Meridian University
Meridian University is a private institution located in Petaluma, California, with additional centers in Los Angeles, Berlin, Athens, and Johannesburg. Founded in 1993, Meridian offers graduate programs that integrate personal transformation, professional practice, and cultural leadership. The university is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC) and is known for its innovative approach to education, emphasizing holistic development and transformative learning.
Master of Arts (MA) in Counseling Psychology Program Overview
Meridian University offers a Master of Arts (MA) in Counseling Psychology, designed to prepare students for licensure as Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFT) and Licensed Professional Clinical Counselors (LPCC) in California. The program emphasizes an integral and participatory approach to education, combining academic learning with personal development. Students can complete the program in 24 to 36 months, depending on their chosen pace.
Key Features
- Accreditation: WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)
- Program Length: 24 to 36 months
- Delivery Format: Hybrid model combining online coursework with in-person sessions at the Los Angeles campus
- Clinical Training: Students begin supervised clinical experience during their first year, gaining hands-on practice in diverse settings
- Personal Development: Emphasis on self-discovery and personal growth as integral components of the educational journey
Curriculum
The MA in Counseling Psychology program requires the completion of 103 credits, including 92 coursework credits and 11 fieldwork credits. The curriculum covers a comprehensive range of topics:
- Foundational theories and practices in counseling psychology
- Psychopathology and diagnostic procedures
- Law and ethics in counseling
- Cultural competency and diversity issues
- Research methods and evidence-based practices
Students also engage in supervised clinical practice to apply learned concepts in real-world settings.
Clinical Training
Clinical experience is a vital component of the MA in Counseling Psychology program. Students are required to complete 340 hours of fieldwork, which can be conducted in their local region. Meridian provides a detailed Fieldwork Handbook and staff support to guide students through the process. Additionally, students must complete 40 hours of personal therapy, which can be obtained prior to or during the program.
Admission Requirements
Applicants must:
- Hold a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution.
- Have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0.
- Submit three letters of recommendation.
- Provide a 5-7 page personal statement outlining formative experiences and motivations for pursuing the program.
- Participate in an admissions interview.
GRE scores are not required for admission.
Tuition and Financial Aid
- Tuition: $676 per credit, totaling approximately $69,628 for the entire program.
- Financial Aid: Meridian offers various financial aid options, including Federal Student Loans, veteran’s educational benefits, and institutional aid for international students and those not eligible for Federal Student Aid.
Career Outcomes
Graduates of the MA in Counseling Psychology program are prepared to pursue licensure as LMFTs and LPCCs in California. Career opportunities include:
- Private practice.
- Community mental health agencies.
- Hospitals and healthcare settings.
- Educational institutions.
- Faith-based organizations.
The program’s integration of personal development and clinical training equips graduates to serve diverse populations effectively.
Why Choose Meridian University?
- Holistic Approach: Emphasis on personal growth and self-discovery alongside academic learning.
- Flexible Learning: Hybrid format accommodates working professionals and diverse learning styles.
- Global Perspective: Campuses and centers in multiple international locations offer a broad cultural context.
- Supportive Community: Engage with a diverse and inclusive student body and faculty.
- Accredited Program: WSCUC accreditation ensures quality education and licensure portability.
How to Apply
- Complete the online application form on Meridian University’s official website.
- Submit required documents, including transcripts, letters of recommendation, and personal statement.
- Schedule and complete an admissions interview.