M.A. in Counseling Services

Entry Requirements for Postgraduate Programs

1. Academic Qualifications:

• A completed bachelor's degree: Prospective postgraduate students must hold a bachelor's degree or its equivalent from an accredited institution. Typically, this should be a four-year undergraduate degree.

• Minimum GPA: Rider University often requires a minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale or the equivalent. 

2. English Language Proficiency:

• IELTS (International English Language Testing System): An overall band score of 6.5 or higher is commonly required, with no individual band score below 6.0.

• TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) iBT: A minimum total score of 79 is required.

• DET (Duolingo English Test): Rider University accept a DET score of 100 or higher as evidence of English proficiency.

• PTE (Pearson Test of English): A PTE score of 53 or higher is accepted.

3. Standardized Tests:

• GRE (Graduate Record Examination): A overall GRE score of 300 is required.

Rider University offers various scholarship opportunities to international students to help alleviate the financial burden of pursuing higher education in the United States. These scholarships are awarded based on academic merit, leadership qualities, and other criteria. 

1. Global Leaders Scholarship: This prestigious scholarship is designed for international undergraduate students who have demonstrated exceptional academic achievement. It covers a significant portion of tuition costs.

2. Phi Theta Kappa Transfer Scholarship: International transfer students who are members of Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society may be eligible for this scholarship. It recognizes academic excellence and provides financial assistance.

3. Presidential Scholarships: Rider University awards Presidential Scholarships to top-performing international undergraduate students. These scholarships are highly competitive and provide substantial financial support.

4. Dean's Scholarship: Dean's Scholarships are available to international undergraduate students who have a strong academic record. The scholarship amount varies based on academic qualifications.

5. International Achievement Award: This scholarship acknowledges the accomplishments of international undergraduate students. It is based on a combination of academic achievement and extracurricular involvement.

6. Graduate Assistantships: Rider University offers graduate assistantships to international students pursuing master's degrees. These assistantships provide tuition remission and a stipend in exchange for work on campus.

7. Talent Scholarships: Rider provides talent-based scholarships for students with exceptional abilities in areas such as the arts, music, and athletics. International students with exceptional talents can apply for these scholarships.

8. Honors Program Scholarships: Students accepted into Rider's Honors Program may be eligible for additional scholarships, which recognize outstanding academic achievement and commitment to intellectual growth.

9. Corporate and Foundation Scholarships: Rider University has partnerships with various corporations and foundations that offer scholarships to international students. These scholarships may have specific eligibility criteria.

10. Study Abroad Scholarships: Rider encourages international students to participate in study abroad programs. Scholarships are available to support students who wish to study in another country as part of their academic experience.

It's important for international students to review the specific eligibility criteria and application deadlines for each scholarship.

Rider University offers a highly regarded Master of Arts (M.A.) in Counseling Services program. This program equips students with the knowledge, skills, and ethical principles required for rewarding careers in the field of counseling services. Graduates of Rider University's M.A. program are well-prepared for diverse and impactful career opportunities in counseling and related fields.

1. Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC): Graduates can pursue licensure as LPCs, which allows them to provide counseling services to individuals, couples, and families. LPCs work in a variety of settings, including private practice, community mental health centers, and schools.

2. Clinical Mental Health Counselor: Graduates often work as clinical mental health counselors, offering therapy and support to clients dealing with mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, trauma, and addiction.

3. Addiction Counselor: For those interested in addiction counseling, there are opportunities to become certified addiction counselors (CACs) or licensed clinical alcohol and drug counselors (LCADCs) to specialize in helping individuals with substance abuse issues.

4. School Counselor: Some graduates choose to become school counselors, working in K-12 schools to support students' academic, social, and emotional well-being.

5. Marriage and Family Therapist: M.A. graduates can pursue additional training and licensure to become marriage and family therapists, specializing in counseling couples and families facing relationship challenges.

6. Geriatric Counselor: With the aging population, there is a growing need for counselors who specialize in working with older adults to address issues related to aging, health, and life transitions.

7. Trauma Therapist: Trauma therapists work with individuals who have experienced traumatic events, helping them cope and heal.

8. Crisis Counselor: Graduates may work as crisis counselors, providing immediate support to individuals in crisis situations, such as those experiencing suicidal thoughts or emotional distress.

9. Community Mental Health Counselor: Counselors can work in community mental health centers, offering accessible and affordable mental health services to underserved populations.

10. Private Practice: Some graduates choose to open their private counseling practices, offering a wide range of counseling services to clients.

11. Clinical Supervisor: Experienced counselors may become clinical supervisors, providing guidance and oversight to counselors in training.

12. Telehealth Counselor: The rise of telehealth services has created opportunities for counselors to provide therapy and support remotely, offering flexibility in their practice.

13. Substance Abuse Counselor: Graduates can specialize in substance abuse counseling, helping individuals and families overcome addiction and facilitating their recovery.

14. Eating Disorder Therapist: Eating disorder therapists focus on treating individuals with conditions like anorexia, bulimia, or binge-eating disorder, helping them develop healthier relationships with food and body image.

15. Military or Veterans Counselor: Specialized roles exist for counselors to work with military personnel and veterans, addressing issues unique to this population, such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

16. Corporate Wellness Counselor: Some organizations hire counselors to support employees' mental health and well-being through employee assistance programs (EAPs) and wellness initiatives.

17. Rehabilitation Counselor: Rehabilitation counselors assist individuals with disabilities in achieving independence and employment by providing counseling and vocational guidance.

18. Researcher and Educator: Graduates interested in academia can pursue careers as researchers and educators in the field of counseling, contributing to the advancement of counseling knowledge and training future counselors.