Masters in Counselling
School of Social & Human Studies
Academic Freedom to Discover Your Purpose
Open Curriculum Design at Atlantic International University
The AIU Masters in Counseling program offers flexibility through a distance learning model to facilitate skills development for professionals interested, among other things, in learning more about how to effectively help improve people’s mental health and well-being, human behavior, and therapeutic services delivery systems. Emphasizing the interplay between adult education principles, experiential learning experiences, and the process of reflective learning, this andragogically based counseling psychology master’s degree program provides students opportunities to incorporate their previously acquired professional experience(s) into the advanced study of counselling. AIU has designed an innovative Online Learning Environment that gives students the ability to build their own individualised online educational paths, have complete freedom from institutional control, and be exposed to worldwide perspectives. These master of counseling features allow students to develop a set of ethical counselling competencies that are culturally responsive and grounded in evidence-based best practices, all while they meet their professional obligations and personal goals.
What are the Core Courses & Topics for Masters in Counselling ?
Important: Below is an example of the topics or areas you may develop and work on during your studies. By no means is it a complete or required list, as AIU programs do not follow a standardized curriculum. It is meant solely as a reference point and example. Want to learn more about the curriculum design at AIU? Check here: Course and Curriculum
The Masters in Counseling at Atlantic International University (AIU) incorporates core courses to build a solid foundation for both theoretical and practical aspects of the field. An andragogy-based distance learning delivery format has been adopted to deliver this training successfully. The core courses include a comprehensive examination of the critical graduate degree in counseling areas of practice within the field of counseling, including the theories of counseling, human growth and development, ethics/professionalism in the field of counseling, assessment/diagnosis, research methodologies, multiculturalism, and methods of therapeutic intervention. Students’ studies will consist of a combination of both online learning and applied experiences, in addition, students will engage in a variety of Masters in Counselling reflective assignments. Students in the msc counseling program will develop critical thinking abilities, ethical decision-making skills, and evidence-based skills—their skill set can be directly applied to their professions and to the communities they serve.
- Foundations of Counseling and Helping Relationships
- Counseling Theories and Techniques
- Human Growth and Development
- Ethics and Professional Practice in Counseling
- Psychological Assessment and Diagnosis
- Counseling Skills and Therapeutic Communication
- Group Counseling and Facilitation
- Crisis Intervention and Trauma-Informed Care
Orientation Courses for Masters in Counselling
Atlantic International University’s (AIU) masters in counseling orientation courses for the Masters of Counseling prepare students to effectively use the distance learning platform and utilize training and workshops on how to implement the andragogical approach in their counseling psychology masters studies. Orientation also introduces self-directed study, academic freedom, research methodologies, ethical standards, and effectively using AIU’s Digital Campus, as well as providing structured guidance and opportunities to reflect on learning activities so that mental health counseling degree students can clarify their understanding of the programme expectations; develop a detailed masters in counseling understanding of how to write an effective personalised curriculum and strategies for integrating their previous professional experiences into their advanced Counselling Studies.
- Communication & Investigation (Comprehensive Resume)
- Seminar Administrative Development (Book Summary)
- Organization Theory (Portfolio)
- Seminar Cultural Development (Practical Experience)
- Experiential Learning (Autobiography)
- Seminar International Development (Publications)
What are the Research Projects for Masters in Counselling ?
Students in the Masters in Counselling from Atlantic International University (AIU) will pursue independent investigations and applied scholarship through AIU’s innovative distance learning and driven by andragogy educational philosophies. Students will conduct research-based projects that confront real-world counselling issues such as providing mental health interventions, trauma-informed care, behavioral assessments, multicultural counselling methods and community-based wellness programmes and the students will receive guidance from Faculty Members throughout the program. By combining theoretical knowledge with direct professional experiences and developing ethical research competencies, students will make meaningful contributions to the expanding field of counselling while having flexibility with pacing of study and research.
- MBM300 Thesis Proposal
- MBM302 Masters Thesis (5,000 words)
Publication – At Atlantic International University (AIU), students studying for their Masters in Counseling are given the opportunity to publish their academic and professional work as part of AIU’s focus on research-based and practical application in teaching and learning. AIU utilizes a distance-learning and andragogical approach to create way for students to publish on topics related to mental health promotion, trauma-informed care, Ethics in counseling, and Multicultural Approaches through the development of research papers/case studies/literature reviews/application of counselor projects that focus on contemporary issues.
As clinical counseling master’s students work under the supervision of faculty with access to AIU’s Global Academic Library resources, they acquire scholarly writing skills as well as experience in collaboration with other students and the ability to disseminate their knowledge on an International basis.
Thesis Defense
AIU’s Master’s Counseling Degree incorporates the thesis defense, which represents the culmination of their advanced level of study and applied research with the Distance Learning and Andragogical learning model. In addition to their thesis, AIU Master’s Degree counseling students must present and defend their original thesis (Research Paper/Thesis), which was prepared as part of the Master’s program and demonstrates that they have mastered Counseling Theory and its associated research methodologies;
Ethical Considerations; as well as Practically Applying that Theory to Counseling Practice. The Thesis Defense is conducted On-line in a flexible (asynchronous) format and promotes the student’s ability to engage in critical thinking; scholarly communication; and professional competency so that upon graduation, they can be effectively prepared to make contributions to the practice of Counseling, as well as to further research and contribute to their communities’ well-being.
Masters in Counselling Student Experience
AIU provides its learners with an advanced, AI-based experience that enables personalised academic support and improved research productivity through intelligent digital tools which are incorporated within its distance education framework. Through the adoption of cutting-edge AI technology, AIU provides assistance to its professional counseling program learners with regard to course creation, customised learning pathways, revisions of written work, and real-time academic coaching. AIU’s use of AI integrated with the andragogical (adult) education philosophy provides an opportunity for each counseling studies postgraduate degree learner to take ownership of his/her education; thus optimising their potential for success and engaging in purposeful masters in counseling learning experiences.
Community & Social
Through Community and Social Engagement, Atlantic International University (AIU) provides students the opportunity to utilize the knowledge acquired through their degrees on projects with a global and culturally diverse student body of learners. Using AIU’s unique distance education learning environment and andragogic approach, AIU students will engage in projects that promote mental health awareness, social responsibility, and ethical practice while conducting social research to identify solutions to local community problems and through advocacy of such problems. Through this process, AIU students can become global citizens who understand different cultures, make meaningful contributions to the community in which they live, and empower others to effect positive social change while progressing in their academic and professional goals.
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Academic Resources
The Masters in Counselling academic resources available at AIU enable students to receive the appropriate academic support digitally through comprehensive resources that assist with learning, research, and furthering their professional development, all from wherever they choose to learn and how they wish to learn. The academic resources of AIU offer access to many different types of online library material, such as e-books, online journals, databases and virtual laboratories, recorded lectures and webinars, and interactive learning modules. In addition to providing access to quality materials for learners to use for their academic research, AIU also provides AI-driven Masters in Counselling tools specifically designed to guide learners throughout their educational experience via the andragogical framework employed in the development of AIU’s curriculum, thereby offering our counseling psychology learners the ability to conduct thorough mental health counseling research, develop their ability to think critically, and achieve academic success while having full control of their educational journey.
Virtual Campus
Complete assignments online or offline at your convenience with 24/7 access to distance learning through AIU’s Virtual Campus. Step by Step guides including videos, tutorials, live webinars and examples for each course. All materials can be access on all web browsers as well as via AIU's Mobile App which brings all the features of the Virtual Camus to your Mobile Device.
My AIU Elements
MyAIU’s primary goal is to go beyond Academics, it looks to guide students through 11 elements that are key to living life optimally in all aspects. By identifying and reflecting on these key areas, an opportunity arises to holistically address them, through positive change, habits, reinforcement and tools to keep students on their chosen path.
AIU TV & Radio
The students have the opportunity to produce, edit and host their own show reaching a worldwide audience, the AIU community and giving notice of their expertise/passion in the subject. AIUTV & AIU Radio allow students to explore new ways to communicate, develop a platform and form potential collaboration with likeminded individuals.
AIU Campus Mundi
AIU Campus Mundi is a monthly magazine that gathers the most notable news and information about the university and its members in one convenient place. The magazine allows our community to be well informed, involved and keep in tough regardless of their geographic location. AIU Campus Mundi publishes, news, research, events, awards, academic achievements.
Graduation Ceremony
Each year AIU organizes graduation ceremonies where the students can assist and share their experiences with fellow students and academic members Participation in the ceremony is optional, the day’s events include conferences, research presentations, group meetings, networking, lunch and formal dinner.
Symposiums & Webinars
The Masters in Counseling students enrolled in Atlantic International University can take advantage of attending international symposiums to gain exposure to global perspectives, groundbreaking research and best practices within mental health and counseling. As virtual and face-to-face events, these gatherings allow for the coming together of individuals from multiple behavioral counseling disciplines including academics.
Live Classes
Atlantic International University (AIU) provides students with live instruction two times daily to facilitate dynamic, in-the-moment engagement in their academic pursuits while participating from the comfort of home through an interactive learning platform that allows them the flexibility to learn at their own pace.
By participating in these live classes, students have the opportunity to interact with experienced instructors and industry professionals who are conducting the class from around the world, which provides them with the opportunity to discuss topics that are important to them as well as to utilize case studies as a means for acquiring practical business knowledge relevant to their chosen areas of study.
The daily clinical counseling live classes continue to correspond with AIU’s Masters in Counselling andragogical approach to education and promote active student engagement, peer-to-peer collaboration, and instant academic assistance for students attempting to maintain a balance between academic, personal, and work-related obligations.
Special Projects, Research Publications, & Co-Authoring
Through its andragogy-based, self-directed learning paradigm, Atlantic International University’s (AIU) Master of Counselling (Counselling) Programme offers numerous innovative experiences in amassing expertise in this area of practice. Students may create and implement applied project(s) to respond to current societal and public health problems they encounter in the field of mental health and wellness; create and distribute original research publications in partnership with their faculty mentor; and collaboratively develop academically viable product(s) intended for the publication process.
By working as collaborative co-authors with other students and faculty in AIU’s Master of Counselling Programme, students gain exposure to interdisciplinary areas of counseling practice and knowledge as well as broaden their professional networks. Participating in this manner helps students develop a greater understanding of the various professional roles in the field of counselling; provides the experience necessary to become a successful and effective counseling techniques researcher; strengthens their communication and interpersonal skills; promotes opportunities to develop their professional development and career goals; and helps to develop the academic credentials necessary to facilitate advancement in their academic and professional careers.
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Career Center for Masters in Counselling
The Career Center at Atlantic International University (AIU) assists individuals earning a Master of Arts degree in Professional Counseling to use their School of Business and Finance education to successfully enter the job market. This includes providing personalized guidance on writing resumes, interviewing for jobs, applying for internships, and utilizing resources to build upon existing skill sets; all while helping students develop the skills necessary to effectively pursue a career in counseling. The Career Center supports students in developing a global view of the counseling industry through AIU’s distance learning approach as well as with developing their own strategies for developing a successful professional career pathway. Additionally, through AIU’s therapeutic counseling model of andragogy (adult education) and evidence-based practice, the Career Center provides students with valuable insight into the development of professional relationships in clinical, educational, and community environments.
Job Description
AIU provides counseling students with the skills, knowledge and ethics needed to build successful careers in the fields of Mental Health, Wellness & Human Services. Students are able to gain hands-on experience through AIU’s distance-learning, andragogy approach, critical thinking and culturally responsive counselling approaches to prepare students for making a difference in a variety of settings. Graduates obtain the qualifications required to obtain a broad spectrum of roles in counselling and mental health.
- Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC)
- School Counselor
- Career Counselor
- Mental Health Therapist
- Substance Abuse Counselor
- Rehabilitation Specialist
- Family and Marriage Counselor
- Community Outreach Coordinator
- Behavioral Health Specialist
- Child and Adolescent Counselor
Tools for Masters in Counselling
The Master of Counselling Programme at Atlantic International University provides students with access to a variety of digital tools and Artificial Intelligence (AI) that enhance both the learning process as well as the overall effectiveness and efficiency of students’ studies and research efforts. These tools provide support in all areas of curriculum planning, provide opportunities for interaction and virtual simulation, manage research, improve communication between students and faculty, and assist students in applying theoretical knowledge to the “real-world” aspect of counselling. The tools are aligned with the andragogical principles of Atlantic International University and allow students to take charge of their educational experience, to work more efficiently, and to develop the skills necessary for practice as a professional counsellor.
Associations for Masters in Counselling Professionals
The Master’s in Counseling students at Atlantic International University (AIU) are encouraged to participate in professional organizations and associations that promote the development of Counseling, Mental Health and Wellness, through membership with the organization allows students access to networking opportunities, continuing education, professional development and keeps them current on industry standards and best practices. Through AIU’s andragogy driven distance learning at AIU, students have the ability to be active participants in either national or international counseling communities by attending conferences, contributing to research and working with other professionals across the world, enhancing their academic experience but also career opportunities.
- American Counseling Association (ACA)
- American Mental Health Counselors Association (AMHCA)
- International Association of Psychology & Counseling (IAPC) (intapc.org)
- International Association for Counselling (IAC) (iac-irtac.org)
- Chi Sigma Iota (CSI)
- International Association for Guidance and Counseling (IAGC) (iagc.online)
- International Association of Marriage and Family Counselors (IAMFC) (iamfconline.org)
- American School Counselor Association (ASCA) (rxweb.pharmacy.nlu.edu)
- American College Counseling Association (ACCA) (rxweb.pharmacy.nlu.edu)
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Masters in Counselling Admission Requirements
Atlantic International University (AIU) has established a set of admission criteria for its Masters in Counseling program which allows the institution to evaluate the readiness of candidates to achieve success in a distance learning environment that uses self-directed methods of learning, and is focused on andragogical principles. All potential candidates must, as a minimum, possess a bachelor’s degree from a nationally-recognized college/university in either counseling, psychology, or social work or an equivalent field.
The candidates must further provide evidence of their academic ability; relevant professional experience/interest in counseling; and , as a condition of admission, their commitment to ethical practice and to continuing their professional development throughout their careers. The admissions evaluation process is very flexible and allows candidates to demonstrate their individual aims/objectives as well as their level of preparedness for furthering their studies in counseling by creating a personalized course of study which is compatible with their goals in the counseling field.
How Can You Apply?
The sequence of steps to follow in order to apply for admission is as follows:
- Research Before You Begin – Investigate the available courses and concentrations by looking on the website at all available options.
- Determine your Qualifications – The required education for admission is a Bachelor’s Degree in either Counseling, Psychology, Social Work or another closely related field.
- Gather Required Documentation – Transcripts, Diplomas, Resume and Letter(s) of Intent/Reason for Application.
- Complete an Online Application – The application will be submitted via the AIU webpage.
- Upload Supporting Documentation – This includes all held documents at AIU which will support your application.
- Wait for Confirmation of Acceptance – AIU will evaluate your application and determine whether you are eligible for further processing.
Financial Support & Scholarships
Atlantic International University (AIU) aims to help Masters in Counseling students access further education by allowing students to apply for multiple financial assistance options/services, scholarships, flexible payment plans and financial counselling specifically designed for each individual’s situation. Throughout this process, AIU will support students in achieving their career aspirations in counseling and will provide an affordable method of obtaining that education through a distance learning platform which places minimal financial burdens on all involved.
What’s the Cost Per Year for Pursuing a Masters in Counselling at AIU?
Atlantic International University (AIU) provides an online Masters in Counseling using a flexible tuition model which is designed to enable distance education to be accessible to international distance learners. The online tuition model allows students to learn through self-directed andragogical approaches, meaning students can complete their programs as quickly or slowly as possible while managing their current personal and professional responsibilities.
Students will have no difficulty understanding what their financial obligations will be due to the transparent and reasonably priced tuition structure at AIU. In addition, students will have access to many financial assistance options, including scholarships, grants, and personalized payment advice, which will help students successfully complete the Master’s in Counseling program without placing an undue financial burden on them.
FAQs
What is a Masters in Counseling?
A Master’s Degree in Counseling is a graduate education program designed to prepare individuals to deliver counseling support, treatment, and mental health services for both individuals or families in need of psychological assistance, including community-based agencies; all elements are blended together with a foundation in counseling theory, practical skills, and ethical standards.
Who should pursue a Masters in Counseling degree?
A Master’s Degree in Counseling is appropriate for those who seek to make a career as therapists and/or human service professionals, and assist others in dealing with life issues, emotional challenges, and/or behavioral issues.
What are the eligibility requirements for a Masters in Counseling?
A Bachelor’s degree or any relevant degree is the basic eligibility requirement for a Masters in Counselling
How long does it take to complete a Masters in Counseling?
2 years minimum.
