University of Alabama, Birmingham
MA in Counseling
Birmingham, USA
MA
DURATION
LANGUAGES
English
PACE
Full time
APPLICATION DEADLINE
EARLIEST START DATE
Sep 2026
STUDY FORMAT
On-Campus
Key Summary
About: The MA in Counseling trains students to support individuals through challenges. Coursework emphasizes counseling techniques, ethics, cultural competence, mental health, addiction and group counseling. You’ll complete supervised clinical training, practicum hours and fieldwork to gain applied experience. The program guides you toward state licensure and fosters ethical, community-focused practice and growth.
Career Outcomes: Graduates can enter clinical and community settings. Career opportunities include licensed professional counselor, mental health clinician, school counselor, substance-abuse counselor, behavioral health specialist, case manager and private-practice counselor. Work in hospitals, community mental-health centers, schools, nonprofits or employee-assistance programs, building on supervised experience and licensure-ready training.
The Master of Arts in Counseling program focuses on preparing students to become effective counselors who can support individuals through various challenges. The curriculum emphasizes foundational skills in counseling techniques, ethics, and cultural competence. Students will gain practical experience through supervised clinical training, helping them develop confidence and competence in real-world settings. The program often combines coursework with fieldwork, ensuring students are ready to handle diverse client needs and situations upon graduation.
Students in this program are encouraged to develop their personal and professional growth alongside their academic learning. Courses cover topics like mental health, addiction, and group counseling, providing a broad understanding of different areas within counseling practice. The program also prepares students for licensure in their state, guiding them through required assessments and practicum hours. Overall, it aims to equip future counselors with the skills and knowledge needed to make a positive impact in their communities while fostering a supportive and ethical approach to helping others.
