Northwestern University is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. The online Master of Arts in Counseling Program from The Family Institute at Northwestern University seeks students who are dedicated to helping others and capable of succeeding in a rigorous graduate program.
Northwestern University Online Counseling Degree
The program prepares you to become a self-reflective clinical mental health counselor who applies various counseling theories and evidence-based practices to help people in need. You will focus on the following three core components during your time in the program: self-reflection, diversity, and clinical training.
The online Master of Arts in Counseling Program sets high academic standards so graduates become effective clinical practitioners who work successfully with diverse clients. Students gradually build their knowledge as they explore licensure-required topics such as ethics, multiculturalism, advocacy, outreach, life span development, and evidence-based practice.
The curriculum introduces students to many counseling approaches and focuses on psychodynamic theory and application, which examines the conscious and unconscious forces that may affect work with clients.
Counseling at Northwestern University offers two Programs to earn a master’s degree in clinical mental health no matter how much counseling experience applicants have. Both Programs are offered on an accelerated, traditional, and part-time basis.
Application Requirements
To apply, you must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident, and hold a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution. A degree in psychology or human services is preferred but not required. Those from international locations planning to study in the U.S. on a student or temporary visa are not eligible for admission to the digital campus at this time. You can check on the website for more information via https://counseling.northwestern.edu/counseling/admissions/requirements/
Your completed application must include the following items:
Transcripts: Provide both unofficial and official transcripts from all postsecondary institutions or programs attended. You may upload your unofficial transcripts directly to the online application. Official transcripts should be sent electronically to applicationservices@counseling.northwestern.edu or by mail to the following address:
Application Processing Center
Counseling@Northwestern
PO Box 30096 011-001
College Station, TX 77842
If your degree was earned from a foreign institution, a course-by-course evaluation of that transcript may be required. Approved evaluations will only be accepted from WES (World Education Services) or ECE (Educational Credential Evaluators).
Letters of recommendation: Provide at least two letters from professional or academic references who can attest to your dedication to helping others and your ability to succeed in a challenging master’s program.
Resume or CV: Upload your current resume or curriculum vitae detailing any clinical experiences you may have.
Statement of purpose: Write a statement describing your interest in earning a graduate counseling degree online. Explain how your academic and/or professional background has prepared you to succeed in the program and how you will be an asset to the Northwestern community.
Supplemental Essay: In a clear and concise way, write about a time in your life when you had to be courageous, as well as a time when you have juggled multiple priorities, and how you handled it. Your essay should be no longer than three single-spaced pages in 12-point type.
Test scores: Submit official scores for the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) taken within the last two years if you completed your postsecondary academic work outside the United States. These scores must be sent directly from the Educational Testing Service to Northwestern University using institution code 1565 and object code 01. GRE scores are not required for admission to the program. Note: all students must be US citizens, DACAExternal link:open_in_new or permanent residents living in the United States throughout the program. Non-US citizens and students living outside the United States are not eligible for the program at this time.
Application fee: Pay the $95 application fee by debit or credit card within the online application. Please contact an admissions counselor before submitting your priority application to receive an application fee waiver.
Group Interview
After your application is complete, you may be invited to participate in a peer group interview with one faculty member and up to eight other prospective students that takes place in our online classroom.
During the interview, you should demonstrate strong communication and listening skills, self-awareness, empathy, self-reflection, and maturity. Let your personality show during all four stages of the interview
After your application is complete, you may be invited to participate in a peer group interview with one faculty member and up to eight other prospective students that takes place in our online classroom.
During the interview, you should demonstrate strong communication and listening skills, self-awareness, empathy, self-reflection, and maturity. Let your personality show during all four stages of the interview.
For more information visit https://counseling.northwestern.edu/counseling/curriculum/
