You look around and you see a world in chaos at both a global and local level. You may not be able to create world peace or solve global hunger, but you are sure that you have the gift of compassion and can help make this a better world one person at a time.
Palm Beach Atlantic University's Master of Science in Mental Health Counseling prepares you to serve the world at a higher level by pursuing state licensure to counsel clients in a professional setting.
At PBA, we offer guidance that focuses on biblical, historical, theoretical and practical studies. Combined with our thriving community connections, we help you develop skills in the field of counseling to reach your potential.
The mission of the Counselor Education Program is to facilitate a holistic educational experience, through which students develop personal and professional qualities, competencies, ethical judgment, and spiritual awareness, as they prepare for professional service in school counseling, clinical mental health counseling, or for advanced study in a related field.
Licensure and certification varies from state to state, and graduates should be prepared to abide by additional requirements when seeking licensure or certification in a state other than Florida.
“The graduate program was personal, intimate, and real. The professors gave top notch advice and created a fun learning environment.” Jonathan Rios '13
The School of Education & Behavioral Studies is well-known throughout Florida and as such, has established solid partnerships with school districts and other organizations for meaningful hands-on student teaching and clinical opportunities. Our Christ-centered approach to teaching and learning will deepen your outlook on your chosen profession and the impact you can have on others. And our innovative range of programs, from education to athletic training, results in a dynamic range of students learning together and collaborating daily.
Features of our distinguished education and behavioral studies programs:
Program Learning Outcomes:
Our program delivers specific benefits including:
When you finish at PBA you will have:
International students should inquire about additional Master's in Mental Health Counseling admission requirements.
GRE/MAT is not required for students with a 3.0 cumulative grade point average from a regionally accredited college or university. The requirement is waived for applicants with a previously earned master’s degree or those who have completed 15 or more graduate credits with transferable grades from a regionally accredited institution.
Clinical Mental Health Counseling major: Successful completion of the prescribed curriculum of 60 credit hours with a 3.0 cumulative GPA and a grade of "B" or higher in COU 5133 - Counseling Skills and Characteristics, COU 5123 - Legal, Ethical, and Professional Standards, and COU 5XX3 – Diagnosis and Treatment in Counseling, as well as practicum and internship courses; 1,000 hours of supervised practicum and internship under a supervisor approved by the program faculty; and an exit exam.
Note: In addition to the graduation requirements specific to each major, student performance is assessed throughout the program in key performance indicators, overall progress, and professional dispositions, as outlined in the Counselor Education Handbook.
Applicants will be notified in writing of the Graduate Admissions Committee’s decision within two weeks after completing the interview. To secure a spot in the program, accepted students must, no later than 30 days before classes begin, submit:
The PBA Clinical Mental Health Counseling program curriculum and policies are reflective of state licensure and certification requirements. These laws and regulations are subject to change and students should consult the state website on all rules and procedures pertaining to licensure and certifications for the State of Florida. Students should periodically review the state website for any changes at http://floridasmentalhealthprofessions.gov and http://www.fldoe.org to stay up-to-date on regulation changes.
Post-Graduation steps to pursue licensure:
Learn more about your classes and requirements in the course catalog.
The estimated tuition for the entire Master of Science in Mental Health Counseling program is $35,070. This includes tuition for 60 credit hours ($560/credit) and the Resource Fee ($220/semester). For specifics about the Master of Science in Mental Health Counseling program, please review the degree section in the student catalog.
*Cost based on 2017-2018 fee schedule and is subject to change. Additional fees may apply.