Prepare for licensure as a mental health counselor through SUNY Oswego’s Mental Health Counseling, M.S. at the Syracuse Campus. This CACREP-accredited graduate program combines small classes, faculty support, field-based learning and a curriculum aligned with New York State licensure preparation. Students build the clinical, ethical and professional skills needed to serve individuals and communities in a range of mental health settings. With direct interaction with faculty, students gain a strong foundation in counseling theory, active listening, treatment planning, case consultation, ethics and applied practice.
The Mental Health Counseling program equips students with the knowledge and skills needed to support clients through personal, emotional and psychological challenges. Coursework emphasizes counseling theory, assessment, treatment planning, active listening, problem-solving, ethics, multicultural awareness and case consultation.
The 60-credit curriculum is accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs, known as CACREP. Students gain preparation for professional practice through classroom learning, supervised field experiences and opportunities to connect with local mental health professionals and community-based settings.
The program aligns with New York State educational requirements for mental health counseling licensure. Students interested in alcohol and substance abuse counseling may also pursue additional coursework connected to preparation for New York State credentialing.
The curriculum combines counseling theory, professional ethics, human development, assessment, diagnosis, treatment planning, group counseling, career counseling, research and supervised field experience. Students progress through coursework designed to build the knowledge, skills and professional judgment needed for counseling practice.
Students should review the catalog and connect with the program before applying to understand course sequencing, field experience expectations, licensure preparation and any additional coursework related to alcohol and substance abuse counseling.
Studying at SUNY Oswego’s Syracuse Campus gives students access to an in-person graduate experience close to home, with small classes, faculty engagement and connections to the mental health needs of Central New York communities.
Graduates will be well-equipped to embark on careers as licensed, professional mental health counselors, with the ability to serve in diverse settings. Our mental health counseling program aligns with the state’s educational prerequisites for professional licensure and ensures that students are adequately prepared to successfully take the licensing exam. Additionally, for those aspiring to become Credentialed Alcohol and Substance Abuse Counselors, the program offers the option to pursue supplementary coursework in preparation for the New York state exam.
The Mental Health Counseling program at SUNY Oswego provided me with the necessary training to work in a field that I am passionate about. Working with clients in an internship setting allowed me to understand what this career is about and what it has to offer to a community, as well as my professional development
Learn about our graduate programs through our information sessions today!
Winter in Central New York can be challenging, but Jason Duffy, Assistant Professor and Coordinator of the Mental Health Counseling Program, shares expert tips on Bridge Street to help combat the winter blues and prioritize mental well-being.
Professor Jason Duffy discusses Oswego's mental health counseling program on Bridge Street, which focuses on practical experience. Top earners yield $100K+ and an average salary of approximately $70K.
Oswego's mental health counseling program is also available in person, providing an opportunity for collaboration and hands-on learning experiences.
Research shows CACREP graduates perform better on the National Counselor Examination for Licensure and Certification (NCE).
Prospective students may be eligible for an award which includes an annual stipend, in addition to fully-paid tuition for full-time study.
Assistantships provide an opportunity to gain experience through professional work on campus.
in total awards given every year to our graduate students
Achieving your long-term career goals shouldn’t come at the expense of your immediate financial security. Oswego offers low tuition compared to many private colleges. Never sacrificing quality for affordability, our graduate students are receiving a nationally accredited program that will translate into effective knowledge and opportunities.
Submit official transcripts confirming your bachelor’s or master’s degree/advanced certificate. This includes graduate-level coursework or post-baccalaureate degree/certificate. U.S. transcripts must be sent directly from the granting institution (electronic or mail).
For credentials earned outside of the United States, we require students to provide a World Education Services (WES) Course by Course (ICAP) evaluation, an IEE Education Course Report (US), or TEC (formally known as SpanTran) Divisional Course Analysis. This evaluation ensures that we can provide quality assessment of coursework from all countries where various grading scales and languages may exist.
A minimum cumulative grade point average of 3.0 or better is required for applicants. If you have questions regarding your GPA, please speak to the department advisor for further information.
Graduate Record Examination (GRE) scores are optional for admission into the program. Applicants have the option to submit a test score as part of their application package.
As a prospective student, you will meet with faculty to assess your skills and goals for attending the program. Email confirmation regarding interviews with a time and date will be sent out two to four weeks after submission deadline.
In 500 words or less, describe your personal achievements relating to your academic interests, and detail your educational and professional objectives with reasoning for applying to SUNY Oswego. This statement will help the review team better understand and evaluate your application.
Include a professional resume or curriculum vitae that includes your academic history, professional background and any accomplishments of note. This document should provide details that support your admittance to the program.
Indicate two names with valid email addresses. We will send an email request directly to the references on your behalf. These references should be able to speak to your character, work ethic and abilities.
Prospective students are charged a non-refundable $65 fee for processing the application.
All international transcripts must be verified using one of the following methods as part of your application process:
English Language Proficiency: Submit official TOEFL (79 overall, MBA 83) or IELTS (6.5) scores, unless exempt.
Visa and I-20 Documentation: After acceptance, upload your financial documents and passport copy to receive your Form I-20 for your visa application.
For more details, please visit Application Requirements for International Graduate Students.
All academic programs offered by SUNY Oswego that lead to a state license or certification in a particular profession have been designed to meet state licensing requirements in the state of New York. Our programs are not designed to meet licensure requirements in other states. If you plan to pursue a license in a particular profession in a state other than New York after you graduate, it is your responsibility to determine whether our curriculum will meet the requirements in the state where you plan to live and work. For questions about licensure disclosure, please contact SUNY Oswego's Provost Office.
Phone: 315-312-2290
Email: [email protected]