The University of Southern Maine (USM) nationally-accredited Master of Science in Counseling program offers three concentrations:
Flexible Scheduling and Online Options
Each concentration offers a flexible course schedule and can be completed in as little as two years of full-time study or up to six years of part-time study. Many of our courses are offered both online and in-person on the Gorham campus — you can select which option works best for your learning style and for your schedule.
The low-residency Rehabilitation concentration is a blended program, with 90% of courses offered online and a flexible schedule for the required in-person courses.
Planning Your Schedule
Many students find it helpful to review our Course Plan, which provides the Counseling course schedule through summer of 2025.
Our Faculty
As a Counseling student, you’ll receive insightful instruction and support from our dedicated faculty. Along with their commitment to student success, each faculty member strives to provide leadership for the counseling profession at the state, regional, and national levels
Beyond the Classroom
Our master’s program includes 700-1000 hours of field experience through practicum and internship, which provides an opportunity to develop and enhance your counseling skills in a mental health or education setting — with supervision and support. Your program coordinator will work with you to select agency or school sites that align with your location, your schedule, and your career path.
We assist our out-of-state students studying in the Rehabilitation concentration in selecting fieldwork sites that are close to their homes.
Licensure and Certification
Each of our concentrations qualifies graduates to sit for the National Counselor Examination for Licensure and Certification (NCE), as well as other applicable exams to obtain the licensures and certifications required for professional counseling practice.
Our graduates have a 99% success rate on the NCE.
This program will prepare students to be eligible for licensure within the State of Maine. Visit the State of Maine Board of Counseling Professionals Licensure page to learn more about the licensure, and for contact information to inquire further about the licensure requirements associated with this program.
Financial Resources and Support
The University is committed to offering an excellent education at an affordable cost. We offer a number of financial resources for our graduate students:
Our Office of Graduate Study coordinates graduate services and support while you advance your education
Admission Information
The MS in Counseling program admits for both fall and spring semesters. See twice yearly deadlines and requirements here: