THE CES Ph.D Program & Philosophy

Counselor Education and Supervision Ph.D Program

The program of study typically takes 3 ½ to 4 years to complete on a full time basis or 5-6 if the student attends part time. The length of study depends on a number of personal factors including, but not limited to the number of required course prerequisites, students’ availability to study on a full time basis, and completion of the internship, doctoral comprehensive examinations and dissertation.  

Our History

The history of graduate education in psychology at UNC dates back to the early 1900's. In 1908, a Psychological Clinic was founded. This clinic provided physical and mental examinations of school children. In 1913, the first master's degree in Psychology at UNC was offered. Historically, there has been a strong commitment to national accreditations in our School. The Council for the Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP) began accrediting programs in 1981 and our programs in Clinical Counseling, School Counseling, and the doctoral degree in Counselor Education were accredited in 1982. In 1994, CACREP began accrediting Couples and Family programs and our program was the 2nd Couples and Family program in the U.S. to be accredited by CACREP.

The Counselor Education and Supervision PhD program prepares individuals for employment as counselor educators and supervisors for colleges and universities offering training in school counseling, clinical counseling, couples and family counseling/therapy, counseling with children and adolescents, and gerontology. Graduates are also qualified for licensure as professional counselors and may be employed in such sites as community agencies, schools, counseling centers, employee assistance programs, and private practice.

The program curriculum and faculty are focused on preparing student to meet the 21st century demands of culturally diverse society.  Students are expected to contribute to their education through active involvement with the program, its faculty, and the profession.  The course of study includes a common core of relevant and timely courses and experiences meant to engage and challenge learners in their personal and professional development.  Students will take part in leadership, mentoring and service activities that extend the curriculum beyond the classroom and training clinic into community and profession