Master's Degree in Counseling (MAC) | CityU of Seattle (2023)

We are accepting applications on a rolling basis.

Make an Impact in the Mental Health Field

City University of Seattle’s Masters of Art in Counseling (MAC) has consistently examined social justice issues as they relate to the overall mental well-being of people from all backgrounds. Race, poverty, social injustices, gender issues, sexuality, immigration status, and differences in morality and belief systems; all of these factors are taken into consideration in all course work and are of a particular focus in our training courses. It is the belief of the MAC that social justice issues must be addressed if one is to address the overall well-being of individuals, families, and communities. We provide opportunities for our students to be involved in these social justice issues.

Coupled with the above, using a practitioner-scholar model, the MAC program trains well-rounded clinical mental health counselors (CMHC), professional school counselors (PSC), and marriage, couple, & family counselors (MCFC) for the realities of day-to-day practice within a diverse world.

The MAC program emphasizes practical application of theory, development of case conceptualization skills, ethical awareness, appreciation of diversity, and self-awareness. You will be introduced to a broad range of clinical issues through a breadth of coursework delivered by practitioner faculty. Supported clinical experiences focus on the delivery of clinical services and assist students to develop a coherent theoretical and ethical framework for practice.

Some classes meet in person on Saturdays. Please speak with an advisor for current schedules.

(Video) Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Seattle University

City University of Seattle's MAC program emphasizes practical application of theory, development of case conceptualization skills, ethical awareness, appreciation of diversity, and self-awareness. You will be introduced to a broad range of clinical issues through a breadth of coursework delivered by practitioner faculty. Supported clinical experiences focus on the delivery of clinical services and assist students to develop a coherent theoretical and ethical framework for practice.

CACREP Accredited Tracks*

  • Clinical Mental Health Counseling – Meets the educational requirements for licensure as a Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) in Washington State
  • Professional School Counseling – Meets the educational requirements for the School Counselor K-12 credential in Washington State
  • Marriage, Couple, and Family Counseling – Meets the educational requirements for licensure as a Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) in Washington State

*Tracks are contingent on applications and enrollments into the respective specialty areas that substantiate a cohort model of learning.

Note: Licensing and certification requirements vary by state. Students who relocate to another state during their enrollment may or may not satisfy the eligibility criteria to obtain a professional license or certification in that state. If a student is located outside of the State of Washington, it is highly recommended that you first seek guidance from the appropriate licensing agency in your home state before beginning an academic program outside of your state. CityU has provided the following link to the American Counseling Association's licensure requirements by state.

MAC Program Learning Outcomes

Throughout the master’s degree in counseling program, you’ll learn:

  • Professional Counseling Orientation and Ethical Practice: Demonstrates understanding and applies professional ethical standards including clear and appropriate relationships with clients, colleagues, and the community.
  • Social and Cultural Diversity: Collaborates with people of diverse ethnicity, culture, gender identity, sexual identity, physical ability, religious beliefs, and socioeconomic status through a lens of social justice and advocacy.
  • Human Growth and Development: Develops understanding and awareness into what impacts personal development through a lens of resiliency and wellness for clients across the lifespan.
  • Career Development: Demonstrates knowledge and working application of career development in counseling practice.
  • Counseling and Helping Relationships: Establishes and maintains effective counseling relationships and employs theoretically grounded counseling techniques.
  • Group Counseling and Group Work: Applies methods, skills, and other group approaches in a multicultural society using theories of group counseling, principles of group dynamics, facilitation styles, and direct experiences.
  • Assessment and Testing: Gathers information to assess needs and next steps in the counseling process, including assessment for suicide/homicide risk and reporting requirements for abuse/ neglect of vulnerable populations.
  • Research and Program Evaluation: Locates resources and critically evaluates research related to core areas of counseling to incorporate into clinical practice.
  • Social Justice: Demonstrates systemic understanding of the role of counselors in promoting social justice for the well-being of the greater community.

Specialty Areas

  • Clinical Mental Health Counseling: Applies counseling theory to client presenting problems and diagnoses, including co-occurring disorders, with appropriate theoretical-based treatment planning and interventions for projected outcomes.
    • Digitally Delivered Master of Arts in Counseling - Clinical Mental Health Counseling
  • Marriage, Couple, and Family Counseling: Applies family systems theory to client(s) presenting problems and diagnoses.
  • Professional School Counseling: Demonstrates understanding and application of collaborative work with school and community resources to implement a K-12 comprehensive counseling program.

Program Resources

The following resources are available:

(Video) CityU - Counseling

  • 2022-2023 MAC Student Handbook*
  • Program Outcome Report
  • MAC Program Faculty
  • Program Admissions Requirements
  • Comprehensive Assessment Plan Report
  • CityU Supervision Training for Site Supervisors [DC4]
  • Personal Counseling Referrals for Students
  • Competitive MAC Candidates

*The institutional media accurately describe the academic unit, the core counselor education program faculty, and each program and specialty area offered, including admissions criteria, accreditation status, methods of instruction, minimum degree requirements, matriculation requirements, and financial aid information.

Fall 2023 Application Schedule:

Application DeadlineFebruary 1st
Application ReviewFebruary 10th-21st
In-Person InterviewsFebruary 27th
Virtual InterviewsMarch 1st-10th
Final ReviewsMarch 10th-15th
Acceptance Notifications SentWeek of March 20th

For full course descriptions please refer to the current catalog.

Total Program Credits 93

Core CACREP Areas (35 credits)

  • COUN 502 Multicultural Counseling (5)
  • COUN 503 Human Growth and Development (5)
  • COUN 510 Professional Ethics and Law (5)
  • COUN 518 Career Counseling in Clinical Settings (3)
  • COUN 525 Testing and Assessment (5)
  • COUN 526 Counseling Theory (5)
  • COUN 527 Group Counseling (5)

Required Courses Outside of Core (36 credits)

  • COUN 512 Systemic Theory: Marriage, Couple, and Family Counseling (5)
  • COUN 514 Research Methods and Statistics (5)
  • COUN 537 Crisis, Grief, & Trauma Counseling (5)
  • COUN 535 Introduction to Psychopathy and Psychopharmacology (5)
  • COUN 532 Addictions and Co-Occurring Counseling (5)
  • COUN 618 Human Sexuality (5)
  • COUN 565 Introduction to the Counseling Practice (5)
  • COUN 671 Capstone I (1)

Additional Required Depth Coursework (10 credits)

Choose one course from the list below:

  • COUN 601 Child and Adolescent Counseling (5)
  • COUN 616 Counseling Older Adults (5)

Internships/Practica (14 credits)

  • COUN 623 Counseling Skills (2)
  • COUN 624 Advanced Counseling Skills (2)
  • COUN 575 Practicum I (2)
  • COUN 577 Practicum II (2)
  • COUN 673 Counseling Internship I (2)
  • COUN 675 Counseling Internship II (2)
  • COUN 677 Counseling Internship III (2)
(Video) Mac Partlow, MA Couples and Addictions Counseling Seattle Washington

Total Program Credits 93

Core CACREP Areas (35 credits)

  • COUN 502 Multicultural Counseling (5)
  • COUN 503 Human Growth and Development (5)
  • COUN 510 Professional Ethics and Law (5)
  • COUN 518 Career Counseling in Clinical Settings (3)
  • COUN 525 Testing and Assessment (5)
  • COUN 526 Counseling Theory (5)
  • COUN 527 Group Counseling (5)

Required Courses Outside of Core (36 credits)

  • COUN 512 Systemic Theory: Marriage, Couple, and Family Counseling (5)
  • COUN 514 Research Methods and Statistics (5)
  • COUN 537 Crisis, Grief, & Trauma Counseling (5)
  • COUN 535 Introduction to Psychopathology and Psychopharmacology (5)
  • COUN 532 Addictions and Co-Occurring Counseling (5)
  • COUN 618 Human Sexuality (5)
  • COUN 565 Introduction to the Counseling Practice (5)
  • COUN 671 Capstone I (1)

Additional Required Depth Coursework (5 credits)

  • COUN 615 Couples Counseling (5)

Training Requirements (14 credits)

  • COUN 623 Counseling Skills (2)
  • COUN 624 Advanced Counseling Skills (2)
  • COUN 575 Practicum I (2)
  • COUN 577 Practicum II (2)
  • COUN 673 Counseling Internship I (2)
  • COUN 675 Counseling Internship II (2)
  • COUN 677 Counseling Internship III (2)

Total Program Credits 93

Core CACREP Areas (35 credits)

  • COUN 502 Multicultural Counseling (5)
  • COUN 503 Human Growth and Development (5)
  • COUN 510 Professional Ethics and Law (5)
  • COUN 518 Career Counseling in Clinical Settings (3)
  • COUN 525 Testing and Assessment (5)
  • COUN 526 Counseling Theory (5)
  • COUN 527 Group Counseling (5)

Required Courses Outside of Core (36 credits)

  • COUN 512 Systemic Theory: Marriage, Couple, and Family Counseling (5)
  • COUN 514 Research Methods and Statistics (5)
  • COUN 537 Crisis, Grief, & Trauma Counseling (5)
  • COUN 535 Introduction to Psychopathology and Psychopharmacology (5)
  • COUN 532 Addictions and Co-Occurring Counseling (5)
  • COUN 618 Human Sexuality (5)
  • COUN 561 Introduction to School Counseling and ASCA Model (5)
  • COUN 671 Capstone I (1)

Additional Required Depth Coursework (5 credits)

  • COUN 601 Child and Adolescent Counseling (5)

Training Requirements (14 credits)

  • COUN 623 Counseling Skills (2)
  • COUN 624 Advanced Counseling Skills (2)
  • COUN 570 School Counseling Practicum (2)
  • COUN 661 School Counseling Internship I (2)
  • COUN 663 School Counseling Internship II (2)
  • COUN 665 School Counseling Internship III (2)
  • COUN 667 School Counseling Internship IV (2)

All three MAC tracks (CMHC, MCFC, & PSC) meet educational qualifications to apply for Washington state associate licensure, which is the first tier of licensure to work towards Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC). Those in the PSC track will also meet educational qualifications to apply for the Washington state Educational Staff Associate (ESA) credential. You’ll be qualified and trained to work in a variety of mental health settings, including:

(Video) Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling (MAC) Program at Aquinas College

  • Nonprofit counseling agencies
  • Private counseling practices
  • Managed care organizations
  • Correctional institutions
  • Residential care facilities
  • Hospitals

All three emphases in this master of arts in counseling degree program include core knowledge courses in the 8 core CACREP curriculum areas as well as their respective specialty CACREP curriculum. Courses cover a broad range of issues to prepare you for real client work, which may include:

  • Counseling and assessments
  • Trauma and violence counseling
  • Psychopathology
  • Group counseling
  • Family counseling
  • Couples counseling
  • Counseling children and adolescents
  • Counseling older adults

Networking Opportunities

At CityU, you’ll have the opportunity to expand your professional network by connecting with faculty working in your field, students from around the globe, and alumni employed at Seattle’s top companies. Plus, you’ll be part of a supportive community that’s dedicated to helping you reach your career goals.

Tuition Cost

Learn more about tuition and fees for our undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs.

Financial Aid Opportunities

At CityU, we are committed to helping students achieve their academic goals no matter their economic situations. Our financial aid counselors are here to find the resources you need to pay for your education, including grants, loans, work study, and scholarships. Learn more about financial aid opportunities at CityU, or contact our Financial Aid Team at 800.426.5596, 206.239.4540, or finaid@cityu.edu.

Military Tuition Benefits

As a Yellow Ribbon school, CityU is proud to serve those who have served in the military. We offer military tuition discounts for active-duty servicemembers and their spouses and accept military benefits such as the Post 9/11 GI Bill® and Tuition Assistance. Learn more about military tuition benefits, VA benefits, and military partnership programs designed to help you reach your military and career goals.

FAQs

What is the difference between a MA and a MS in counseling? ›

Most MS graduates in counseling will look for positions in areas of their specialization. Graduates with an MA in counseling will generally not pursue licensing. While they can apply for a counseling license with their degree, many graduates with an MA in counseling will teach counseling or get involved in research.

What is the acceptance rate for NYU Steinhardt Counseling Masters? ›

programs at Steinhardt have some of the highest acceptance rates in the country. Steinhardt's undergraduate acceptance rate hovers around 42%, while the Master's and Advanced Certificates acceptance rates at NYU Steinhardt historically average 50%. The Ph. D.

Is City University of Seattle accredited? ›

CityU is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities, a regional accrediting body approved by the U.S. Department of Education. Regional accreditation serves as the most important means of assuring the quality of higher education through rigorous peer review and evaluation.

Is it better to get an MS or MA in psychology? ›

When choosing between an MA vs MS in psychology, there are a few notable differences to consider. Very Well Mind summarizes the key distinction: “An MA degree may indicate a stronger liberal arts focus, while an MS usually means there's a stronger concentration on research and the sciences.”

Which is better MA or MS? ›

A master's degree can be either a Master of Arts (MA) or Master of Science (MS) and provides in-depth learning beyond a bachelor's degree. The key difference between the two degrees is that the former focuses on arts and humanities while the latter is geared more toward scientific and technical fields.

What GPA do you need for NYU Masters? ›

Admission Requirements

Applicants must have a minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0 or higher, and GREs are required from those applying for full-time study. Applicants must be admitted formally to a certificate program before beginning graduate course work.

What GPA do you need for NYU mental health counseling? ›

In order to apply, you must hold a bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited university. To apply to the online program, you must have earned an undergraduate degree with a minimum 3.0 cumulative GPA (based on a 4.0 scale).

How much does it cost to get a masters in counseling at NYU? ›

Students in the online master of arts in Counseling and Guidance program can expect to pay approximately $96,960 in tuition over the course of the program.

Is Seattle University worth it? ›

Seattle University is included in U.S. News and World Report's “Best National Universities” and several programs received high rankings in its 2022-2023 U.S. News & World Report Best Colleges rankings.

What rank is Seattle University? ›

It utilizes a quarter-based academic calendar. Seattle University's ranking in the 2022-2023 edition of Best Colleges is National Universities, #137. Its tuition and fees are $51,274. Seattle University is a Jesuit school located in the First Hill and Capitol Hill neighborhoods of the city.

What rank is Seattle University in the world? ›

Seattle University Rankings

Seattle University is ranked #137 out of 443 National Universities. Schools are ranked according to their performance across a set of widely accepted indicators of excellence. Read more about how we rank schools.

Is a Masters enough to be a psychologist? ›

The qualifications required for different fields of psychology and state-specific licensing criteria vary. At a minimum, all major psychology professions demand a master's or Education Specialist degree, but the majority also necessitate a doctoral-level degree and a substantial amount of supervised work experience.

How hard is a psychology masters? ›

A master's in psychology program is hard, but the level of difficulty students experience varies. The program builds on the knowledge and skills you obtained from your undergraduate degree. You can draw from the experience you gained from your undergraduate degree to establish strategies for success.

What is the difference between MA in counseling and psychology? ›

While a master's in psychology emphasizes assessment and tailors treatment to specific mental disorders, a master's in clinical mental health counseling focuses on holistic treatment. Clinical mental health counselors may administer therapeutic tests with the proper education, training, and supervised experience.

What does MA mean for a therapist? ›

What's the difference between an MA and MS in Counseling? A Master of Science (MS) and a Master of Arts (MA) are both postgraduate degree programs that prepare you to be a clinician in fields such as mental health counseling, marriage and family counseling, and substance abuse counseling.

Which MA degree is best for future? ›

10 of the best master's degrees for the future
  1. Finance. ...
  2. Business administration. ...
  3. Economics. ...
  4. Computer science. ...
  5. Information technology. ...
  6. Industrial engineering. ...
  7. Counseling. ...
  8. Physician assistant studies.
Mar 10, 2023

Which degree is best in MA? ›

9 Top Masters of Arts in India 2023
  • Master in World Literature. ...
  • Masters in Management and Strategic Leadership. ...
  • MASTER OF ARTS (JOURNALISM & MASS COMMUNICATION) ...
  • MA in Entrepreneurship for Impact. ...
  • 2-YEAR M.A IN JOURNALISM & MASS COMMUNICATION. ...
  • MA in Hindu Studies (Sanātana)

Can I get a masters with a 2.7 GPA? ›

There is no universal minimum GPA for grad school. The minimum, when one is specified for admissions requirements, can vary by school and program. At many schools, admissions requirements for masters programs may specify a 3.0 GPA minimum, but some schools may accept applicants with lower GPAs.

Does GPA matter during masters? ›

Does GPA Matter for Grad School? Yes, your undergraduate GPA is taken into account when you apply to graduate programs. Most colleges like to see at least a 2.5 or a 3.0 from master's program applicants. Some programs set their minimums at 3.3 or higher.

Can I get a masters with a low GPA? ›

Worried that you won't be able to get into the graduate school of your dreams because your GPA is low? Don't be. Less-than-stellar grades can be overcome as long as you have a plan. Almost all graduate school applications require transcripts.

What is the highest degree for mental health counselor? ›

Many people wonder, “What degree do you need to be a mental health counselor?” You do need a master's degree if you wish to be a licensed mental health counselor. Some states require specific coursework to earn a master's degree in mental health counseling.

What degree do most mental health counselors have? ›

A practicing Licensed Mental Health Counselor (aka psychological counselor) must have a master's degree in counseling, psychology, or a related field. In addition, they must complete a field internship of about two years (specific requirements vary by state).

Does NYU offer free counseling? ›

Counseling and Wellness Services offers students short-term individual counseling, group counseling, self-improvement classes, referrals, and psychiatric medication services. All services except psychiatric medication services are free of charge. Learn more about our services at nyu.edu/counseling.

What is the difference between Counselling and counseling? ›

There is no difference between counselling and counseling. Both terms refer to the same service offered by licensed counselors, therapists, psychologists, or social workers. However, counselling with two Ls is considered the UK English form of the word. Counseling is the American English version.

How much does a masters in counseling pay in NYC? ›

How much does a Counselor make in New York, NY? The average Counselor salary in New York, NY is $89,928 as of May 01, 2023, but the salary range typically falls between $82,084 and $101,686.

Does NYU give scholarships for Masters? ›

The Graduate School awards 10 full tuition awards to new master's students for fall admission each year. These scholarships include an award for registration and services fees.

What major is Seattle University known for? ›

The most popular majors at Seattle University include: Business, Management, Marketing, and Related Support Services; Health Professions and Related Programs; Computer and Information Sciences and Support Services; Engineering; Biological and Biomedical Sciences; Communication, Journalism, and Related Programs; Visual ...

Is UW Seattle an elite school? ›

The University of Washington has moved up the ranks of elite global universities, according to U.S. News and World Report. Driving the news: U.S. News' latest list of the world's best colleges and universities placed the UW at No. 6 globally.

Is Seattle State University a hard school to get into? ›

Seattle University admissions is selective with an acceptance rate of 82%. Half the applicants admitted to Seattle University have an SAT score between 1120 and 1330 or an ACT score of 24 and 31. However, one quarter of admitted applicants achieved scores above these ranges and one quarter scored below these ranges.

What GPA is required for Seattle University? ›

Undergraduate applicants should have the equivalent of a U.S. grade-point average of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale.

What is the biggest university in Seattle? ›

University of Washington Seattle

Founded in 1861, the University of Washington Seattle is a public research university and the largest site in an academic complex that also includes campuses in Bothell and Tacoma.

Why is Washington university ranked so high? ›

Not only has the money raised the university's standing — one of the main factors in the U.S. News rankings is financial resources — but it has also provided Wash U. the wherewithal to advance its footing in another category the magazine weighs: caliber of the student body.

What University is ranked number 1 in the US? ›

Harvard University is a private institution in Cambridge, Massachusetts, just outside of Boston.

Is Seattle a good place to live? ›

The city is home to a thriving arts and culture scene, a wide range of outdoor activities, and a diverse population that offers a rich tapestry of experiences and perspectives. For those who are willing to pay the price, living in Seattle can be an incredibly rewarding experience.

Which University rank number 1 in the world? ›

Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)

What does counselor with MS mean? ›

A Master of Science (MS) and a Master of Arts (MA) are both postgraduate degree programs that prepare you to be a clinician in fields such as mental health counseling, marriage and family counseling, and substance abuse counseling.

What is MA credential for a therapist? ›

MA: Master of arts is a fairly universal designation. It indicates the person has a master's degree. If it is used to indicate professional competence in psychology, it should be in a field related to psychology. A master's degree generally reflects two years of post-bachelor's study.

What is the abbreviation for a masters in counseling? ›

Other abbreviations: MC, M.C., M. Couns. It is a postgraduate professional degree.

What does MFT stand for in counseling? ›

A Marriage and Family Therapist (MFT) is a mental health practitioner who provides psychotherapy and related change process services with individuals, couples, families, and groups. They are regulated through professional licensure, monitored in the state of California by the Board of Behavioral Sciences (BBS).

What is the best degree for counseling? ›

A Master's Degree in Counseling

Aspiring mental health counselors can choose from degree programs in social work, psychology, and – perhaps the most popular – counseling, the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reported.

How much does a licensed professional counselor earn in MS? ›

The average Licensed Professional Counselor salary in Mississippi is $50,667 as of May 01, 2023, but the range typically falls between $45,526 and $56,762.

How do I become a counselor in MS? ›

Master's degree in Counseling. – 60 semester-hours or 90 quarter-hours master's degree in Counseling or degree program with the word counseling in the title.
...
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  3. Select whether or not Active Military.

What's the difference between a counselor and a therapist? ›

Counselors tend to offer short-term care, while therapists tend to offer long-term care. Therapists can be more past focused and counselors more future focused. Counselors often have a set number of sessions, and therapists often work on an ongoing basis. Therapists are more likely to treat mental health conditions.

What do the letters after a therapist's name mean? ›

The letters after your therapist's name indicate their level of education (i.e. MA, Ph. D, Psy. D), licenses (i.e. LPC, LMFT, etc) and other certifications (i.e. BC-TMH, NCC) Here are some common licenses and certifications.

What is the acronym for master's degree? ›

The most common academic master's degrees are the Master of Arts (MA or AM) and Master of Science (MS or SM). However, there are many different master's degree titles, especially in the professional fields.

How do you abbreviate Masters of Education with counseling? ›

Ed.) in School Counseling. Generally offered through a higher education institution's school of education, the Master of Education (M.

How do I abbreviate my master's degree in Psychology? ›

The Master of Psychology (often abbreviated Psy. M. or M. Psych.) is a master's degree in the field of Psychology.

What is the highest paid therapist? ›

Psychiatrists are physicians who specialize in mental health. Like any medical doctor, they diagnose and treat illness through different strategies. Psychiatrists prescribe medications for patients with mental illnesses. Psychiatrist positions are by far the highest-paying jobs for psychology majors.

What is the difference between therapist and MFT? ›

The primary difference is how each conceptualizes the presenting issues. MFTs look at their clients in the context of their relationships, whereas psychologists focus more on the individual In addition, the training and education requirements are very different.

Is the MFT worth it? ›

Obtaining your marriage and family master's degree can be beneficial and worthwhile if you want a career with high job satisfaction, a substantial salary, and an excellent work-life balance.

Videos

1. Mac Partlow, MA: Couples Counseling Seattle Washington
(MacPartlowLMHC)
2. MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Bay Path University
(BPUWildcat)
3. CityU MAC Site Supervisor Training
(Thomas Field)
4. Clinical Mental Health Counseling Explained - The Helping Professions
(Rider University)
5. Chantelle Stewart Lam, Program Director Master of Counselling congratulates graduates
(City University of Seattle, Canada)
6. Duquesne University M.S. Clinical Mental Health Counseling
(Duquesne University)

References

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