Psychology and Mental Health Counseling B.A./M.S.
Earn two degrees in five and a half years and graduate ready to support clients as a licensed mental health counselor.
Combine a bachelor's in psychology with a master's in mental health counseling on one accelerated path. Learn from dedicated faculty, complete supervised clinical hours, and prepare for New York State licensure, all minutes from New York City.
This program is part of Social and Behavioral Sciences
The Manhattan Advantage
Why Study Mental Health Counseling at Manhattan University?
At Manhattan University, the accelerated B.A./M.S. in Psychology and Mental Health Counseling lets motivated psychology majors move seamlessly from undergraduate study into graduate counseling coursework, earning two degrees in the time it often takes to earn one. Students apply in their junior year, begin graduate classes as seniors, and complete more than 700 hours of supervised clinical internship, graduating in five and a half years ready to pursue New York State licensure and to support the mental health and well-being of the clients they serve.
Curriculum & Courses
Explore coursework that builds the pedagogical foundations, special education expertise, and classroom-ready skills you need to teach students of all abilities across grades 1-6.
- Roots: Psychology
- Statistics and Research Methods I
- Statistics and Research Methods II
- Senior Capstone: Advanced Research Methods
- Psychopathology
- Behavioral Neuroscience
- Psychology of Childhood
- Psychology of Adolescence
Academic Concentrations
Explore a curriculum that pairs a strong foundation in psychology with graduate coursework in mental health counseling, building the knowledge, clinical skills, and supervised experience you need to support the well-being and growth of the clients you serve. Students complete a sequence of graduate counseling courses alongside the undergraduate psychology major, including a 700-hour supervised mental health counseling internship.
The courses listed below are a sample of what you will take with this program. To view the full plan of study, please visit Manhattan University's academic catalog.
Why Study in New York City
New York City is one of the most dynamic environments in the world to prepare for a career in mental health counseling. Home to a vast network of hospitals, clinics, community agencies, and counseling centers, the city offers students direct access to the settings where counselors support clients every day. At Manhattan University, students complete supervised clinical internships across the region, work alongside experienced practitioners, and build the cultural competence and practical skills needed to serve clients from a wide range of backgrounds. This real-world experience strengthens your clinical confidence and helps you build the professional network needed to launch a meaningful career in one of the nation's most diverse communities.
Potential Careers
Graduates leave with both a foundation in psychology and the graduate training needed to pursue licensure as a New York State Mental Health Counselor, prepared to support the well-being and growth of the clients they serve.
- Behavioral Disorder Counselor
- Behavioral Health Counselor
- Clinical Counselor
- Community Mental Health Counselor
- Licensed Mental Health Counselor
- Mental Health Counselor
- Substance Abuse Counselor
- Wellness Counselor
About
The Kakos School of Arts and Sciences
The Kakos School of Arts and Sciences is the largest of Manhattan University's three schools, offering 33 undergraduate majors, six graduate programs, and six combined degrees across the humanities, natural and social sciences, and professional fields. Grounded in the University's Lasallian Catholic mission and located near the heart of New York City, the School pairs rigorous academics with small classes, close faculty mentorship, and real-world experience throughout the five boroughs and beyond. With strong pre-law and pre-health advising and a focus on ethical, engaged scholarship, Kakos graduates leave prepared to lead, and the University ranks in the top 3% nationally for salary impact (Wall Street Journal, 2026), evidence of where that preparation leads.
Program Costs & Financial Aid
Manhattan University is committed to making a high-quality, career-focused education accessible and affordable. Through a combination of competitive tuition, robust financial aid, and our Jasper Guarantee, students and families can plan their education with confidence. The Jasper Guarantee locks your tuition rate for all four years—ensuring financial stability and eliminating unexpected increases as you work toward your degree.
More than 90% of Manhattan University students receive some form of financial assistance, including merit scholarships, grants, and need-based aid, significantly reducing the overall cost of attendance.
- View Tuition & Fees
- Explore Financial Aid
- Learn More About Scholarships
- Learn About the Jasper Guarantee
A Manhattan University education is an investment in your future, and we are dedicated to helping you access the resources that make it possible.
A Smarter Investment in Your Future
Jasper Guarantee
At Manhattan University, every undergraduate student is protected by the Jasper Guarantee, which locks your tuition rate for all four years, ensuring clarity, stability, and peace of mind as you plan your education. This promise reflects our commitment to affordability and to supporting students and families throughout their academic journey.
Accelerated Application Process
The accelerated B.A./M.S. pathway has its own application process for current Manhattan University psychology majors. Students apply during their junior year to begin graduate coursework as seniors.
Eligibility and steps:
- Be currently enrolled in the psychology major in good standing, with a minimum GPA of 3.2
- Speak with the chair of the Social and Behavioral Sciences department during your sophomore year to express interest in the program
- Apply during your junior year
Required application documents:
- Application form
- Transcripts
- Statement of interest
- Resume
- Two letters of reference, including at least one from a current psychology faculty member
Admissions Information for Manhattan University
Start Your Journey in Mental Health Counseling
Applying to Manhattan University is designed to be clear and accessible. Review the requirements and key deadlines below to take the next step toward a future supporting individuals, couples, and families.
Requirements:
- Application & transcript
- SAT/ACT optional
- Personal statement
- Letter(s) of recommendation
Deadlines:
- Early Action: November 15
- Regular Decision: February 1
Admission and Application Process
International Students:
Support available for visas, documentation, and English-language assessments.
Prepare for the Real World
At Manhattan University, your education is built around who you are and where you want to go. Whether you’re ready to apply or just starting to explore, take the next step when you’re ready — we’re here to help.