College of Health, Education and Social Transformation
Clinical and Mental Health Counseling (M.A.)
College of Health, Education and Social Transformation
Clinical and Mental Health Counseling (M.A.)
Your Path to Becoming a Licensed Mental Health Counselor Begins at NMSU
Discover the Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at New Mexico State University — a CACREP‑accredited, 60‑credit program designed to empower you to make a meaningful impact in communities, agencies, hospitals, schools, and private practice. Emphasizing inclusivity and cultural competence, the program strengthens your ability to serve diverse populations with awareness and sensitivity.
Admission Deadlines
Annual Application Deadline: February 1
- Total credits: 60
Delivery Format
In-person
Career Pathways
Graduates with a Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling can pursue a variety of roles in mental health and related fields. Common job titles include:
- Licensed clinical mental health counselor (LCMHC)
- Mental health therapist
- Behavioral health counselor
- Substance abuse counselor
- School-based mental health counselor
- Case manager
- Program coordinator for mental health services
- Community mental health advocate
Degree questions, answered
Have questions about the Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling? Fill out our inquiry form.
Why choose a M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at NMSU?
- CACREP‑Accredited and Licensure‑Ready
Fully aligned with CACREP standards, our curriculum equips graduates for licensure as clinical mental health counselors in New Mexico and beyond. - Comprehensive, Real‑World Training
With core coursework in human development, multicultural counseling, group and family therapy, addictions, diagnosis, assessment, and more — followed by practicum and 12‑credit internship graduates emerge practice‑ready. - Outstanding Outcomes
Our graduates boast a 100% comprehensive exam pass rate and full employment within 180 days of graduation. - Mission‑Driven and Community‑Oriented
Rooted in NMSU’s commitment to social justice, you’ll gain practical experience in mental health agencies, hospitals, schools, and community settings, guided by a mission to serve others equitably. - Flexible, Engaging Instruction
Delivered primarily face‑to‑face, with select courses offered in hybrid formats, our program accommodates varying learning styles and schedules.
No GRE Required
We’re removing barriers to graduate education, which is why we don’t require the GRE.
The CEP department offers a Clinical Mental Health Counseling program which leads to a Masters of Arts degree (M.A.). The program is accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP). It prepares professional counselors to perform mental health counseling in agencies, hospitals, and private practice. Successful completion of the Clinical Mental Health Counseling program qualifies students to pursue licensure as clinical mental health counselors with the New Mexico Counseling and Therapy Practice Board.
Take classes like:
- CEPY 5120 Human Development
- CEPY 5180 Addictions Counseling
- CEPY 5210 Research Methods
- CEPY 5230 Counseling Theory and Technique
- CEPY 5240 Child and Adolescent Counseling Theory and Technique
- CEPY 5320 Career/Life Planning and Vocational Assessment
Ready to take the next step?
Request Information
Scholarships and Financial Aid
At NMSU, we strive to offer competitively priced tuition to keep your tuition costs affordable. If you need financial aid, we’re ready to work with you to determine the best ways to finance your education.
Financial assistance includes loans, grants, and scholarship opportunities. To apply, use NMSU’s convenient Scholar Dollar$ one-stop scholarship application, which serves all students in the NMSU system.
NMSU students are also eligible for loans and grants. The first step in applying for financial aid is to complete a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Learn more about financial aid opportunities at NMSU.
Contact Financial Aid
Phone: 1-888-729-6678
Email: financialaid@nmsu.edu
Accreditation
New Mexico State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, an institutional accreditation agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. Specialized accreditation from other accrediting agencies is also granted for some programs. NMSU’s accreditation ensures that your education meets high-quality standards and that your credits are transferable.