The Master's of Science Degree in Counseling Psychology at Bemidji State University is a rigorous and comprehensive program that prepares students for professional careers in counseling psychology. The program focuses on evidence-based practices grounded in psychological research. The program culminates in an original research paper or thesis and an internship in a setting that matches students' career interests. The program can be used to prepare for careers in variety of settings in the fields of mental health and higher education, including mental health centers, hospitals and clinics, private practice, university counseling centers, student affairs and career services. The program can also be used to prepare for further training in doctoral programs in clinical and counseling psychology.
The Master's Program in Counseling Psychology at Bemidji State University is accredited by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) and is particularly well designed to prepare students for Minnesota state licensure as Licensed Professional Clinical Counselors (LPCC).
Our courses are offered on-campus at Bemidji State University and are mostly offered in the late afternoon and evening to accommodate working and commuting students. Many students are eligible for employment as Graduate Assistants while they complete the program. The program can be completed in about 2 ½ years by full-time students taking approximately 9 credits (3 courses) each semester and by taking some courses over the summer months. Students can also complete the program more gradually, taking fewer classes each term.
I. Required Courses
PSY 5347 Psychological Measurement (3 credits)
PSY 5403 Advanced Statistics and Research Design (4 credits)
PSY 6002 Counseling Research Methods (3 credits)
PSY 6118 Counseling Theories and Practice (4 credits)
PSY 6119 Psychopathology (3credits)
PSY 6229 Assessment and Career Development (3 credits)
PSY 6331 Practicum I: Treatment Planning and Outcomes Assessment (3 credits)
PSY 6332 Practicum II: Counseling, Ethics and Diversity in Practice (3 credits)
PSY 6337 Group Counseling (3 credits)
PSY 6777 Professional Ethics (2 credits)
PSY 6778 Counseling in a Diverse Society (2 credits)
PSY 6870 Research Proposal Seminar (1 credit)
PSY 6888 Personal Growth and Development (1 credit)
PSY 6970 Internship in Counseling Psychology (6 credits)
Select one of the following:
PSY 6980 Research Paper (2 credits)
PSY 6990 Master’s Thesis (4 credits)
Subtotal 43-45 Credits
III. Electives: Choose 6 credits from the following courses.
Recommended Courses for the Counseling and College Student Development Focus
PSY 6407 Student Affairs Administration (3 credits)
PSY 6408 Issues in College Student Development (3 credits)
Recommend Courses for the Counseling Licensure Focus
PSY 5328 Behavioral and Cognitive Intervention (3 credits)
PSY 6120 Developmental Psychopathology (3 credits) (Required for LPCC)
PSY 6469 Family Therapy (3 credits) (Required for LPC and LPCC)
NRSG 5457 Sexual Abuse (2 credits)
Additional Electives
PSY 5408 Human Services Program Management
Additional elective courses may be applied with approval of the program coordinator and the student’s advisor.
Total Semester Credits Required for the Degree, 49-51 Credits.