Clinical Mental Health Counseling

The online Master of Education (M.Ed.) in Clinical Mental Health Counseling is a distance education master’s degree program for counseling professionals who wish to work in clinical mental health capacities. The program also prepares professionals in behavioral health fields to promote client wellness.

In addition to the traditional focus on developmental theory and the associated design and implementation of preventive interventions, the M.Ed. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling provides a foundation in clinical counseling theory and practice. Exploration of issues related to multicultural diversity is also reflected in the required coursework and the faculty-student community.

Both faculty and students enjoy an excellent relationship with professionals in the University Counseling Center, and many opportunities for relevant experience are provided through internships in various community entities. Students participate in individualized field experiences appropriate to their area of study.

In light of our commitment to multicultural diversity, we are particularly interested in attracting students from culturally diverse backgrounds. In recent years, we have increased the proportion of culturally different students from less than 5% to almost 20% of our degree candidates. Our curriculum content acknowledges the significance of cross-cultural perspectives in counseling theory, research and practice.

Visit the College of Education program website for more information.

Graduates of the M.Ed in Clinical Mental Health Counseling will meet course requirements for Professional Licensure in the state of North Carolina.

Eligibility

Applicants must submit:

• 3 recommendations from people who know your academic record and potential for graduate study (letters should be uploaded online)
• Official transcripts of all post-secondary education
• **Official statement of English Proficiency (TOEFL) for international students
• All students must be able to complete their field experiences (Practicum and Internship) in the state of North Carolina

Selection for admission is based on a number of considerations:

• Academic achievement, especially in the junior and senior undergraduate years, as well as performance in any graduate courses, is carefully evaluated for evidence of competence in intellectual inquiry.
• Performance ratings and recommendations from professions and supervisory personnel are also carefully examined for evidence of personal qualities requisite for professional competence.
• Demonstrated leadership activity and/or significant work experience represent additional important factors.
• Interview process – candidates are selected to be interviewed, barring significant geographical distances.
• Other additional materials are also welcome to supplement the application –such as a research paper, a video of some "helping" activity by the candidate, etc.

Applications and all supporting documents must be received on or before the Graduate School Priority Deadlines or the Program Deadlines. International students should also consider their specific deadline, which is earlier.

**Request the test center to send your scores directly to NC State when taking the exam; TOEFL Institution code 5496. Upload unofficial copy when submitting application.

Plan of Study

The online option is a three-year, part-time cohort program that requires students to take courses year-round including summer. Students begin in Summer II (June), and typically take two online classes in fall and in spring. During the final year, some on-campus (weekend) classes are required.

Career Prospects

Completion of a master's degree in counselor education is the first step to becoming licensed to practice as a mental health counselor in the state of North Carolina. Students are eligible to take licensing exams in their field during the final semester of the program.

Mental health professionals continue to be in demand. With increased awareness of mental health challenges, the need for trained professionals skilled in helping people learn coping skills and access psychiatric services also is increasing. Therapists and counseling professionals are key components of the mental health support system. Graduates of the MEd in Clinical Mental Health Counseling build rewarding and purposeful careers as therapists, couples counselors, family therapists, substance abuse counselors or counseling professionals.