Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota

What you'll study

This programme combines core coursework in mental health theory and applied skills with supervised field experience. Typical modules include:

• Foundations of Mental Health and Psychopathology — diagnostic frameworks, symptomatology and lifespan considerations.
• Counselling Theories and Interventions — major approaches (cognitive‑behavioural, psychodynamic, humanistic) and evidence‑based techniques.
• Assessment and Psychometrics — clinical interviewing, risk assessment, use and interpretation of standardised measures.
• Group Work and Family Systems — facilitation skills, dynamics of group therapy and systemic approaches.
• Substance Use and Co‑occurring Disorders — screening, brief intervention and integrated treatment models.
• Ethics, Law and Professional Practice — professional standards, confidentiality, cultural humility and legal responsibilities.
• Multicultural and Community Perspectives — diversity, disparities in access to services and culturally responsive care.
• Research Methods and Program Evaluation — basic statistics, research design and outcome measurement relevant to practice settings.
• Practicum/Internship — supervised clinical placement in community agencies, hospitals or schools with regular supervisor contact and skills evaluation.
• Capstone or Integrative Seminar — synthesises coursework and fieldwork through a project, case portfolio or reflective practicum seminar.

Course delivery is typically flexible to accommodate working professionals, with options that may include evening, hybrid or online coursework alongside in‑person practicum placements. The overall structure emphasises applied competencies, documentation skills and interprofessional collaboration.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution in psychology, social work, counselling, nursing, education or a related field. Typical application components include:

• Official academic transcripts demonstrating satisfactory undergraduate performance.
• A personal statement outlining professional goals and reasons for pursuing graduate study in mental and social health.
• References or letters of recommendation, preferably from academic instructors or professional supervisors.
• A résumé or CV detailing relevant work, volunteer or practicum experience.
• Some applicants may be invited to an interview; a criminal background check and health clearances are usually required prior to practicum placement.

Prerequisite coursework in basic psychology, statistics or human development may be requested for applicants without a related undergraduate background. Specific admission standards, including any minimum GPA or additional testing, are set by the university and should be confirmed with the admissions office.

Career prospects

Graduates of this master’s programme enter a range of roles across clinical, community and organisational settings. Common career pathways include:

• Licensed or credentialed counsellor working in community mental health, private practice or outpatient clinics (where licensing requirements are met).
• Behavioural health specialist or case manager in hospitals, non‑profit agencies, substance use treatment programmes or primary care networks.
• School counsellor or school‑based mental health provider (often requiring additional state certification).
• Program coordinator, clinical supervisor or administrator in human services agencies and community organisations.
• Roles in crisis intervention, trauma response, rehabilitation services and outreach to underserved populations.

The programme’s practicum focus and applied skill training are intended to make graduates ready for supervised clinical practice and for positions that require competent assessment, intervention planning and collaboration with allied professionals.

Why study at Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota

Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota emphasises small cohorts, close faculty mentoring and a mission‑driven approach to service and ethical practice. The university has a history of preparing practitioners for community‑based work and maintains relationships with local mental health providers to support practicum placements.

Students benefit from faculty who combine academic expertise with clinical experience, opportunities for interprofessional learning with allied health and social service programmes, and flexible scheduling designed for working students. The university’s emphasis on reflective practice, cultural competence and community engagement equips graduates to work effectively in diverse settings and to continue professional development after graduation.