Graduate School of Counseling and Social Work

Mission

The Graduate School of Counseling and Social Work offers master’s programs in clinical and mental health counseling, social work and school counseling. Designed to prepare distinguished and accomplished professionals, our programs equip graduates with the skills and mindset to not only create change, but to positively impact the communities they serve.

Vision

The Graduate School of Counseling and Social Work will be the choice destination for prospective students, faculty, staff and employers committed to facilitating positive change for individuals, families and communities in a global society.

Description

Our programs blend hands-on, community-based learning with strong academics, creating an environment where students can truly thrive. Rooted in our Augustinian values, we are committed to fostering a sense of ethics and a drive to challenge injustice in pursuit of liberty and fairness for all. Graduates of the School of Counseling and Social Work leave Merrimack ready to make a real impact and help create a more just and compassionate world.

Graduate degree programs offered by the School:

Clinical Mental Health Counseling, M.S.

School Counseling, M.Ed.

Social Work, M.S.W.

Graduate Certificate(s)

Post Masters School Social Work/School Adjustment Counseling, Certificate

Programs Learning Goals

Evidence strong interpersonal and communication skills in therapeutic relationships with individuals emphasizing rapport and trust
Demonstrate compassion, empathy, professionalism and maturity in interactions with individuals based on their background and lived experiences
Develop critical self-awareness and self-reflection skills acknowledging the important influence of culture in human interactions
Synthesize counseling knowledge into evidence-based treatment/intervention plans with individuals, families and organizations as applied in various settings
Demonstrate ethical and professional behaviors emphasizing the importance of integrity, cultural humility, accountability and boundaries
Develop advocacy and human rights skills to address systemic, environment issues as a means to promote social change
Analyze and apply practice-informed research and research-informed practice, contributing to the advancement of knowledge and evidence-based practices considering clients’ background and lived experiences
Critically assess policy practices for potential needed changes within systems in order to improve services and outcomes