FOLLOW GOD'S LEAD.

Pursue Your Calling.

MS in Professional Counseling — Transform Lives, Heal Hearts, Make a Lasting Impact

Available Online or On-Campus

Take the Next Step

Southern's CACREP-accredited MS in Professional Counseling prepares you with real-world skills, supervised clinical experience, and faith-centered care.

The Gold Standard in Counselor Education

Southern's CACREP-accredited MS in Professional Counseling is designed for aspiring and advancing counselors who want real-world skills, supervised clinical experience, and a program that meets licensure requirements in all 50 states. Almost 100% of our graduates pass their licensure exams on the first try.

CACREP Accredited

Small Classes

Faith-Informed

Balance Your Career and Education

Live Online or Hybrid

Classes meet late afternoon/evening on Tuesdays and Thursdays, flexible for working professionals.

Full-time or part-time options
No Tennessee residency required
Prepares you for state licensure

66 Credit Hours

Comprehensive curriculum combining clinical training with spiritual grounding.

CACREP-accredited program
Practicum and internship included
Career-ready upon graduation

Choose Your Specialization

Choose the emphasis that aligns with your passion for helping others.

Clinical Mental Health

Develop the skills to help clients navigate trauma, depression, anxiety, and substance abuse with compassion and clinical expertise.

School Counseling

Prepare to support K-12 students in their academic, social, and emotional development within public or private school settings.

Dual Specialty

Earn both emphases in one extra semester and qualify for two state licenses: professional counselor and school counselor.

Faith-Integrated Learning

Courses designed to develop both clinical expertise and spiritual growth.

COUN510Theories and Techniques of Counseling

COUN520Ethics and Legal Aspects of Counseling

COUN530Drugs and Addictions

COUN540Psychopathology

Small Classes. Personal Attention.

You won't feel lost or anonymous here. Our multicultural faculty bring diverse professional experience and are invested in your success. Small class sizes foster mentoring, camaraderie, and real connections with your cohort.

"Clinical Mental Health Counseling is one of the most versatile specialties in the field. Our graduates have strong job security and the flexibility to work anywhere."

Tammy Overstreet, Dean, School of Education and Psychology

Career Outlook

Work in clinical mental health centers, schools, private practice, or substance abuse treatment facilities. Make a difference every day.

Average Salary in Tennessee: ~$61,600/year

Ready to Help Others Thrive?

Take the next step toward a fulfilling career that transforms lives.

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