Nichols College Launches Flexible Master's Program in Mental Health Counseling

September 10, 2026 - 20:48

The new master's program comes as Massachusetts faces both high unmet behavioral-health needs and staffing instability in outpatient care.

Nichols College has introduced a Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling designed to help working adults enter the field without leaving their jobs. The program uses a hybrid format, combining online coursework with weekend residencies on campus, so students can complete clinical training while maintaining employment.

College officials said the curriculum meets state licensure requirements and includes supervised practicum and internship placements at community agencies. The goal is to graduate counselors who can move directly into outpatient clinics, schools, and nonprofit organizations that have struggled to fill vacancies.

Behavioral health providers across the state have reported long waitlists and high turnover, with rural and low-income communities hit hardest. Program leaders said flexible scheduling and partnerships with local providers are meant to widen the pool of qualified applicants, including career changers and people already working in human services.

The first cohort is set to begin in the fall, with applications now open. Administrators said they expect the program to grow as demand for licensed counselors continues to rise.