M.A. in Clinical Psychology (Counseling Practice)

The M.A. in Clinical Psychology (Counseling Practice) is a 60-credit-hour program, typically completed in approximately three years for full-time students. It primarily consists of in-person classes offered on both the Chicago and Schaumburg campuses, with admissions open for fall and spring start dates (Schaumburg only for spring). A significant strength of this program is its direct pathway to eligibility for licensure as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and, subsequently, a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) in Illinois and many other states. The curriculum emphasizes broad-based training and includes a year of supervised clinical experience (practicum). While there is no thesis requirement, students are encouraged to seek research assistantships with faculty to enhance their research skills.

Curriculum: The curriculum provides broad-based training in psychological assessment and intervention. Sample courses include "Career and Lifestyle Counseling," "Psychopathology," "Chemical Dependence," "Multicultural Counseling," and "Couples and Family Counseling." The program covers foundational courses in psychological theories, abnormal or personality psychology, and research methods. A crucial component is the supervised clinical experience, which involves a practicum seminar (6 credit hours) where students enroll while on internship/practicum. Students typically begin their internship/practicum after completing 36 to 48 credit hours of required coursework, including foundational courses. The curriculum also prepares students for potential application to Psy.D. and Ph.D. programs in clinical or counseling psychology.

Research Focus: The M.A. in Clinical Psychology (Counseling Practice) program integrates a focus on the theory and research that support psychological practices. While there is no thesis requirement for graduation, students receive broad-based training in psychological assessment and intervention, grounded in evidence-based approaches. They are required to have completed undergraduate coursework in research methods and are encouraged to seek research assistantships with faculty. This allows students to critically evaluate and disseminate research in their clinical and scholarly activities, such as case formulation and didactic presentations. The program aims to prepare graduates who can apply research findings to inform their counseling practice and potentially contribute to research in the field.

Industry Engagement: Roosevelt University fosters strong industry engagement for its M.A. in Clinical Psychology (Counseling Practice) program through extensive practical training opportunities. Students gain firsthand exposure to client advocacy and mental health through coursework and intensive internships. The university partners with over 200 sites that provide mental health services in the Chicago area, offering a wide range of clinical experience opportunities. Graduates often work in diverse settings such as private practice, community mental health centers, substance abuse centers, forensic settings, schools, psychiatric facilities, social service agencies, and hospital systems, reflecting the program's deep connections to the mental health industry and successful career outcomes.

Global Perspective: Roosevelt University's M.A. in Clinical Psychology (Counseling Practice) program cultivates a global perspective through its emphasis on multicultural counseling and serving diverse populations. Courses like "Multicultural Counseling" explicitly address the importance of conducting professional activities with sensitivity to human diversity, including awareness of one's own identities and biases. The program prepares graduates to deliver high-quality services to an increasingly diverse population, understanding how cultural, social, and economic factors influence mental health. By fostering a deep appreciation for individual and cultural diversity, the program equips future counselors to work effectively with clients from various backgrounds, including those with international experiences, in a globally interconnected society.

Postgraduate Entry Requirements

Application Fee: $42

Academic Qualifications: Applicants for postgraduate programs typically require a minimum academic achievement of 65% or above in their bachelor's degree.

English Language Proficiency:

• IELTS: Overall band score of  6.5 or 7.0 with a minimum of 6.0 in each component.
• TOEFL: Overall score of 80 or higher.
• PTE: Overall score of 55 or higher.
• DET (Duolingo English Test): Minimum score of 110.

Roosevelt University in the United States offers a variety of scholarship opportunities specifically designed for international students to support their academic journey and make higher education more affordable. These scholarships recognize academic excellence, leadership potential, and contributions to campus diversity.

Merit-Based Scholarships: International students applying to Roosevelt University are eligible for merit-based scholarships awarded based on academic achievements, standardized test scores, and overall potential. These scholarships can significantly reduce tuition costs and are automatically considered during the admissions process.

International Student Scholarship Program: Roosevelt University provides special scholarships targeted at international students, aiming to encourage a diverse and global student body. These awards vary in amount and criteria but typically recognize outstanding academic performance and community involvement.

Departmental Scholarships: Certain colleges and departments within Roosevelt University, such as the Chicago College of Performing Arts and the Walter E. Heller College of Business, offer additional scholarships for international students enrolled in specific programs. These awards may be based on talent, portfolio, or academic excellence in the field of study.

An M.A. in Clinical Psychology (Counseling Practice) from Roosevelt University provides a robust foundation for individuals seeking to enter the mental health field. The program's emphasis on psychological assessment, intervention, and theory, coupled with extensive supervised clinical experience, prepares graduates for various roles as professional counselors. With the eligibility for LPC and LCPC licensure in Illinois, graduates are well-positioned for direct client care.

Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) / Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC): This is the primary career path. Graduates work in private practices, community mental health centers, hospitals, and outpatient clinics, providing individual, group, and family therapy for a wide range of mental health concerns such as anxiety, depression, trauma, and relationship issues.

Substance Abuse and Addiction Counselor: Specializing in addiction, these counselors work with individuals struggling with substance use disorders, developing treatment plans, providing therapy, and offering support in rehabilitation centers, hospitals, or private settings.

Mental Health Program Coordinator: Graduates can take on administrative and leadership roles in mental health organizations, overseeing the development, implementation, and evaluation of mental health programs and services.

Crisis Intervention Specialist: Working in emergency rooms, crisis hotlines, or community outreach programs, these professionals provide immediate psychological support and de-escalation for individuals experiencing acute mental health crises or trauma.

Forensic Mental Health Counselor: These counselors work within the criminal justice system, providing mental health services to individuals in correctional facilities, conducting assessments for court purposes, or offering counseling in forensic settings.

Behavioral Health Specialist: This role involves working with individuals to address specific behavioral challenges. They may develop and implement behavior modification plans in various settings, including schools, community agencies, or residential facilities.

Case Manager (Mental Health): Case managers help clients navigate complex healthcare and social service systems, connecting them with appropriate mental health resources, coordinating care plans, and advocating for their needs.

Rehabilitation Counselor: These professionals assist individuals with psychological, social, and physical challenges due to disability or injury, helping them improve their quality of life and achieve personal, social, and vocational goals, often working in rehabilitation centers or related agencies.

Couples and Family Counselor (Specialized Practice): With specific training in systemic approaches, graduates can focus on providing therapy to couples and families, addressing relationship dynamics, communication issues, and family conflicts.

Academic Advisor/Counselor in Higher Education: Graduates can utilize their counseling skills in university settings, providing academic, personal, and career guidance to college students, supporting their well-being and success in higher education.