What should I know when considering a degree in Masters in Counseling?
A masters in counseling degree is required for most types of counseling jobs. Those who choose counseling as a career may have any one of a number of undergraduate majors, but popular choices are psychology or sociology. While generally not required to pursue a masters in counseling, bachelor's degrees in the social sciences can provide excellent background to anyone seeking a counseling job.
Counselors seek to help people develop their potential within a framework that emphasizes healthy individual choices. There are several other types of counseling jobs available, and those pursuing a masters in counseling will probably concentrate in one of the following areas: school guidance counseling, vocational counseling, disability rehabilitation counseling, addiction treatment counseling, family therapy, gerontological (elderly) counseling, and even genetic counseling.
The field of counseling provides excellent job prospects for many reasons. For instance, demand for counseling of the elderly is increasing as more people live longer. Couples are more likely to seek counseling as the stigma of seeking assistance for marital problems fades away. Genetic counseling is also growing along with our knowledge of specific genes and their significance. In each case, counselors help individuals understand their options and determine the choices that work best for them.
Amount of Education Required
Each state has different requirements for licensure, so it's a good idea for individuals to obtain a masters in counseling degree in the state where they would like to practice, or for online classes, to make sure that coursework meets specific state requirements. A masters degree in counseling usually requires 50 or 60 credits, including a hands-on clinical practicum.
During a counseling masters program, students learn about human social development, cultural diversity, interpersonal relationships, research methods, and program assessment, as well as other subjects depending on their concentration. Students learn what it means to be part of the counseling profession: codes of ethics, counselor/counselee boundaries, strategies for effective inter-agency cooperation, and public policy issues. While learning about human development and societal issues, students may consider such topics as the effects of trauma or disaster on individuals and families, the role of neurobiology in personality, strategies for addiction intervention, career development, crisis intervention, group dynamics, psychological testing, and statistics.
Earnings Potential
In most sub-fields of counseling, above-average job growth is expected. Pay varies widely by specialty, education level, and type of employer. For instance, the median income for a family therapist in 2006 was $43,210; the median income for a school guidance counselor was $53,750. A masters degree allows individuals in each sub-field to maximize their earning potential. Counselors in residential treatment facilities are often paid the least, while those with established private practices earn the most. For those who wish to pursue additional advancement, or who wish to conduct research or teach in a university setting, a doctorate in psychology is a good next step.
Those who choose masters degree in counseling are well on their way to a stable, fulfilling career. Counselors enjoy comparative job security, a variety of employment options, and the chance to help others in a meaningful way.
Resources
U.S. Department of Labor
http://www.bls.gov/oco/ocos067.htm
American Counseling Association
http://www.counseling.org/Students/
Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs
http://www.cacrep.org/2009standards.html
What are the leading schools offering programs in Masters in Counseling?
- Walden University : Walden University, accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, offers Ph.D., master's and bachelor's degrees in management and doctoral and
master's degrees in psychology, education and health and human services
to meet the specific needs of adult learners. Walden University has
over 30 years of experience delivering programs from a distance while
maintaining its student-centered focus on quality and integrity. (More Info)
- Liberty University Online : With more than 35 online degrees offered, Liberty University is a convenient, flexible, and affordable way to earn an accredited degree from a solid, Christian perspective. (More Info)
- Capella University (Graduate) : Capella University offers online graduate degree learning in Education, Human Services, Psychology, Business, and Technology. Students earn master and doctorate degrees while preparing for professional entry-level and advanced career opportunities—all without entering a classroom. (More Info)
- Grand Canyon University Online : Founded in 1949 as a private, non-denominational Christian university, Grand Canyon University emphasizes individual attention and staff support. Students learn professional essentials for success in Education careers—all with the convenience of flexible online classes. (More Info)
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