The master’s degree in Counseling Psychology with a specialization in General Counseling Psychology is a 36 unit program that explores counseling theories and topics, but does not have a clinical field work requirement (and therefore does not prepare students for professional licensure as therapists). This specialization is designed for students who plan to use basic counseling and advocacy skills across a range of 'helping' professions, including education and non-profit settings.
Students will take 18 units of core requirements and 18 units of electives. Those interested in developing clinical knowledge may select electives primarily from the MFT coursework; those interested in advocacy and leadership in serving diverse populations may select courses designed specifically for the GCP specialization. Students are allowed a maximum of 6 units in another graduate department (Humanities, Education, Business, Religious Studies) with approval of course instructor. Individualized plans will be tailored to each student through consultations with an academic advisor.
Completion of this specialization does NOT lead to professional licensure.
Regarding graduates of the GCP specialization within the Master's in Counseling Psychology: *Those who return within five years of graduation to pursue the Marriage and Family Therapy specialization will be able to transfer 12 units of their previous Counseling courses into the MFT specialization.
*Those returning after a time longer than five years may be able to transfer up to 12 units at the discretion of the Director.