South University's Clinical Mental Health Counseling Program Achieves Prestigious CACREP Accreditation Until 2033

South University Celebrates Accreditation Success

South University (SU) has achieved a significant milestone with the announcement that its Clinical Mental Health Counseling (CMHC) Master of Arts program at the West Palm Beach campus has secured an accredited status from the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP) through to October 31, 2033. This achievement underscores the program's commitment to meeting rigorous educational standards set by CACREP, ensuring that it remains a top choice for students pursuing careers in mental health counseling.

The CACREP Board of Directors deliberated from July 17 to July 19, assessing the program's self-study, site review team report, and institutional responses. The board's decision affirmed that South University's CMHC program is in substantial alignment with CACREP standards, highlighting the high quality of counselor education offered at the campus.

Innovative Program Delivery

Dr. Bridget Glass, the Program Director and Assistant Professor of Clinical Mental Health Counseling, emphasized the program's innovative instructional methods. According to Dr. Glass, "Our program's delivery formats—blending in-person, virtual, and asynchronous learning—allow us to meet diverse student needs while maintaining the highest academic and professional standards." This flexible approach caters to the varying demands of students, enabling them to thrive in their educational pursuits.

The CMHC curriculum is designed to be adaptable while still incorporating essential in-person components. The program includes clinical, practicum, and externship experiences, thus preparing graduates not only for professional practice but also for the licensure process. However, South University notes that while it equips students for national certification and state licensure, specific requirements may differ by state, and the university does not guarantee the outcomes of passage rates for licensure exams or job placements.

A Commitment to Student Success

Dr. Jessica Masoner, Dean of the South University College of Arts and Sciences, praised the accreditation for reinforcing the strength of the program. She stated, "This accreditation affirms the strength of our program and its alignment with national standards. We are committed to supporting our students' development as they prepare for impactful careers in counseling and to advancing the university's mission of delivering quality education in behavioral health disciplines." Her remarks reflect the university's dedication to fostering an environment that nurtures the growth of students pursuing impactful careers within this essential field.

South University serves a diverse student population of over 10,000 across 11 campuses located in the Southeastern United States and via online programs. Its extensive academic offerings range from healthcare, behavioral sciences, and business to technology, all designed with the objective of preparing graduates for meaningful professions in their respective fields.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the CACREP accreditation for South University's Clinical Mental Health Counseling program reflects a strong commitment to quality education and student support in the mental health counseling arena. This announcement not only enhances the university's reputation but also bolsters prospective students' confidence in the program as they look to make a difference in the field of counseling, thereby promoting overall mental wellness in the community.