College of Health, Education and Social Transformation
Counseling Psychology (Ph.D.)
College of Health, Education and Social Transformation
Counseling Psychology (Ph.D.)
Transform Lives. Shape Practice. Earn Your Ph.D. in Counseling Psychology.
At New Mexico State University, the Ph.D. in Counseling Psychology is an APA-accredited, scientist-practitioner doctoral program designed to blend rigorous research, clinical skill-building, and social justice-oriented practice. You will engage deeply with multicultural counseling, advanced assessment, intervention, supervision, and leadership training, while conducting original research that addresses real-world needs across diverse communities. With each semester offering practicum, research collaboration, and mentorship from expert faculty, you’ll emerge ready to lead, theorize, and practice at the highest level.
Admission Deadlines
Annual application deadline: December 15
- Total credits: 78
Delivery Format
In-person
Career Pathways
Graduates with a Ph.D. in Counseling Psychology from NMSU are prepared for diverse, influential careers where research meets practice. Possible career paths include:
- Licensed psychologist in clinical, hospital, or private practice settings
- University professor or researcher in counseling psychology or applied mental health
- Clinical director or program supervisor overseeing counseling services and staff
- Consultant or policy analyst in public health, community mental-health systems, or human services
- Specialist in multicultural counseling, behavioral health equity, or trauma-informed care
Degree questions, answered
Have questions about the Doctor of Philosophy in Counseling Psychology? Fill out our inquiry form.
Why choose this program?
Choosing NMSU’s doctoral program in Counseling Psychology means joining a community that values both science and service. With full APA accreditation and a strong emphasis on multicultural competence and social justice, the program offers close collaboration with faculty on empirical research, hands-on clinical experiences across settings, and opportunities to teach and supervise emerging professionals. You’ll develop the competencies to not only practice but lead the field — integrating scholarship, practice, and advocacy to make a meaningful difference in mental-health care and allied professions.
No GRE Required
We’re removing barriers to graduate education, which is why we don’t require the GRE.
APA Accredited
The Counseling Psychology program at NMSU was first accredited by the American Psychological Association (APA).
The program is based on the scientist-practitioner model through which both research and service delivery skills are acquired. Graduates of the program are prepared to conduct research, provide service, teach, and supervise. The program prepares students for licensure as psychologists.
Take classes like:
- CEPY 5150 - The Art & Science of Mindfulness for Helping Professionals
- CEPY 6180 - Physiology of Behavior
- CEPY 6350 - Appraisal of Personality
- CEPY 6440 - Multivariate Statistics
- CEPY 6130 - Psychology of Multiculturalism
- CEPY 6550 - Counseling Psychology Theory/Practicum
Integrated Behavioral Health Care
The minor in Integrated Behavioral Health Care, offered through the Counseling and Educational Psychology (CEP) department, is open to graduate students enrolled in CEP programs Clinical Mental Health Counseling, School Psychology, Counseling Psychology and to graduate students who are enrolled in Social Work, Public Health, Nursing and Marriage and Family Therapy programs. It was established in the interest of meeting the needs of graduate students in the health professions who are receiving or seeking training in interdisciplinary or interprofessional collaborations with other healthcare disciplines. Students will complete nine credits of coursework specific to this program of study in order to obtain a minor in Integrated Behavioral Health Care.
Spanish Counseling
The minor in Spanish Counseling, offered through the Counseling and Educational Psychology department is open to graduate students who are enrolled in CEP’s Counseling, School Psychology, and Counseling Psychology programs, and to graduate students who are enrolled in Social Work and Marriage and Family Therapy programs. In order to begin the minor courses, students must currently be enrolled in a Mental Health program as described above. They must demonstrate intermediate level Spanish language skills as evidenced by the Spanish Placement Exam and an oral interview with the program coordinator. Students will successfully complete nine credits of coursework specific to this program of study in order to obtain a minor in Spanish Counseling.
- Minimum required: At least 60 graduate-level credit hours beyond the master's degree.
- Dissertation: A minimum of 18 credit hours for the doctoral dissertation.
- Practica: Required coursework includes several practica, with the total number of credits varying based on the specific program requirements.
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.