Master of Arts in Psychology: Clinical Counseling
The Citadel’s Clinical Counseling master’s program offers graduate education for those interested in becoming licensed professional counselors in the private sector or community agencies, including college counseling centers, hospitals, mental health and social services agencies.
Below are answers to frequently asked questions about our program. If you have additional questions, please contact Dr. Genelle Sawyer, Program Director, or visit our program page for more information.
FAQ
Why should I choose this program?
The Clinical Counseling Program at The Citadel provides in-person training grounded in psychological science and evidence-based practice. Students are taught to take a scholarly approach to understanding client concerns and to develop thoughtful, research-informed intervention strategies.
The program is delivered on The Citadel’s historic campus, with evening classes (after 4:00 p.m.) designed to accommodate working professionals while maintaining a strong, in-person learning community.
Students have the opportunity to complete their field placement experiences at a wide variety of organizations with a diverse range of clients and problems.
Finally, the program has built a strong reputation within the community and the profession. Since 2019, 79% of graduates secured employment in the field prior to graduation, and an additional 17% obtained employment within three months of graduating.
Is The Citadel Graduate College a military institution?
The Citadel is a senior military college, but students in The Citadel Graduate College (CGC) are not part of the Corps of Cadets. Graduate students do not wear uniforms and do not participate in the military structure or activities associated with cadet life.
Is your program accredited?
Yes. The Clinical Counseling Program (CCP) is accredited by the Masters in Psychology and Counseling Accreditation Council (MPCAC). The program is grounded in scientifically based principles and theories of psychology and follows a scholarly-practitioner training model. This approach emphasizes the application of psychological science to diverse populations and a wide range of clinical concerns.
Does your program meet licensure requirements for an LPC?
The program’s coursework aligns with the requirements for licensure as a Professional Counselor (LPC) in South Carolina. Graduates have also successfully obtained licensure in other states; however, licensure requirements vary by state. Students are encouraged to review the specific licensure requirements for the state in which they plan to practice.
How long does it take to complete the program?
Students who enroll full-time in the Clinical Counseling Program can complete the required coursework in three years. Some students choose to enroll part-time depending on their individual circumstances. All degree requirements must be completed within five years of initial enrollment.
How successful are graduates at passing national licensure exams?
Graduates consistently demonstrate strong success in licensure preparation, with 98% of graduates reporting that they passed either the National Counselor Examination (NCE) or the National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Examination (NCMHCE) in their first attempt and 100% passage overall.
Can students work while enrolled in the program?
Yes, many students work full- or part-time while enrolled. The program is designed with flexibility in mind, with courses held in the late afternoons and evenings. However, working full-time can become more challenging during the final year, when students are completing practicum and internship placements in clinical mental health settings.
If I do not meet admissions criteria, will I still be considered for admission?
Applications are reviewed holistically, and admissions decisions are not based solely on test scores or GPA. Volunteer and research experience, strong letters of recommendation, and a well-written, thoughtful personal statement can strengthen an application. However, meeting all admissions criteria increases the likelihood of acceptance.
If accepted, when can I start classes?
If accepted in the fall, students begin taking courses in the spring semester. If accepted in the spring, students may begin in either of the summer sessions or the fall semester.
Application Deadlines: February 15 (for summer and fall terms) and October 1 (for the spring term).
When are classes offered?
During the fall and spring semesters, classes meet one day per week, Monday through Thursday, from 4:00–6:45 p.m. or 7:00–9:45 p.m.
Summer courses meet twice per week from 5:45–8:45 p.m.
Are there opportunities for student employment on campus?
Yes. Graduate assistant positions are available to students enrolled in a minimum of 6 credit hours, and work-study positions are available to students enrolled in at least 3 credit hours. These positions pay $15 per hour and offer up to 20 hours per week. Many current students take advantage of these opportunities.
How many credits do I need to take to be eligible for financial aid?
Students enrolled in 3 credit hours are eligible for part-time financial aid status. Students enrolled in 6 credit hours are eligible for full-time financial aid status. For deadlines, answers to questions, and other important information regarding financial aid, refer to the financial aid website at citadel.edu/financial-aid.
Where do students find employment after graduation?
Our graduates have obtained employment in diverse settings, including community mental health centers, college counseling centers, substance abuse programs, correctional facilities and social service agencies.
Most of our graduates complete licensure requirements in South Carolina or other states, and many pursue private clinical practice. In addition to clinical practice, some of our graduates pursue administrative or advocacy work in local, regional and national organizations and non-profits.