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Mission Statement

It is the mission of the Professional Counseling program to remain committed to strength-based training with an emphasis on bridging theory to practice through an applied, innovative, and experiential environment. The program strives to develop a strong counselor identity, with a focus on personal and professional growth. By fostering self-discovery and awareness, we honor students’ unique contributions to the learning community in the context of enriching student-faculty relationships. Our goal is to train students to serve a diverse and global community through counseling, scholarship, advocacy, and community engagement.

About the Professional Counseling Program

At UNC you will make the most of your future by expanding your mind and advancing your career. You’ll gain an education for life through relevant courses that help you reach your career goals.

Professional Counseling Programs are operated by the Department of Applied Psychology and Counselor Education

We prioritize excellence and ensure that our graduates are fully prepared to work as professional counselors. Our alumni have become leaders in agencies, schools, and private practices. 

Students see clients under live supervision in our state-of-the-art clinic.

The faculty has been recognized with the UNC Academic Excellence Award

Faculty members have been recognized for excellence in teaching and advising at the College and University levels.

Faculty members are scholars as well as teachers.

Instructional Delivery Systems

Instructional Methods: In each course a variety of instructional methods are employed, including live didactic instruction and instruction supported by online, interactive technology. No required course in the Professional Counseling Master’s Programs (either on- or off-campus) is offered completely online with the exception of Introduction to Graduate Research (SRM) 600 course. The Applied Statistics and Research Methods department offers SRM 600 in both face-to-face and online formats.

Instructors employ a variety of teaching techniques and interventions including facilitated group discussion, lecture, demonstrations, facilitated personal reflection, and simulated activities.

 Students demonstrate knowledge and skill attainment through a variety of formats including individual projects, student presentations, role-play, case discussions and problem solving exercises, group work, group discussion, computer laboratory projects, discussion of empirical and internet research, and field work.