Admissions

Admissions

Admissions

The Certificate of Advanced Graduate Studies (CAGS) in Mental Health Counseling is intended for individuals who have already completed a master's degree in counseling (or related field) and need additional graduate course work in order to have the 60 credits required for state licensure (LAC/LPC) and/or national certification (NCC). Additionally, the program is available for mental health professionals in the community seeking to enhance their professional development. The courses within the certificate program are intended to be advanced courses within the profession that will allow students to improve their practical knowledge and skills. Students typically complete 12 semester hours of graduate credits in classes taught by the Clinical Mental Health Program within the Department of Psychology in order to bring their total credits to the state requirement of 60. The 12 semester hours may be completed by taking a combination of courses within the program. However, individual courses may have prerequisites associated with them. Given that some degrees total more (or fewer) than 48 credits, we occasionally accept individuals who request more (or fewer) than 12 semester hours and/or specific courses that are normally part of our own master's degree program. Any exceptions should be discussed with the Program Coordinator. Students who simply need particular coursework (e.g., to obtain the 60 credits required for state licensure (LPC) and national certification/personal growth, etc.) may register for up to 9 graduate credits as non-matriculated students to meet their own individual needs. If additional credits are needed, students should apply to the program. (Please contact Rowan Global Student Services to register as a non-matriculant. Please note: It is highly recommended that all CAGS students seek to matriculate.) Students matriculated (applied and admitted) must follow the program requirements as outlined. Please consult with the Program Coordinator to discuss your enrollment needs.

Admission requirements for the Certificate of Advanced Graduate Study (CAGS) in Mental Health Counseling Program include:

  • Completed Science & Mathematics Application Form
  • Completed Rowan Global Foundation Course Completion Form
    • Note about Foundation Courses: Applicants must have successfully completed at least 12 credits of undergraduate-level Psychology courses at an accredited institution, including one course in Abnormal Psychology, one course in Statistics, and one course in Research Methods.
  • $65 (U.S.) non-refundable application fee
  • Bachelor's degree (or its equivalent) from an accredited institution of higher learning
  • Official transcripts from all colleges attended (regardless of number of credits earned)
  • Current professional resume
    • Applicants should include a statement on the professional resume that verifies evidence of applied skills including research proficiency and work experience within a mental health setting (e.g., field experience, volunteer work, employment).
  • Typewritten statement of professional objectives
  • Two letters of recommendation
  • Minimum undergraduate cumulative GPA of 3.0 (on a 4.0 scale)
Information and advice about applying