Rogers State University is enrolling its first cohort in its second master’s degree for the upcoming fall 2021 semester. The Master of Science in Community Counseling received final accreditation approval earlier this month.
“The start of this program could not be more timely,” RSU President Dr. Larry Rice said. “The establishment of this master’s level program will meet the continuing demand for professional counselors in northeast Oklahoma and throughout the region.”
The program is designed to provide students with the education necessary to become professional counselors. It was developed to combat rising mental health issues at local, state and national levels.
The Northeast Oklahoma Occupational Projection Outlook through 2024, published by the Oklahoma Employment Security Commission reports a 16.4% increased need for professional counselors in Northeast Oklahoma.
“Counselors are a vital part of society, and they are needed now more than ever,” Dr. Abe Marrero, psychology and sociology department head, said. “We are committed to making sure our students not only obtain a degree, but the best education possible to prepare them for success.”
Students will train for licensure and professional counseling roles in mental health, community, human services and school settings. The program prepares students to sit for the National Counselor Exam and the Oklahoma Legal and Ethical Responsibilities Exam required by the Oklahoma State Board of Behavioral Health.
RSU’s department of psychology and sociology is known for its development of community engagement and learning. Accomplished faculty have a broad range of expertise and interest that help personalize the classroom experience, as well as afford various real-world opportunities.
Admission to the inaugural cohort is now open to students who have earned a bachelor’s degree with a minimum GPA of 3.0. No entrance exams are required for the incoming Fall 2021 class.
RSU is the only public regional university in the Tulsa metro providing the complete college experience. For more information, visit www.rsu.edu/mscc.