Master of Arts in Counseling

The Master of Arts in Counseling provides a comprehensive understanding of different counseling approaches plus the practical experience in helping clients assess emotional difficulties, develop insights and make lifestyle changes. The program cultivates deeper self-awareness and interpersonal communication skills – both essential for helping others.

Graduates work in private practices and in diverse fields, including a child, adult, couples, substance abuse, and career counseling. They may apply their skills in human resources, healthcare, education and mentoring, development, and humanitarian settings.

Students experience personal attention, in-depth instruction, and a real-world approach to learning. They integrate theory and practice into professional counseling skills and experience an extensive practicum and internship at home or abroad.

Webster University Geneva offers a full-time or part-time MA in Counseling. The program is available to both students in Geneva and Zurich with 50% of classes in person and 50% online. Graduates of the program are eligible to apply for membership in the Swiss Counselling Association (Sgfb), the American Counseling Association (ACA), and the European Association for Counseling (EAC).

Many of our students are mature and transitioning from their first careers or now have fewer parental responsibilities. Younger students are also welcome, making this degree an excellent continued education after a Bachelor in Psychology.

Alongside the academic program, students complete internship hours. The Counseling Department has built opportunities with international schools, private practices, and the Mental Health GeistigeGesundheit Initiative in the Lucerne/Zurich area where students can gain this experience.

Accreditation

Webster University carries full international accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission (HLC). Students at Webster University Geneva, therefore, earn the same degree that is awarded in the United States. In addition, the MA in Counseling is accredited by the Swiss Association for Counselling / Die Schweizerische Gesellschaft für Beratung (SGfB).

When to start?

Webster University Geneva has rolling admissions, which means that you can apply anytime, with five different entry dates throughout the year.

When should I apply?

You do not need to wait until you have received an undergraduate degree to apply. Your application will be evaluated once you have submitted it. If you are not an EU, Swiss citizen, or Swiss residency holder, we strongly recommend that you apply a minimum of 3 months before the term start date. The visa process takes different lengths of time depending on your country of citizenship. You should apply for your visa as soon as you have been accepted to Webster University and have received your acceptance package, which includes visa application information. If for any reason your visa is not awarded on time, simply notify your Admissions Officer so they can defer your acceptance to the next starting term.

Research Community

The Psychology and Counselling Department at Webster University Geneva is a research-intensive one with our faculty, students, and alumni joining an international community of dedicated researchers and practitioners. You can find out more about our main lines of research by visiting the Psychology and Society Group.