CERTIFICATE

Post-Master's Counseling Certificates

Five Certificate Options

Certificate Options
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Academic Credits
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Year Completion
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Certificate Highlights

Choose from 5 Certificates

Choose from 5 certificate options as you specialize further in your area of choice. Each of the five areas has specific courses that can be taken as part of post master’s study.

  • School Counseling
  • Mental Health Counseling
  • Addictions Counseling
  • Clinical Rehabilitation Counseling
  • Marriage, Couples, and Family Counseling

Our certificate instructors bring years of experience in their fields of expertise to the classroom and are an excellent resource as you advance in your area of choice within your counseling careers.

Counseling Certificates

School Counseling Certificate

The School Counseling Certificate Program is designed specifically for those who already have a Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and are seeking certification as a School Counselor. Students in this program will complete a minimum of 15 credits (9 credits in course preparation and 6 credits in School Internship) specifically in School Counseling. The admissions committee will assess each student’s skills and review the student’s transcript and determine and verify that all core skills can be demonstrated. Please know that faculty will only endorse students for licenses and certifications for which they are qualified.

The Mental Health Counseling Certificate Program is designed specifically for those who already have a Master’s degree in Counseling and are seeking licensure as a Clinical Mental Health Counselor. Students in this program will complete a minimum of 15 credits. This would include CO 650 Mental Health Care Systems (3) and CO 671 Internship A – Mental Health (3). The admissions committee will assess each student’s skills and review the student’s transcript and any additional documentation provided by the licensing board to determine the additional courses required for licensure. These additional courses will be required as part of the certificate program. Please know that faculty will only endorse students for licenses and certifications for which they are qualified.

The Addictions Counseling Certificate Program is designed specifically for those who already have a Master’s degree in Counseling and are seeking licensure or certification as an Addictions Counselor. Students in this program will complete a minimum of 15 credits. This would include Addiction courses and appropriate internships. The admissions committee will assess each student’s skills and review the student’s transcript and any additional documentation provided.

The Clinical Rehabilitation Counseling Certificate Program is designed specifically for those who already have a Master’s degree in Counseling and are seeking licensure or certification as a Rehabilitation Counselor. Students in this program will complete a minimum of 15 credits. This would include Clinical Rehabilitation courses and appropriate internships. The admissions committee will assess each student’s skills and review the student’s transcript and any additional documentation provided.

The Marriage, Couples, and Family Counseling Certificate Program is designed specifically for those who already have a Master’s degree in Counseling and are seeking additional training in systems theory. Students in this program will complete a minimum of 15 credits. This would include Marriage, Couples, and Family courses, and appropriate internships. The admissions committee will assess each student’s skills and review the student’s transcript and any additional documentation provided.

Curriculum

School Counseling Certificate

Code

Course

Credits

Foundation of school counseling, including; history, comprehensive guidance, and the politics of counseling services in schools.

Theories and techniques for developmental counseling with children, including college and career readiness, social development, normal and abnormal development and other issues such as bullying, suicide, substance use and so forth, that children and adolescents face.

The organization, administration and delivery of school counseling services in grades PK-12 (elementary, middle, and secondary schools).

Supervised counseling with clients, continued development of student counseling skills. Includes weekly group and individual supervision. Must complete a minimum of 600 clock hours including at least 240 client contact hours in each specialized area (Mental Health, School, Addictions, Clinical Rehabilitation or Marriage, Couples, and Family Counseling). Students develop conceptual and professional skills related to their specialty at an approved placement site and practice various specified counseling- and related-activities. Students must demonstrate competence of the integration of all knowledge and skills in counseling.

Optional Courses

The Field Work in School Counseling will allow students to gain knowledge and develop an understanding of the environment and culture of the school. Students will be exposed to and be able to observe and shadow various school administrative and teaching personnel. This immersive experience will be facilitated by school personnel and supervised by an experienced school counselor.

Deficit courses; based on transcript review and licensure requirements.

Clinical Mental Health Counseling Certificate

Code

Course

Credits

Overview of the knowledge and skills necessary to successfully operate in mental health care treatment systems.

Supervised counseling with clients, continued development of student counseling skills. Includes weekly group and individual supervision. Must complete a minimum of 600 clock hours including at least 240 client contact hours in each specialized area (Mental Health, School, Addictions, Clinical Rehabilitation or Marriage, Couples, and Family Counseling). Students develop conceptual and professional skills related to their specialty at an approved placement site and practice various specified counseling- and related-activities. Students must demonstrate competence of the integration of all knowledge and skills in counseling.

Deficit courses; based on transcript review and licensure requirements.

Addictions Counseling Certificate

Code

Course

Credits

Introduction to the field of psychopharmacology. Integration of diagnostic, case conceptualization, and treatment planning skills; review of best practice guidelines.

In depth look at the historical and current evidence-based treatment procedures and techniques of substance abuse and addictions treatment.

Examination of the biopsychosocial aspects of substance abuse and addictions; with a focus on the physical predispositions, family history and systemic trauma as well as current social mores and legal perspectives.

Supervised counseling with clients, continued development of student counseling skills. Includes weekly group and individual supervision. Must complete a minimum of 600 clock hours including at least 240 client contact hours in each specialized area (Mental Health, School, Addictions, Clinical Rehabilitation or Marriage, Couples, and Family Counseling). Students develop conceptual and professional skills related to their specialty at an approved placement site and practice various specified counseling- and related-activities. Students must demonstrate competence of the integration of all knowledge and skills in counseling.

Deficit courses; based on transcript review and licensure requirements.

Clinical Rehabilitation Counseling Certificate

Code

Course

Credits

Foundations of Rehabilitation Counseling focuses on the history and philosophy of rehabilitation counseling, including legislation concerning vocational rehabilitation and independent living mandates; with focus on attitudinal, physical and systems barriers to social integration, including the current range of services provided for persons with disabilities, and on informed consumer review, choice, and personal responsibility in the rehabilitation process.

Examination of the biopsychosocial aspects of impairment and disability; with a focus on social and family systems of support for those differently-abled. Additional legal, social advocacy, vocational and treatment components will be addressed.

Introduction to the field of psychopharmacology. Integration of diagnostic, case conceptualization, and treatment planning skills; review of best practice guidelines.

Supervised counseling with clients, continued development of student counseling skills. Includes weekly group and individual supervision. Must complete a minimum of 600 clock hours including at least 240 client contact hours in each specialized area (Mental Health, School, Addictions, Clinical Rehabilitation or Marriage, Couples, and Family Counseling). Students develop conceptual and professional skills related to their specialty at an approved placement site and practice various specified counseling- and related-activities. Students must demonstrate competence of the integration of all knowledge and skills in counseling.

Deficit courses; based on transcript review and licensure requirements.

Marriage, Couples, and Family Counseling Certificate

Code

Course

Credits

A review of systems theories and techniques, issues related to family and couples, theoretical foundations, ethical, and legal issues.
The practical application of system theory in use with counseling couples and families with a focus on effective skills and techniques.

The application of development and system theory in counseling children and adolescents and circular causality with the family and other systems.

Supervised counseling with clients, continued development of student counseling skills. Includes weekly group and individual supervision. Must complete a minimum of 600 clock hours including at least 240 client contact hours in each specialized area (Mental Health, School, Addictions, Clinical Rehabilitation or Marriage, Couples, and Family Counseling). Students develop conceptual and professional skills related to their specialty at an approved placement site and practice various specified counseling- and related-activities. Students must demonstrate competence of the integration of all knowledge and skills in counseling.

Deficit courses; based on transcript review and licensure requirements.

The Marriage, Couples, and Family Counseling certificate program is not designed to qualify one to receive the MFT credential.

Semester Dates

Summer 2026

Type

Date

Priority Application Deadline
Mar. 9, 2026
Final Application Deadline
Apr. 20, 2026
Semester Start
May 4, 2026

Fall 2026

Type

Date

Priority Application Deadline
Jul. 6, 2026
Final Application Deadline
Aug. 17, 2026
Semester Start
Aug. 31, 2026

Winter 2027

Type

Date

Priority Application Deadline
Nov. 9, 2026
Final Application Deadline
Dec. 21, 2026
Semester Start
Jan. 5, 2027

Application Deadlines: Apply Early and Position Yourself for Success 

Priority Deadline

Applying by the priority deadline is the best way to set yourself up for success. It gives you the most time to complete the admissions process, explore financial aid, complete RMU’s online orientation course, and feel fully prepared for your program.  

Since we review applications on a rolling basis, submitting early means you’ll hear back sooner—often while spots are still open for your preferred start term. It’s a great way to secure your place and start planning your next steps with confidence.  

We continue to accept applications through the final deadline—and even up to the first day of classes—as space allows. If you need a little more time, you’re still welcome to apply. Just keep in mind that some programs may fill early, and things like course availability or financial aid processing may be more limited closer to the start of the semester. 

Applying early helps you get a smooth start as you begin your journey at Rocky Mountain University. 

PLEASE NOTE: admission to a program is contingent on the available seats within the upcoming cohort. For questions about availability, please contact the admissions office at rmuadmissions@rm.edu

Admissions

Admissions Requirements

  • Master’s degree in counseling from an accredited institution

Application Materials

  • Completed online application
  • Official transcript* from master’s degree in counseling
  • Resume or CV detailing education, employment, volunteer service, and scholarly activity
  • Statement of professional goals
  • Three letters of recommendation

 

*You must request official transcripts from your previous institution’s Registrar’s Office. Official transcripts can be sent electronically to admissions@rm.edu. Any transcripts emailed from the applicant will be considered unofficial.

Other Requirements

Vaccinations

No vaccination requirements

Technology Requirements

Background and Purpose

The healthcare industry is heavily reliant on technology and on providers who are proficient in utilizing technology. As a result, Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions requires extensive utilization of electronic devices for its programs. The purpose of this document is to define minimum technology requirements for students to ensure they are equipped with the hardware and software necessary to facilitate their participation and success in all facets of their education.

Laptop Computer*

Students are required to secure a personal computer for use during the course of their studies that adheres to the below minimum requirements (*this does not apply to students in the Optometry OD program.) 

Operating System (OS)

  • For PC: Windows 10
  • For Mac: macOS 13 (Ventura) or higher 

Specifications

  • Processor: Apple – M1 Chip or better. Windows – Intel Core i5 or AMD Ryzen 5 or better
  • Memory: 8 GB or more
  • Storage: 128 GB Flash Solid-State Drive (256GB or more recommended)
  • Display: 13 inches or larger (retina display 12-inch is acceptable)
  • WiFi Connectivity: 802.11ac or higher
  • Camera: Built-in high resolution (720p or better), internal or external

Buying Recommendations

PC laptops that adhere to the required specifications above include:   Apple offers educational discounts for students. Make sure to shop via their Education Store to receive the discount. Models adhering to the above specifications are:

Required Software

Your computer must have these systems installed:

  • Adobe PDF Reader
  • An anti-virus program* 
If you don’t already have one installed, we recommend Sophos


*Note: You should have only ONE anti-virus program installed; multiple installations can be troublesome.

High Speed Internet

  • The connection should be a Cable/DSL broadband connection or better. We recommend having a minimum of 10 mbps download and 2 mbps upload. You can check your download and upload speeds at Speedtest.
  • Your Internet Service Provider (ISP) must be reliable. Please note that wireless connections can be unstable; wired Ethernet connections should be used whenever possible. If the speed of your connection is inadequate, contact your ISP to upgrade to a higher-level service. 

Internet Browser

  • Due to its integration with G Suite, we recommend Google Chrome.
  • We recommend you also have the Mozilla Firefox browser available, as a backup. 

Programs Not Using These Requirements

Applicable to all new students except the PHYSICIAN ASSISTANT (PA) program. Check PA program technology policy for reference.

LAST UPDATED: July 2024.

Application Process

Step 1:

Complete online application through our applicant portal.

Step 2:

Submit supplemental materials i.e. official transcripts, letters of recommendation, etc.

Step 3:

Once your application is complete, it will be sent to the program specific Admissions Selection Committee for review. The review process can take 1-2 weeks on average.

Step 4:

After review of your application, and interview if applicable, the program will notify the Admissions office regarding their admissions decision for your application.

Step 5:

If accepted, you’ll need to review and sign the enrollment agreement and submit an enrollment deposit in order for the Admissions office to process your enrollment.

Tuition & Fees

2026

Cost per Credit
$760
Total Credits
15-21
Total Tuition Cost
$11,400-$15,960
*Other Program Fees
$700
*^University Resource Fee
$43 per cr.

*Fees may be subject to change.
^Max. 15 credits per semester

Program Fees Details

Counseling Student Resource Fee (per semester) $100

Locked-in Tuition

Rocky Mountain University offers guaranteed tuition rates while completing your graduate degree. Our programs have a cost per credit rate lock once you are enrolled. Locked-in tuition helps you see your total cost from start to finish. If you defer to a later cohort start, you may be subject to an increased rate.

Cost of Attendance

The cost of attendance (COA) is the cornerstone of establishing a student’s financial need, as it sets a limit on the total aid that a student may receive. Learn more…