Master's in Counseling

The Master of Counseling program offered by the College of Health and Social Sciences at San Francisco State University is a premier choice for students aspiring to make a significant impact in the field of Counseling Psychology. This program is meticulously designed to equip students with essential skills, theoretical knowledge, and practical experience required to thrive in various counseling roles. Over the course of 24 months, students delve deep into the complexities of human behavior, mental health issues, and therapeutic practices, which are vital in today’s diverse societal context. The curriculum not only emphasizes foundational counseling techniques but also integrates innovative approaches to mental health care, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared for future challenges in the field.

The program's curriculum encompasses a wide array of courses that cover critical topics such as clinical assessment, group counseling, ethical issues in counseling, and multicultural counseling. Each course is designed to provide students with both theoretical frameworks and practical applications, preparing them for real-world scenarios. Additionally, students will engage in hands-on training through supervised fieldwork, which is essential for developing their counseling skills in a professional setting. This dual approach of combining theory with practice allows students to develop not only the necessary knowledge but also the confidence to implement what they have learned.

Faculty members at San Francisco State University are renowned experts in their fields, bringing a wealth of knowledge and experience to the classroom. The program benefits immensely from their dedication to teaching, mentorship, and research. Faculty members employ a variety of teaching methodologies, including interactive discussions, case studies, and experiential learning techniques, to foster an engaging learning environment. Students can also take advantage of opportunities to collaborate with faculty on research projects, which can significantly enhance their academic experience and professional portfolio.

Research is a cornerstone of the Master’s in Counseling program. San Francisco State University is committed to providing students with access to robust research resources, including state-of-the-art laboratories and facilities. Students will have opportunities to participate in community-based research projects, which not only contribute to their academic growth but also serve to address pressing mental health issues within the community. These experiential learning opportunities are a significant aspect of the program, allowing students to apply their skills in real-world contexts while building valuable networks.

The connections that the program maintains with industry professionals and organizations are another distinctive feature of the Master’s in Counseling. Students benefit from the strong ties that San Francisco State University has with local mental health agencies, schools, and counseling centers, providing them with ample internship and job placement opportunities. Many students secure internships that often lead to full-time employment upon graduation. The average base salary for graduates is approximately $62,000, with many alumni successfully finding positions in various sectors, including education, healthcare, and private practice.

Graduates from the Master’s in Counseling program have gone on to achieve remarkable success in their careers. Alumni testimonials reflect the transformative experience they had at San Francisco State University, where they learned to navigate the complexities of human psychology and counseling practices. Many alumni have taken on pivotal roles as counselors, mental health therapists, child psychologists, and family therapists. Their stories serve as inspiration for current and prospective students, showcasing the program’s effectiveness in preparing them for meaningful careers in mental health and counseling.

Why Study Counseling at San Francisco State University

• A popular choice for international students, fostering a vibrant and diverse community that enhances the educational experience.
• Learn from esteemed faculty members who are leaders in their fields and become their research assistants, gaining invaluable experience.
• Access to high-end labs and facilities designed to facilitate extensive research work and hands-on learning experiences.
• Excellent placement programs and career services that support students in securing relevant internships and job placement after course completion.
• A comprehensive curriculum that blends theoretical knowledge with practical applications to effectively prepare students for real-world counseling challenges.
• A strong emphasis on ethics, multicultural counseling, and community engagement to ensure culturally competent practice.
• Graduates report high job placement rates, with many securing positions in various sectors related to mental health and counseling.