Transform Lives With an M.S. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Earn your degree online from Merrimack College at your own pace, and prepare for a rewarding career as a licensed mental health counselor.
Tell us about yourself.
Gain access to a program brochure, connect with an enrollment advisor and get a head start on your application.
100 Percent Online Coursework
Our online coursework allows you to integrate your program into your schedule and life.
Complete Your Degree at Your Own Pace
Earn your degree full time in two years or continue working and complete it part time in three or four years.
Prepare for Licensure
This program meets the educational requirements for licensed mental health counselors in Massachusetts, New Hampshire and many other states.
Affordable Tuition
With tuition under $43K and financial aid available, the average cost of our degree is comparable to or less than many public universities.
Overview
There is an ongoing mental health crisis in the United States and the need for licensed mental health counselors is growing at an exponential rate. Channel your passion for helping people into a rewarding career in mental health. Transform lives with your M.S. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Merrimack.
Key Dates and Deadlines
No. 14
Most Innovative Schools
Merrimack College was named No. 14 in Most Innovative Schools, Regional Universities North, 
by U.S. News & World Report (2024).
No. 33
Best Regional Universities North
Merrimack College was named No. 33 in Best Regional Universities North by U.S. News & World Report (2024).
NECHE-Accredited
Merrimack College is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE).
Why Merrimack
At Merrimack College, our values are rooted in a commitment to excellence, compassion and social responsibility. We believe in empowering individuals to make a meaningful impact in their communities and beyond. In our M.S. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, you will:
- Receive a foundational curriculum in counseling skills and techniques, diagnoses, assessments and interventions to meet the needs of culturally diverse individuals, families and communities.
- Complete a 12-month on-site clinical practicum and internship training with a community-based mental health agency.
- Benefit from Merrimack’s 97 percent clinical placement rate.
Frequently Asked Questions
The program typically spans around two years, with students having the option to complete it in as little as two years, depending on their pace and credit load.
Yes. Students have a variety of options to fund their education. Request more information, and an enrollment advisor will contact you to answer your questions.
Connecting with an enrollment advisor will help you:
- Understand the program admissions criteria and know whether you are eligible to apply.
- Gain insight into application best practices and how to submit a strong application.
- Know what to expect in your online classroom, including the level of faculty interaction, program outcomes, and more.
- Have an immediate line of support in the event you have questions or need clarification about the M.S. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling.
Yes! This program is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE). Regional accreditation is accepted for licensure requirements for master’s level mental health counselor licenses in 47 out of 50 states in the US.
Kentucky, North Carolina and Ohio are currently the only states that specifically require CACREP accreditation for licensure.
Make a Difference in the World of Mental Health Counseling
With a proven track record of success, a flexible online format, and a commitment to empowering our graduates, Merrimack College can be the perfect choice for your journey toward becoming a licensed clinical mental health counselor.
Begin Your Journey