Santa Clara University

Overall, I think the MA in Counseling program is wonderful! Here are my key takeaways: 1) The professors are supportive, knowledgable, and flexible, 2) classmates are encouraging, 3) curriculum is sublime and incorporates modern issues, but is very challenging, 4) be prepared to do some counseling (e.g. taking on a counselor role w/ a student), & 5) all classes overlap w/ the 90 unit licensing program. Because of this, I often felt like "the other" because I plan to pursue a career in higher ed,... Read More rather than in mental health. If you're in the same boat, this may mean not being able to form a professional network while in the program and also taking some classes that may not be relevant to your future career. However, this program really teaches you how to think critically, helps you develop counseling skills, and provides you with resources that you can use with various clientele in the future.

Santa Clara's Counseling Psychology program is exceptional. Academically challenging, with diverse students and excellent faculty, it carries the best elements of the Jesuit faith (helping those less fortunate, involvement in the community) forward into a secular program. The program is well-designed to meet all the standards of the California licensing board, while also providing practicums with sought-after institutions, so that students are well-prepared for when they begin to practice. Lectures... Read More are thought-provoking, and force students to really examine what it's like to be a practitioner. Classes are available during the day and in the evening, for maximum flexibility.