Lewis University

What you'll study

This programme combines theoretical foundations with hands-on clinical training. Core study areas include psychopathology and diagnosis, individual and group psychotherapy theories and techniques, psychological assessment and testing, research methods and statistics, lifespan developmental psychology, and ethics and professional issues. You will also study specialised topics such as trauma-informed care, multicultural counselling, substance misuse interventions and crisis intervention.

Teaching methods emphasise applied learning: seminars, case-based discussions, role-play and supervised clinical practica. Students complete coursework in advanced assessment (including interview techniques and standardized measures), evidence-based treatment approaches (for example cognitive-behavioural and interpersonal therapies), and a practicum or internship placement in community agencies, schools or health-care settings. The programme typically offers a capstone experience or supervised clinical hours that prepare graduates for further licensure requirements and professional practice.

Entry requirements

• A recognised bachelor’s degree, preferably with substantial coursework in psychology or closely related fields. Applicants with degrees in other areas may be considered if they demonstrate relevant academic preparation or professional experience.
• Official academic transcripts from all postsecondary institutions attended.
• A personal statement or statement of purpose outlining professional goals and readiness for graduate study in clinical and counselling psychology.
• Letters of recommendation, typically two or three, from academic or professional referees who can comment on the applicant’s suitability for graduate-level clinical training.
• A current résumé or curriculum vitae summarising education, work, volunteer and clinical experience.
• Some applicants may be asked to attend an interview. Standardised test requirements (such as the GRE) are often flexible or reviewed on a case-by-case basis; check the programme for current guidance.

Career prospects

Graduates move into a range of clinical and applied psychology roles. Common career paths include positions as mental health counsellors, behavioural health clinicians, substance misuse counsellors, and case managers in community mental health agencies, hospitals, and non-profit organisations. With further supervised clinical hours and successful completion of any required state licensure examinations, graduates are prepared to pursue professional licensure as counsellors or clinical psychologists where applicable.

Other career options include roles in school-based mental health services, rehabilitation and vocational support, research and programme evaluation, and organisational or community outreach positions that require advanced understanding of human behaviour and evidence-based intervention strategies.

Why study at Lewis University

• Applied emphasis: The programme prioritises practical clinical training and supervised practicum experiences to bridge theory and real-world practice.
• Small classes and close faculty mentoring: Students benefit from personalised instruction and mentorship from faculty with clinical experience in a variety of settings.
• Local practicum networks: Lewis’s location provides access to practicum and internship placements within community agencies, health-care facilities and schools in the surrounding region.
• Flexible delivery: Course scheduling is designed to accommodate working professionals, with options for evening classes and part-time study pathways where available.
• Professional preparation: The curriculum emphasises ethical practice, multicultural competence and evidence-based interventions, preparing graduates for clinical roles and the supervised experience needed for licensure pathways.