Program Overview
The master’s in counseling psychology at the University of Kansas is designed for individuals passionate about helping others improve their mental health and well-being. This program is structured as a Master of Science in Counseling Psychology and provides rigorous academic and clinical preparation for students seeking advanced training in counseling practice. Students in this counseling psychology master’s program are prepared to work in a wide range of settings, including private practice, schools, hospitals, community agencies, and integrated behavioral health environments. The curriculum blends theoretical knowledge with hands-on experience, providing the necessary tools for future counselors to support clients in navigating life’s challenges across diverse populations.
The master’s in counseling psychology emphasizes the development of strong interpersonal skills, critical thinking, multicultural competence, and a deep understanding of human behavior. Students in the master’s degree in counseling psychology examine lifespan development, psychopathology, and evidence-based interventions while learning to assess, diagnose, and treat a variety of mental health concerns. Coursework integrates diverse theoretical approaches to therapy and prepares students to work with individuals, couples, families, and groups in ethically grounded ways.
A distinguishing feature of this Master of Science in Counseling Psychology is its strong emphasis on supervised clinical training. Students complete structured practicum and internship experiences in approved community settings, where they provide counseling services under professional supervision. These experiences ensure that graduates of this master’s in counseling psychology program develop both professional identity and practical competence aligned with state licensure requirements.
In addition to clinical skill development, the master’s in counseling psychology incorporates research literacy and applied scholarship. Students learn to critically evaluate research, apply data-informed decision-making in practice, and understand how research informs ethical and culturally responsive counseling. As part of leading counseling psychology master’s programs, the curriculum is grounded in professional standards and prepares graduates for credentialing pathways such as Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), depending on state requirements.
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For more information about the program, visit the program page below.
Counseling Psychology, MSKU School of Education and Human Sciences
The Master’s in Counseling Psychology is part of the School of Education and Human Sciences, preparing educators and human science professionals of the future.Master’s in Counseling Psychology Learning Outcomes
Graduates of the master’s in counseling psychology program will be able to:
- Demonstrate advanced knowledge of counseling theories, human development, and psychological research.
- Apply evidence-based counseling techniques across individual, group, couple, and family modalities.
- Conduct comprehensive assessments using appropriate psychological and counseling tools.
- Integrate multicultural awareness and social justice principles into counseling practice.
- Adhere to ethical, legal, and professional standards in counseling psychology.
- Interpret and apply research findings to inform counseling interventions and professional decision-making.
These outcomes reflect the expectations of a rigorous master’s degree in counseling psychology and align with professional standards in the field.
What Careers Are Possible with a Master’s in Counseling Psychology?
Graduates of the master’s in counseling psychology are prepared for diverse professional pathways in clinical and community settings. Many pursue roles as Licensed Professional Counselors (LPCs), working with clients experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, substance use, relationship challenges, and life transitions. Others work in schools, community mental health centers, hospitals, and private agencies. Potential career paths include:
- Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC)
- School Counselor (with appropriate certification)
- Marriage and Family Therapist (with additional credentialing requirements)
- Behavioral Health Specialist
- Clinical Mental Health Counselor
Labor market data from Lightcast indicate continued national demand for counseling and mental health professionals, with steady projected growth and competitive median wages in many regions. Employment trends suggest strong opportunities for graduates of counseling psychology master’s programs, particularly as demand for behavioral health services expands across healthcare and community settings.
Tuition and Financial Aid
Tuition for the MS in counseling psychology program at KU varies depending on residency status and the number of credit hours taken. The University of Kansas offers a variety of financial aid options, including grants and loans. Graduate students may also be eligible for teaching or research assistantships, which provide both financial support and valuable professional experience.
For information on tuition rates, financial aid opportunities, and how to apply for financial assistance, please visit KU Financial Aid.
Admission Requirements
To apply for the master’s in counseling psychology program at KU, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- A bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution.
- A minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale (or equivalent).
- Official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended.
- Three letters of recommendation from academic or professional references.
- A personal statement outlining your goals for pursuing a career in counseling psychology.
- A resume or CV demonstrating relevant work or volunteer experience.
For further details, visit KU Graduate Admissions.
Student Life and Learning Experiences
Students in the master’s in counseling psychology engage in both academic scholarship and applied clinical training. Research engagement may include collaboration with faculty on projects related to counseling processes, multicultural counseling, supervision, prevention, and mental health outcomes. Students learn to evaluate empirical literature and apply findings to counseling interventions.
Clinical training is central to the counseling psychology master’s experience. Through supervised practicum and internship placements, students provide direct counseling services, participate in case consultation, and receive structured feedback to refine professional skills. These experiential components are critical to professional identity development and preparation for licensure.
Master’s in Counseling Psychology Sample Courses
Coursework in the master’s in counseling psychology is designed to build competence in theory, practice, ethics, and research. Sample courses may include:
- Positive Psychotherapy and Strength-Based Counseling
- Ethical and Legal Issues in Psychology and Counseling
- Understanding Cultural & Individual Differences in Professional Psychology
- Theory of Couples and Family Counseling
Students in the Master of Science in Counseling Psychology complete a sequenced curriculum that integrates classroom learning with applied clinical training. For a comprehensive and current list of required courses, prospective students should consult the KU Catalog.
Master’s in Counseling Psychology Frequently Asked Questions
When should I apply?
Applications are due Jan. 6, 2026 for summer or fall terms (spring admission not available).
How long will it take to complete the degree?
Students typically complete this degree in two years.