Dual Degree Master’s Program in Medical Sciences and Mental Health Counseling & Behavioral Medicine

The MMS/MHCBM is an 83-credit dual degree program. It offers students an opportunity to combine a broad-based program in medical sciences and mental health counseling & behavioral medicine, with a strong academic foundation in neuroscience. The MMS/MHCBM program is designed to be completed in three years including summer sessions. In addition to coursework, students develop research skills in medicine as part of the successful completion of a thesis, and clinical mental health counseling skills with substantial field training. Successful completion of the program will also lead to eligibility for independent licensure as a clinical mental health counselor. Students completing the program will be awarded a Master of Arts in both Medical Science and Mental Health Counseling & Behavioral Medicine.

Application

Applicants submit an application to Graduate Medical Sciences and to the Mental Health Counseling & Behavioral Medicine program, indicating on each application that admission to the dual degree is desired. Letters of recommendation and transcripts must accompany one of the applications and are shared by both admissions committees. Applicants must submit a personal statement letter geared towards both programs. International students who received an undergraduate degree in an institution where the primary language of instruction was not English must also submit TOEFL or IELTS scores.

A student already enrolled in either program who would like to pursue the dual degree may, with the support of their academic advisor, apply for formal admission into the program. Upon acceptance, the director of the Dual Degree Program will review the applicant’s current transcripts and determine which courses must be taken to complete the combined dual degree requirements.

Course Requirements

Dual degree candidates can cross-register and take courses in both programs. All courses are taught on the Medical Campus. Upon completion of the program, students are required to complete approximately 1,000 hours of clinical field work experience and submit a 50–60 page thesis.