Clinical Mental Health Counseling, MA (Online)

This program consists of three 14-week terms a year, each of which is divided into two carefully curated seven-week sessions. The practicum/field experience will span a full term, and the internship will span two terms.

Courses are offered online in a blend of asynchronous and synchronous work, meaning you will do most of it on your own time, whenever it best fits your schedule. Each course meets synchronously for 90 minutes each week. Attendance in our synchronous course time is expected; together, we use this time to apply the content learned asynchronously and practice clinical skills. However, we recognize that students have busy lives and that sometimes the unexpected may make a student unable to attend a class. In the rare circumstance that a student is not in attendance, the class will be recorded, and an additional assignment will be provided to that student to evidence their engagement with the content and exhibit their use of the skills learned.

Full-time students can take two classes per term and finish in two years. Part-time students can decide how many classes to take each term, but must finish within six years.

Although our program is online, every course in the program has a 90-minute synchronous component each week. We recognize that life can impede class attendance from time to time and there are some asynchronous options for the occasion absence. However, there are a few synchronous experiences where attendance is mandatory, including a 10-hour experiential group counseling experience that will occur over a single academic session. In addition, throughout the duration of the practicum and internship, each student participates in individual and/or triadic supervision on a regular schedule that averages one hour a week and group supervision on a regular schedule that averages 1½ hours per week.

This online program leverages cutting-edge technology to enhance the learning experience and to provide essential skills for your future counseling practice. Through interactive virtual classrooms, multimedia resources, and real-time collaboration tools, you’ll be a part of a dynamic and engaging online environment that mirrors the richness of in-person instruction. Participate in simulated counseling sessions; access diverse case studies; and engage in immersive, experiential learning.

Our instructional designers have developed a no-cost introductory module to prepare you to successfully engage in the online learning environment. In addition, we’ve standardized the online classroom experience to ensure a seamless transition from course to course, even for those who might be new to online education.

Our application process is simple and efficient; GRE scores aren’t required, and with rolling admissions and monthly interviews, you can begin in the next available cohort. You need to complete the following:

• Essay (statement of interest)*
• Two letters of recommendation from faculty or employers only
• Resume
• Official transcript(s) from all post-secondary institutions, including a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution
• Synchronous group interview

You can also use code “GROWTCNJ” to waive the $75 application fee.

*Share with us how your lived expertise integrates into your desire to be a mental health counselor, including your aspirations for creating meaningful change in individual lives and communities.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants to the Online Clinical Mental Health Counseling Program must meet the following eligibility criteria:

• Hold a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution.
• Submit official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended.
• Provide a current resume or curriculum vitae outlining relevant education, work experience, and volunteer activities.
• Submit a statement of interest outlining their reasons for pursuing graduate studies in counseling, relevant experiences and skills, and career goals in the field.
• Provide two letters of recommendation from academic or professional sources who can attest to the applicant’s readiness for graduate study and potential for success in the counseling profession.
• Complete a group admissions interview conducted by program faculty or admissions committee members.

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Is the program CACREP accredited?

The curriculum is aligned with the 2024 CACREP standards. As a new program, TCNJ cannot apply for CACREP accreditation until the first cohort reaches internship (January 2026). If accreditation is secured, graduates within 18 months of the accreditation date are deemed CACREP graduates.

What can I do with this degree?

Graduates work as clinical mental health counselors in community agencies, hospitals, substance use treatment centers, private practices, schools, and telehealth, and can move into supervisory and administrative roles with experience.

What licenses does it prepare me for?

You will meet the requirements to sit for the National Counselor Exam (NCC) and to apply for licensure as a Licensed Associate Counselor (LAC), the first step toward the Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) credential. Requirements vary by state.

Do I need the GRE?

No. GRE scores are not required.

Is the program fully online?

Yes, with a 90-minute weekly synchronous session per course and a few required in-person or synchronous experiences, including a 10-hour group counseling experience and a CACREP skills assessment for students starting after July 1, 2026.

How long does the program take?

Full-time students finish in two years. Part-time students set their own pace and can finish within six years.