Masters of Business Administration (MBA)
The Master of Business Administration program at GGU is designed to foster strategic th...
M.A. in Counseling Psychology
San Francisco, California
INTAKE: Jan, April & Aug
Program Overview
Golden Gate University's M.A. in Counseling Psychology stands as a beacon for those seeking a transformative career in mental health. This program offers a comprehensive and holistic education, integrating theoretical knowledge with practical experiences. The curriculum covers core aspects such as counseling theories, psychopathology, and therapeutic interventions. A distinctive feature is the emphasis on ethical practice and cultural competence, preparing students to navigate the complexities of diverse client needs with sensitivity. Crucially, the program provides hands-on clinical training and practicum experiences, allowing students to apply their learning in real-world settings under the guidance of seasoned practitioners. With a focus on licensure preparation, graduates are well-equipped to pursue roles as Licensed Professional Counselors (LPC) or Marriage and Family Therapists (MFT), contributing meaningfully to the mental health profession.The flexibility of learning options, including evening classes and online courses, accommodates diverse student schedules. Faculty expertise, rooted in both academia and real-world practice, enriches the learning experience. Career development support, including networking opportunities and job placement assistance, ensures graduates are well-positioned for success in the dynamic field of counseling psychology. With a global perspective influenced by San Francisco's cultural diversity, this program prepares compassionate and competent mental health professionals for impactful contributions to the well-being of individuals and communities.
Curriculum:
1. Holistic Counseling Education: Golden Gate University (GGU) in San Francisco offers an M.A. in Counseling Psychology program dedicated to providing a holistic education. This program combines theoretical foundations with hands-on experiences, preparing graduates for impactful careers in the mental health field.
2. Comprehensive Curriculum: The curriculum is comprehensive, covering core areas such as counseling theories, psychopathology, assessment, and therapeutic interventions. Students gain a deep understanding of diverse counseling approaches, allowing them to address various mental health concerns effectively.
3. Clinical Training and Practicum: An integral component is the emphasis on clinical training and practicum experiences. Students have the opportunity to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world settings, working with diverse populations under the guidance of experienced practitioners.
4. Focus on Ethical Practice: The program places a strong emphasis on ethical practice and cultural competence. Students explore the ethical dimensions of counseling and develop the skills needed to work with clients from diverse backgrounds, fostering an inclusive and respectful therapeutic approach.
5. Licensure Preparation: Designed to meet licensure requirements, the program prepares students for roles as Licensed Professional Counselors (LPC) or Marriage and Family Therapists (MFT). Graduates are well-equipped to navigate the licensure process and contribute effectively to the mental health profession.
6. Specializations and Electives: To cater to diverse career interests, the program offers specializations and elective courses. Students can focus on areas such as trauma counseling, addiction therapy, or expressive arts therapy, tailoring their education to align with their professional goals.
7. Faculty Expertise: Taught by experienced faculty members who are active practitioners in the field, students benefit from the wealth of practical knowledge and insights. Faculty members bridge the gap between academic theory and real-world applications, enriching the learning experience.
8. Career Development Support: GGU provides robust career development support, including networking events, job placement assistance, and connections to alumni networks. Students receive guidance on career pathways, job searches, and establishing themselves as competent and compassionate mental health professionals.
9. Flexible Learning Options: Recognizing the varied commitments of students, GGU offers flexible learning options, including evening classes and online courses. This flexibility allows individuals to pursue advanced education while managing work and personal responsibilities.
10. Global Perspective: Situated in San Francisco, a diverse and globally influenced city, GGU offers students a unique global perspective. The program acknowledges the cultural diversity within counseling practice, preparing graduates for effective engagement with clients from different backgrounds.
Location
San Francisco, California
Score
IELTS: 6.5
Tuition Fee
USD 20370
Entry Requirements for Postgraduate programs
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Academic Qualifications:
- For Postgraduate Programs, prospective international students are required to have a minimum academic qualification of 60% or above in their previous academic studies.
- For Postgraduate Programs, prospective international students are required to have a minimum academic qualification of 60% or above in their previous academic studies.
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English Language Proficiency:
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IELTS (International English Language Testing System):
- Overall Score: 6.5.
- No individual band score should be less than 6.
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TOEFL iBT (Test of English as a Foreign Language - Internet-Based Test): Overall Score: 79.
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PTE (Pearson Test of English): Overall Score: 57.
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DET (Duolingo English Test): Overall Score: 110.
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Golden Gate University (GGU) is committed to providing support for international students through various scholarship opportunities. These scholarships are designed to assist students in pursuing their academic goals and contribute to the diverse and vibrant community at GGU. It's important to note that scholarship availability, criteria, and amounts may be subject to change, so prospective students should check with the university's financial aid office for the latest information.
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International Student Scholarships: GGU may offer specific scholarships dedicated to international students based on academic merit, leadership qualities, and other criteria. These scholarships can contribute to tuition and living expenses during the course of study.
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Merit-Based Scholarships: Merit-based scholarships are awarded to international students who demonstrate outstanding academic achievements. These scholarships recognize students with high GPAs, exceptional test scores, and a strong academic background.
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Country-Specific Scholarships: GGU may have scholarships tailored for students from specific countries, encouraging diversity and fostering global perspectives within the university community.
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Graduate Assistantships: Graduate assistantships may be available for international students pursuing advanced degrees. These positions often involve working on campus in research, teaching, or administrative roles while earning a stipend or tuition remission.
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Financial Aid Programs: In addition to scholarships, international students can explore various financial aid programs offered by GGU. This may include need-based aid, grants, and loans to help cover educational costs.
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External Scholarship Opportunities: GGU may provide information about external scholarship opportunities that international students can apply for. These scholarships may be offered by private organizations, foundations, or government entities.
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Application Process: The application process for scholarships at GGU typically involves submitting a scholarship application along with the admission application. Students may need to provide documentation of academic achievements, letters of recommendation, and a personal statement.
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Renewal Criteria: Scholarship recipients are often required to maintain a specified GPA and meet other renewal criteria to continue receiving the scholarship in subsequent years.
Graduates of Golden Gate University's M.A. in Counseling Psychology program find rewarding careers as Licensed Professional Counselors, Marriage and Family Therapists, Clinical Psychologists, and School Counselors. Specializations in addiction counseling, trauma, and geriatrics offer diverse opportunities, addressing societal mental health needs in various settings, from private practice to community outreach.
1. Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC): Upon completion of the program, graduates are well-prepared to pursue licensure as Licensed Professional Counselors. This opens doors to diverse counseling opportunities in private practice, community agencies, or mental health organizations.
2. Marriage and Family Therapist (MFT): The program equips students for roles as Marriage and Family Therapists, addressing relational dynamics and providing counseling services to couples and families dealing with various challenges.
3. Clinical Psychologist: Graduates may pursue advanced studies and licensure as Clinical Psychologists, offering psychotherapy services and psychological assessments in clinical settings.
4. School Counselor: The program prepares individuals for roles as School Counselors, supporting students' academic, personal, and social development in educational settings.
5. Addiction Counselor: Given the increasing need for addiction treatment, graduates can specialize as Addiction Counselors, providing support and interventions for individuals dealing with substance abuse issues.
6. Trauma Specialist: With a focus on counseling approaches for trauma, graduates can become Trauma Specialists, assisting individuals in overcoming the impact of traumatic experiences.
7. Geriatric Counselor: An aging population demands specialized services. Graduates may choose to work as Geriatric Counselors, providing mental health support for elderly individuals and their families.
8. Corporate Wellness Consultant: In the realm of workplace mental health, graduates can serve as Corporate Wellness Consultants, implementing programs to enhance employee mental well-being.
9. Community Outreach Coordinator: Graduates can contribute to community well-being by becoming Community Outreach Coordinators, developing and implementing mental health programs in diverse communities.
10. Art or Expressive Therapist: For those interested in creative interventions, graduates can explore roles as Art or Expressive Therapists, using artistic modalities to facilitate healing and self-expression.
