College of Science and Health
MS in Clinical Psychology (MCP)
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Ready to make a difference? Unleash your potential as a Clinical Counselor.
Becoming a counselor isn’t just about textbooks and diplomas. It’s about igniting your passion for human service and equipping yourself with the skills to truly impact lives. This isn’t a job; it’s a calling, fueled by curiosity, respect, open-mindedness, and a burning desire to help others find their path.
But here’s the truth: the world needs more than just knowledge. It needs compassionate, resilient counselors like you. Those who can listen without judgment, offer guidance with humility, and walk alongside clients through their toughest moments.
Yes, the journey will challenge you. You’ll face complex situations, navigate difficult conversations, and push yourself beyond your comfort zone. But with every step, you’ll witness the transformative power of your work. You’ll see anxiety replaced by hope, fear conquered by courage, and darkness illuminated by the light of healing.
Are you ready to answer the call? If you’re driven to make a difference, to empower others to live their best lives, then our program is for you.
The Client-Centered Path to LCPC Success
Theoretical Orientations
Our program immerses you in diverse theoretical perspectives, equips you with real-world skills through extensive field placements, and prepares you for licensure in Illinois for both LPC and LCPC exams.
Preparing Students for Academic and Professional Success
Benedictine’s 35-year legacy in Clinical Psychology prepares you for diverse careers in counseling, therapy, and mental health services across all ages. Our program blends rigorous academics with client-centered skill training, equipping you for immediate impact and laying the groundwork for future doctoral studies.
Foundation in Client Centered Counseling
Benedictine’s Clinical Professional Counselor program is a supportive journey, guiding you beyond state requirements with a comprehensive Client Centered approach and experienced faculty. Designed for busy adults, it equips you with the skills to become an LCPC and empower others to live fuller lives.
The BenU Difference
Why Choose Benedictine for Your Journey in Clinical Psychology?
For over 35 years, Benedictine’s Clinical Psychology program has been a launchpad for fulfilling careers in counseling, therapy, and mental health services. We go beyond textbooks and lectures, focusing on intensive client-centered skill training to equip you with the tools to truly impact lives.
Forge your path as a compassionate and skilled clinical psychologist with Benedictine’s comprehensive program. Master essential therapeutic approaches, gain real-world confidence through extensive field placements, and prepare seamlessly for licensure in Illinois. Our strong academic foundation serves as a springboard for doctoral studies, and you’ll join a thriving network of alumni who excel across diverse practice settings.
Choose Benedictine and unlock your potential to make a lasting impact on the lives of others.
The Nuances of Clinical Practice: Bridging Research and Reality
Benedictine’s Clinical Psychology program isn’t just about textbooks and lectures; it’s about immersing you in the ever-evolving world of clinical practice. You’ll become a skilled navigator, equipped to integrate the latest research findings into your work, ensuring you offer the most effective and cutting-edge interventions to your clients. From navigating ethical dilemmas with confidence to understanding the unique needs of diverse populations, you’ll develop a comprehensive toolkit for success.
Embrace the Tapestry of Human Experience: Benedictine recognizes that each client arrives with their own rich story, shaped by cultural influences, developmental journeys, and unique circumstances. Our program cultivates your ability to apply this knowledge, honing your counseling skills to connect with sensitivity and respect. You’ll gain the expertise to guide children through formative years, support adults facing life transitions, and empower individuals from all walks of life to navigate their personal challenges.
By delving deep into research, ethical decision-making, and a nuanced understanding of human development, Benedictine equips you to not only survive, but thrive, in the dynamic landscape of clinical psychology. Join us and embark on a transformative journey toward a career filled with purpose and the satisfaction of making a real difference in the lives of others.
Careers with a Masters in Clinical Psychology
A Master’s in Clinical Psychology opens doors to diverse and fulfilling career paths across mental health and beyond.
What our Alumni Have Done with this Degree:
Our graduates are employed primarily in private practice and public mental health centers, hospitals, residential treatment facilities and social service agencies serving individuals, families and special clientele of various age groups. Others are in academic institutions, staff training and development or are engaged in doctoral studies.
Here is an example of some courses you may take in the Masters of Clinical Psychology program:
- The Physiology and Pharmacology of Psychotherapeutic Drugs
- Principles of Behavior Therapy
- Professional, Ethical and Legal Issues in Counseling
- Brief Counseling and Psychotherapy
- Maladaptive Behavior and Psychopathology
Master of Clinical Psychology courses (CPSY)
Psychology & MCP 3+2: Fast-Track Your Journey to Clinical Psychology
- Accelerate your studies: Start your Master’s in Clinical Psychology (MCP) a year early while completing your Bachelor’s in Psychology.
- High school applicants: Apply during college admissions with a strong GPA and a psychology recommendation.
- Conditional acceptance: Get interviewed before your first year to assess your fit for the program.
- Undergraduate focus: Complete your psychology major and general education requirements, reaching at least 90 credit hours by your junior year.
- Junior year application: Submit your full MCP application (goals, essays, letters) by February.
- Current BU psychology majors: Apply and interview before your junior year, ensuring you’re on track for 90 credits.
- Graduate coursework begins summer after junior year: Take 30 graduate-level credits that count towards both your Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees.
- By your 4th year: You’ll have completed most of your Bachelor’s degree and finished your first year of the MCP program.
- Graduate in 5 years: After one more year of full-time study, you’ll earn your Master’s in Clinical Psychology.
Flexibility for advanced students: If you have more than 90 credits before starting the MCP coursework, you can:
- Graduate early with your Bachelor’s degree.
- Apply fewer Master’s-level credits towards your undergraduate degree.
Benefits:
- Save time and money by earning both degrees faster.
- Gain a head start on your clinical psychology career.
- Receive personalized support from the MCP program.
Student Testimonial
EMILY PAGONE, LCPC, NCC
MCP ‘14
Owner + Clinical Therapist at Emily Pagone Counseling PLLC
“As a therapist, my clinical interests have become more focused on adolescents, young adults, parents and parenting, families, and trauma. I strongly believe in integrating researched, effective treatments into clinical practice. I believe in approaching all clients with an open, warm and an accepting demeanor, while utilizing unconditional positive regard and exhibiting a nonjudgmental attitude.”