PhD in Counseling Frequently Asked Questions
When can I start?
We offer cohort-style programs that begin in Fall (August) each year. We must receive all application materials by November 1.
What is the delivery format of the program?
We believe in the power of human relationships for supporting optimal development. As such, our programs are offered in a traditional face-to-face, cohort-style environment in Knoxville. Although several cognate and research courses outside the program may be offered in online or hybrid formats, counselor education courses are typically offered in person with each class meeting for an extended period once a week.
Do you offer an online program?
No. Our program is completely face-to-face. At times, students may complete online cognate or research coursework as part of their plan of study.
Is your program accredited?
Yes, we are proud to have longstanding accreditation by the Council for the Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP). To learn more about CACREP, including the value of attending an accredited program, visit https://www.cacrep.org/.
Can I be admitted to your program if I did not graduate from a CACREP-accredited program?
Yes, we admit students who have a graduate degree in counseling that is not from a CACREP-accredited program. As part of the admissions process, we will evaluate transcripts and syllabi to ensure you have completed 60 credit hours of graduate coursework in the CACREP core curricular areas and a specialized practice area. We will also ensure you have completed a minimum of 700 hours of supervised clinical work. Most of the time, equivalency work can be completed during the first year in the doctoral program.
Is the GRE required? What are minimum scores for GRE?
We no longer require or consider the GRE for admission to our programs.
Is there a minimum GPA requirement to apply for the program?
The Graduate School requires that all potential graduate students who are United States degree holders with previous graduate coursework have earned a minimum of 3.0 out of a possible 4.0 GPA. Applicants with non-U.S. degrees must have earned a minimum of 3 3.3 on a 4.0 scale (equivalent to a B+ average) in graduate study. We prefer graduates have a GPA of 3.5 or higher.
Do you require post master’s counseling experience for admission?
Although we believe that post master’s counseling experience is valuable, we do not require this for applicants.
Do I apply to study under a specific faculty member?
No. We believe what you study and with whom you best work develops over time. We admit students into a cohort and optimize connections with multiple faculty members during your time in the program. You will be best situated to select a dissertation chair at the end of your coursework.
How many students do you admit each year?
We typically admit 4-7 students each year. Most are full-time, but part-time options are available.
Is the program full-time or part-time?
Most students study full-time; however, some students study part-time to accommodate employment schedules, caregiving commitments, and financial considerations. Our faculty works with students to develop a customized program of study that meets their needs, including transitions between full-time and part-time status. It is important to understand that our courses are offered Monday through Thursday, typically during the traditional business day.
How long does it take to finish the program?
Most full-time students complete their degree in 3-4 years. This includes two years of coursework and one to two years of dissertation. Part-time students typically complete the program in 5-6 years.
Do you offer graduate assistantships?
Full-time doctoral students are eligible for graduate assistantships inclusive of tuition, fees, and health insurance. In recent years, we have been able to secure three years of funding for all students. For more information about costs and funding visit The Graduate School https://gradschool.utk.edu/
Do students complete internships while in the Counselor Education program?
Doctoral students provide individual counseling within our Counselor Training Clinic as part of their Advanced Theory and Practice of Counseling Course their first semester. Beginning the first spring, students apprentice with faculty members to complete a series of six 100-hour internships (one counseling, two supervision, two teaching, one choice) aligned with core curricular areas for doctoral-level counselor education and supervision. Supervision internships are hosted in our Counselor Training Clinic and include providing supervision for master’s practicum and internship students. Teaching internships involve co-teaching a graduate course with a faculty member and teaching an undergraduate counseling course as instructor of record. We facilitate all internship placements.
What makes your Counselor Education doctoral program unique?
We provide a cohort-style program with multiple opportunities to teach, supervise, engage in research, expand counseling skills, and develop leadership and advocacy skills. Doctoral students actively support master’s students in their clinical development, teach undergraduate and graduate courses in our department, and participate in research projects. Additionally, we offer opportunity to provide individual and small group counseling under supervision, with these hours counting towards clinical licensure. Finally, multiple options for community engagement and a thriving CSI chapter are additional benefits to joining our program.
How will I get involved with research while in the program?
You will have multiple opportunities to engage in research. All doctoral students are placed on a research team beginning the first year where they learn about the research process and assist faculty members and/or advanced doctoral students with their research. Some courses will require that you engage scholarly writing in a way that often leads to publication, and other courses will provide opportunity to design research projects you may carry forth. Your dissertation will be a two-manuscript project on a topic of your choice. The first manuscript will include a knowledge synthesis in an area of interest; the second manuscript will involve conducting original research under mentorship of a faculty advisor.
How will I get involved in the profession while in the program?
Our faculty is strongly connected to our local and professional communities, and we strive to facilitate these connections for our students. We strongly encourage doctoral students to present at state, regional, and national counseling conferences beginning their first year. Travel funding is available from the department and university.In addition, many of our students pursue leadership development through programs such as the ACES/SACES Emerging Leaders, Chi Sigma Iota Leadership Fellows, and NBCC Minority Fellows Programs.
Do your graduates get jobs? What do they do?
Yes! Our graduates have a strong track record of employment. In the most recent 5 years, 100% of our counselor education alumni who wished to be employed were employed within 6 months of graduation; many students secure their positions while still enrolled within the program. You will find our graduates in:
- Faculty members in CACREP-accredited counselor education programs
- Partners in local private counseling practices
- Leaders in university or community mental health and wellness centers
- Leaders in district and state school counseling services
What is life like on campus and in Knoxville?
Check out this slideshow with some features about life on campus and in Knoxville.