MS in Counseling Careers & Outcomes

Students who graduate with a MS in Counseling from MSU Moorhead have an outstanding record of excelling on standardized national counselor examinations, which are necessary for certification and licensure. Graduates also have high placement rates obtaining relevant employment in their field of interest, with 100 percent of graduates finding careers in their fields over the past five years and average salaries around $63,460 a year. You can complete the 60-credit program in about two years.

The Addiction Counselors continue to be a growing need in the community to work with an increasing population of individuals struggling with addiction in various work settings. Addiction counselors provide treatment and advise people who suffer from alcoholism, drug addiction, or other addictions.

Employment of substance abuse counselors is projected to grow 22 percent from 2018 to 2028, much faster than the average for all occupations. Employment growth is expected as people continue to seek addiction counseling. 100% of MSUM graduate students have found employment in their chosen emphasis area of Addiction Counseling.

Clinical mental health counselors provide preventative and developmental counseling to enhance clients’ personal, social and academic growth as well as teach life skills to deal with problems before they worsen. Counselors may provide special services, including alcohol and drug prevention programs or conflict resolution classes. They are equipped for entry- to mid-level counseling positions in public and private mental health services. Overall employment of counselors is projected to grow 22 percent from 2021 to 2031, which is much faster than the average for all occupations. 100% of MSUM graduate students have found employment in their chosen emphasis area of Clinical Mental Health Counseling.

Employment Areas

  • Community Health Centers
  • Counseling Services
  • Disability Services
  • Health and Wellness
  • Hospitals and Clinics
  • Mental Health Clinics
  • Outpatient Care Centers
  • Private Practice
  • Psychological Services

Job Titles

  • Case Manager
  • Clinical Director
  • Clinician
  • Counselor
  • Director
  • Eating Disorders Counselor
  • Intake Coordinator
  • Substance Abuse Counselor
  • Therapist
  • Urgent Care Specialist

School counselors are vital members of the education team, collaborating with parents, teachers and professional staff to ensure students succeed academically and personally. Graduates acquire the skills, knowledge and values to help others find solutions to their problems. They are equipped for entry- to mid-level counseling positions in public and private schools. Overall employment of counselors is expected to increase by 12 percent from 2021 to 2031, which is as fast as average for all occupations. 100% of MSUM graduate students have found employment in their chosen emphasis area of School Counseling.

Employment Areas

  • Elementary Schools
  • Middle/Junior High Schools
  • Secondary Schools
  • Post-secondary Schools

Job Titles

  • After School Counselor
  • Counseling Director and/or Coordinator
  • Guidance Counselor
  • School Counselor
  • Youth Counselor

Related Links

Licensure Information

Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) Certification

Licensed School Counselor (LSC)