Are you looking for a quality Doctor of Counseling Education and Supervision degree? Professional counselors help a tremendous portion of the world’s population in every country.

These individuals have the tools, skills, and understanding to help those going through difficult emotional and psychological trauma to feel better about their lives.

Best Doctor of Counseling Education and Supervision - fact

Engaging people in this way requires a huge amount of education and understanding of numerous platforms that can be incredibly complex.

These institutions represent some of the finest schools in the nation that support outstanding faculty members and produce the most prestigious professionals in the job market.

The Doctor of Counseling Education and Supervision degree program provides advanced training for individuals preparing for advanced roles in professional counseling. It emphasizes the applied use of counseling theories and principles to solve problems in the practice of counseling.

Students learn practical strategies for delivering effective counseling services and overseeing counseling staff. It provides the pinnacle of educational and professional achievement in the field of professional counseling.

This degree is an advanced terminal degree that prepares practitioners to provide professional counseling with the highest level of expertise in the field and to function as supervisors, consultants, and researchers in the field.

Methodology

Our picks for the 15 Best Online Schools for Doctoral Degrees in Counseling Education and Supervision will provide you with several quality PhD or doctoral options to fit your busy lifestyle. There are a variety of job titles, such as: counselor, researcher in a leadership position or as a practitioner in a clinical setting:

The below schools are listed in random order, as each has their own unique offerings and a variety of degree programs to explore based on the following aspects:

  • Proper Regional Accreditation,
  • Displays an extended knowledge of foundations used in Counseling Education and Supervision,
  • Offers psychological research and dissertation opportunities,
  • 100% Online Availability,
  • Prestige and notability as an Online Doctoral Degree Program according to academic resources,
  • Financial Aid Availability,
  • Positive Student Reviews.

To learn more, please see our Methodology page.


Best Doctor of Counseling Education and Supervision Degree Programs

SHIPPENSBURG UNIVERSITY

SHIPPENSBURG UNIVERSITY

Program Standouts:
Shippensburg University offers an Ed.D. in Counselor Education and Supervision to students seeking to advance their professional knowledge and standing across the fields of counseling and supervision.

The curriculum is designed to provide students with sufficient knowledge and relevant skillset to be able to develop their own clinical programs and provide clinical supervision.

Enhance your teaching skills through internships and a practicum. Best of all, the program only meets once a week so you can work while earning your doctorate degree, perfect for working professionals.

Campus Location: Shippensburg, PA

Accreditation:

  • Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP)

Admission Requirements:

General requirements include:

  • a completed online application
  • official transcripts from all colleges and universities attended
  • your recent resume,
  • accomplished Related Experience form,
  • three recommendation letters,
  • and an autobiographical write-up about your degree interests and career plans.

Sample Courses:

  • Counseling Leadership and Advocacy
  • Advanced Assessment and Evaluation
  • Research Epistemology and Methods
  • Instructional Theories and Pedagogy
  • Qualitative Theories and Methodologies

Degree Outcomes:
Graduates will acquire a good understanding of current and innovative advancements in the field of counseling and clinical research. You’ll also graduate as leaders taking various positions in private institutions and advocacy groups.

Ultimately, you’ll be able to work in the academe, imparting your insights to students and starting counselors.  

Did You Know?
Shippensburg University has a unique on-campus housing option that lets you live with students with the same interests as you on the same floor. The Living Learning Community program aims to help you connect with like-minded individuals while providing easy class scheduling and even roommate pairing. 

LEARN MORE ABOUT SHIPPENSBURG UNIVERSITY’S ONLINE ED.D. IN COUNSELOR EDUCATION AND SUPERVISION DEGREE PROGRAM


REGENT UNIVERSITY

REGENT UNIVERSITY name

Program Standouts:
With a Christian foundation, Regent University is also considered one of the country’s most outstanding online schools. The university offers quality programs for different fields including education, business, and psychology.

Notably, its Ph.D. program in Counseling and Psychological Studies offers career advancement opportunities while exposing you to different concentrations that best fit your interests. The program includes courses on psychometrics, research, and leadership to help you become an effective mental health practitioner.

Campus Location: Virginia Beach, VA

Accreditation:

  • Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)

Admission Requirements:
Applicants must submit a completed online application and complete an academic background form along with an admissions interview. The school requires the submission of various documents like:

  • unofficial transcripts,
  • CV or Resume,
  • Government-issued ID,
  • and a graduate academic paper.

All applicants must hold a master’s degree, a minimum GPA of 3.5, and one year of mental health field experience. Additionally, Regent University maintains a state-of-the-art facility that promotes breakthroughs in modern science and understanding of human behavior,

Program Concentrations:

  • Human Services Counseling 
  • Grief Counseling
  • Life Coaching 
  • Marriage and Family Ministry
  • Trauma and Crisis Counseling

Degree Outcomes:
Depending on their area of concentration, graduates are expected to have a good foundation in psychology and research.

This will help you fill various in-demand roles in the field of counseling and education such as a Mental Health Services Executive, College Faculty, and Guidance Director. You may also pursue roles in non-profit mental health organizations to create a lasting difference in the community.

Did You Know?
Regent University never fails to provide quality for all its enrollees. This is made apparent by ranking 1st on the U.S. World and News Report’s Best Online Bachelor’s Programs in Virginia for 10 years in a row. 

LEARN MORE ABOUT REGENT UNIVERSITY’S ONLINE PH.D. IN COUNSELING and PSYCHOLOGICAL STUDIES DEGREE PROGRAM


OREGON STATE UNIVERSITY

OREGON STATE UNIVERSITY name 1

Program Standouts:
Oregon State University’s Ecampus provides one of the most vastly celebrated Ph.D. in Counseling programs in the discipline. In this coursework, students get the chance to work as clinical supervisors, advanced practitioners, and counselor educators in both academic and clinical settings.

You’ll also learn the ins and outs of the field as a whole since you’ll be exposed to an immersive internship program. Cover a multitude of courses from different forms of counseling to research and supervision. Plus, the university offers a hybrid learning setup, where you can attend both online discussions and have limited on-campus sessions. 

Campus Location: Corvallis, OR

Accreditation:

  • Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)
  • Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs

Admission Requirements:
Applicants must submit:

  • a completed online application,
  • three letters of recommendation,
  • and a writing sample.

The enrollee must have a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher and a master’s degree in counseling or any related field. In terms of experience, the applicant must have paid or volunteer experience in the helping professions.

Sample Course Topics:

  • Advanced Counseling Theory and Practice
  • Diversity and Social Justice
  • Counselor Education
  • Group Counseling 
  • Supervision

Degree Outcomes:
This program emphasizes student contribution to the counseling profession through relevant research and addressing the societal changes in today’s communities.

Graduates are well-positioned to take on roles in different advocacies like social justice and diversity. You’ll be able to shape communities and help solve societal problems through your profession.

Did You Know?
Oregon State University was awarded by the Society for Sexual, Affectional, Intersex, and Gender Expansive Identities for driving awareness campaigns for the LGBTQIA+ community and its commitment to diversity. The 2022 Counseling Program Award is just one of the many recognitions that Oregon State has received over the years.  

LEARN MORE ABOUT OREGON STATE UNIVERSITY’S ONLINE PH.D. IN COUNSELING DEGREE PROGRAM


ADAMS STATE UNIVERSITY

ADAMS STATE UNIVERSITY

Program Standouts:
Adams State University’s online Ph.D. in Counselor Education and Supervision is focused around preparing students in the fields of teaching and research. The coursework offers an incredibly well-rounded and in-depth perspective and approach to the discipline.

Additionally, you’ll be able to build your communication and presentation skills during your dissertation and internship. You’ll be a good fit to work as educators, supervisors, researchers, and clinical practitioners.

Campus Location: Alamosa, CO

Accreditation:

  • Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools
  • Council for Accreditation of Counseling Related and Educational Programs

Admission Requirements:
Applicants must submit a completed online application along with all the supplemental admission documents including your CV, an intent letter, and three reference forms. You’ll also need to provide your official transcripts and a copy of your GRE test results. On top of the documents, you’ll also need to settle a nonrefundable application fee.

Sample Coursework:

  • Advanced Group Counseling
  • Qualitative Research Methodology
  • Supervision and Consultation
  • Advanced Multicultural and Ethical Issues
  • Data Analysis

Degree Outcomes:
Most of the graduates from Adams State go on to work as practitioners in academic and clinical settings such as professors, department supervisors, and field researchers.

Having an extensive knowledge base of the counseling profession in scholarly pursuit, you’ll be able to present and publish research project results in various institutions. 

Did You Know?
Adams State University is a great institution to gain leadership skills and contribute to society positively. Through various clubs and organizations, you’ll be able to lead teams, learn the value of collaboration, and be able to extend a helping hand. Adams also has a Leadership Awards program where it recognizes student-leaders who have created a big impact on the university.  

LEARN MORE ABOUT ADAMS STATE UNIVERSITY’S ONLINE PH.D. IN COUNSELOR EDUCATION & SUPERVISION (CACREP) DEGREE PROGRAM


UNIVERSITY OF THE CUMBERLANDS

UNIVERSITY OF THE CUMBERLANDS 2

Program Standouts:
This highly regarded online school offers a Ph.D./Ed.D. in Counselor Education and Supervision that prepares students for careers in counselor education and clinical practice. This program is a great fit for those wanting to advance in their career and build solid leadership skills.

The curriculum also focuses on imparting important research and clinical skills so you’ll be able to publish your own studies. This is reinforced by defending a dissertation towards the end of your program. 

What’s more, Cumberlands hosts a great lineup of mentors and professors to guide you every step of the way.

Campus Location: Williamsburg, KY

Accreditation:

  • Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)

Admission Requirements:
Aside from holding a master’s degree in counseling or any related degree, applicants must comply with what the Graduate Admissions Office has set. This includes:

  • your latest resume,
  • two letters of recommendation,
  • and a writing sample.

For international students, you’ll need to submit language fluency documentation in the form of IELTS or TEOFL results. 

Sample Coursework:

  • Leadership and Advocacy in Professional Counseling 
  • Theories and Techniques of Clinical Supervision
  • Inferential Statistics
  • Family Therapy in Addiction Treatment
  • Advanced Educational research

Degree Outcomes:
The program primarily prepares graduates to succeed in the field of education and research, making it perfect for aspiring university teachers and research writers. Graduates will also be qualified for various administrative positions in leadership and advanced clinical practice.

Additionally, you pursue roles in various fields like compliance, regulations, and risk management. 

Did You Know?
The University of the Cumberlands promotes mental well-being by providing counseling services through its Cumberlands Counseling Center. If you’re experiencing anxiety, substance abuse, or relationship problems, the center offers professional help free of charge. This “safe space” is also open to veterans or active service members experiencing challenges emotionally while enrolled in the university. 

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE UNIVERSITY OF THE CUMBERLANDS’ ONLINE DOCTORATE IN EDUCATIONAL LEADERSHIP IN COUNSELING LEADERSHIP & SUPERVISION DEGREE PROGRAM


UNIVERSITY OF WEST GEORGIA

university of west georgia

Program Standouts:
The University of West Georgia provides an online Ed.D. in Professional Counseling and Supervision to prepare counseling professionals for greater responsibilities and advanced positions. The program works on building one’s readiness to practice, embrace an advocacy, and lead a team.

The coursework is designed to equip students with the skills needed for advancement in counseling while placing heavy emphasis on evaluation and supervision. By completing a dissertation project, you’ll get the chance to tackle current issues and propose relevant solutions that the counseling industry is facing. 

Campus Location: Carrolton, GA

Accreditation:

  • Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)

Admission Requirements:
Applicants must submit a completed online application, official school transcripts, and a CV. You’ll also need to prepare a 300-500 essay to discuss your professional goals and three recommendation letters. Eligible applicants must also go through an interview by the department’s faculty. 

Sample Coursework:

  • Professional Research Writing
  • Doctoral Seminar-Advocacy for Marginalized and Underserved Populations
  • Quantitative/Qualitative Research Methods
  • Ethical Leadership in Education 
  • Advanced Therapeutic Techniques in Counseling 

Degree Outcomes:
Specific objectives of this online program include training you for administrative supervision plans and professional presentations and enhancing your research skills.

You’ll also have the ability to evaluate intervention programs in various work settings and work on creating data-driven solutions. Aside from pursuing the academe, you’ll also be fit to work for research institutions and advocacy groups. 

Did You Know?
The University of West Georgia was established in 1906 under the name- Fourth District Agricultural and Mechanical School, which aims to meet the needs of the rural youth. Later on, it became the West Georgia College and eventually changed to its present name. UWG has come a long way. Today, it educates more than 12,000 students across over 80 academic programs. 

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE UNIVERSITY OF WEST GEORGIA’S ONLINE DOCTOR OF EDUCATION IN PROFESSIONAL COUNSELING & SUPERVISION DEGREE PROGRAM


WALDEN UNIVERSITY

walden university

Program Standouts:
Walden University is a known online institution that provides quality programs across 100 degrees and certificates, one of which is the Ph.D. in Counselor Education and Supervision. In this program, you’ll be able to gain in-depth knowledge of counseling and supervision while expanding your skillset.

Get to choose from different specializations like:

  • Addiction Counseling,
  • Trauma and Crisis,
  • Clinical Mental Health Counseling
  • and be an agent of change in society.

Be mentored by Walden’s high-caliber instructors and connect with other professionals along the way. Best of all, the online program allows you to work on your Ph.D. coursework while keeping your day job.

Campus Location: Minneapolis, MN

Accreditation:

  • Higher Learning Commission
  • Council for Accreditation of Counseling Related and Educational Programs

Admission Requirements:
Applicants must submit a completed online application, the nonrefundable application fee, and official transcripts from all accredited colleges and universities attended. You must be a master’s degree holder to qualify for this program. 

Program Options:

  • Clinical Supervision
  • Advanced Counseling Theories
  • Research Theory, Design, and Methods
  • Advanced Quantitative Reasoning and Analysis
  • Teaching in Counselor Education

Degree Outcomes:
Depending on your area of specialization, graduating from Walden University’s counseling program will help you land various positions in different fields. You may work in hospitals, rehabilitation centers, and mental health facilities.

Aside from that, you may pursue private practice or if you have a soft spot for giving back to the community, you may pursue leadership roles in non-profit organizations. 

Did You Know?
Walden University recognizes the challenges of distance learning and makes sure that you get the support that you need at any time of day. That’s why the online academic institution provides 24/7 IT support services to help with any technical issues experienced on the university’s online platform and learning resources. 

LEARN MORE ABOUT WALDEN UNIVERSITY’S ONLINE PH.D. IN COUNSELOR EDUCATION & SUPERVISION DEGREE PROGRAM


LIBERTY UNIVERSITY

liberty university


Program Standouts:
Liberty University is one of the most well-established schools in the country, which offers a selection of diverse programs grounded in Christian values. 

The university’s online Ph.D. in Counselor Education offers the right blend of courses to produce counseling experts and leaders. With this program, you’ll be exposed to different counseling theories and how they can be applied in a real-world setting.

Moreover, this program is rich in research opportunities and a diverse array of coursework. You’ll also be required to cover an internship, practicum, and dissertation to complete the Ph.D. program. 

Campus Location: Lynchburg, VA

Accreditation:

  • Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)

Admission Requirements:
Applicants must submit the following documents:

  • a completed online application,
  • official transcripts from all accredited colleges and universities attended,
  • recommender’s contact information,
  • and a statement of purpose.

A nonrefundable application fee must also be settled. Additionally, TOEFL scores are required from applicants who use English as a second language.

Sample Coursework:

  • Dissemination of Research and Scholarship
  • Supervision Internship
  • Teaching Internship
  • Advanced Theory Application and Orientation
  • Counseling, Research, and Leadership Internship

Degree Outcomes:
You will have sufficient knowledge and exposure to the fields of Counselor Education, Supervision, and Leadership. This may help you pursue different job positions such as college and university faculty or administrator, advanced professional counselor, or advanced researcher.

As an administrator, you may work in various settings fields such as that of a community, government, or healthcare institution. 

Did You Know?
Liberty University embodies three values: academic quality, affordability, and accessibility. In terms of quality, the institution has been accredited by the SACSCOC and offers over 450 quality programs. The school has pioneered in providing online programs, which makes learning more accessible. LU also has one of the lowest tuition rates, making them an affordable choice for many students.

LEARN MORE ABOUT LIBERTY UNIVERSITY’S ONLINE PH.D. IN COUNSELOR EDUCATION AND SUPERVISION DEGREE PROGRAM


HAMPTON UNIVERSITY

Hampton University

Program Standouts:
Hampton University’s online Ph.D. in Counselor Education and Supervision allows licensed counselors to advance in their respective career paths.

Through this program, you’ll be able to develop a good knowledge base in counseling, advocacies, and writing. You’ll also be able to improve on your supervisory and clinical skills while sharpening your leadership skills along the way.

The coursework is offered through a flexible online format that covers 16-week courses, a dissertation project, and internship opportunities. The accelerated program may allow you to get hold of your doctor’s degree in as fast as 3.6 years. 

Campus Location: Hampton, VA

Accreditation:

  • Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)

Admission Requirements:
To qualify, you have to be a master’s degree holder in any related field. In terms of admission, you’ll need to submit a completed online application, a writing sample, and three letters of recommendation. You’ll also need to present a government ID, along with a resume and personal statement discussing your career goals. 

Sample Coursework:

  • Analysis of Behavioral Data
  • Ethics and Legal Aspects of Counseling
  • Advanced Group and Systems Theory
  • Qualitative Methods of Research
  • Theories and Practice of Counseling Supervision

Degree Outcomes:
This degree program equips graduates with advanced understanding and enhanced skills in supervision, counseling, and teaching, which enables them to vie for teaching or clinical positions in universities.

Aside from learning community mental health counseling and school counseling, the coursework will also improve your research skills both clinically and academically.

Did You Know?
Hampton University campus is home to the historical Emancipation Oak where Mary Peake first held her classes, breaking the glass ceiling at the time. The oak tree has also been the site for the Emancipation Proclamation and still stands tall to this day, as a symbol of inclusive education.

LEARN MORE ABOUT HAMPTON UNIVERSITY’S ONLINE DOCTOR OF PHILOSOPHY IN COUNSELOR EDUCATION AND SUPERVISION DEGREE PROGRAM


AMRIDGE UNIVERSITY

Counseling Education and Supervision

Program Standouts:
Amridge University is a non-profit online institution that offers a selection of programs for graduate and undergraduates degrees.

Notably, its online Ph.D. in Professional Counseling holds a good impression on professional counselors seeking career advancement and growth. The extensive program is anchored on research and emphasizes quantitative and qualitative research methodologies.

Additionally, you’ll be exposed to theories across different topics like cultural diversity, human development, and addiction. This 60-credit program may be covered in four years, depending on your pace. 

Campus Location: Montgomery, AL

Accreditation:

  • Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)

Admission Requirements:
Applicants must submit a completed online application, the nonrefundable application fee, and official transcripts. Aside from these, you’ll also need to submit a writing sample and undergo a phone interview. 

Sample Coursework:

  • Synthesis of Counseling and Psychotherapy Theories
  • Relational Sexual Therapy
  • Strategies to Reduce Marriage and Family Dysfunction
  • Medical Family Therapy
  • Analysis of Substance Abuse Interventions

Degree Outcomes:
At the end of the program, students will have a better grasp of relevant counseling theories and principles to effectively practice their profession. Graduates from this first-rate online program have gone on to work in universities, community mental health centers, social service agencies, and private practices.

The university’s affiliation with professional organizations, like the ACA and the APS, has helped graduates in landing their dream jobs.

Did You Know?
Amridge University prides itself in providing both accessible and affordable education. The university understands the needs of its working students and has embraced distance learning since 1993. It has also been providing financial aid to almost 90% of its student body to ensure that everyone can afford quality education. 

LEARN MORE ABOUT AMRIDGE UNIVERSITY’S ONLINE PH.D. IN A PROFESSIONAL COUNSELING DEGREE PROGRAM


MISSISSIPPI COLLEGE

MISSISSIPPI COLLEGE

Program Standouts:
Mississippi College’s online Doctor of Professional Counseling program focuses on clinical practice at a professional level, developing both your clinical skills and professional knowledge.

The professional degree is designed to enhance the understanding of master’s in the discipline with relevant experience under their belts.

Additionally, you’ll further develop your leadership and presentation skills. You’ll be prescribed to take four courses per semester but you may adjust according to your schedule and workload. 

Campus Location: Clinton, MS

Accreditation:

  • Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)

Admission Requirements:
Applicants must submit a completed online application, the nonrefundable application fee, the latest resume, and three letters of recommendation.

You’ll also need to provide an 800-word essay on your professional goals and present a proof of your two-year experience in counseling. Additionally, you’ll need to submit your official transcripts from previous college work, with cumulative GPAs of 3.25 or higher.

Sample Coursework:

  • Psychotherapy Integration
  • Advanced Clinical Assessment, Diagnosis, and Treatment Planning
  • Advanced Group Dynamics and Contextual Factors in Counseling
  • Advanced Lifespan Developmental Processes
  • Trauma: Impact, Assessment, and Treatment

Degree Outcomes:
This online curriculum is designed to train students for a variety of clinical, leadership, and research roles. You’ll be able to lead organizations professionally while becoming field leaders in various communities.

After the program, you’ll become an expert in providing mental health services that may involve conducting assessments and creating treatment plans.

Did You Know?
Mississippi College offers a selection of financial aid to help students struggling to make ends meet. Students excelling academically, valedictorians may and salutatorians may avail of academic scholarships while the school also offers financial aid to full-time Christian ministry members. Graduates can also pay it forward by sponsoring amounts for the Alumni Dependent Scholarship. 

LEARN MORE ABOUT MISSISSIPPI COLLEGE’S ONLINE DOCTORAL DEGREE IN PROFESSIONAL COUNSELING (DPC) PROGRAM


GRAND CANYON UNIVERSITY

Grand Canyon University

Program Standouts:
Grand Canyon University boasts an impressive lineup of online programs which includes several Ph.D. like one in Counselor Education and Supervision. This program provides learners with the right coursework and training to effectively supervise counselors and teach counseling.

Aside from teaching and supervision, the program also places heavy emphasis on leadership and research by introducing related courses and a dissertation. The program also offers teaching internships and practicum to improve their own practice.

Campus Location: Phoenix, AZ

Accreditation:

  • Higher Learning Commission
    www.hlcommission.org

Admission Requirements:
Applicants must submit an admissions form together with a copy of their transcripts. If you’re seeking financial assistance, you submit your student aid application along with your admission requirements.

Qualified students will be guided by an admissions officer for on-campus class registration while virtual students may reach out to online university counselors. 

Sample Coursework:

  • Ethics, Laws, and Multicultural Issues
  • Pedagogy of Counselor Education and Models of Supervision
  • Special Topics in Counseling Education and Supervision
  • Introduction to Research 
  • Leadership and Social Justice

Degree Outcomes:
The program aims to instill relevant counseling theories and supervision styles while enhancing their teaching and research skills. This allows Ph.D. graduates to qualify for roles both in the academe and in the field of research.

You may pursue roles like faculty members, advanced clinicians, school guidance counselors, and directors of counseling agencies. Additionally, you may work as a behavior analyst, couples and family counselor, case manager, correctional counselor, and more!

Did You Know?
Grand Canyon University is always a step ahead in providing accessible education. That’s why it has created a program that offers night classes for busy professionals seeking a diploma. CGU’s night classes are convenient since you’ll only meet once a week at a convenient location.

LEARN MORE ABOUT GRAND CANYON UNIVERSITY’S ONLINE PH.D. IN COUNSELOR EDUCATION & SUPERVISION  DEGREE


CALIFORNIA SOUTHERN UNIVERSITY

CALIFORNIA SOUTHERN UNIVERSITY

Program Standouts:
While it is a Doctor of Psychology degree, this program has made it into this list for its strong focus on and emphasis on counseling and therapy. CSU’s Psy.D. program gives students leverage and opportunity in their careers with the ability to move into virtually any position in any organizational hierarchy.

With this program, you’ll be able to create treatments and apply different clinical theories that are in line with counseling education studies. Similarly, you’ll also be involved in research and leadership training.

Campus Location: Irvine, CA

Accreditation:

  • Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA)
  • Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC)

Admission Requirements:
Applicants must submit:

  • a completed online application,
  • official transcripts from colleges and universities attended,
  • a government-issued ID,
  • and a short personal statement stating your career goals and motivation.

You’ll also need to settle an application fee upon submission of the documents.

Sample Coursework:

  • Cognition, Emotion, and Motivation
  • Crisis and Trauma Counseling
  • Career Counseling
  • Interpersonal Neurobiology
  • Advanced Theories of Personality

Degree Outcomes:
There is a great deal of vastly beneficial outcomes from this online degree program, including enhanced critical thinking, personal development, and cultural and social understanding.

This will help you qualify for roles in both clinical practice and the academe. Advocacy work is also a great career path since you’ll be exposed to ethical, legal, and professional issues.

Did You Know?
California Southern University understands the academic needs of active duty military members and veterans. That’s why it offers support through different programs like online education options, tuition rate adjustment, and education benefits. On top of that, CSU has a dedicated team that caters to the needs of military students.  

LEARN MORE ABOUT CALIFORNIA SOUTHERN UNIVERSITY’S ONLINE PSY.D. (DOCTOR OF PSYCHOLOGY) DEGREE PROGRAM


CAPELLA UNIVERSITY

capella university

Program Standouts:
Capella University’s Ph.D. program in Counselor Education and Supervision aims to help advance individuals into becoming professional counselors and supervisors. The program offers a mix of theoretical courses and internships to help you become expert mentors and leaders in the field of counseling.

The curriculum also incorporates research design courses and a dissertation to forward your academic development. Moreover, you’ll be exposed to different advocacies, codes of ethics, and legal standards that are important during professional practice.  

Campus Location: Minneapolis, MN

Accreditation:

  • Higher Learning Commission

Admission Requirements:
You’ll also need to submit:

  • an online application,
  • your official master’s transcripts with a GPA of 3.25 or higher
  • government-issued ID
  • two letters of recommendation
  • your latest CV,
  • an extended goal statement
  • and some samples for the department’s review. 

Sample Coursework:

  • Counselor Education Teaching and Practice 
  • Leadership and Advocacy in Counseling 
  • Research and Scholarship
  • Counselor Supervision
  • Advanced Scholarly Inquiry  

Degree Outcomes:

Graduates from this program will be able to explore a career in different settings such as government agencies, university guidance centers, and hospitals. You can practice professional counseling privately or through counseling centers and mental health agencies.

Additionally, you may pursue a teaching job in universities and academic institutions, both on-campus and online.

Did You Know?
Capella University was established in 1993 as the Graduate School of America. Four years later, the institution was accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, which led to the renaming of its present name in 1999. Today, the university remains accredited by the HLC, adding more degree and certificate programs. 

LEARN MORE ABOUT CAPELLA UNIVERSITY’S PH.D. IN COUNSELOR EDUCATION AND SUPERVISION.


Frequently Asked Questions: 

Is pursuing a Doctor of Counseling Education and Supervision Degree worth it?

If you’re seeking to advance in your field or career, taking up a doctorate degree is worth the time, money, and effort. Doctorate programs offer rigorous training and a comprehensive curriculum to prepare you for leadership roles.

With a Ph.D. in counselor education and supervision, you’ll be better prepared to teach psychology and mentor counseling students, paving your career path in universities and teaching institutions. You’ll also be able to uplift the counseling community and touch the lives of future counselors. 

In addition, you’ll be able to develop communication skills that you can use in a variety of settings, both locally and internationally. Pursuing higher education opens up a lot of work and scholastic opportunities. Plus, you can earn more outside of private practice with a Ph.D. than you could with just a master’s degree in counseling.

What are the careers available for Ph.D. graduates? 

Graduates may pursue careers in different fields like clinical practice, leadership roles, teaching positions, and more! Whether you’re looking for private or public practice, earning a Ph.D. will catapult you to better opportunities. You’ll surely qualify for positions such as: 

  • University Professor
  • Clinical Supervisor
  • Licensed Professional Counselor 
  • Social Services Administrator
  • Mental Health Advocate
  • Guidance Counselor Director 
  • Counseling Psychologist 
  • Regulatory Affairs Director

Pursuing a teaching career may be fruitful since you’ll be able to shape and influence minds. Since this level of the degree is typically research-intensive, you may also pursue roles in research institutions as supervisors and consultants.

Research design and inferential statistics courses will come in handy, especially when providing input in the counseling field. If you want to further certain advocacies, you may get involved in different organizations.

How does the enrollment process usually work? 

The enrollment process usually starts with the submission of the application form and various admission documents including an official transcript, government-issued ID, updated resume, and CV.

Some universities also require recommendation letters to provide insights into your academic capabilities. Personal statements or write-ups are sometimes required to help ensure that your career outlook is in line with the program’s goals. 

After submitting all the needed requirements, you’ll then be notified of your acceptance through email or a letter. You may then proceed to go over your coursework plan and decide on your academic pace. Most universities offer career coaching and one-on-one mentoring which may help you in plotting your program.

Finally, you’ll just have to pay your initial tuition and school admin fees. After everything’s settled, you’re all set to pursue your doctorate degree.

What are some of the qualifications to be admitted to the doctorate program? 

Qualifications vary per institution but most universities require a Master’s Degree, either in counseling or any related field. The degree must be from an accredited institution to ensure that you’ve undergone the standard set of academic requirements. GPA requirement falls between 3 to 3.5 or higher. Another major qualification is professional experience.

Since most Ph.D. programs deal with research, having ample experience in the field will provide insights that you can apply to your research project. 

Oral and written communication skills are also an edge since you’ll be presenting your research studies and may be involved in teaching internships.

Lastly, some institutions look into your leadership potential during evaluation since doctorate graduates are perceived to be agents of change in the industry. You may demonstrate this through the write-ups and statements that the university usually requires.

How long does it take to finish the doctorate degree program? 

A typical Ph.D. program comprises core courses, an internship, and a dissertation. Each program requires around 90 to 120 credit hours of coursework and a dissertation may take up to one year to finish.

Depending on your preference, you can study full-time or part-time and take a certain number of credits every semester. Full-time students may earn their degree in as fast as three years. On the other hand, part-time students may have to extend the time it takes to graduate, finishing the program in approximately five to six years. 

Most graduate schools allow students to complete their doctorate within 10 years. This is to accommodate busy professionals who can only allocate limited time to the program.

Additionally, some programs even offer doctoral credits while you’re still working on master’s coursework. These accelerated programs significantly shorten the needed time to finish a doctoral degree. 

What are the benefits of a PhD in Counseling Education?

Increased Knowledge and Expertise: A doctorate in counseling education provides advanced knowledge in a specialized field, as well as the ability to apply that knowledge in innovative ways.

Through coursework, doctoral students are able to gain expertise in research methods, assessment and diagnosis, measurement and evaluation, theories of counseling, counseling techniques, direct and indirect services, and more. Additionally, doctoral research often requires complex data analysis, problem-solving, and other advanced skills.

Career Enhancement: A Ph.D. in Counseling Education can lead to increased opportunities for career advancement and higher salaries. Those with a doctorate in counseling education may enjoy greater job security, more autonomy, entrance into higher-level leadership positions, and greater responsibility.

Additionally, those who hold a doctorate in counseling education can pursue forms of education and instruction, such as teaching and training in counseling.

Professional Networking: Pursuing a doctorate in counseling education provides unlimited networking opportunities. These relationships are formed within the professional counseling environment and with other professionals and scholars in the field.

Additionally, participating in scholarly research and activities such as conferences, workshops, and seminars offers the chance to create relationships with colleagues in the field.

Research Advancement: A doctoral degree in counseling education allows graduates to further their research within the counseling field. Through research, graduates can identify gaps in the field, create solutions to challenges, and improve current practices.

Additionally, research projects often lead to enhanced publications, which can increase one’s reputation and visibility within the counseling profession.

Mentoring: Many doctoral graduates in counseling use their experience and knowledge to mentor others in the field. Through teaching, research, and advising, doctoral graduates might be able to help other budding professionals in the field of counseling.

Additionally, counselors-in-training may benefit from the hands-on guidance that doctoral graduates can provide.


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