The master’s program in counseling psychology provides students training and education in the scientist-practitioner philosophy that is consistent with most counseling psychology doctoral programs, including the one at MU. Students will complete core course work in counseling psychology and receive clinical training in the form of practicum experience and research training through faculty labs, research teams and other research projects. They will also be required to complete an independent research manuscript during their second year in the program.

This program has more of a research focus than most counseling master’s programs. The program is not designed for students interested exclusively in practicing at the master’s level, and students who graduate from this program will not yet be license-eligible in the state of Missouri (this would require additional course work and training). For a sample plan of study and course listing, go to the course catalog.

Applicants with a bachelor’s degree in a field not related to psychology will be required to complete 15 hours of prerequisite courses in the behavioral sciences (including an introductory statistics course) either prior to or concurrently with course work in the program. This prerequisite course work is over and above that required for the master’s degree itself and is not counted on the program of study for the master’s degree.

Counseling Psychology Master’s Planner

Applicants are required to meet two sets of minimum qualifications for admission:

• Requirements of the master of education in educational, school and counseling psychology program
• Minimum requirements of the Office of Graduate Studies

How to Apply

For Fall 2024 applicants, the department has decided to temporarily suspend the requirement of the Graduate Record Examination (GRE).

Submit the following documents using the MU Office of Graduate Studies application by Feb. 1 for the next fall cohort:

• Three letters of recommendation
• CV/resume
  • See CV requirements
• Unofficial academic transcripts of all previous undergraduate and graduate work
  • Minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0 from an accredited institution in psychology, education or a related major
• Statement of purpose addressing the following:
  • Describe (1) your previous experience serving in a helping or counseling role; (2) your interests and experiences working with people from diverse backgrounds (e.g., ethnic, cultural, socio-economic, religious, ability status, sexual orientation). How have these experiences influenced you?; (3) your interests and career objectives; (4) how these interests and career objectives have developed; (5) how these interests match those of specific program faculty; and (6) how being accepted into the Counseling Psychology Program would benefit your career aspirations and implement (or actualize) your beliefs, values, and goals? (1200 word maximum)
• TOEFL for international students (preferred score of 580 for paper test, 92 iBT, IELTS 7 or higher)
  • Institution code: 6875