In addition to the specific courses, each student will select to complete either a thesis or comprehensive exams. The thesis option emphasizes original research, demonstrating a student's ability to clearly define a worthwhile problem, to conduct a thorough investigation, to organize the findings, to draw defensible conclusions, and to give an oral presentation of the findings. The comprehensive exam option involves case assessment, demonstration of individual and group skills, development of a therapeutic plan, theoretical and methodological explanation and application.

The degree program requires a minimum of 48 semester hours. Each course is worth 3 credits unless otherwise noted.

Note: Non-degree seeking students who currently hold a master's degree and are seeking specific licensure should meet with the advisor to develop an academic plan for program approval. In some instances this academic plan may lead to a graduate certificate.

Core Curriculum
COU510 Professional Orientation and Ethics
This course explores the professional identity of counselors, professional organizations, publications, certification, and licensing. The roles and expectations of counselors in various settings are examined as well as the ethical standards and legal issues of the professional utilizing the Ethical Standards of the American Counseling Association.

COU520 Social and Cultural Foundations of Counseling
Study of social, cultural, and gender differences, and issues related to counseling clients with various backgrounds, beliefs, and concerns. Includes multicultural counseling techniques, human sexuality, and sex equity.

COU530 Dynamics of Self
This course applies personality theory and the stages of life to human behavior and the given implications relating to the counseling process.

COU540 Career Counseling and Testing
Students in this course will examine theories of career development and occupational choices as it applies to career counseling and guidance in schools and community settings. Areas to be included are lifestyle development, changing social structures, collecting and evaluating occupational education and social information with use of assessments, and career counseling techniques.

COU551 Research Methodology
This course is for students designing a research of evaluation proposal leading to data collection. Specific topics considered include formulating a problem for study, reviewing the literature, and selecting appropriate research and evaluation designs, instrumentation, and data analysis issues. The goal of the course is to aid students in the preparation of research proposals at the master's level.

COU565 Statistics
Students develop an understanding of the descriptive and inferential statistics used in research for the purpose of statistically analyzing and interpreting research findings.

COU570 Counseling Methods and Techniques
This course teaches students basic counseling theories, techniques, and skills including drop-out prevention. The students will focus on developing and enhancing their skills in order to facilitate their ability to intervene effectively with their clients. Students will be encouraged to explore their own style of counseling and begin to integrate theory with practice.

COU572 Counseling Theories
This course surveys the field of counseling. It considers the aspects of counseling theories, issues in the practice of mental health counseling, and individual and family dynamics.

COU574 Group Counseling Theories and Techniques
This course overviews various group theories and basic aspects of group therapy as well as application of these theories to the counseling process. Topics covered include group therapy as a laboratory for interpersonal learning, therapist facilitative techniques, group dynamics, the development and role of group cohesiveness, selection and composition of groups, and stages of group therapy. COU580 Assessment Techniques
Students will focus on the collection, interpretation, and application of various assessments contributing to a greater understanding of the individual, couples, and family.

COU582 Psychopathology and Assessment
Study of causes, manifestations, and treatment of mental disorders with an emphasis on diagnostic interviewing skills and diagnosis according to the DSM classifications. Child abuse, sexual abuse, and substance abuse will be examined as part of the course.

COU695 Internship
Students meet in a practicum seminar led by a faculty member. This experience provides an opportunity for the student to perform the activities of a regularly scheduled employee in a professional clinical setting and complete contact hours required for licensure. Variable credits

COU697 Comprehensive Examination Preparation
Independent study to meet comprehensive examination requirements under the guidance of a chair and committee. OR,

COU698 Counseling Thesis
Independent study to meet thesis track requirements under the guidance of a chair and committee.

Addiction Counseling Track
COU600 Psychopharmacology
Students will gain an understanding of the brain's chemistry and its interactions with various drugs. Emphasis is placed on the prescription of psychopharmacological drugs, their side effects, and implications for treatment. Aspects related to the use of illicit drugs as it relates to treatment will also be addressed.

COU602 Prevention and Intervention Strategies
A multidisciplinary/multidimensional discussion, with emphasis on "best practices" and care for select populations, on risk factors, outreach services, pretreatment, community education, referral networks, and prevention activities in schools, the workplace, community groups, and health care delivery organizations.

COU604 Substance Abuse Counseling
Introduction to theories concerning addictive behavior: causes, assessment, intervention, and treatment.