Clinical Mental Health Counseling

The Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling is designed to provide students with comprehensive preparation for professional practice as a counselor through rigorous coursework and carefully supervised practical experiences in field settings. The program integrates mental health counseling theories and approaches, principles and practices of diagnosis, evidence-based treatments, and strategies for referral, prevention, and advocacy to meet the needs of diverse clients. Graduates will be prepared to assume a variety of positions in the counseling field and be equipped to model the highest standards and ethics of the profession.

Program Goals

• Perform the roles of a licensed counselor in regard to ethical practice related to individual and group needs and based around social and cultural diversity.
• Utilize theories of lifespan development, career development, and relationship development to counsel across a variety of modalities.
• Practice active involvement in the field by developing a professional identity through counseling organizations and the development and evaluation of programs and processes to support overall wellness.

Applicants desiring to enter Keiser University must submit an application to the Admissions Office well in advance of the start date. This permits proper scheduling and ensures availability of classroom space. Applications for Winter, Spring, Summer, or Fall semesters should be made as early as possible, as these entry dates are normally the time of greatest enrollment.

Admission to the Clinical Mental Health Counseling program is competitive and based on faculty review of application materials. Strong candidates demonstrate academic achievement (GPA, personal statement, and letters of recommendation), strong interpersonal skills, and openness to personal and professional growth. Preference is given to applicants with relevant knowledge and experience in mental health or counseling through coursework, research, or work.

Credit for courses or degrees completed at another institution is subject to approval by the Dean of Academic Affairs. These courses or degrees must be similar in content and duration to those offered in the program for which an applicant has applied. The Dean of Academic Affairs makes the final decision of accepted transfer credits from the received transcript. However, only courses listed on official transcripts receive permanent official transfer credit. To grant such credit, Keiser University must receive official transcript directly from the previous institution by the end of a student’s first semester. Keiser University requires that, at a minimum, a student complete at least one third of the credit hours required for any graduate or post-baccalaureate professional degree through instruction offered by Keiser University. Active duty, reservists, and National Guard service members who are students can complete at a minimum one third of a program at any time through the University. Transfer students are informed in writing of any credits accepted as transferable. Preliminary notification is presented, in most cases, prior to enrollment but in no case later than the end of a transfer student's first semester. Students are responsible for having official transcripts sent to Keiser University from all former institution(s). It may be necessary for students to forfeit some previously earned credit in the transfer process since college philosophies, objectives and programs may vary and change from year to year. Keiser University does not make any blanket assurances or guarantees regarding the acceptance or transferability of credits from other institutions. Each credit evaluation is conducted on a caseby-case basis in accordance with university policy.

Keiser University may accept transfer credits from a college or university recognized by the by the U.S. Department of Education (USDE). Coursework must be equivalent in content, level, and credit hours to the corresponding Keiser University course/s. Qualified, accepted master’s degree seeking students may transfer a maximum of 12 graduate level credits, but no more than two-thirds of the total credit hours (whichever is less), required for the program unless otherwise specified by a programmatic accreditor.

Transfer credits are granted only for courses in which a grade of “B” or higher was earned (3.0 on a 4.0 scale).

To receive a Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling degree, students must earn 60 graduate semester credit hours as described below. The length of this program is approximately 44 months.

Courses in the program are 16-weeks in length. Most courses are asynchronous in nature; however, some courses may require students to participate in activities at mandatory set times, online.

Students must complete two residencies. Both the Counseling Skills Residency and the Group Counseling Residency must be successfully completed and passed prior to enrollment in MHC659: Pre-Practicum.

Keiser University charges tuition and education fees per semester, based on scheduled credit hours. Each semester is 16 weeks. The rates below are the university’s published Tuition and Fee Disclosure for the Graduate School, effective Fall Semester 2026, and are subject to annual review.

This program is charged at the rate for Master’s degree and graduate-level certificate programs.

An education fee of $750.00 per semester is charged for all graduate-level programs. One-time charges on enrolment are an application fee of $55.00 and a registration fee of $145.00.

A one-time residency fee of $1,000.00 applies to this program.

Graduates of Keiser University’s Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling prepare for roles across the mental health field, including positions in private practice, mental health centers, rehabilitation facilities, schools, and government agencies. This graduate program supports aspiring mental health professionals by strengthening their ability to develop treatment plans, apply counseling theories, assess behavioral disorders, and serve clients across various clinical settings. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, demand for mental health counselors remains strong, reflecting the growing need for qualified professionals across the counseling profession.

Career Pathways in Clinical Mental Health Counseling

• Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC)
• Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC)
• Substance Abuse Counselor
• Addiction Counseling Specialist
• Marriage and Family Therapist
• School Counselor
• Case Manager
• Community Mental Health Counselor
• Rehabilitation Counselor
• Clinical Director
• Behavioral Health Specialist
• Mental Health Advocate
• Program Evaluator

Keiser University’s Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling program prepares students to advance their careers in the mental health field through graduate-level study. With flexible online learning and in-person residency options, this CMHC program aligns with the goals of career changers, working professionals, and recent graduates seeking counseling licensure. Whether the goal is private practice, community mental health centers, addiction counseling, or family counseling, Keiser provides the clinical training, professional identity development, and counseling skills needed to make a lasting impact in the lives of clients and communities.