M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling

Entry Requirements for Postgraduate programs

Application Fees : US$ 50

Academic Requirements:

1. Undergraduate Degree: You must hold a bachelor's degree or its equivalent from a recognized institution. Your degree should be relevant to your intended field of study at the postgraduate level.

2. Academic Performance: A minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale is preferred. This translates to approximately 60% or a 'C' grade.  

3.  English Language Proficiency:

   • IELTS: A minimum overall score of 6.5 is required with no individual band (section) score less than 6.
   • TOEFL iBT: An overall score of 79 or higher is required.
   • DET: A minimum score for DET around 100 is required.
      
4. WES Evaluation required.

Indiana University of Pennsylvania (IUP) offers various scholarships and financial aid options to international students to help them pursue their education in the United States. Scholarships are awarded based on academic merit, leadership, and other criteria. 

1. Trustee's Scholarship for International Students: This is a highly competitive scholarship awarded to a limited number of incoming international undergraduate students. The scholarship covers a portion of tuition and fees. Selection is based on academic performance, leadership qualities, and extracurricular involvement.

2. Global Scholarship for International Students: This scholarship is available to both undergraduate and graduate international students. It is based on academic merit and can significantly reduce the cost of tuition.

3. IUP International Student Emergency Fund: This fund is designed to assist international students who face unexpected financial crises during their studies. It provides temporary financial support to help students overcome emergency situations.

4. Graduate Assistantships: IUP offers graduate assistantship opportunities to international graduate students. These positions often include a stipend, tuition remission, and valuable work experience in various academic departments.

5. Foundation for IUP Scholarships: The Foundation for IUP administers a variety of scholarships available to both domestic and international students. These scholarships may be based on academic achievement, financial need, or specific areas of study.

6. Departmental Scholarships: Many academic departments and colleges within IUP offer scholarships to students majoring in their respective fields. These scholarships can be highly specialized and may require applicants to meet specific criteria.

7. Athletic Scholarships: IUP offers athletic scholarships to talented student-athletes. International students with exceptional athletic abilities may be eligible for these scholarships.

8. External Scholarships: IUP encourages international students to explore external scholarship opportunities, such as those offered by governments, foundations, and organizations in their home countries. The International Education Office can provide guidance on finding these opportunities.

9. International Student Work Opportunities: International students on F-1 visas are eligible to work on campus for up to 20 hours per week during the academic year and full-time during school breaks. This provides an opportunity to earn income to support their studies.

It's important to note that scholarship availability, eligibility criteria, and application deadlines may vary.

The Master of Arts (M.A.) in Clinical Mental Health Counseling program at Indiana University of Pennsylvania (IUP) is designed to prepare graduates for successful and fulfilling careers in the field of mental health counseling. This program equips students with the knowledge, skills, and practical experience necessary to provide counseling services, support individuals in need, and make a positive impact on the mental and emotional well-being of diverse populations.

1. Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC): Graduates of the M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling program are eligible to pursue licensure as Licensed Professional Counselors (LPC) in most states. LPCs play a crucial role in providing mental health services, including individual and group counseling, assessment, and treatment planning.

2. Private Practice: Many graduates choose to establish their private counseling practices, where they can work with clients on a one-on-one basis, focusing on various mental health issues, such as anxiety, depression, trauma, and substance abuse.

3. Behavioral Health Centers: Mental health counselors are in high demand in behavioral health centers, where they work with individuals who are dealing with a range of emotional and psychological challenges. This may include children, adolescents, adults, or the elderly.

4. Community Mental Health Agencies: Non-profit organizations and community mental health agencies often hire mental health counselors to provide counseling services to underserved populations. This includes counseling for addiction, crisis intervention, and support for individuals with severe mental illness.

5. School Counselor: Some graduates may choose to work in K-12 educational settings as school counselors. They provide academic and emotional support to students, helping them address various challenges and develop essential life skills.

6. Substance Abuse Counselor: As the opioid epidemic and substance abuse issues continue to be prevalent, there is a growing need for substance abuse counselors. Graduates can specialize in helping individuals with addiction issues on their path to recovery.

7. Marriage and Family Therapist: Some graduates may decide to pursue additional training to become marriage and family therapists. These professionals help couples and families address relationship issues and improve their communication and overall well-being.

8. Correctional Counselor: Mental health counselors are also employed in correctional facilities, providing counseling services to inmates dealing with mental health challenges.