M.A. in Counseling and Human Services - Clinical Mental Health

Entry Requirements for Postgraduate Programs

Application Fees: USD $60.

1. Academic Qualifications: Applicants are required to have completed a bachelor's degree or its equivalent from a recognized university or institution. The degree must be equivalent to a U.S. bachelor's degree to be considered for postgraduate studies.

2. Minimum Percentage or GPA: International students applying for postgraduate programs at UCCS are generally expected to have a minimum percentage or GPA of 65 or above in their previous academic studies. The exact requirements may vary depending on the program and field of study.

3. English Language Proficiency:

• IELTS (International English Language Testing System) with an overall score of 6.5 or higher and no individual band score below 6.0.
• TOEFL iBT (Test of English as a Foreign Language) with an overall score of 80 or above.
• DET (Duolingo English Test) with a minimum score of 105.
• PTE (Pearson Test of English) with a score of 58 or higher.

The University of Colorado - Colorado Springs (UCCS) offers several scholarship opportunities to support and recognize the academic achievements of international students. These scholarships are designed to attract top-performing students from around the world and provide financial assistance to help them pursue their education at UCCS.

1. Chancellor's Scholarship for International Students: The Chancellor's Scholarship is one of the most prestigious scholarships offered by UCCS. It is awarded to a limited number of outstanding international students based on their academic performance, leadership potential, and extracurricular activities. Recipients of this scholarship receive a substantial tuition waiver.

2. Global Excellence Scholarship: The Global Excellence Scholarship is aimed at high-achieving international students who demonstrate exceptional academic credentials. The scholarship provides financial support to cover a significant portion of the tuition fees.

3. Merit-Based Scholarships: UCCS offers various merit-based scholarships that consider the academic achievements and accomplishments of international students. These scholarships are awarded based on GPA, standardized test scores, and other academic criteria.

4. International Student Academic Achievement Scholarship: This scholarship is open to international undergraduate and graduate students who have demonstrated outstanding academic performance. It provides partial tuition support to selected recipients.

5. Cultural Diversity Scholarship: UCCS values diversity and offers the Cultural Diversity Scholarship to international students who contribute to the cultural enrichment of the university community. This scholarship aims to recognize and support students from diverse backgrounds.

6. Study Abroad Scholarships: UCCS encourages international students to explore study abroad opportunities. The university offers scholarships for international students who wish to participate in study abroad programs to further broaden their educational experiences.

Eligibility and Application Process: The eligibility criteria and application process for each scholarship may vary. International students interested in these scholarships should review the specific requirements and deadlines.

The M.A. in Counseling and Human Services - Clinical Mental Health program at UCCS is dedicated to preparing graduates to excel as clinical mental health counselors. The program focuses on providing a comprehensive understanding of counseling theories, evidence-based interventions, ethical considerations, and culturally sensitive practices. Students are trained to work effectively with individuals dealing with various mental health challenges, promoting their well-being and enhancing their quality of life.

2. Specialized Clinical Training: At the core of the program lies specialized clinical training that equips students with essential counseling skills. UCCS emphasizes practical experiences, such as supervised clinical internships, where students can apply their theoretical knowledge in real-world counseling settings. Through hands-on training, students gain valuable insights into conducting assessments, diagnosing mental health conditions, developing treatment plans, and implementing evidence-based interventions.

3. CACREP Accreditation: A notable strength of UCCS's M.A. in Counseling and Human Services - Clinical Mental Health program is its accreditation by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP). CACREP is a prestigious accrediting body that ensures the program meets rigorous academic and professional standards. Accreditation by CACREP validates the program's excellence and assures students that they are receiving a top-tier education that aligns with industry standards.

4. Faculty Expertise: The faculty of UCCS consists of experienced and dedicated counseling professionals who bring their real-world experiences into the classroom. These faculty members are actively engaged in research and practice, ensuring that students receive the latest evidence-based approaches to clinical mental health counseling. Their mentorship and guidance create a supportive learning environment, fostering the growth and development of aspiring counselors.

5. Career Opportunities: Upon completing the program, graduates are well-prepared to embark on a fulfilling career as clinical mental health counselors. They can work in a variety of settings, including mental health centers, community agencies, private practices, hospitals, and universities. Clinical mental health counselors play a vital role in providing individual and group counseling, crisis intervention, psychoeducation, and advocacy to support clients in overcoming mental health challenges.

6. Professional Licensure and Certification: The M.A. in Counseling and Human Services - Clinical Mental Health program prepares students to meet the academic and experiential requirements for licensure as professional counselors. The curriculum aligns with the criteria set by state licensure boards, facilitating the process of obtaining licensure. Graduates are well-prepared to pursue licensure as Licensed Professional Counselors (LPCs) or similar credentials, which enhances their credibility and employability in the mental health field.