Counseling & Student Affairs: Frequently Asked Questions

What are the prerequisites for admission?

That's a great question! We're excited you're interested in our program. The good news is we do not require the GRE or a specific undergraduate degree for admission.

Our primary requirements for applicants include:

• A minimum undergraduate GPA of 2.75 (or 3.0 on the last 60 hours)
• A completed online application
• A Statement of Interest according to the Department's instructed prompts, a current resume, and three letters of recommendation

For a complete checklist of all required materials and step-by-step instructions, please see the official Graduate School requirements.

View All Admission Requirements

Do you accept late applications?

To ensure a fair and consistent review process for all candidates, we cannot accept applications submitted after the deadline. Meeting our deadlines is a critical step for program accreditation and planning.

You can find a list of all program deadlines for the upcoming academic year on our application information page. We encourage you to apply early!

See Application Deadlines

Can I begin the online Clinical Mental Health Counseling (CMHC) program in the spring?

Currently, we only accept applications for the online CMHC program for a Fall semester start.

Can you review my transcript for transfer credits before I apply?

To provide an official evaluation, we can only review transcripts for transfer credit after a student has been admitted to the program.

However, we can give you our general policy:

• It is possible to transfer up to 12 graduate credit hours from another accredited institution.
• Once you are admitted, your assigned faculty advisor will work with you to conduct a full transcript review and determine exactly which courses are eligible to transfer.

You can read the complete policy on our licensure and transfer page.

Read the Official Transfer Credit Policy

Is there a fully online option for the Marriage, Couple, and Family Counseling program?

No, at this time we do not offer a fully online/digital pathway for the Marriage, Couple, and Family Counseling program. This program is offered in a face-to-face format on our Bowling Green campus.

Can I work with couples and families if I only complete the Clinical Mental Health Counseling (CMHC) program?

Yes, the CMHC program provides a strong foundation for counseling work. However, if your primary passion is working with relational dynamics, we highly recommend pursuing the specialized Marriage, Couple, and Family Counseling program to be best equipped for that career path.

When are classes typically offered?

Our courses are typically offered in the late afternoons and evenings to accommodate the schedules of working students. You can view the standard class schedule to get a better idea of course timing.

View Standard Class Schedule

Where can I find information about Practicum and Internship?

The practicum and internship experiences are cornerstone elements of our programs. We've compiled everything you need to know—including requirements, forms, and site information—in our comprehensive Professional Practice Handbook.

Explore Professional Practice & Handbooks

Will this program prepare me for licensure in a state other than Kentucky?

Yes. Our programs are CACREP-accredited, which is the national gold standard for counseling programs. This curriculum provides the educational foundation required for licensure in most states.

However, because each state has its own specific requirements (such as unique exams or post-graduate experience), you must verify the rules with your state's licensing board. We've compiled a helpful guide with state-by-state licensing board information to get you started.

Access the State Licensing Guide

Can I use the CMHC School Counseling eligibility track for licensure outside of Kentucky?

No. Our CMHC pathway that provides eligibility for School Counseling certification is approved only by the Kentucky Education Professional Standards Board (EPSB). It is specifically designed to meet Kentucky requirements and may not transfer to other states.

I'm a School Counselor. How can I become a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC)?

We have a pathway designed specifically for you! The exact courses you'll need depend on your previous coursework and professional experience.

We have created a dedicated page that outlines the process for transfer students, non-degree seeking students, and professionals like you seeking further licensure. This page will give you a clear understanding of the next steps.

Explore Your Path to LPC Licensure

I have a provisional School Counseling Certificate. What courses do I need?

The coursework required to move from a provisional to a full certificate can vary. For a personalized review of your status and needs, please contact our School Counseling Program Coordinator, Dr. Cynthia Mason.

Contact: Dr. Cynthia Mason
Email:cynthia.mason@wku.edu

How can I find information on tuition, fees, and financial aid?

Understanding the investment in your education is a vital step. We've gathered resources on tuition costs, scholarships, and graduate assistantships on our Financial Support page.

For the most current tuition and fee schedules, we recommend visiting the WKU Office of Student Billing & Account Services.

View CSA Financial Support OptionsSee WKU Tuition & Fee Schedules