University of Northern Colorado

What you'll study

This master's emphasises evidence-based clinical and counselling practice alongside applied research methods. Core topics typically include psychopathology and diagnosis, theories of counselling and psychotherapy, ethical and multicultural issues in practice, psychological assessment, lifespan development, and research methods and statistics.

Students undertake practicum placements in the university training clinic and in community settings to gain supervised experience in assessment, individual and group therapy, crisis intervention and case management. Coursework often covers specialised areas such as trauma-informed care, substance use interventions, couples and family therapy, and integrated behavioural health.

Most students complete a mix of coursework, practicum hours and a culminating experience which may be a thesis, master's project, or comprehensive examination, depending on the chosen course pathway. Training emphasises culturally responsive practice, measurement and outcome evaluation, and professional development skills such as case formulation and treatment planning.

Entry requirements

• Bachelor's degree from an accredited institution, typically in psychology or a related discipline; applicants with other undergraduate backgrounds may be considered if they have completed foundational psychology coursework.
• Competitive undergraduate GPA; programmes expect academic preparation relevant to graduate study in psychology.
• Application materials commonly include a personal statement or statement of purpose, CV or résumé, official transcripts, and letters of recommendation (often two or three).
• Some applicants may be invited to an interview as part of the admissions process.
• GRE requirements may vary; applicants should check current department guidance. International applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency through accepted tests or university-approved alternatives.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for applied roles in community mental health centres, school and university counselling services, inpatient and outpatient healthcare settings, non-profit organisations, and employee assistance programmes. Typical job titles include counsellor, behavioural health clinician, mental health therapist, case manager, programme coordinator and research assistant.

The degree also provides a foundation for doctoral study (PhD or PsyD) for those pursuing careers in clinical research, advanced practice or academia. Those who wish to become licensed professional clinicians should verify the specific post‑graduate supervised practice and credentialing requirements for licensure in their intended jurisdiction, as additional hours, exams and coursework may be required.

Why study at University of Northern Colorado

The University of Northern Colorado offers hands-on clinical training through its on-campus training clinic and established community partnerships, allowing students to work with diverse client populations under faculty supervision. The programme is delivered by faculty active in applied research and clinical practice, enabling students to learn contemporary therapeutic approaches grounded in empirical evidence.

Students benefit from a cohort model that supports close mentorship, opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration across education and health departments, and access to professional development activities such as practicum placement support and career advising. The university’s focus on applied learning makes this programme well suited to students who want immediate practical skills for work in clinical and counselling environments.