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The University of New 51����’s Online Clinical Mental Health Counseling (CMHC) master’s degree program earned the #2 spot in national rankings. Since its inception in 2021, the program has distinguished itself through its innovative curriculum, expert faculty, and a community-centered approach that is resonating deeply with its students.

“This recognition is meaningful for the CMHC program as it reinforces that the culture we’re building is valued,” shared Taylor Bigelow, Ph.D., the program's coordinator and assistant professor in psychology. “For our students, it signifies they are part of a respected, evolving program committed to excellence.”

The program's rapid growth has been underpinned by its unique offerings and the flexibility it offers.

Students such as Shira Flowers ’26 M.A. and Marlee Wood ’25 M.A. have found the online format to be a perfect fit for their personal and professional lives. “The ability to self-schedule my study time while balancing work and family commitments has been invaluable,” said Flowers. “It’s allowed me to focus deeply on my studies and build meaningful connections with my peers.”

This sense of connection extends beyond coursework. Annual residencies, professional development opportunities, and collaborative assignments create a supportive network that benefits students during their studies and beyond. “Residency week is such a fun, enriching experience,” added Wood “It fosters community and provides opportunities to celebrate our achievements together.”

‘Students receive a well-rounded education’

At the heart of the program’s success is its dedicated faculty, whose diverse professional experiences enhance every aspect of the curriculum. “Our CMHC faculty bring a blend of clinical practice, supervision, and research expertise,” said Dr. Bigelow. “This ensures students receive a well-rounded education grounded in real-world application and academic rigor.”

Flowers described how faculty members’ anecdotes and mentorship have inspired her career goals. “Hearing about their work in private practice, counseling centers, and as expert witnesses has broadened my perspective. They’re consistently kind, thoughtful, and available for support whenever needed.”

Wood echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the invaluable guidance faculty provide. “They are such a great resource, offering connections and insights that prepare us for our careers. Their dedication to our success is evident in everything they do.”

This collective expertise is particularly impactful in the program’s , a unique feature that sets it apart. Students gain specialized skills to navigate the intersection of mental health and the legal system, preparing them for roles in underserved and challenging fields.

“Having access to courses in forensic psychology and criminal justice has been critical for me,” said Wood. “It’s given me the foundational knowledge needed to confidently pursue my goal of working within the incarcerated population.”

‘We strive to build a culture that supports students’ success'

The program’s alignment with the standards ensures students are equipped with practical skills essential for success in the mental health field. Hands-on experiences such as clinical internships allow students to apply their knowledge in real-world settings, fostering cultural competency, crisis intervention skills, and ethical decision-making.

“Dr. Teejay Brown’s “Multicultural Issues in Counseling” class challenged me to reflect deeply on how my own history shapes my perspectives,” shared Flowers. “This self-awareness is crucial for effective counseling, and the program emphasizes this at every step.”

As the program continues to grow, its impact on students and the community remains profound. “We strive to build a culture that supports students’ success and prepares them for diverse challenges,” said Dr. Bigelow. “This recognition validates our efforts and inspires us to continue evolving.”

For students such as Wood, the program has been transformative. “The CMHC program has not only given me the tools I need but also the confidence to make a difference in the world,” said Wood. “I’m excited to be part of a program that truly prepares us to bridge gaps and create meaningful change.”