Doane University

What you'll study

The curriculum combines foundational psychological science with applied clinical and counselling practice. Core topics typically include assessment and diagnosis, counselling theories and techniques, psychopathology across the lifespan, ethical and legal issues in practice, and multicultural competence. Students also study research methods and applied statistics to support evidence-based intervention.

• Clinical Assessment and Diagnostic Interviewing
• Counselling Theories and Interventions (individual and group modalities)
• Psychopathology and Case Conceptualisation
• Ethics, Law and Professional Issues in Mental Health
• Multicultural and Diversity Issues in Counselling
• Research Methods and Applied Practicum/Internship
• Electives such as trauma-informed care, substance use treatment, family therapy or applied behavioural interventions

The programme emphasises practicum and internship experiences in community agencies, schools, hospitals and other placement sites to develop clinical skills under faculty supervision. Many students complete a capstone project or clinical portfolio that integrates assessment, intervention and outcome evaluation.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a recognised bachelor's degree from an accredited institution. Typical admissions components include:

• Academic transcripts showing an undergraduate degree in psychology or a related field; applicants without a psychology background may be asked to complete prerequisite coursework.
• A personal statement or statement of purpose outlining professional goals and reasons for pursuing the programme.
• References or letters of recommendation, preferably academic or professional, attesting to readiness for graduate study.
• An interview with programme faculty may be part of the selection process.

Some applicants bring relevant professional or volunteer experience in mental health, social services, education or related areas, which strengthens an application. Admissions policies do not rely universally on centralised tests; prospective students should check the specific programme page for any test requirements or additional documentation.

Career prospects

Graduates pursue a range of human services and applied psychology careers. Common pathways include roles as clinical or counselling practitioners in community mental health centres, private practice (pending licensure), school counselling, hospital and healthcare settings, substance misuse treatment programmes, and correctional or residential services.

• Entry into supervised clinical work required for state licensure or certification as a counsellor/therapist — additional supervised hours and examinations will usually be necessary.
• Employment in programme development, case management, behavioural health coordination and crisis intervention.
• Roles in organisational consulting, human services administration, programme evaluation and applied research.
• Further academic study or doctoral training for careers in research and higher education.

The applied focus of the degree, combined with practicum experience, prepares graduates to move into frontline clinical roles or to enhance existing professional practice.

Why study at Doane University

Doane offers a supportive learning environment with small class sizes and close faculty supervision that emphasises applied skill development and ethical practice. The programme integrates community-based practicum placements across the region, allowing students to build a diverse clinical portfolio while receiving faculty feedback.

• Faculty-practitioner instructors who combine academic expertise with clinical experience.
• Flexible delivery options that may include on-campus and online coursework to accommodate working professionals.
• Emphasis on hands-on training, professional development and preparation for licensure pathways.
• Access to local placement sites and an alumni network that supports employment and career development in the region and beyond.

Prospective students should consult Doane University's programme pages and admissions office for the most current information on course delivery, practicum arrangements and licensure preparation specific to their location.