

The Counseling Master of Arts program at the University of North Carolina provides students with in-depth knowledge of counseling theories, human development, and evidence based intervention strategies. The curriculum emphasizes individual and group counseling, assessment techniques, and ethical practices, preparing learners to support students’ academic, social, and emotional development. Students develop counseling skills, assessment competence, intervention strategies, and problem solving abilities, equipping them to work effectively in educational and community settings.
Throughout the program, learners engage in coursework, supervised field experiences, and applied research projects that integrate theory with practical counseling practice. Faculty mentorship guides students in conducting assessments, designing intervention plans, and implementing evidence based strategies. By combining counseling theory with applied practice, students strengthen communication skills, professional judgment, research competence, and applied counseling abilities, ensuring they are prepared for professional roles in school counseling and related mental health support services.
Semester 1 Foundations in Counseling
• Counseling Theories and Techniques
• Human Growth and Development
• Assessment and Evaluation
• Professional Ethics and Legal Issues
Semester 2 Core Counseling Practices
• Group Counseling and Dynamics
• Career Development and Academic Advising
• Crisis Intervention Strategies
• Fieldwork I
Semester 3 Advanced Counseling Interventions
• Multicultural Counseling Practices
• Family and Community Engagement
• Psychological Assessment and Testing
• Fieldwork II
Semester 4 Integration and Capstone
• Counseling Program Design and Implementation
• Research Methods in Counseling
• Capstone Project in Counseling
• Professional Development and Portfolio
Graduates of this program are prepared for professional roles in educational and mental health settings that require expertise in counseling and student support. Many pursue careers as school counselors, academic advisors, student support specialists, and career guidance coordinators, providing guidance and interventions to enhance academic and social development. Others work in community programs, nonprofit organizations, or government agencies, developing counseling programs, conducting assessments, and supporting diverse populations. The programs emphasis on applied counseling, fieldwork experience, and professional skills equips graduates to deliver effective interventions and create supportive learning and community environments.
This program is ideal for students who want to combine theoretical knowledge of counseling with practical skills in educational and mental health settings. Its curriculum emphasizes developmental psychology, evidence based intervention strategies, and applied fieldwork, providing learners with the tools to support academic, social, and emotional growth. Faculty mentorship guides students in developing counseling techniques, assessment skills, ethical decision making, and applied problem solving. Through supervised field experiences, applied research projects, and capstone initiatives, learners strengthen counseling expertise, applied intervention skills, assessment and evaluation abilities, and professional decision making, preparing them for impactful careers in school counseling, student support, and community mental health services.
Phone: +1 (919) 966-3621
Email: unchelp@admissions.unc.edu
Address: Jackson Hall, 174 Country Club Road, Chapel Hill, NC 27514, USA