The core of this 48 credit program consists of six required courses which total 18 semester credits. Beyond the core students take courses in assessment, counseling, ethics, social psychology, psychophysiology, and near the end of the program, do a practicum. A variety of electives is offered. Students may take electives from several other related master's degree programs such as Marriage and Family Therapy, Human Development and Education.

A maximum of six graduate semester credits earned prior to admission at Saint Mary’s University may be accepted as transfer credits upon the recommendation of the program director/site coordinator and the approval of the academic dean.

The program is offered on the Twin Cities campus and in Rochester.  In addition the core classes are offered at our Minnetonka site.  For the convenience of students, many of whom work, most classes are offered in the evenings.  Sections of some classes, including core courses are offered during the day including Saturdays.

Graduates of the Master of Arts in Counseling and Psychological Services program are expected to be able to:

• Use appropriate written, verbal, and nonverbal communication skills with counseling clients and professionals.
• Counsel clients of diverse backgrounds based upon an awareness and appreciation of diversity.
• Demonstrate critical thinking skills including providing reasoning in support of diagnosis and treatment interventions.
• Apply the fundamentals of research in counseling psychology to practice.
• Apply ethics to counseling incorporating the rules and regulations of the profession, critical thinking, and compassion.
• Articulate appropriate plans for future professional development that include ongoing supervision/consultation.
• Apply knowledge and theory of counseling to practice.
• Assess client strengths, attributes, and problems.
• Apply knowledge and skills to selected areas of psychological practice.