Online Mental Health Degree Program Information and Options

To become a mental health counselor, a master's degree is usually required for practice. Online degree programs are designed to prepare students for licensure and teach them how to treat children, adolescents and adults in communities and schools.

Overview of an Online Mental Health Master's Degree Program

Online master's degree programs offer students the opportunity to gain the assessment, research, intervention, critical thinking and therapy skills needed to practice in the field. Graduates are usually awarded a Master of Science (M.S.) degree. Some programs offer a specialty in education and award a Master of Education or Education Specialist degree, with a focus in mental health practice. Application requirements typically include prerequisite coursework in psychology and letters of recommendation, along with a bachelor's degree and transcripts.

Program Information and Requirements

These programs offer flexibility in scheduling and require students to complete anywhere from 33 credit hours to 90-quarter credits, depending on the school's format. Students may be required to complete an internship, residency or practicum to adhere to state licensure requirements. While the online coursework is delivered via the Internet, you are still able to communicate with faculty and use the research tools traditionally found on-campus. Normally classes are scheduled by semester or quarter, and some schools offer year-round online or independent study options.

List of Common Courses

The courses in these programs focus on counseling techniques, mental health treatment options, the development of mental health and disorder prevention. Common courses include:

Child, Adolescent and Lifespan Development Course

Adult, child and adolescent developmental milestones and stages are covered in this course. Students learn social, physical, emotional and cognitive developmental theory, and how to prevent and treat disorders.

Crisis, Trauma and Disaster Preparation and Intervention Course

This class examines the impact of traumatic events on communities, families and students, and how to prevent or respond to them. Students learn research, analysis, models and treatment skills for crisis situations. Legal and ethical considerations related to crisis counseling are also explored.

Multicultural Diversity Course

Cultural issues and differences related to mental health are covered in this course. Participants study the differences in theory and intervention related to race, social class, gender, ethnicity and sexual orientation. Strategies in creating positive relations among diverse populations are also covered.

Career Information for Graduates

Mental health counselors earned a median annual wage of $38,010 in May of 2009, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (www.bls.gov). Employment in this field was expected to grow by 24% from 2008-2018.

Continuing Education Information

The National Board for Certified Counselors offers voluntary certification for mental health counselors. Depending on the applicant's experience and educational history, requirements may include an internship and the passing of a written examination. Doctoral degree programs are also available for those wishing to further their college education in the mental health field. Both certification and further education may provide better job opportunities for mental health professionals.