About this Program

This program prepares students to practice as Licensed Professional Counselors (LPC) in diverse contexts. As part of the overall CACREP accredited counseling program, Clinical Mental Health Counseling students are exposed to a wide variety of theories and skills, research and assessment techniques, professional identity and ethical concerns, as well as the importance of advocacy and multicultural-social justice principles for working with clients. Our students can expect to be challenged, supported, and encouraged to excel throughout their learning experience toward earning their master's in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, and begin their residency towards the LPC.

Program Highlights

  • Opportunities for study abroad in Italy and Ireland to count for select classes

  • Chance to take the National Counselor Exam before you graduate

  • Accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Counseling and Related Programs (CACREP)

  • Elect to take courses as a full-time or part-time student

  • Courses are offered in the late-afternoons and evenings to accommodate students with multiple responsibilities

AT A GLANCE
Degree Level
Graduate
Degree Earned
Master of Science in Education
Delivery Modes
Online
On-Campus

Careers

Check out these ideas from ODU Career Development Services and the Occupational Information Network (O*NET). A median salary is a midpoint of what people typically earn—half of those surveyed earned above the median salary, and half earned below.

Marriage and Family Therapists

$53,860 Median Salary

Diagnose and treat mental and emotional disorders, whether cognitive, affective, or behavioral, within the context of marriage and family systems. Apply psychotherapeutic and family systems theories and techniques in the delivery of services to individuals, couples, and families for the purpose of treating such diagnosed nervous and mental disorders.

Substance Abuse and Behavioral Disorder Counselors

$48,050 (Approx) Median Salary

Counsel and advise individuals with alcohol, tobacco, drug, or other problems, such as gambling and eating disorders. May counsel individuals, families, or groups or engage in prevention programs.

Mental Health Counselors

$48,050 (Approx) Median Salary

Counsel with emphasis on prevention. Work with individuals and groups to promote optimum mental and emotional health. May help individuals deal with issues associated with addictions and substance abuse; family, parenting, and marital problems; stress management; self-esteem; and aging.

Alumni Careers

Optima Health
Envision Family Services
Children's Hospital of the King's Daughter
Virginia Department of Behavioral Health & Developmental Services

Requirements

What are the requirements to apply for Clinical Mental Health Counseling at ODU?
Students entering the Master of Science in Education program in Clinical Mental Health Counseling should meet the minimum university admission requirements Graduate Admission.

Applicants may hold a bachelor’s degree in any field and must submit the following:

  • Online application at the Office of Graduate Admissions website

  • Current resume

  • Essay

  • Official Transcripts

  • Two Letters of Recommendation

Cost

Estimated rates for the 2023-24 academic year. Rates are subject to change. Anyone that is not a current Virginia resident will be charged non-resident rates. That includes international students.

Virginia Resident
Cost Per-Credit $599
Technology Delivered Courses Outside Virginia and/or the United States
Cost Per-Credit $623
Non-Resident
Cost Per-Credit $1,439

Ways to Save

Here are a few ways for you to save on the cost of attending ODU. For more information visit University Student Financial aid

Assistantships

Counseling master’s degree students are sometimes awarded assistantships in various ODU offices including Academic Skills, Financial Aid, Office of Intercultural Relations, Resident Life, Student Activities, Student Development, Student Health Services, Student Life, and Vice President of Student Services. Students interesting in obtaining an assistantship should apply directly to offices on campus that have assistantships.

Contact

Counseling Master's and Ed.S. Programs Director

2124 EDUCATION BUILDING
NORFOLK, 23529