Masters of Science in Counseling Psychology

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How long does it take to complete the MS in Counseling Psychology at Mount Saint Mary's College?
A: The length of time to completion of the degree depends upon the number of units taken each semester. The program requires 50 units. MSMC has designed a 2-year track and a 3-year track. However, if you need to work at a slower pace a program especially designed to meet your needs can be planned.

Q: What are the application deadlines for the program?
A: July 15 for fall
Nov 15 for spring
April 15 for summer

Q: When are classes offered?
A: Three unit courses meet from 6-9 in the evenings one day a week. One unit classes meet for one weekend during the semester from either 8-5 or 9-6.

Q: What are the admission requirements?
A: Click here for admission requirements.
Click here for an application.

Q: Can the GRE be waived?
A: If your cumulative undergraduate GPA is 3.5 or above this requirement can be waived.

Q: Must I have personal psychotherapy while in the program?
A: Personal psychotherapy is required when you are in Psy 269A and B, the fieldwork classes.

Q: What financial aid is available?
A: Our moderately priced program can be funded with Federal Stafford Loans and Graduate Plus Loans.

Q: What is the difference between the program and the license?
A: MSMCs program fulfills the academic requirements for a MS Degree in Counseling Psychology that allows one to sit for the licensing exam. The license is the next step.

Q: What must I do to get licensed?
A: First complete your MS in Counseling Psychology program and send a Program Certification, official transcript, and MFT intern registration application to the Board of Behavioral Sciences to register and get an intern number. Complete 3000 hours of experience with specific requirements and appropriate supervision. Take and pass the licensing exam! This is an extremely brief answer to this important question. Go to the BBS website www.bbs.ca.gov/ for a thorough answer.

Q: What is the licensing exam pass rate for MSMC students?
A: There are two sections of the licensing exam. One is the written examination and the other is the written clinical vignette examination. Statistics for the most recent exam cycle show that 75% of MSMC students passed the written exam and 83% passed the written clinical vignette. Statistics for all accredited and approved universities in CA showed a pass rate of 62% for the written examination and a 61% pass rate for the written clinical vignette.

Q: Can I get a job?
A: According to the US Department of Labor, the projected growth rate for MFTs in California is 24% between the years 2004-2014.

Q: How much money can I expect to make?
A: According to California Labor Market information, the annual average salary for California MFTs is $43,716. According to the 2007 Compensation and Benefits Survey of Southern and Central California Nonprofit Organizations, the average salary is $44,859 a year.

Q: Is there a reciprocation agreement between CA and other states?
A: The Board of Behavioral Sciences does not have reciprocity with any other state licensing board.

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