Butler University Launching Two Online Graduate Programs

Butler University is launching two new online master’s degrees through its College of Education: a M.S. in Mental Health Counseling and a M.S. in School Counseling. Both programs prepare graduates for licensure in their respective fields.

Butler’s Master of Science in Mental Health Counseling program offers hands-on training and a pathway to dual licensure in mental health counseling and clinical addictions counseling. Graduates can pursue careers in a variety of settings, including private practice, clinics, schools, addictions and recovery organizations, and inpatient and outpatient hospitals. Employment of substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors is projected to grow 22 percent from 2021 to 2031, much faster than the average for all occupations. About 43,600 openings for substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors are projected each year, on average, over the decade. The program comprises 20 online courses and typically takes 2-3 years to complete.

The Master of Science in School Counseling program prepares students for licensure as a professional school counselor through online classes and hands-on experience. Graduates typically pursue careers in K-12 schools as counselors, career advisors, and more. The need for school counselors is expected to grow 11 percent between 2020-2030, resulting in 37,000 new positions. Coursework for this online program mirrors Butler’s successful on-campus program, which has boasted a nearly 100 percent job placement rate for the past decade. Most students will complete the program in three years, though it may be possible to accelerate the program.

“Butler University has a national reputation for in-depth instruction that prepares students for careers that positively impact individuals and communities,” Brooke Kandel, Dean of Butler’s College of Education, said. “Through these new master’s degree programs, we are making that same high-quality level of instruction available online, giving students the flexibility they need to complete their degrees at their own pace. Both programs are taught by expert-level faculty with years of professional experience in their respective fields. They have a real-world understanding of what it takes to succeed and bring that knowledge to the virtual classroom.”

Applications for the first cohort are being accepted online now. Questions about the program can be directed to 317-207-7151.