STEPHENVILLE, Texas — Tarleton State University’s Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling program has received reaffirmation of its national accreditation by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs through October 2034.
The program, which is offered through the College of Education and has been accredited by CACREP since 2016, earned the maximum 8-year reaffirmation after a comprehensive review of curriculum, clinical training, faculty, assessment processes and student experiences, including interviews with students and alumni.
“CACREP reaccreditation of our Clinical Mental Health Counseling program reflects our continued commitment to preparing counselors who are ready to make a real difference in the lives of the clients and communities they serve,” said Dean of the College of Education Dr. Lesley Leach. “This is a proud moment for our faculty, our students and the entire College of Education.”
Tarleton State has offered a counseling program since 1978. The CMHC degree program started in 2015 and produces between 50 and 70 graduates each year. The specialized practice area degree program is currently offered at the Stephenville, Fort Worth and Waco campuses.
According to Dr. Ryan Foster, professor and Interim Department Head in the Department of Counseling, achieving the maximum eight-year accreditation is a testament to the quality of the program’s curriculum, clinical training, assessment, faculty and students, as well as the graduates who represent the program out in the field.
In a communication to the department sharing the accreditation news, Dr. Foster emphasized the advantages for students enrolled in a program held to nationally recognized standards, including how it streamlines their path to licensure and enhances their employability upon graduation. It also positions graduates well for the national counselor exam and for doctoral study.
A new Doctor of Philosophy in Counseling at Tarleton State’s Fort Worth campus will be seeking accreditation from CACREP next year.
To learn more about the M.S. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Tarleton State, visit programs.tarleton.edu/program/m-s-in-clinical-mental-health-counseling/. To learn about the Ph.D. in Counseling, visit tarleton.edu/counsel/future-students/phd-in-counseling/.
A founding member of The Texas A&M System, Tarleton State University is breaking records — in enrollment, research, scholarship, athletics, philanthropy and engagement — while transforming the lives of more than 21,000 students in Stephenville, Fort Worth, Waco, Bryan and online. For over 125 years, Tarleton State has been committed to accessible higher education opportunities for all while helping students grow academically, socially and professionally through programs that emphasize real world learning and address regional, state and national needs.
