CMHC FAQs
What is the course format?
You can complete the Master of Arts degree in clinical mental health counseling program predominantly online. Each course lasts seven weeks and offers a combination of self-directed study and synchronous online sessions. Students are also required to attend a one-time three-day intensive. The intensive meets on our Huntington campus in late August prior to the fall semester.
When are synchronous sessions offered?
Synchronous sessions meet in the evening multiple times per each course, but not weekly. Synchronous session attendance also offers some flexibly for students managing coursework alongside family and employment obligations.
Does the counseling program run on a semester schedule?
Yes. The program runs on a fall, spring, and summer semester format. Each semester contains two seven-week sessions with a one-week break between courses.
What is the cost of the counseling program?
You can find current tuition and fee costs here. Huntington University offers graduate assistantships, scholarships and discounts through various on-campus and off-campus partners. Take time to explore these options with your Admissions Representative.
Is financial aid available?
Financial aid is available for those pursuing a master’s degree in counseling but not for those pursuing the credential program, as it is a non-degree program. Visit our Office of Financial Aid page to learn more about the types of financial aid available.
Are any payment plans available?
Yes. You may choose to pay a portion or the entirety of your tuition in a monthly payment plan. Payment plan options are explained in more detail on our Office of Business and Finance page.
Is a bachelor’s degree required for admission?
Yes. All counseling programs, including the credential program, are designed for students who currently hold a baccalaureate (undergraduate) degree from a regionally accredited university or are in the process of earning one prior to enrolling.
What types of bachelor's degrees are acceptable for entry into the counseling program?
Students holding bachelor’s degrees from any discipline are welcome to apply as long as they complete the specified prerequisites. Prerequisites are only required for the Master of Arts in clinical mental health counseling program.
What prerequisites are required to start the program?
All prerequisite coursework must have a minimum grade of a C or better.
Biblical studies: 3 credit hours
Psychology: 3 credit hours from an Intro or General Psychology, Abnormal Psychology, Clinical Psychology, or Personality Theories/Theories of Counseling course
If you do not currently have these prerequisites met, you may still be accepted into the clinical mental health counseling degree program on a conditional basis and complete up to one year of graduate work without having all academic prerequisites met, contingent upon admissions committee approval. We can assist you in completing these requirements.
What is the Intensive Experience Requirement?
Students who begin in the Fall are required to attend a 3-day intensive experience on-campus at Huntington University. Students who join during the Spring will be required to take an online orientation in Session 1 of Spring and attend the 3-day intensive in the upcoming Fall semester.
What is the timeline for admissions decisions?
You may apply at any time. Admissions decisions will be made in phases throughout the year until we reach capacity. Fall applications must be submitted no later than May 1 for scholarship consideration. The final deadline for fall admission is July 15. The final deadline for spring admission is December 1. Entry into the counseling program is permitted at the beginning of the fall semester in late August and the spring semester in early January. Entry point exceptions may be made for those transferring from another master’s degree counseling program.
How much counseling experience will I receive in the graduate counseling program?
Students in the clinical mental health counseling degree program will complete 700 hours of supervised clinical experience. You will practice your counseling skills in class during your first semester. After you complete your foundation courses, you will begin to see clients. Your counseling practicum will provide 100 hours of practice, including 50 hours of direct client contact with individuals, couples, families, or groups.
Following successful practicum completion, you will secure supervised internships. Internships will take place over two semesters and include 600 hours of clinical practice, including 300 hours of direct client contact. Finding the internship site will be your responsibility, following program guidelines. Practicum and internship experiences meet the Indiana state requirement of 700 hours of clinical practice in your graduate program.
Each state has regulations related to therapy practice, internships, and mental health licensing. Students should become familiar with regulations in their state of residence. In particular, students should become knowledgeable of state regulations regarding distance (online) education, specific course, and internship requirements. Students are responsible for understanding unique licensure requirements in their state.
Licensure Completion Information
How does graduate work differ from undergraduate work?
Master’s-level students are required to take more responsibility for their learning than undergraduates do, and most graduate classes require significant levels of reading and display of writing skill. In graduate programs, you expand your knowledge of a particular discipline and your knowledge of self. Master’s-level counseling work covers more breadth and depth of subject matter with more attention to original sources such as Freud, Adler, Rogers, Perls, etc. Graduate work also encourages higher-level critical thinking, including analysis, synthesis, and evaluation.
Where is Huntington University located?
Huntington University’s main campus is located approximately 25 minutes from Fort Wayne, Indiana. Our park-like, contemporary campus encompasses 160 acres and hosts excellent academic/research facilities. Huntington University also features locations in Fort Wayne, Indiana, and Peoria, Arizona.