Counseling Master's

The M.A. in Counseling at UND offers a flexible, affordable path to becoming a licensed counselor with specialized tracks in addiction, school, rehabilitation, child and adolescent and community counseling. The graduate degree program uses a training model anchored in the science of psychology, emphasizing both evidence-based practices and multicultural competence. The M.A. program focuses on theoretical understanding and includes seminar-style classes and advanced level reading and writing. It also offers opportunities to develop professional practice skills in our on-campus multi-disciplinary clinic and through community-based counseling internships. In addition, our 'primarily asynchronous' online option makes it accessible from anywhere, while maintaining high-quality, licensure-aligned practicum and internship experiences—all without requiring campus visits.

Counseling Master's Programs

UND offers emphasis track options that allow students to choose from and develop specialized skills for working effectively with specific populations of interest. Combining a broad theoretical foundation with extensive training in practitioner skills, the counseling program offers the following online (part-time) and on-campus (full-time) options and their brief descriptions.

On-Campus Tracks (full-time)

Designed for students seeking a campus-based, cohort-style experience, the on-campus tracks can be completed in as little as 2.5 years. These tracks offer affordable, synchronous classes that lay the foundational groundwork to pursue a doctorate in Counseling Psychology or a related field. Graduates may also pursue licensure to enter professional practice.

• Addiction Counseling
• Community Mental Health Counseling
• Child Adolescent Counseling
• Rehabilitation Counseling

Online Tracks (part-time)

Designed for distance students and/or those seeking maximum program flexibility, the online tracks are a convenient option for working professionals, with no campus visits required. These tracks are ideal for those seeking a part-time educational path to meet their goals. Graduates are well-positioned to pursue licensure after graduation, but may also pursue doctoral studies if that aligns with their goals. The online M.A.in Counseling is accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP) and approved by the North Dakota Education Standards and Practices for School Counselor Competencies (ESPB).

• Addiction Counseling
• Community Mental Health Counseling
• K-12 School Counseling
• Rehabilitation Counseling 

Counseling Master's Specializations

Addictions Counseling

Addictions Counseling students will be trained to work effectively with people in the community who are managing behavioral and/or substance-related addictions. These students will engage in practical work in the addictions field to effectively assess and treat those who are in the process of recovery. This track meets the educational licensure requirements for an Addictions Counselor in North Dakota and other states.

Child and Adolescent Counseling (on-campus only)

Child and Adolescent Counseling students will be trained to work with clients across the lifespan but focus their studies on learning the skills and techniques needed to effectively counsel children and adolescents. Students will complete practical work with children and adolescents, and learn how to collaborate with family members, and others who are important in the lives of the youth they are working with.

Community Mental Health Counseling

Students with a specialization in Community Mental Health Counseling will be trained to meet the needs of individuals across their lifespan. They'll successfully help treat individuals, couples, and families. Students will be trained to counsel individuals presenting with a range of concerns, from conventional stressors, to anxiety, depression, trauma, crises, chronic mental health concerns, and more. This track meets the educational requirements for a Licensed Associate Counselor in North Dakota, Minnesota and other states..

K-12 School Counseling (online only)

Students with a specialization in School Counseling will be trained to work with K-12 students regarding social emotional, career, and academic counseling and interventions. Students will also learn how to collaborate successfully with students' families, school staff, and community stakeholders to facilitate a positive school community.

The online M.A.in Counseling is accredited by CAEP, Council for Accreditation of Educator Preparation, and approved by the North Dakota Education Standards and Practices for School Counselor Competencies (ESPB). It meets licensure requirements in North Dakota and other states, ensuring your are job-ready upon graduation.

Rehabilitation Counseling

Students with a specialization in Rehabilitation Counseling will be trained to use their clinical knowledge to serve community members with disabilities. They may benefit from vocational counseling, vocational evaluation, veterans care, addictions rehabilitation, geriatric care, end of life care, transition age youth services, and mental health counseling to enhance community inclusion, well-being, and independence.