financially stable and will continue running by the time you finish your degree.

Across the United States, most universities are accredited by regional conferences and accreditation bodies. Counseling programs, in particular, should be certified by the above-mentioned CACREP.

PhD in Counseling Admission Requirements

In terms of the admissions requirements for a Doctor of Philosophy in Counseling program , you’ll typically need to have a master’s degree that is nationally or regionally accredited.

Most schools also request a GRE score report with a total quantitative and verbal score of 4.0 and 300 on the section that pertains to analytic writing. If you’re taking the GMAT, expect to score a 400 or higher to meet the minimum admissions requirements of many schools.

Written commendations from professors, a letter of intent, or a personal interview with the core members of the institute’s PhD faculty can also pop up in the admissions process from time to time, so keep an eye for these more specialized metrics and requirements.

Financial Aid for a PhD in Counseling Online

A PhD is a significant financial investment that is meant to produce higher earnings for years to come. However, funding is a significant barrier for young professionals seeking to enter the counseling profession, especially if they are enrolling in a full-time program.

Some financial aid options to explore include:

• Scholarships: These are merit-based bursaries, grants, and internships meant to assist high-performing students access a specific program. Many target specific populations, such as minorities or people with specific experience in a niche field.
• Federal Grants: The Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG) offers need-based financial aid for certain underprivileged students. These grants do not need to be repaid but are hard to qualify for.
• Federal Loans: Federal student loans are one of the most widely available forms of financial aid for American graduate students. These loans may be subsidized or unsubsidized, depending on the student’s financial background.
• State and University Financial Aid: Each state, its university system, and many individual private universities have their own financial aid programs, and access to specially-tailored scholarships or bursaries.

The place to start is the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) .

Questions Related to Earning an Online Counseling PhD

Here are our answers to a few more questions you might have.

Can You Get a PhD in Counseling?

Yes, you can get a PhD in Counseling. Admission requirements will vary depending on the institution and its focus. In general, they will require a Master’s degree in counseling, psychology, or a related field.

You will most likely need some experience in the field (usually between 1 to 3 years) before presenting an admissions essay.

How Much Does a PhD in Counseling Cost?

The cost of a PhD will depend on the institution and the number of credits that need to be completed. In general, state universities are more affordable than private ones, especially for in-state students.

The total cost of a PhD typically ranges between $27,000 (for an in-state student at a publicly funded university) to $47,000 (at a private university). This is before you deduct financial aid.

How Long Does It Take to Complete a PhD in Counseling?

Most PhD programs encompass between 50 and 72 credit hours, along with the completion of a doctoral thesis. This is usually designed to take between 3 and 5 years of full-time study. If you take a non-thesis program, you might be able to finish in 3 years.

Is a Doctor of Philosophy in Counseling Worth It?

Yes, a Doctor of Philosophy in Counseling is worth it for many students. The Bureau of Labor Statistics is projecting 12% job growth in community and social service occupations over the next 10 years. Common careers in this field include school counselor, marriage therapist, and substance abuse counselor.

As part of planning for your future, you’ll want to compare the various career paths that come with obtaining a PhD or a master’s degree. Typically, a master’s degree can lead to a teaching career educating people on the different aspects of counseling.

Having a PhD, on the other hand, can open up the possibility of providing clinical counseling, as well as the opportunity to reach a supervisor position.

Of course, the type of jobs available to you is only part of the discussion when it comes to determining the worth of this process. Some people may choose to stop their education at a master’s degree because they’re satisfied with completing this challenge. Others are driven to pursue their education to the highest level, and as such, will want to earn their PhD.

When weighing the decision about whether to stay with a master’s degree or go for a doctorate, ultimately the choice will hinge on what you feel will give you the most satisfaction as you take this next major step in your life.

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Counseling Psychology

Graduate Programs

The Counseling Psychology program is committed to the scientist-practitioner model of training wherein professional psychologists are prepared to integrate theory, research, and practice in their practice as agents of knowledge development and change in a diverse society. The program prioritizes research, with students obtaining research, presentation, and publication experiences. The program incorporates diversity, focusing on contextually relevant skills in assessment and intervention with multicultural populations. The program also emphasizes an energetic and collaborative learning atmosphere.

December 1st is the deadline for admission consideration. We are hosting a virtual open house from for interested applicants to know more about the program before the application deadline. RSVP here.

The Ph.D. program in Counseling Psychology at Purdue prepares students for professional licensure as a psychologist in the state of Indiana. Contact Eric Deemer at [email protected] before continuing with program application if you have questions regarding licensure or contact your state psychology licensure board about how this program may translate to licensure in your state of residence.

This program does not lead to teacher licensure in the state of Indiana or elsewhere.

APPLICATION PROCEDURE

Program requirements.

The counseling psychology program offers ONLY the Ph.D. as a terminal degree. A master’s degree is awarded en route to the Ph.D. for students entering the program with a bachelor’s degree, but this degree does not prepare graduates for licensure as a practicing counselor. Students who are unsure that they can or will complete a doctoral program should apply to a master’s program or to a doctoral program that awards a master’s degree as a part of the doctoral requirements.

All program information is available online. The faculty encourage students to inform themselves about the program. At a minimum, please check the Student Handbook.

When applying, please choose “Educational Studies” (for which counseling psychology is under) as a graduate major in the application portal.

Requirements

• Academic Statement of Purpose The academic statement of purpose should be 300-500 words concerning your purpose for undertaking or continuing graduate study at the Purdue Counseling Psychology program, your research interests, career goals, and the faculty member(s) with whom you would prefer to work and why.
• Personal History Statement The personal history statement should be 300-500 words concerning how your background and life experiences contribute to your ability to be both persistent and resourceful in graduate school. Describe how your life experiences have prepared you to contribute to an academic community where scholars with diverse research interests, abilities, backgrounds, and experiences are supported, respected, and valued.
• Submit a Curriculum Vita. Your CV should include a section listing your experience with (a) research and statistics, including courses, (b) teaching, and (c) professional related activities (e.g., organizational leadership, social advocacy, community engagement).
• Description of Previous Program. Please print and fill out the description of previous program.
• Submit three letters of reference describing research skills and potential, counseling skills and potential, and capacity for graduate study.
• Graduate School E-mail Address: [email protected]
• Graduate School Mailing Address: Graduate Studies Office, Purdue University, 100 N. University Street, Room 3229, West Lafayette, IN 47907-2098
• One academic writing sampling
• International applications may be required to submit proof of English proficiency .

Student Handbook

Application Instructions for the Counseling Psychology PhD program from the Office of Graduate Studies:

In addition to a submitted application (and any applicable application fees paid), all completed materials must be submitted by the application deadline in order for an application to be considered complete and forwarded on to faculty and the Purdue Graduate School for review.

We encourage prospective students to submit an application early, even if not all required materials are uploaded. Applications are not forwarded on for faculty review until all required materials are uploaded.

When submitting your application for this program, please select the following options:

• Select a Campus: Purdue West Lafayette (PWL)
• Select your proposed graduate major: Educational Studies
• Please select an Area of Interest: Counseling Psychology
• Please select a Degree Objective: Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
• Primary Course Delivery: Residential

Tentative Plan of Study

Supplemental program information, practicum placements.

Students begin the application process to off-site practicum sites following consultation with their advisor the academic year prior to starting off-site. Often this is during student’s 2nd and 3rd years. In the spring semester, the program’s Off-Site Practicum Coordinator hosts a practicum fair for students to learn more about practicum partnerships in the community. After the attending the practicum fair, students contact practicum sites they are most interested in to set up an interview. Students should not contact sites directly before the practicum fair. Below are select examples of off-site practicum locations where our students receive training.

Please note: students may need to satisfy certain eligibility requirements (e.g., background check, drug screening) for some site placements. The placements change regularly as the program adds new sites and other sites become unavailable. Some sites accept only advanced students.

University Counseling Centers

Purdue University, Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) – West Lafayette, IN Indiana State University Student Counseling Services – Terre Haute, IN IUPUI Counseling & Psychological Services – Indianapolis, IN Butler University – Indianapolis, IN DePauw University – Greencastle, IN

Veteran’s Hospitals

VA Illiana Health Care System – Danville, IL Richard L Roudebush VA Medical Center – Indianapolis, IN

Community Mental Health Centers

Indiana Women’s Prison – Indianapolis, IN Willowstone Family Services, Inc – Lafayette, IN Wabash Valley Hospital, Inc., Outpatient – Lafayette, IN Four County Counseling Center – Logansport, IN

Wabash Valley / River Bend Hospital – West Lafayette, IN Logansport State Hospital – Logansport, IN

Funding Opportunities

Funding for Counseling Psychology doctoral students is complex and comes from multiple sources. First, students find assistantships in offices across campus, including the Academic Success Center, the Military Family Research Institute, and the Center for Career Opportunities. Students must apply and interview for these positions. Faculty and peers are supportive in filtering assistantship information to students, and faculty assist students in preparing their application materials. Nonetheless, the student is responsible for following up with the information and securing the assistantship. Although our students are very competitive for these positions, the process can be stressful.

Second, students may have opportunities to teach sections of undergraduate courses. These include EPDS 105: Academic and Career Planning, EPDS 315: Collaborative Leadership – Listening, EPDS 316: Collaborative Leadership – Cross-Cultural Settings, and EPDS 317: Collaborative Leadership – Mentoring. Students have also secured teaching assistantships in the Department of Psychological Sciences.

Finally, some students obtain faculty-nominated fellowships, which guarantee funding but require 20 hours per week of work for our home department, Educational Studies. Only a few fellowships are available each year, and they are competitive.

Although funding can be stressful, all current students in the program who want funding have at least a .25 FTE appointment. Regardless, some students obtain federal or private loans to supplement their income.

Tuition and Fees

* In State ** Out-State *** Additional $290 for international

Professional Licensure Disclosure Statement

The U.S. Department of Education requires institutions to publicly disclose to prospective and currently enrolled students whether certain programs meet the education requirements for licensure or certification in the state or territory in which they reside. “Programs Leading to Professional Licensure” is defined as programs represented to prepare students for an occupation for which, at completion of the program, a local, state or federal license, or nongovernmental certification is required (i) as a precondition for employment, (ii) to perform certain functions, or (iii) to meet additional conditions that are generally needed to secure employment.

The Ph.D. program in counseling psychology at Purdue prepares students for professional licensure as a psychologist in the state of Indiana. However, the program has not made a determination as to whether its training requirements meet licensure standards in the remaining 49 U.S. states, the District of Columbia, and other specified territories. Current and prospective students are advised to contact the psychology licensure board in the jurisdiction in which they expect to practice to determine whether the program meets its licensure standards.

State by state psychology licensure requirements.

Faculty accepting students for 2023-24 admission: Rawan Atari-Khan, Eric Deemer, David Stanley, Xiang Zhou

Faculty accepting students for 2024 Fall admission: Amanda Case, Eric Deemer, Emily Boswell, Xiang Zhou

• Ackerman Center
• Serious Games
• CnI Online Fac
• Curriculum Studies
• Education for Work and Community
• Elementary Education
• English Education
• English Language Learning
• Learning Design and Technology
• Literacy and Language Education
• Mathematics Education
• Science Education
• Social Studies Education
• Applied Behavior Analysis
• Counseling and Development
• Educational Leadership and Policy Studies
• Educational Psychology and Research Methodology
• Gifted Education
• Special Education

Emily Boswell

Amanda s. case, eric deemer, heather servaty-seib, david c. stanley , jr..

We embrace values of equity, social justice, and inclusiveness in all aspects of our training in the Counseling Psychology PhD program. These ideals are also reflected in the diverse backgrounds and cultural identities of faculty and students, which broadly reflect race, gender identity, sexual orientation, ethnicity, socioeconomic status, physical ability, age, national origin, and religion. Consistent with the values of the field of counseling psychology, we strive to train students to advocate with and on behalf of people with marginalized identities to address sociocultural, political, and institutional factors that serve to perpetuate systems of oppression that undermine well-being. To this end, we believe that it is necessary for us all, faculty and students, to explore and reflect upon our own biases, privileges, and blind spots in all aspects of our roles in this program. This ongoing process of critical self-examination and self-awareness can often be an uncomfortable one, particularly as other program members may hold beliefs and values that differ from one’s own. However, we strive to navigate diverse individual and cultural perspectives together in a climate of trust, safety, and support.

Land Acknowledgement

We acknowledge the traditional homelands of the Indigenous People which Purdue University is built upon. We honor and appreciate the Bodéwadmik (Potawatomi), Lenape (Delaware), Myaamia (Miami), and Shawnee People who are the original Indigenous caretakers. See: https://www.purdue.edu/naecc/

Education & Human Development

Educational psychology, how to apply.

The Department OF Educational Psychology

The Department of Educational Psychology (EPSY) is home to a variety of interrelated disciplines and degree options focused on human development and well-being in educational and community contexts. Our undergraduate programs prepare students to work with children and youth in a variety of community and school contexts. We also offer a range of professional master’s degrees geared towards professionals in schools, communities, and the corporate world. For those interested in doctoral studies we offer Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) degrees in Educational Psychology, Counseling Psychology, and School Psychology.

Program Areas to choose from

Educational psychology, us news & world report 2021, number of online courses available, former student highlight, michele sheppard.

“When I started at A&M, it was unlike any other, they push you to be your very best. Being a single mom and going back to school was not always easy but you can do it!”

Master’s →

Bachelor’s →

Certificates →

Emphasis Areas

Educational psychology programs.

UNDERGRADUATE STUDIES

EPSY offers a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Education and University Studies, with one of three focuses.

Undergraduate Studies

Graduate Programs

The department of Educational Psychology offers a range of professional graduate degree programs.

ONLINE EDUCATION

EPSY offers a wide variety of online programs and courses to many the diverse needs our students.

Online Education

Certificates

Undergraduate students have the opportunity to complete certificate programs while completing their degree requirements.

FROM OUR FORMER STUDENTS

“I came to the conclusion that being a special educator is less about whom you teach and more about what you teach.”

– Stephanie Haetchen ’12 Special Education Programs

Upcoming Events

View all upcoming EPSY events

Doctorate in:

Counseling psychology, ph.d. in counseling psychology.

Our Ph.D. in Counseling Psychology is designed to give candidates a thorough and comprehensive knowledge of their professional field and training in methods of research.

This degree is awarded based on a candidate’s grasp of the subject matter of a broad field of study and a demonstrated ability to do independent research. In addition, candidates must have acquired the ability to express thoughts clearly and forcefully in both oral and written languages.

This degree is not granted solely for the completion of coursework, residence and technical requirements, although these must be met.

• For a student who has completed a master’s degree, a DDS/DMD, DVM or MD at a U.S. institution, a minimum of 64 hours is required on the degree plan for the degree of Doctor of Philosophy.
• For a student who has completed a baccalaureate degree but not a master’s degree or a U.S. DDS/DMD, DVM or MD , a minimum of 96 hours is required on the degree plan for the degree of Doctor of Philosophy.

Training Mission

The Texas A&M Counseling Psychology doctoral program has been accredited by the American Psychological Association since 1981 and is grounded in the scientist-practitioner model.

We train ethical and clinically competent counseling psychologists, commensurate with current expectations from the American Psychological Association Commission on Accreditation for health service psychology.

This mission is realized with a curriculum that provides sequential and cumulative training in the classroom, the clinic and in field experiences that facilitate professional development, appropriately graded in complexity to balance support and expectations for students. We embrace the traditional values associated with counseling psychology with its emphasis on the use of theoretically-based, empirically-informed services to enhance the health and well-being of individuals and communities.

Our program is explicitly attentive to multiculturalism, community engagement and interdisciplinary collaboration. The stated mission, themes and training sequence of the program is consonant with the strategic plan of Texas A&M University, reflecting its core values and mission to attain excellent in academic, research, service and teaching activities.

Where are our Graduates?

A recent evaluation of program graduates from the academic year 2008-2009 to 2017-2018 finds our graduates are currently in the following work settings:

Student Admissions, Outcomes, and Other Data

Program information is provided in compliance with C-20 Disclosure of Education/Training Outcomes and Information Allowing for Informed Decision-Making to Prospective Doctoral Students. Domain G of the Guidelines and Principles for Accreditation of Programs in Professional Psychology (G&P) requires that doctoral graduate programs provide potential students, current students, and the public with accurate information on the program and with program expectations.

Learn more.

Admissions Deadlines

• Applications are currently closed and will reopen August 1st for fall 2025 admissions.
• To be admitted into the Counseling Psychology program, students must follow all  graduate admission requirements .
• Prior to registration each semester, students are required to meet with their advisor (temporary or permanent). The registration advising form should be completed and given to the advisor each semester.

The CPSY program allows up to 3 courses maximum (9 credit hours) from other institutions. Courses are restricted to the following:

• Group Counseling
• Lifespan Development
• Counseling Techniques (limited to post-masters students who have had a practicum; information on practicum/internship sites and supervisor(s) evaluations required).

Course waiver requests are reviewed only for students accepted into the program. Submission of a course waiver request does not guarantee course(s) will be waived. Evaluation is based on determination of course equivalence and APA accreditation requirements.

Recommended GRE/GPA Scores

• Combined Quantitative and Verbal score = 1000 (old scoring system)
• Undergraduate and/or graduate GPA indicative of academic ability required for a rigorous doctoral program.

Submission Criteria

• Relevance of previous education and work experience.
• Professional activities, memberships.
• Scholarly activities.
• Recommendation letters.
• Relevant experience and skills (e.g., bilingual status, experiences working with people with disabilities, with under-served groups).
• Essay conveying career interests, goals, skills.

Admission Interviews

• Application reviews begin in December. CPSY faculty and a student representative evaluate each application. Qualified applicants are identified and invitations are extended for an on-site interview conducted at the beginning of the Spring semester.
• Arrangements can be made for Zoom and/or telephone interviews for those unable to attend.
• Interviews provide information about the program, the department, SEHD and the university, as well as opportunities to interact with program faculty and students. On-site interviews also provide qualified applicants the opportunity to see unique program resources such as the Counseling and Assessment Clinic and the Texas A&M Telebehavioral Care .

Post-Interview Process

Following the on-site interview, program faculty and the student representative determine which applicants will receive formal invitations to enter the program in the upcoming fall semester. Admitted students must notify us in writing by April 15 of their intent to accept our offer. Admitted students are assigned a temporary advisor and ongoing correspondence with the Academic Advising office commences.

Accreditation

Inquiries about the accreditation status of the Counseling Psychology Program can be obtained from the American Psychological Association’s Commission on Accreditation (CoA). The CoA can be reached at:

American Psychological Association Office of Program Consultation & Accreditation 750 First Street NE Washington, DC 20002-4242 Phone: (202) 336-5979 Email: [email protected]

Accreditation Status: Accredited by the American Psychological Association.

Program Details

• Students who complete the program obtain a Ph.D. in Counseling Psychology.
• Students entering the program with the baccalaureate degree may apply to receive the M.Ed. (non-thesis option) after completing the first 36 graduate credit hours required by the program.
• The doctoral degree plan includes a minimum of an additional 64 credits for all students, including the year-long internship. The program provides students with the training and education required by the states for eventual licensure as a psychologist.
• If you are seeking licensure verification of degree program through PsyPro, please indicate Dr. Kelly Lee ([email protected]) as the head of the degree program, as she is the current training director. Additionally, please send Dr. Lee an email so she can follow up with your request and gather additional information from you.

Degree: Ph.D. in Counseling Psychology Degrees Offered: Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) Credit Hours: minimum 75 hours

Select School of Education and update credit hours.

Professional Licensure and Certification Disclosure Statements

Notice to students pursuing programs that may lead to a professional license or certification required for employment.

The following programs may lead to a professional license or certification that is required for employment. Professional licensure/certification requirements vary from state to state, which may affect a student’s ability to apply for a professional license/certification upon the completion of the program. The U.S. Department of Education regulation, 34 CFR 668.43 (a) (5) (v) , requires an institution to disclose whether the program will fulfill educational requirements for licensure or certification for each state. The administrative departments that offer the programs have made the following determination regarding their curriculum.

We recommend students contact the appropriate state licensing agency in their state or the state where they intend to work to seek the most up-to-date information about state licensure/certification requirements before beginning the program.

It is important to emphasize that the State Boards of Psychology typically require additional training requirements and examinations for licensure. For a fuller summary of the requirements for licensure in each state, please visit the Association of State and Provincial Psychology Board .

Program Handbooks

Program assessments, annual evaluation.

At the end of each Spring semester, program faculty evaluate each student to determine their timely progression through the program, as well as their progress in academic performance, clinical skills, and professional behavior. Faculty determine each student’s minimal level of achievement on each of the competencies expected of entry-level psychologists, as specified by the Commission on Accreditation.

Practicum Evaluation

Field supervisors evaluate a student’s performance during their field practicum on a form developed and used by the program faculty.

Peggy Brigman

Academic Advisor IV

View Directory Profile

Lizette Ojeda

Associate Professor

Linda Castillo

Timothy Elliott

Distinguished Professor

Charles (Chuck) Ridley

Carly McCord

Clinical Associate Professor

Clinical Assoc Professor

Timothy Lawrence

Assistant Professor

Frequently Asked Questions

• Doctoral 10

List of Bachelor Degree Equivalencies

Please view a brief  List of Bachelor Degree Equivalencies by Country . If you do not find your country listed and are unsure of your degree equivalency, please contact the Office of Admissions at  [email protected] .

Can my Application fee be waived?

Yes. This fee may be waived only in exceptional cases for low-income applicants and McNair Scholars. To receive the waiver, you must submit an awards letter from your current school’s financial aid office showing the award of a Pell Grant. Your Student Aid Report (SAR) from a current FAFSA can also be submitted to show financial need. McNair Scholars must submit a letter from their McNair Program Director verifying their status as a McNair Scholar in good standing to receive the fee waiver. Submit this information to the Academic Affairs Business Office and include your major of interest and term of application. Waiver of application fee is not available for international students.

Statement of Purpose Essay

All applicants must complete the Essay, Statement of Purpose and explain the following:

• Why you applied to this program
• Academic background and training
• Potential for graduate study
• Research experience
• Other relevant professional experiences

I want/need a Graduate Assistantship/Fellowship – how do I apply?

Please note that we cannot guarantee any financial assistance to any student. We will contact all admitted students about the process for applying for all available assistantships. This is a separate process from applying for admission. The department and programs will choose students to be nominated for Graduate Diversity or Graduate Merit fellowships. These fellowships are only open to U.S. citizens. Please do not ask to be nominated for one of these fellowships as the program will determine which students are competitive for these awards.

How do is submit my letters of Recommendation?

The  GraduateCAS  online application includes a Recommendations section where you must add your recommenders’ information. Once you have saved the recommendation requests, GraduateCAS will contact each recommender via email to request the completion of the recommendation form and letter of recommendation. We require three letters of recommendations and they must be submitted directly by recommenders through the electronic system.

Is there an admissions cycle for Spring semester?

No. For our Ph.D. programs we only have admissions in fall semesters.

What are the typical program costs?

Check out the cost of attendance estimator.

Please note, you must update the program hours.

For a better understanding of your total cost of attendance (COA), please visit our cost and tuition rates webpage ( https://aggie.tamu.edu/billing-and-payments/cost-and-tuition-rates ). This webpage will provide you with an opportunity to review estimated COA information for undergraduate, graduate and professional students, as well as other resources such as the tuition calculator and billing and fee explanations.

Can you guide me through the application process?

How to Apply: Master’s Application Information | Doctoral Application Information

I live out of state. Do you accept out-of-state applicants?

Yes, we accept in-state and out-of-state applicants.

Is there any opportunity for financial assistance?

Yes, there are opportunities for financial assistance through the following departments: Office of Graduate Studies Financial Aid

Request Information

Tuition & fees.

For a better understanding of your total cost of attendance (COA), please visit our cost and tuition rates webpage ( https://aggie.tamu.edu/billing-and-payments/cost-and-

tuition-rates). This webpage will provide you with an opportunity to review estimated COA information for undergraduate, graduate and professional students, as well as other resources such as the tuition calculator and billing and fee explanations.

Can't find what you are looking for?

• Enroll & Pay
• Prospective Students
• Current Students
• Current Faculty

Ph.D. in Counseling Psychology at KU

Program Overview

The Ph.D. in counseling psychology at the University of Kansas prepares generalists to engage in actives ranging from clinical treatment to academic research. Students study under internationally recognized leaders in the field of counseling psychology and learn to critically evaluate major approaches, conduct research, and gain clinical experience working with people of diverse cultural backgrounds and worldviews. Graduates of the program will be able to apply the best, most current theory and research to their practice.

Career Outcomes in Counseling Psychology

Students pursue the Ph.D. in counseling psychology at KU with varying career goals in mind. Ph.D. students should expect to engage in “co-curricular” activities above and beyond the specific degree requirements appropriate to their career aspirations. These include conducting and presenting research at conferences, engaging in internships in the field, etc. The degree prepares clinicians to apply the best and most current theory and research to their practice, and academicians who are grounded in the realities of practice. Potential position titles after graduation could include:

• Licensed Psychologist
• Licensed Professional Counselor

Psychologist licensure is regulated by the Kansas Behavioral Sciences Regulatory Board. Individuals interested in pursuing psychologist licensure must first complete a doctoral degree program in counseling psychology. The Ph.D. in counseling psychology at KU meets this requirement. For more information on specific Kansas professional counselor licensure requirements, please visit the Kansas Behavioral Sciences Regulatory Board web site.

Related Programs

• Master’s in counseling psychology
• Ph.D. in educational psychology & research
• Ph.D. in school psychology
• Program faculty
• School scholarships
• Office of Graduate Studies

Additional CPSY Resources

">Explore resources (Policies and Procedures Handbook and 2018-2023 MS and PhD requirements.)

Thinking about counseling psychology?

Brag points, graduate student life view as gallery page.

Vibrant Campus Environment

In the heart of the United States, the city of Lawrence revolves around KU and its students.

Graduate Student Funding

The Office of Graduate Studies at KU provides both internal and external funding resources to support students.

Professional Development

Graduate students will leave KU with a professional and academic network of faculty and staff.

Graduate Teaching Assistantship

Program applicants and current students can apply for a Graduate Teaching Assistantship (GTA) in the Department of Educational Psychology.

Accreditation

The KU School of Education & Human Sciences is accredited under the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE) Standards through the CAEP Accreditation System. The doctoral degree in counseling psychology at KU has been continuously accredited by the American Psychological Association since 1971.

• Learn more about the KSDE
• Learn more about the APA

• Partnerships

Counseling Psychology (PhD)

YOU ARE BOUVÉ

We’re training the next generation of mental health professionals

The Ph.D. Program in Counseling Psychology offers doctoral education and training in psychology and prepares students for entry-level practice in counseling psychology.

Doctoral-level counseling psychologists conduct research, teach at the university level, supervise students and professionals, consult with community agencies, and provide clinical services to people across the developmental lifespan.

Counseling psychologists also enhance the science of health promotion and health psychology and emphasize community-based interventions.

Unique Program Features

• Translational research related to health promotion of individuals, groups, families, and communities
• Empirically-based practice in urban community centers, agencies, schools, and hospitals
• Merging of science and practice within multicultural and urban contexts
• Development of consultation and leadership skills in researchers and practitioners

Program Emphasis

• Culturally and ethnically diverse faculty
• Ecological model
• Developmental emphasis throughout the lifespan
• Research teams where students gain valuable experience evaluating and conducting research
• Student-centered faculty
• Strong and supportive student cohort groups

Degree type: – Counseling Psychology PhD Study options: – Boston campus – Full-time

Application Deadline: Dec 1, 2023

Note: Official TOEFL or IELTS* required

Counseling Psychology PhD

Our clinical training prepares counseling psychologists to work in various settings with individuals presenting with a variety of psychological and health-related issues. We emphasize an ecological model that encourages the conceptualization of relationships and research across multiple systems: biological, cultural, and relational.

These relationships occur in various social contexts, including families, schools, neighborhoods, and communities. At least two years of intensive clinical training is required. This preparation includes advanced fieldwork at various mental health settings in the Boston area. Students are expected to be at their site for 20 hours each week. Approximately half of their time is direct service delivery.

Training goals include advanced skill development in behavioral observations, interviewing, psychological assessment, counseling, and treatment planning and practice, consultation, effective use of supervision, and an understanding of and commitment to the profession’s ethical codes. Students must complete a one-year, full-time pre-doctoral internship that has been approved by the program.

Accreditation and Licensure

The PhD in Counseling Psychology at Northeastern University is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of the American Psychological Association and meets the “Guidelines for Defining ‘Doctoral Degree in Psychology’” as implemented by the ASPPB/National Register Designation Project.

Therefore, a graduate of this designated program who decides to apply for licensure as a psychologist typically will meet the jurisdictional educational requirements for licensing. However, individual circumstances vary, and, there may be additional requirements that must be satisfied prior to being licensed as a psychologist, potentially including specific clinical practice supervision requirements at the advanced practicum, internship, and post-doctoral level.

Students should contact the state/provincial/territorial licensing board in the jurisdiction in which they plan to apply for exact information. Additional information including links to jurisdictions is available on the ASP PB’s website. For questions about the PhD in Counseling Psychology as it relates to doctoral psychology licensure, please contact Program Director Christie Rizzo .

Handbooks and Tools

Sample curriculum.

Students will enter the program with a master’s degree. It is anticipated that the time to completion is a minimum of four years.

Total 62 Credits

The curriculum is subject to change so please also check the university catalog .

• Dissertation

CAEP 6390 History and Systems of Psychology

CAEP 6394 Advanced Multicultural Psychology

CAEP 7750 Biological Bases of Behavior

CAEP 7755 Cognitive and Affective Bases of Behavior

CAEP 775 6 Social Psychology in an Organizational and Ecological Context

Complete 8 semester hours from the following :

CAEP 77 41 Advanced Fieldwork 1

CAEP 77 4 2 Advanced Fieldwork 2

CAEP 77 4 3 Advanced Fieldwork 3

CAEP 77 4 4 Advanced Fieldwork 4

CAEP  6350 Introduction to Cognitive Assessment

CAEP  6352 Personality Assessment

CAEP 6360 Consultation and Program Evaluation

CAEP 7710 Advanced Clinical Assessment

CAEP 7720 Advanced Clinical Interventions

CAEP 7758 Doctoral Seminar in Contemporary Theories of Psychotherapy

Three semester hours can be chosen from any graduate level CAEP course or combination of graduate level CAEP courses outside of the PhD in Counseling Psychology program of study. Other electives may be chosen upon approval of the program director and faculty adviser:

Professional

Complete 6 semester hours from the following:

CAEP 7701 Doctoral Seminar in Counseling Psychology (Repeatable 3 times for 1 credit and 3 times for 0 credits)

CAEP 7732 Legal and Ethical Issues in Community and Educational Settings

CAEP 7711 Measurement: Advanced Psychometric Principles

CAEP 7712 Intermediate Statistical Data Analysis Techniques

CAEP 7716 Advanced Research and Data Analyses 2

Complete 3 semester hours. Prior to beginning internship consult with director, DCT, and/or the Doctoral Internship Seminar instructor.

CAEP 7798 Doctoral Internship

CAEP 9990 Dissertation Term 1

CAEP 9991 Dissertation Term 2

Admissions Requirements

Candidates for admission are expected to meet the following requirements:

Master’s degree in psychology or related field

Strong academic record (3.5 GPA and above preferred)

Demonstrated interest in and commitment to counseling psychology

Official TOEFL or IELTS*

Three letters of reference 

Personal statement. The applicant may wish to highlight:

• Specific research and clinical interests
• Long-term career goals.
• Current and past clinical and research experiences
• Fit with program emphasis

Completed application (due December 1)

Personal interviews with the faculty and current students will be held in February

Got questions?

Christie Rizzo, PhD Program Director 617-373-2486

Or contact our Graduate Enrollment team.

The Counseling Psychology PhD program will not require students to submit GRE (General Test of the Graduate Record Exam) scores for the Fall 2023 admissions cycle. Applicants who have taken or are planning to take the GRE may submit their scores if they choose. Those applicants choosing not to submit GRE scores will not be negatively impacted in the admissions decision process. Applications will be evaluated based on all materials provided. 

Admission is based on evaluation of the above factors, previous relevant experiences, and your fit within our program. The program faculty reviews your credentials to assess the likelihood of your successful completion of the program and your potential for contribution to the field of counseling psychology and the community at large.

Student Admissions Outcomes and Other Data

Program details.

• Minimum of two years of advanced fieldwork
• At least 20 hours per week at an approved fieldwork site with supervision by a licensed psychologist or a licensed psychiatrist for a minimum of 600 hours per year
• Minimum of one hour of individual supervision per week by a licensed doctoral level psychologist
• Minimum of half (50%) of the 20 hours per week are required in direct service

Research Topics

Applied psychology program for eating and appearance research — appear, faculty leaders.

Rachael Rodgers Jessica Edwards George

Dating Violence and Relationship Risk Prevention Team

Faculty leader.

Christie Rizzo

Feminist Therapy and Theory; Feminist Ecological Model

William Sanchez

Intersectionality Lab in Applied Psychology

Tracy Robinson-Wood

Mindfulness for Health Behavior Change

Laura Dudley

Use of Technology and Games for Health Behavior Change

Babatunde Aideyan received a BA in Psychology from Emory University and an MA in Counseling from Northwestern University. Tunde began the Counseling Psychology program in 2018 and is a PhD candidate at Northeastern University. He has several years of work experience in corporate work environments where he developed data analysis and survey research skills.

At Northeastern, Tunde has researched with his advisor, Dr. Jessica Edwards George, the neurocognitive effects of gluten exposure in individuals with celiac disease. While obtaining his master’s degree, Tunde interned at a community mental health agency that supported group home and foster care residents, as well as in a private practice setting.

At the doctoral level, Tunde spent a year at Butler Hospital administering neuropsychological assessments for individuals presenting with memory problems; he is currently co-facilitating resilience training groups at the MGH Resilience and Prevention Program.

Clinically, Tunde is interested in breathwork practices, health psychology, and strength-oriented counseling. His research interests involve using artificial intelligence methods for improving mental health diagnosis and prognosis.

Payton Bruland has been a doctoral student in the Counseling Psychology program at Northeastern University since the Fall of 2019. She earned her Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Seattle Pacific University and her Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Gonzaga University.

At Northeastern, Payton works on the SNAP/Social Research team with Dr. Christie Rizzo and the More Fun with Sisters and Brothers (MFWSB) team with Dr. Laurie Kramer. Her research interests align with each of these labs, examining both protective and risk factors among children and adolescence in the areas of emotion regulation and interpersonal relationships.

Payton also has an interest in the ways childhood trauma affects outcomes in adolescence and later life. Clinically, she has worked with children, adolescents, and their families in a variety of settings, including outpatient and inpatient services.

Elizabeth (Libby) Collier enrolled in the Counseling Psychology Ph.D. program at Northeastern in the fall of 2021. Prior to her move to Boston, Libby received an M.A. and Ed.M. in Psychological Counseling from Teachers College, Columbia University. Libby’s clinical fieldwork placement was at Mount Sinai Hospital where she conducted group therapy and individual therapy sessions involving dual diagnosis patients.

During her master’s program, she also spent time in two research labs affiliated with New York University and Columbia University that focused on youth mental health. These studies focused on interventions for adolescents at clinical high risk for psychosis and systems-level interventions concerning youth involved in the juvenile justice system.

Libby is in the Adolescent Relationships and Risk Behavior Lab under the mentorship of Dr. Christie Rizzo. She hopes to continue to work alongside youth at-risk of becoming involved in the juvenile justice system and is interested in mentorship as a facilitator of positive youth development.

Jaylan Abd Elrahman , (She, Her) received her B.A. in Psychology from Wellesley College and her M.Ed. in Human Development and Psychology from Harvard University’s Graduate School of Education, with a concentration in Child Advocacy.

She is currently a member of the Intersectionality Research Lab and her primary research interests rest at the nexus of adolescent identity development, trauma, culture and social change. She previously served in various research roles at Research Triangle Institute (RTI) International, Brookings Institution and Harvard University’s Edmond J. Safra Center for Ethics.

She has been actively involved in facilitating healing justice, youth development and community-based work across the nation for the last nine years, primarily with and for refugee, migrant, and young women of color. She welcomes all connections and can be reached at  [email protected] .

Laura Fischer received a B.A. in Psychology from the University of Rhode Island and an M.S. in Psychology from Drexel University in Philadelphia.

She has held positions across a variety of clinical, research, and community mental health settings, including the Center for Anxiety and Traumatic Stress Disorders at Massachusetts General Hospital, and the National Alliance on Mental Illness.

Her primary clinical and research interests include empirically supported treatments for anxiety disorders, mindfulness-based interventions, and the implications of intersecting identities for mental and physical health.

Ruthann Hewett has been a doctoral student in the Counseling Psychology Ph.D. program since the Fall of 2021. She holds a dual BA from Brandeis University in Psychology and Health: Science, Society & Policy (2016), as well as an MS from Northeastern University’s Counseling Psychology master’s program (2020).

She is a member of the Intersectionality Research Team under the supervision of Dr. Tracy Robinson-Wood. She has worked on research projects with the Intersectionality team including a study of the racial socialization experiences of biracial adults.

Prior to beginning her MS, she worked as a research coordinator at Massachusetts General Hospital in the Psychiatric and Neurodevelopmental Genetics Unit. She has also worked as an intern clinician at the Therapeutic After School Program at the Home for Little Wanderers, and as a clinician at the Therapeutic After School Program at the Italian Home for Children.

Her interests include examining oppressive power systems operating within mental health treatment facilities, particularly state funded institutions, and interrogating how these systems can be modified to better serve clients with intersecting marginalized identities.

Katherine Laveway is a Ph.D. student in Counseling Psychology and a member of the Applied Psychology Program for Eating and Appearance Research (APPEAR) team since the Fall of 2020. She received her M.S. in Counseling Psychology from Northeastern University and her B.A. in English and Music from Wellesley College.

During her master’s training, Katherine gained clinical experience working in inpatient and outpatient settings at UMass Memorial Medical Center. Katherine’s research interests include body image and eating concerns among queer and trans individuals. She is particularly interested in sociocultural constructions of gender, experiences of weight stigma, and the role of social media on the psychological health of young people.

Madeline Manning has been a PhD student in the Counseling Psychology program at Northeastern University since the Fall of 2017. She received her B.A. in Psychology and Communications from Stonehill College (2015) and her M.A. in Mental Health Counseling and Behavioral Medicine from Boston University School of Medicine (2017). She will be completing her pre-doctoral internship at Nicklaus Children’s Hospital in the Neuropsychology Track with the goal of pursuing a career in Pediatric Neuropsychology.

Prior to beginning her doctoral training, Madeline worked as a mental health counselor in the adult inpatient psychiatric unit at Tufts Medical Center. She also worked as a clinical research assistant at the Pediatric Anxiety Research Clinic (PARC) at Bradley Hospital and the Division of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry at Rhode Island Hospital where she helped conduct research on the dissemination of treatment for Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder/other anxiety related disorders in children and exploring factors which impact adolescent suicidality post-inpatient level of care.

During her graduate training, she completed clinical practicum experiences at Brigham and Women’s Hospital Department of Cognitive and Behavioral Neurology, Rhode Island Hospital Pediatric Neuropsychology Program, Pediatric Neuropsychological Assessment at Butler Hospital Adolescent Inpatient Psychiatric Unit, Hasbro Children’s Sleep Disorder Clinic, Hasbro Children’s Partial Hospitalization Program, Boston Children’s at Martha Eliot Health Center (Mental Health Clinic and Early Intervention Program), and Franciscan Children’s Hospital Community Based Acute Treatment (CBAT) Unit.

She is part of the Adolescent Relationships and Risk Behavior Research Lab and the More Fun with Sisters and Brothers Research Lab, and also completed the Early Intervention Certification Program at Northeastern. Madeline’s primary research interests include exploring the protective factors that promote resilience in children and adolescents, as well as integrating community and individual resilience to violence and trauma. Madeline also has interests in the areas of adolescent dating violence prevention, pediatric psychology, anxiety disorders, and mood disorders.

Chantal Muse received an M.A. from Chatham University and a B.A. from Duquesne University. Previously, she worked on a study examining how employment status effects the health and well-being of Sub-Saharan African women. Also, she held a clinical position at Western Psychiatric Institute and Clinic Acute Adult Trauma Unit and the Comprehensive Services and Recovery Unit. Her primary research and clinical interests are working with cancer patients, examining the patient-provider relationship, specifically the relationship between African-American women with breast cancer and white doctors, and health communication.

Briana Paulo previously studied at the University of Rhode Island for a B.A. in Psychology and Sociology, with a minor in Thanatology. She later earned a M.A. in Psychology Research from the University of Massachusetts Dartmouth in 2017. Briana came to Northeastern University in the Fall of 2020 with clinical experiences in a variety of settings with children and adolescents who experience a range of social, behavioral, and emotional difficulties. She also held a clinical research position at the Pediatric Anxiety Research Center (PARC) at Bradley Hospital, where she led outreach and collaboration efforts with schools, pediatric office, and other community partners, conducted semi-structured diagnostic assessments, and facilitated in-home/in-community exposure and response prevention (ERP) sessions with children and adolescents.

Briana currently works with the Dating Violence and Relationship Risk Prevention Team, led by Dr. Christie Rizzo. Her work in this lab involves studies that assess health-related behaviors and interpersonal communication patterns of juvenile-justice involved teens to understand risk and protective factors of dating violence. Briana’s research and clinical interests lie in socioemotional and behavioral issues in children/adolescents of traditionally marginalized populations and increasing awareness of and access to mental health resources.

Lisa Rines-Toth received her Master of Arts and Master of Education degrees in Psychological Counseling from Teachers College, Columbia University. She also holds a BA in English Literature from Columbia University. Prior to beginning her doctoral studies at Northeastern, Lisa worked at St. Luke’s-Roosevelt Hospital in New York City as a clinician in the psychiatric emergency department. Lisa’s primary research and clinical interests are in the general areas of integrated behavioral care, crisis intervention, addiction and mindfulness & yoga. Lisa currently works as a counselor in the Department of Psychiatry at Boston Medical Center.

Kaitlyn Schneider received an M.S. from Villanova University and a B.S. from Worcester Polytechnic Institute. Her primary research interests are in the areas of domestic violence, attachment, and trauma. Her previous work has explored the development of a rater-based method to measure secondary attachment strategies enacted within the maternal-fetal attachment relationship. She has also previously worked clinically with clients experiencing domestic violence.

Isabella “Isa” Sereno has been a PhD student in the Counseling Psychology program at Northeastern University since the Fall of 2020. Isa received a BS in Psychology from the University of Central Florida and an MA in Counselor Education, Clinical Mental Health Track, from Virginia Tech. Isa worked as a treatment coordinator at the Latinas y Niño’s Center in Casa Esperanza Inc., a substance abuse residential program for Latinx women in recovery and their children, where she worked closely with monolingual Spanish-speaking women and their families. Isa also worked as a clinical research coordinator II at the Massachusetts General Hospital’s Cancer Outcome Research and Education program (CORE), helping conduct research in palliative care for patients diagnosed with advanced cancer and their caregivers. She is a part of the APPEAR lab and is working under the mentorship of Dr. Jessica Edwards-George and Dr. Rachel Rodgers. Isa will be completing her advanced fieldwork practicum at Martha Eliot Health Center/Boston Children’s Hospital. She is fluent in Spanish and is interested in understanding racial and ethnic disparities that affect the caregiver experience within health settings, particularly parents of children with complex care needs.

We train multiculturally competent counseling psychologists who are:

• Clinically adept in multiple settings with a variety of psychological and health-related issues
• Able to conceptualize, conduct, and evaluate research across biological, cultural, and relational systems in numerous social contexts, such as families, schools, neighborhoods, and communities.

(i) Research

• Demonstrate the substantially independent ability to formulate research or other scholarly activities (e.g., critical literature reviews, dissertation, efficacy studies, clinical case studies, theoretical papers, program evaluation projects, program development projects) that are of sufficient quality and rigor to have the potential to contribute to the scientific, psychological, or professional knowledge base.
• Conduct research or other scholarly activities.
• Critically evaluate and disseminate research or other scholarly activity via professional publication and presentation at the local (including the host institution), regional, or national level.

(ii) Ethical and legal standards

• the current version of the APA Ethical Principles of Psychologists and Code of Conduct;
• Relevant laws, regulations, rules, and policies governing health service psychology at the organizational, local, state, regional, and federal levels; and
• Relevant professional standards and guidelines.
• Recognize ethical dilemmas as they arise, and apply ethical decision-making processes in order to resolve the dilemmas.
• Conduct self in an ethical manner in all professional activities.

( iii) Individual and cultural diversity

• An understanding of how their own personal/cultural history, attitudes, and biases may affect how they understand and interact with people different from themselves.
• Knowledge of the current theoretical and empirical knowledge base as it relates to addressing diversity in all professional activities including research, training, supervision/consultation, and service.
• The ability to integrate awareness and knowledge of individual and cultural differences in the conduct of professional roles (e.g., research, services, and other professional activities). This includes the ability to apply a framework for working effectively with areas of individual and cultural diversity not previously encountered over the course of their careers. Also included is the ability to work effectively with individuals whose group membership, demographic characteristics, or worldviews create conflict with their own.
• Demonstrate the requisite knowledge base, ability to articulate an approach to working effectively with diverse individuals and groups, and apply this approach effectively in their professional work.

(iv) Professional values, attitudes, and behaviors

• Behave in ways that reflect the values and attitudes of psychology, including integrity, deportment, professional identity, accountability, lifelong learning, and concern for the welfare of others
• Engage in self-reflection regarding one’s personal and professional functioning; engage in activities to maintain and improve performance, well-being, and professional effectiveness.
• Actively seek and demonstrate openness and responsiveness to feedback and supervision.
• Respond professionally in increasingly complex situations with a greater degree of independence as they progress across levels of training.

(v) Communications and interpersonal skills

• Develop and maintain effective relationships with a wide range of individuals, including colleagues, communities, organizations, supervisors, supervisees, and those receiving professional services.
• Produce and comprehend oral, nonverbal, and written communications that are informative and well-integrated; demonstrate a thorough grasp of professional language and concepts.
• Demonstrate effective interpersonal skills and the ability to manage difficult communication well.

(vi) Assessment

• Demonstrate current knowledge of diagnostic classification systems, functional and dysfunctional behaviors, including consideration of client strengths and psychopathology.
• Demonstrate understanding of human behavior within its context (e.g., family, social, societal and cultural).
• Demonstrate the ability to apply the knowledge of functional and dysfunctional behaviors including context to the assessment and/or diagnostic process.
• Select and apply assessment methods that draw from the best available empirical literature and that reflect the science of measurement and psychometrics; collect relevant data using multiple sources and methods appropriate to the identified goals and questions of the assessment as well as relevant diversity characteristics of the service recipient.
• Interpret assessment results, following current research and professional standards and guidelines, to inform case conceptualization, classification, and recommendations, while guarding against decision-making biases, distinguishing the aspects of assessment that are subjective from those that are objective.
• Communicate orally and in written documents the findings and implications of the assessment in an accurate and effective manner sensitive to a range of audiences.

(vii) Intervention

• Establish and maintain effective relationships with the recipients of psychological services.
• Develop evidence-based intervention plans specific to the service delivery goals.
• Implement interventions informed by the current scientific literature, assessment findings, diversity characteristics, and contextual variables.
• Demonstrate the ability to apply the relevant research literature to clinical decision making.
• Modify and adapt evidence-based approaches effectively when a clear evidence-base is lacking.
• Evaluate intervention effectiveness, and adapt intervention goals and methods consistent with ongoing evaluation.

(viii) Supervision

• Demonstrate knowledge of supervision models and practices.
• Apply supervision knowledge in direct or simulated practice with psychology trainees, or other health professionals. Examples of direct or simulated practice examples of supervision include, but are not limited to, role-played supervision with others, and peer supervision with other trainees.

(ix) Consultation and interprofessional/interdisciplinary skills

• Demonstrate knowledge and respect for the roles and perspectives of other professions.
• Demonstrates knowledge of consultation models and practices.

To prepare graduates for the role of professional psychologists, to include advanced skill development in behavioral observations, interviewing, psychological assessment, counseling and treatment planning and practice, consultation, effective use of supervision and an understanding of and commitment to the profession’s ethical codes.

Objective 1A: Students will be exposed to various professional roles including student teaching, participation in research projects where they are mentored by faculty and mentor peers and/or junior colleagues.

• Competency 1A1: Students will demonstrate a thorough understanding of their roles as clinicians.
• Competency 1A2: Students will demonstrate a thorough understanding of their roles as educators.
• Competency 1A3: Students will demonstrate a thorough understanding of their roles as community change agents ethically serving diverse populations and advocating for social justice.
• Competency 1A4: Students will demonstrate a thorough understanding of their roles as researchers.

To foster understanding and application of the scientific basis of clinical practice in psychotherapy and clinical assessment

• Objective 2A: Students will acquire an understanding of the biological, cognitive and affective, and social aspects of behavior.
• Objective 2B: Students will acquire knowledge of the history and systems of psychology
• Objective 2C: Students will acquire knowledge of empirical research regarding effective clinical practice, assessment, and interventions.
• Objective 2D: Students will acquire knowledge of contemporary theories that explicate human behavior across the lifespan.
• Objective 2E: Students will study current evidenced based practices in psychotherapy, psychological testing, and biological bases of clinical practice.
• Objective 2F: Students will acquire knowledge and skills to implement evidence-based clinical interventions with diverse populations.
• Competency 2A: Students will understand the regulation of biological and emotional functions of the nervous system.
• Competency 2B: Students will understand the contribution of environmental factors to brain development, to the development of the mind, and to their functions.
• Competency 2C: Students will understand theories and research with respect to clinical efficacy.
• Competency 2D: Students will understand contemporary theories of human behavior from a lifespan developmental perspective.
• Competency 2E1: Students will demonstrate a thorough understanding of current evidence based practices in psychotherapy, psychological testing, and the neuroscientific bases of clinical practice.
• Competency 2E2: Students will develop the ability to select and apply evidence-based interventions and to assess progress and outcomes.
• Competency 2F1: Students will demonstrate that they are familiar with outcome research for various intervention strategies.
• Competency 2F2: Students will develop the ability to implement a wide range of developmental, preventive, remedial, and psychoeducational interventions, including psychotherapy, crisis management, consultation and dealing with emergency psychological/psychiatric situations with people across sources of difference.

To produce graduates who possess advanced and applied research skills within an ecological perspective

• Objective 3A: Students will be involved in course work on advanced and applied research skills.
• Objective 3B: Students will become proficient in reporting research findings.
• Objective 3C: Students will be able to critically evaluate research from an ecological perspective.
• Competency 3A1: Students will demonstrate competency in research design and data analysis related to health and illness using quantitative, qualitative, and mixed methods models.
• Competency 3A2: Students will be able to develop meaningful research questions, based upon theories and models in the scholarly research literature.
• Competency 3A3: Students will be able to implement appropriate research design, methods, and statistical analyses, consistent with the research questions.
• Competency 3A4: Students will understand advantages and disadvantages of various research designs, modes of inquiry, data collection methods, statistical procedures, and measurement concepts.
• Competency 3B: Students will demonstrate the ability to report their research investigations appropriately, including knowledge of the socio-cultural contexts in the interpretation of the data.
• Competency 3C1: Students will demonstrate the ability to evaluate and critically assess the methodology of empirical research and the validity of research conclusions within a multicultural/ecological perspective.
• Competency 3C2: Students will be able to integrate themselves in research projects on research teams that stress a multicultural/ecological perspective.
• Competency 3C3: Students will successfully complete their dissertation proposals grounded within a multicultural/ecological perspective.

To produce graduates who are committed to and demonstrate ethical practice as counseling psychologists.

• Objective 4A: Students will learn through courses, mentoring, and supervision in the ethical codes of the profession.
• Objective 4B: Student will learn through courses and supervised clinical experiences, local, state, and national laws affecting professional psychological practice.
• Competency 4A: Students will become competent in understanding the codes of ethics and professional conduct of APA and develop a competent ethical decision-making process.
• Competency 4B: Students will demonstrate understanding of the legal issues affecting practice and resolution of ethical/legal conflicts that may occur.

To produce graduates who are multiculturally competent across sources of difference, including race, ethnicity, gender, class, religion/spirituality, disability, and sexual orientation, in both clinical and research settings.

Objective 5A: Students will study, be mentored in, and be exposed to multicultural perspectives that stress the understanding of different worldviews and confronting forms of oppression.

• Competency 5A1: Students will be able to integrate multiple worldviews and important historical and political positions in their clinical and research activities.
• Competency 5A2: Students will be able to understand their own positions of privilege, related to race, gender, social class, ability, and/or sexual orientation and its effect on their work as professional psychologists.
• Competency 5A3: Students will be able to integrate and actively advocate for the elimination of racism, sexism, class oppression, homophobia, ageism, and other forms of oppression.
• Competency 5A4: Students will be able to conceptualize and advocate for social and economic justice as professional psychologists.

To advance the field of counseling psychology using program strengths: (a) an interdisciplinary and interprofessional approach to clinical services provision and enhancement of the science of health promotion and health psychology; (b) stress on urban, community-based interventions using an ecological approach.

• Objective 6A: Students will be exposed to interprofessional models of health promotion research within the Bouvé College of Health Sciences.
• Objective 6B: Students will study the strengths and challenges facing urban populations and work within health promotion and prevention.
• Competency 6A1: Students will develop an understanding of how health promotion research is conceptualized and undertaken by an interprofessional team.
• Competency 6B1: Students will understand the unique challenges facing urban populations and work within settings that provide health promotion and prevention efforts with multicultural populations.

Connect with us

Have more questions about Bouvé? We’re here to help.

Want to take the next step and start your journey at Bouvé?

Request more information

Interested in learning more about what Bouvé has to offer?

Home / Discover Psychology Degrees / Online Counseling Psychology Programs

Online Counseling Psychology Programs

Choosing the right online counseling psychology degree program, which counseling psychology degree is right for me, counseling psychology degree program curriculum, counseling psychology degree program clinical requirements, list of online counseling psychology degree programs.

Counseling psychology is a subfield of psychology that deals with the emotional, mental, and behavioral problems of individuals, families, and groups. It involves assessing, diagnosing, treating, and preventing psychological disorders and helps people overcome their emotional and mental difficulties.

If you aspire to work in the counseling psychology field , it’s necessary to have a psychology degree. An online degree in counseling psychology will equip you with the knowledge, skills, and experience needed to provide effective counseling services.

Becoming a counseling psychologist requires a master’s degree at minimum, but a doctorate will make you more competitive in the job market. Before either degree, completion of a Bachelor’s degree at the undergraduate level is necessary.

Ensure a reputable organization accredits it regardless of your online program. The Counsel for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs and the American Psychological Association are well-known accrediting bodies.

Bachelor’s Degree

While it’s uncommon for colleges to offer a bachelor’s degree specifically in counseling psychology , bachelor’s programs in psychology or counseling are widely available. You could alternatively pursue a bachelor’s in another similar field.

Completing an online bachelor’s degree typically takes four years. The initial two years comprise fundamental psychology courses and general education requirements, followed by intermediate psychology courses and electives during the latter two years.

Master’s Degree

To practice as a counseling psychologist, a master’s degree in counseling psychology is required. All states have a minimum educational requirement for licensure, and the minimum is an accredited master’s program.

An online master’s degree in psychology is sufficient to practice counseling psychology. You can enroll in a master’s in counseling psychology, which will have a heavier emphasis on counseling, but it’s unnecessary.

A master’s degree in psychology involves one to two years of study, which includes a combination of coursework and an internship component (practicum). Both general and counseling programs will have many different psychology courses you can take. A counseling program will likely have a few more required counseling-focused classes. When considering online programs, ensure that the one you are applying to has options for completing clinical hours within your community.

Doctorate Degree

Getting a doctorate degree in counseling psychology online can open doors to high-level leadership positions and potential teaching opportunities. It can increase your income and impact but isn’t a prerequisite for working as a counselor.

Most counseling psychologists who pursue a doctorate enroll in a Doctor of Psychology (Psy.D.) degree program. This type of program is heavily focused on practical work with clients. During the online program, students study advanced-level clinical concepts and receive hands-on training through direct counseling work with clients within their community. The Psy.D. degree typically takes three years to complete.

Some counseling psychologists opt for a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) degree, which emphasizes research more. This program includes direct work with clients and research-focused activities, including running studies, analyzing data, and writing a dissertation. Ph.D. programs in counseling psychology typically require two years of coursework and an additional two to four years for research and dissertation writing.

Both doctorate programs offer advanced-level study in counseling psychology and prepare students for licensure. They can be in addition to, or instead of, a master’s degree.

The coursework you complete will focus more on counseling psychology as you move through the various degrees. Some examples of courses include:

• Bachelor’s Degree: ~120 credits; Intro to Psychology, Human Development, Clinical Psychology
• Master’s Degree: ~30-60 credits; Individual Interventions, Group Counseling, Psychopathology
• Doctorate Degree: ~80-120 credits; Application of Counseling Methods, Vocational Psychology

A crucial aspect of any counseling psychology degree program is the practical component known as a “practicum.” The clinical placement component allows students to gain valuable experience in a supervised setting and work directly with clients.

Typically, master’s programs in counseling psychology accredited by professional organizations require at least 600 hours of clinical experience, while Psy.D. programs in this field mandate a minimum of 1,500 hours. However, it’s not uncommon for specialized counseling psychology programs to have higher practical experience requirements.

Job postings and personal networks may be the best options for students enrolled in an online program for locating clinical opportunities.

Are you looking for an online counseling psychology degree program near you? Browse our state-by-state school listings below.

Jump to Your State Listings

Faulkner university.

• Online Bachelor of Science in Counseling Psychology

Alaska Pacific University

• Counseling Psychology Master of Science

Azusa Pacific University

• Master's in Counseling Psychology

California Baptist University

• Master of Science in Counseling Psychology

Golden Gate University

• Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology

Sofia University

Saint leo university.

• Psychology, B.A

Chaminade University of Honolulu

• M.S. in Counseling Psychology

Liberty University

• B.S. in Psychology: Counseling

Regent University

• Ph.D. in Counseling & Psychological Studies
• Ph.D. in Counseling & Psychological Studies - Grief Counseling
• Ph.D. in Counseling & Psychological Studies - Human Services Counseling
• Ph.D. in Counseling & Psychological Studies - Human Services for Student Affairs
• Ph.D. in Counseling & Psychological Studies - International
• Ph.D. in Counseling & Psychological Studies - Life Coaching
• Ph.D. in Counseling & Psychological Studies - Trauma & Crisis Counseling
• Certificate of Graduate Studies: Psychology & Counseling

Are we missing your school's program or need to update information listed? Please contact us so we can make the necessary changes.

Other Psychology Degree Program Profiles

Main navigation

• Programs & Courses
• Prospective Students
• Current Students
• Teaching Resources
• Program overview
• MA Professional/Internship overview & admissions
• MA Project Concentration overview & admissions
• Program details
• Student Admissions, Outcomes, and Other Data
• Courses & timetables
• Counselling Psychology Frequently Asked Questions
• Handbook, forms & guidelines
• Health Professions Education
• Human Development
• Learning Sciences
• MEd Concentrations in Educational Psychology
• School/Applied Child Psychology
• Professional Development
• Undergraduate
• Registration

PhD in Counselling Psychology

On this page: Overview | Admission Requirements | Applying | Tuition & Fees

Application deadline: December 1 annually  (Fall admission only).

Please read the program’s admission requirements fully. Please note that the Department no longer accepts deferrals, except under extraordinary circumstances.

Related Content

Admissions faq.

Counselling Psychology PhD Pre-Admission Academic Checklist [.doc]

Counselling Psychology Pre-Admission Academic Domains Guide [.pdf]

ECP Counselling Psychology Curriculum Vitae Template [.doc] 

Important note: This CV template is intended for  Counselling Psychology applicants only . All other applicants, please refer to the application instructions for the Program you are applying to.

NEED MORE INFORMATION? CONTACT US!

For more information about applying to our programs

contact us by  admissions.ecp [at] mcgill.ca (EMAIL)

Department and University Information

Educational & counselling psychology.

• Faculty of Education Home Page
• Education Curriculum Resources Centre
• Office of Internships and Student Affairs (ISA)
• Department of Integrated Studies in Education (DISE)
• Department of Kinesiology and Physical Education (KPE)
• Course Calendars
• Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies (GPS)
• Handbook of Student Rights and Responsibilities
• Student Services
• Technology in the Faculty
• Education Graduate Student Society (EGSS)
• Post-Graduate Student Society (PGSS)
• Association of Graduate Students Employed at McGill (AGSEM)
• Contact the editor

Educational Psychology: Counseling Psychology PhD

UWM’s PhD specialization in Counseling Psychology follows a scientist-practitioner model that integrates theory, practice and research to give you the scientific knowledge and skills needed to work with multicultural populations across diverse settings.

Our program sets up students for success. Placement rates for our graduates is 100%, and 87% of our graduates are licensed psychologists in various states.

Program Type

Program format, why choose our program.

• Commitment to diversity: In 2013, the Department of Educational Psychology won the American Psychological Association’s prestigious Bersoff Presidential Cultural Award for its success in recruiting and graduating doctoral students from racial/ethnic minorities as well as other countries.
• Location: We’re located in the state’s economic, cultural and career capital, just 10 minutes from downtown Milwaukee and 90 minutes from Chicago.
• Career prep: Since 2008, 88% of our counseling students were matched in internships, compared with the national average of 80%. Most years, it’s 100%.
• Research: Work alongside internationally known faculty as an integral member of their research teams. You may have the opportunity to present your work at national conferences.

Our PhD students are expected to conduct research and to advance the science of counseling psychology through scholarly inquiry. You’ll learn how to apply your scientific knowledge using qualitative and quantitative methodologies. Our program, which is accredited by the American Psychological Association through 2029, will prepare you to work as a counseling psychologist in a variety of settings, including universities, hospitals, mental health clinics and private practice.

Note: Due to pending and recent retirements, and funding restrictions that prevent post baccalaureate students from serving as teaching assistants, most faculty will not consider admitting students for 2024 and into the Fall 2024 semester who do not already have a master’s degree.

Counseling Psychology Handbook

For additional information about the program, see the  Counseling Psychology PhD Program Handbook (PDF) .

Student Data

Student Admissions, Outcomes, and Other Data (PDF)

We will assign you a temporary advisor when you are admitted to the program. Once you enter the program, you are free to choose a new advisor who will be the chair of your dissertation committee, or continue with your assigned advisor.

Stipends for teaching or research assistantships at or above 33% time include tuition remission. Stipend salaries vary according to type of assistantship (e.g. teaching, research) and type of student (doctoral, dissertator). For an academic year (nine month) appointment for 2023, stipends are $15,000 for 50% time assistantships and $9,900 for 33% time assistantships.

The following table indicates the type of support given to each cohort of students for the 2022-23 academic year. Assistantships are allocated based on availability of positions, with priority given to first year students, then second year students, and then third year. Students in the counseling psychology program have successfully applied for assistantships in other schools and colleges. After the third year in the program, students are strongly encouraged to seek assistantships through faculty grants or off-campus sources.

Learn more about the Graduate School’s  current assistantship salary schedules .

Counseling Psychology Student Association

Open to all doctoral students in the Counseling Psychology PhD Program, CPSA focuses on student advocacy, professional development, and socialization/peer-to-peer mentorship. Members are also active at the national level (e.g., ACA, APA, APAGS). We encourage all students to get involved.

Career Resources

• Careers as a Counseling Psychologist
• Society of Counseling Psychology
• American Psychological Association
• Licensing Information

The Graduate School provides a range of  resources for student professional development  on its website.

Program Requirements

If you already have a master’s degree, the program involves three years of coursework, a year of dissertation and a year of internship.

Students are required to take 15 credits of courses toward discipline-specific knowledge (psychological foundations), 18 credits of practicum, 13 credits of statistics and 12-18 credits of courses designed to provide profession-wide competencies as a counseling psychologist (Ethics, Interventions, Advanced Multicultural Counseling, Vocational Psychology, Supervision/Consultation and Research).

In keeping with our scientist-practitioner model, we require all students to participate on a faculty member’s research team for two years, registering for ED PSYCH 838 for 12 credits. Many students participate on more than one faculty member’s team, and most students stay involved in research for the entire four years that they are on campus.

Our program is recognized by the state licensing board, and you will be eligible for licensure as a psychologist once you complete the doctorate and the post-doctoral hours required by the state and successfully pass the national licensing exam and state jurisprudence exam.

Application Process

All applications must be completed fully online through the UWM Graduate School’s Panthera Application System .

You should plan to apply a year before you intend to start. Be sure to pay careful attention to the program’s specific deadline.

Final Deadline for Fall Admission : Final application deadline is  Dec. 1  for Fall admission.

Applicants who are invited for interviews will be notified by early January. Applicants will be notified of admissions decisions by mid-February.

• The program requires three letters of recommendation. These letters must be submitted through the application’s electronic recommendation feature by the recommenders themselves. Letters uploaded or sent by the applicant will not be accepted.
• Applicants are also required to submit a writing sample completed within the last five years.

• Associate Professor , Educational Psychology
• Program Director , School and Clinical Mental Health Counseling, MS
• [email protected]
• Enderis Hall 791

• University Distinguished Professor , Educational Psychology
• Mary and Ted Kellner Endowed Chair of Educational Psychology , Educational Psychology
• Program Director , Counseling Psychology, PhD
• [email protected]
• 414-251-8328
• Enderis Hall 773

• Assistant Professor , Educational Psychology
• [email protected]
• Enderis Hall 789

• [email protected]
• 414-251-7057
• Enderis Hall 793

• [email protected]
• Enderis Hall 729

• Professor , Educational Psychology
• [email protected]
• Enderis Hall 753

Kelsey Autin, PhD, Assistant Professor University of Florida Dr. Autin’s research interests include how people find fulfillment in their occupations and how this relates to overall well-being. Within this, she focuses on how people’s identities along with their sociopolitical contexts shape their beliefs about their freedom of work choice and barriers to obtaining decent work.

Nadya A. Fouad, PhD, ABPP, University Distinguished Professor and Mary and Ted Kellner Endowed Chair of Educational Psychology University of Minnesota Dr. Fouad’s research interests include cross-cultural vocational assessment, career development, interest measurement, role of race and social class in development, and cross-cultural counseling. Dr. Fouad is board certified in counseling psychology, and a licensed psychologist in the State of Wisconsin. *Note : Dr. Fouad is not taking on any new doctoral advisees at this time.

Xu Li, PhD, Assistant Professor University of Maryland, College Park Dr. Li’s research interests include (1) the process and outcome of individual and group psychotherapy, particularly in cross-cultural and multicultural contexts, (2) the development and training of therapists and the measurement of therapist competency, and (3) the career development and mental health of college students. With a bachelor’s degree in mathematical sciences, Dr. Li is keenly interested in exploring the use of advanced and novel quantitative methods in counseling psychology research.

Ankita Nikalje, PhD, Assistant Professor Purdue University Dr. Nikalje’s research focuses on systemic issues within the South Asian diaspora and their impact on lived experiences and mental health. She is particularly passionate about the issue of casteism and how caste discrimination continues to be experienced on an institutional, interpersonal and internalized level outside of South Asia. She has theorized Caste Critical Theory (CasteCRIT) and is developing instruments to measure the impact of caste in the diaspora. Similarly, her research also focuses on the impact of colonization, especially as it relates to internalized colonization or colonial mentality among South Asians.

Leah Rouse, PhD, Associate Professor and Electa Quinney Scholar University of Wisconsin-Madison Dr. Rouse’s research interests include trauma psychology, suicidology and mental health issues facing corrections, EMS and military populations, as well as cancer patients, survivors and their families, and American Indian communities. She works from a qualitative and Indigenous framework in research and practice. Dr. Rouse is board certified in counseling psychology, and a licensed psychologist in Wisconsin.

Stephen R. Wester, PhD, ABPP, Professor University of Florida Dr. Wester’s research interests include male gender role conflict, multicultural expressions of masculinity, gender and emotion, and counseling men, as well as the training of counseling psychologists and counseling supervision. Dr. Wester is board certified in counseling psychology, as well as a licensed psychologist in Wisconsin.

Academic Resources

• Academic Programs
• Academic Catalog
• Educational Psychology: Courses for Undergraduate and First Year
• Foundations of Reading Test (FoRT)
• Licensing, Renewals and Stipulations
• Multiliteracies, Languages, and Cultures Resource Library
• Office of Clinical Experiences
• Office of Student Services
• PIECE Project
• Post-Baccalaureate Certifications
• Request for Transcript Evaluation
• Student Teaching Resources
• Transfer Guides
• UWM Writing Project

This degree is offered through the School of Online Studies. The Psychology degree with a Counseling Concentration has been designed with an emphasis on counseling and psychology content. The curriculum focuses on issues of development, diversity, and human behavior and is designed for students desiring entry-level positions or preparation for graduate studies.

Required Courses for the Psychology/Counseling B.S. Degree

I. christian studies core - 15-21 credits.

• ICS 3610 - Concepts of Global and Ethical Leadership 3 Credits *
• THE 3701 - Apologetics and Christian Evidences 3 Credits *
• BIB 1511 - Survey of Biblical Literature 3 Credits *
• BIB 1520 - History of the Old Testament 3 Credits
• BIB 1522 - History of the New Testament 3 Credits
• BIB 3510 - Interpreting the Gospels 3 Credits
• BIB 4710 - Interpreting Romans 3 Credits
• THE 3520 - Foundations of Christian Thought 3 Credits *
• THE 3522 - Systematic Theology I 3 Credits
• THE 3524 - Systematic Theology II 3 Credits

II. General Education Core - 30 Credits

• COM 1010 - Introduction to Communication 3 Credits
• COM - Communication Elective 3 Credits
• Communication, Humanities, Math, Science or Social Science Electives 9 Credits
• ENG 1510 - College Writing and Research 3 Credits
• ENG 1512 - Introduction to Literary Analysis 3 Credits
• Literature Elective 3 Credits
• MAT - Math Elective 3 Credits
• SCI - Science Elective 3 Credits
• Social Science Elective 3 Credits
• SOC 1510 - College Success Strategies 3 Credits 1,2

III. Major Core - 39 Credits

• MAT 2230 - Statistical Concepts 3 Credits *
• PSY 130 - General Psychology 3 Credits *
• PSY 236 - Developmental Psychology 3 Credits *
• PSY 240X - Social Science Research Methods 3 Credits *
• PSY 3060 - Diversity Issues in Counseling 3 Credits *
• PSY 331 - Personality Theories 3 Credits
• PSY 337 - Understanding Psychopathology 3 Credits
• PSY 3538 - Theories of Counseling and Psychotherapy 3 Credits
• PSY 3542 - Methods of Counseling 3 Credits
• PSY 431X - Social Psychology 3 Credits
• PSY 442 - Marriage and Family Counseling 3 Credits
• PSY 4533 - Group Dynamics 3 Credits
• PSY 4546 - Crisis Intervention 3 Credits

IV. Electives - 41 Credits*

A minimum of 36 credits must be at the upper (3000-4000) level for a bachelor degree.

* Some courses from the Christian Studies Core and Major Core can be used to fulfill requirements in the General Education Core. By doing that the number of electives needed would increase so that the minimum of 125 credits is reached.

Total - 125 Credits

1 Counts towards 3 credits of Social Science credits. Students who have successfully completed 60 credits with a GPA of at least a 2.0 may replace  SOC 1510    with a Communication, Humanities, Math, Science or Social Science elective.

2 Click HERE to view options for Humanities and Social Science Electives.

Option: Accelerated Degree Program

Qualified students in the B.S. in Psychology/Counseling program may apply for an accelerated degree program to earn their M.A. in Counseling    degree in an additional two years instead of the typical three years. Click here for more detailed information regarding the acceptance process for this option.

Course Requirements for MA/Counseling

Students who are accepted into the accelerated  M.A. in Counseling    program will substitute the following graduate level courses into the undergraduate degree to fulfill the B.S. Psychology/Counseling requirements.

Click for more information about the M.A. in Counseling    program.

Click here to determine if the Counseling M.A. degree meets the requirements for licensure in your state.

Combined Degrees Psychology/Clinical Mental Health Counseling

• Request Information
• Majors & Degrees

Save on tuition and fast-track to a Clinical Mental Health Counseling master’s degree through JWU’s combined B.S. Psychology/M.S. Clinical Mental Health Counseling program.

If you apply and qualify* for this unique option, you’ll be able to enroll in 4 core counseling graduate courses that will count toward your Psychology bachelor’s degree.

Receive your bachelor’s degree in Psychology and master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and start working toward your professional licensure a full semester ahead of schedule.

Note for Charlotte Students

Charlotte students only need to transfer to Providence after they have completed their senior year and are ready to start full time as graduate students. The 4 Grad courses offered as part of this accelerated program will be offered synchronously to both Charlotte and Providence students over Zoom.

* Students must satisfy separate admission requirements for both undergraduate and graduate programs. Admission to the undergraduate program does not guarantee admission to the graduate program.

Explore the full JWU Catalog course listing for the M.S. program:

Clinical Mental Health Counseling

Explore the JWU Catalog course listing for the combined B.S./M.S.:

Combined B.S./M.S.

Faculty Contacts

Jonathan Mosko, Ph.D. 401-598-1425 Email

Howard Slutzky, Psy.D. 980-598-3224 Email

• Request information
• Start your application