Counseling Psychology Program Information

The University of Illinois Counseling Psychology Program (CPP), accredited by the American Psychological Association since 1985, prepares students to become competent, socially responsible professional counseling psychologists. It is steeped in the values of counseling psychology and includes training in normal and problematic developmental issues, systemic analysis of issues affecting individuals and communities, and in intervention through clinical practice, outreach, and prevention.

We put a high priority on the development of multicultural competence in both research and practice. Many of our faculty and students pursue research and scholarship on multicultural and social justice issues. Much of our coursework integrates multicultural issues. Students are expected to integrate multicultural perspectives and considerations into their research, practice, and scholarly work. 

The Program has a near perfect APA-accredited internship placement rate, low student attrition, low student to faculty ratio, culturally diverse students and faculty, and nationally and internationally recognized faculty.

Training Philosophy

Consistent with Counseling Psychology values, our program takes a developmental approach to providing students with foundational knowledge that will support their later learning. The first two years of the program include a series of articulated, closely supervised courses in research, practice, and core areas of psychology. Over the next two years, students follow a more self-determined path by choosing their research track and relevant courses, developing and conducting doctoral level research, and participating in practicum experiences that fulfill individual goals and program requirements. Overall, the program offers a broad education in core areas related to counseling psychology, general psychology, and professional psychology. Students also develop more specialized knowledge through immersion in their research and individual interests. During their last year students complete an applied predoctoral internship.

Research is considered a fundamental and integral dimension of our program, and students with a strong interest in psychological research, pursuing academic careers, and combining research and practice are given priority in admissions decisions. 

Clinical practice is also a central aspect of the program. Additionally, training in broader intervention and prevention comes from related courses, involvement in research, and teaching and outreach opportunities throughout campus.

Professional development and mentoring help students develop skills needed for work in academia, to disseminate their research findings, to develop skills in a wider range of activities, and promote socialization of students into the profession of psychology.

A more detailed explanation of training is provided at Counseling Psychology Training Program.