Ph.D. in Counseling

Shape the Future of Mental Health as a Three-Dimensional Expert

Overview

The Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Counseling at Tarleton State University is designed to develop Three-Dimensional Experts: counselor educators, advanced practitioners, and skilled researchers who make meaningful contributions in both academic and clinical settings. Whether you’re committed to teaching the next generation, innovating clinical practice, or leading impactful research, this program offers the tools, mentorship, and experience to help you lead with confidence and integrity.

What Makes This Program Unique?

  • Three-Dimensional Expertise: Our graduates are trained across three domains—advanced practice, teaching/supervision, and research—to thrive in various professional settings.
  • Real-World Application: From day one, students gain hands-on experience in advanced practicum and internship settings, progressing to supervision and teaching opportunities, including potential paid adjunct roles.
  • Focused Mentorship: Students are paired with faculty mentors for individualized support in research, teaching, and clinical work.
  • Community-Based Training: Clinical internships are anchored at the Purple Counseling and Wellness Clinic—a collaborative initiative with two locations serving a broad community through accessible, affordable counseling services.
  • Modern Facilities: Located in Tarleton State Univeristy Fort Worth Chisholm Trail’s state-of-the-art Interprofessional Education Building, students learn and practice in labs and classrooms built for today’s counselor education.

Academic Highlights

  • Credit Hours: 72 hours beyond a master’s degree
  • Timeline: Designed for completion in 4 years
  • Course Structure: Courses meet in-person during mornings and afternoons
  • Cognate Specializations: Choose from:
    • Creative Approaches to Counseling
    • Trauma Counseling
    • Multicultural Counseling
  • Curriculum Aligned with National Standards: Built to meet 2024 CACREP-accreditation standards for doctoral program in counselor education and supervision. Please note, this program is not yet CACREP-accredited.
  • Structured Research Expectations: Includes annual conference presentations, publication submissions, and at least 20 hours of faculty-guided research collaboration in the first three years

Admissions Requirements

  • A master’s in counseling (or related field) with a 3.3 GPA or higher
  • No GRE required
  • Personal statement, three professional reference letters, interview, and a written response on a counseling-related topic
  • Opportunities for students needing additional coursework to meet entry-level requirements

Due date for application materials is January 15th for Fall admission.

Designed for You

This program welcomes aspiring scholar-practitioners who are ready to lead and uplift their communities, teach the next generation of counselors in counselor education programs, and produce innovative counseling research. Whether you’re the first in your family to pursue a doctorate or returning to advance your current role, our supportive environment helps you bring your goals to life.

Our faculty and student body reflect a wide range of backgrounds and experiences, and our Fort Worth location gives students access to a vibrant, growing metropolitan area—making this an ideal setting to develop into a well-rounded, field-ready professional.

Career Outcomes

Graduates are prepared for careers as:

  • University or college faculty in counselor education
  • Clinical supervisors and administrators
  • Researchers and consultants
  • Leaders in nonprofit and public mental health organizations

Take the Next Step

At Tarleton State University, we don’t just train doctoral students. We shape experts who understand people, systems, and the power of connection.

Become a Three-Dimensional Expert. Apply Today.

Request More Info