Program Details
Curriculum - General Program
Minimum Degree Requirements
For students who have graduated from a CACREP-accredited program:*
- 85 quarter credits
- Doctoral Writing Assessment
- Foundation course (1 cr.)
- Core courses (30 cr.)
- Research courses (20 cr.)
- Field Experience Courses
- Practicum (3 cr.)†
- Internship (6 cr.)
- Completion of Doctoral Dissertation
- Dissertation Support Courses (5 cr.)
- Dissertation Writing Courses (5 cr. per term for a minimum of four terms; taken continuously until completion)
- One residency (choose virtual or face-to-face)
- Two Pre-Practicum Labs - 6 weeks online with 4 day synchronous intensive (choose virtual or face-to-face)
View the COMPLETE CURRICULUM PLAN.
*Learn more about completion requirements for students who are not licensed professional counselors with a master’s degree in counseling or who have not graduated from a CACREP-accredited master’s program.
†Due to the practicum requirements of this program, the applicant must be a citizen or permanent resident of the United States or a U.S. territory at time of admission and must reside in the United States or a U.S. territory at time of admission to be eligible for this program. United States military personnel stationed abroad should contact an Enrollment Specialist to determine eligibility.
Walden students have up to eight years to complete their doctoral program unless they petition for an extension. In general, students are continuously registered in the dissertation/doctoral study course until they complete their capstone project and it is approved. This usually takes longer than the minimum required terms in the dissertation/doctoral study course shell.
Please refer to Walden’s catalog for more information about degree requirements.
For a personalized estimate of the number of your transfer credits that Walden would accept, call an Enrollment Specialist at 855-646-5286.
Admission Requirements
Program Admission Considerations: A master's degree or higher in counseling.
General Admission Requirements: Completed online application and transcripts. Please note that the materials you are required to submit may vary depending on the academic program to which you apply. More information for international applicants.
A Personalized Guide to Completing Your Doctorate
Earning your PhD in Counselor Education and Supervision requires commitment, perseverance, and hard work. You can do it, and Walden is here to help—with our Doctoral Degree Coach™.
- Map and Track Milestones: Break your research down into manageable, sequential steps. See where you are, what’s ahead, and what you’ve already accomplished—all in one place.
- Meet Weekly Targets: No more guesswork. Set prompts based on your to-do list and receive reminders and updates directly to your inbox.
- Connect With Faculty: Stay on the same page and keep your progress on track. With shared access to your dashboard, your chair can easily guide you through your checklists, goals, and timelines.
- Access Helpful Resources: Quickly find support from the right person at the right time. Our comprehensive resource guide points you in the right direction—no more frustrating searches.
| Curriculum | Requirements | Cost | Total * | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tuition-Coursework | 65 quarter credits | $605 per quarter hour for coursework credits | $39,325^ | |
| Tuition-Dissertation | 20–115† quarter credits | $605 per quarter hour for dissertation credits | $12,100–$69,575* | |
| Program Fee | $170 per quarter | $2,380–$5,440* | ||
| Residency Fee | One Residency | $1,420 each (virtual) $1,520 each (in-person: travel, lodging and other expenses are additional) |
$1,420–$1,520 | |
| Pre-Practicum Labs | Two in Program | $1,420 each (virtual) $1,520 each (in person: travel, lodging and other expenses are additional) |
$2,840–$3,040 | |
| Estimated Range: | 2.75-Year | 8-Year | ||
| $58,065 | $118,900 *+ | |||
| (assuming completion in a 2.75-year timeframe) | (assuming completion in an 8-year timeframe) | |||
These are ranges of what a student can expect in terms of time and tuition cost to complete a degree. It does not include other fees, nor is it adjusted for tuition increases over time. Walden faculty has concluded that generally students who do not complete their program in eight years are unlikely to complete and only allow students to exceed that time frame when a student petitions for an extension and provides good reason for the delay and assurances that obstacles to completion can be overcome. Time is calculated using the time allowed for each semester or unit that the student completes. Students are encouraged to work continuously during the program so as not to extend the time needed to complete the degree as work can become stale and students lose focus. Students who earn two grades of “Unsatisfactory,” who repeatedly drop a course before a semester or unit has been completed, or are unable to complete in the eight year time frame, should expect that they may be dismissed from the program. Walden believes that it is in the best interest of a student who is unable to complete the degree in the stated ranges to strongly consider withdrawal or obtaining a lesser degree.
Time to completion and cost are not estimates of individual experience and will vary based on individual factors applicable to the student. Factors may be programmatic or academic such as tuition and fee increases and/or the student’s transfer credits accepted by Walden; program or specialization changes; unsuccessful course completion; credit load per term; writing, research and editing skills; use of external data for their doctoral study/dissertation; and/or individual progress in the program. Other factors may include personal issues such as the student’s employment obligations; care giving responsibilities or health issues; part-time vs. full-time enrollment; leaves of absence; and/or other personal circumstances.
Tuition and fees are subject to change. Books and materials are not included. Students may incur additional costs for remedial writing assistance, if necessary.
^This assumes students successfully complete their coursework on the first attempt.
† Based on a 2.75-year minimum completion requirement and an 8-year maximum timeframe as outlined in Walden academic policy.
*Tuition and fees will be higher if students petition to extend the 8-year maximum timeframe or choose to take more expensive elective courses.
+Tuition and time to complete may be reduced if transfer credits are accepted, or if you receive grants, scholarships or other tuition discounts. For a personalized estimate of the number of your transfer credits that Walden would accept, call an Enrollment Specialist at 844-642-0198.
| Curriculum | Requirements | Cost | Total * | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tuition-Coursework | 80 quarter credits | $605 per quarter hour for coursework credits | $48,400^ | |
| Tuition-Dissertation | 20–120† quarter credits | $605 per quarter hour for dissertation credits | $12,100–$69,575* | |
| Program Fee | $170 per quarter | $2,380–$5,440* | ||
| Residency Fee | One Residency | $1,420 each (virtual) $1,520 each (in-person: travel, lodging and other expenses are additional) |
$1,420–$1,520 | |
| Pre-Practicum Labs | Two in Program | $1,420 each (virtual) $1,520 each (in-person: travel, lodging and other expenses are additional) |
$2,840–$3,040 | |
| Estimated Range: | 3-Year | 8-Year | ||
| $67,140 | $127,975 *+ | |||
| (assuming completion in a 3-year timeframe) | (assuming completion in an 8-year timeframe) | |||
These are ranges of what a student can expect in terms of time and tuition cost to complete a degree. It does not include other fees, nor is it adjusted for tuition increases over time. Walden faculty has concluded that generally students who do not complete their program in eight years are unlikely to complete and only allow students to exceed that time frame when a student petitions for an extension and provides good reason for the delay and assurances that obstacles to completion can be overcome. Time is calculated using the time allowed for each semester or unit that the student completes. Students are encouraged to work continuously during the program so as not to extend the time needed to complete the degree as work can become stale and students lose focus. Students who earn two grades of “Unsatisfactory,” who repeatedly drop a course before a semester or unit has been completed, or are unable to complete in the eight year time frame, should expect that they may be dismissed from the program. Walden believes that it is in the best interest of a student who is unable to complete the degree in the stated ranges to strongly consider withdrawal or obtaining a lesser degree.
Time to completion and cost are not estimates of individual experience and will vary based on individual factors applicable to the student. Factors may be programmatic or academic such as tuition and fee increases and/or the student’s transfer credits accepted by Walden; program or specialization changes; unsuccessful course completion; credit load per term; writing, research and editing skills; use of external data for their doctoral study/dissertation; and/or individual progress in the program. Other factors may include personal issues such as the student’s employment obligations; care giving responsibilities or health issues; part-time vs. full-time enrollment; leaves of absence; and/or other personal circumstances.
Tuition and fees are subject to change. Books and materials are not included. Students may incur additional costs for remedial writing assistance, if necessary.
^This assumes students successfully complete their coursework on the first attempt.
† Based on a 3-year minimum completion requirement and an 8-year maximum timeframe as outlined in Walden academic policy.
*Tuition and fees will be higher if students petition to extend the 8-year maximum timeframe or choose to take more expensive elective courses.
+Tuition and time to complete may be reduced if transfer credits are accepted, or if you receive grants, scholarships or other tuition discounts. For a personalized estimate of the number of your transfer credits that Walden would accept, call an Enrollment Specialist at 844-642-0198.
Paying for Your Education
Our Enrollment Specialists can help you outline a plan and find resources for funding your education.
PROGRAM SAVINGS
Looking to reach your potential with a doctoral degree? We want to support you by making your goals more achievable. Receive up to a $5,000 grant if you start this program on November 27, 2023. Contact one of our Enrollment Specialists to learn more.
Program Outcomes
Be a Catalyst for Improved Counseling Practices
Our online PhD in Counselor Education and Supervision program equips you with the skills to bring positive change to the profession as a counselor-educator or clinical supervisor. Broaden your perspective working with diverse faculty, students, theory, teaching styles, and research. Graduate from your doctoral program feeling emboldened, energized, and ready to make a positive impact for budding counselors and your community.
Community Connection to Help You Grow
Our online PhD in Counselor Education and Supervision program offers opportunities for you to engage with peers and faculty and get hands-on experience in a variety of areas. You can:
- Teach and mentor Walden master’s students early on in your program.
- Facilitate and lead discussions in counseling areas that interest you through our vibrant Learning Communities.
- Receive one-on-one mentoring with faculty members to help expand your leadership skills and professional growth.
- Learn how to develop single or a series of podcasts that allow you to showcase your expertise.
- Join Tapestry, a diversity and inclusion initiative formed by Walden students and faculty.
- Spearhead new projects with help from faculty, such as book clubs and podcast channels.
- Access no-cost continuing education workshops during your studies and after graduation.
Career Outlook
The number of students enrolled in CACREP-accredited master’s and doctoral programs has risen significantly in recent years. However, the pool of qualified graduates with doctoral degrees in counselor education and supervision—a CACREP requirement for core faculty status—has not grown accordingly. This has left many institutions struggling to hire qualified faculty to teach their counseling programs.1
With a PhD in Counselor Education and Supervision, you’ll be well-positioned to meet this need. Reach a significant milestone in your career as you earn one of the most respected degrees in the profession. Prepare to lead change in the organizations and communities you serve, whether through teaching, clinical supervision, or research.
A PhD in Counselor Education and Supervision can academically prepare you to work in settings such as:
- Higher education
- Mental health facilities
- Hospitals and clinics
- Rehabilitation centers
- Nonprofit organizations
- Private practice
Career options may require additional experience, training, or other factors beyond the successful completion of this degree program.
Learning Outcomes
As a graduate of this PhD in Counselor Education and Supervision program, you’ll be prepared to:
- Synthesize theories and evidence-based practices across counselor education domains. (Knowledge)
- Create counselor education approaches to address diverse counselors-in-training. (Knowledge)
- Develop counselor education and supervision interventions to promote social change. (Skills)
- Employ professional counselor educator and supervisor behaviors in professional settings. (Dispositions)
Read our PhD in Counselor Education and Supervision CACREP Vital Statistics Outcomes and Program Evaluation Outcome Report (PEOR) on the School of Counseling DATA webpage.
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Testimonials
The best part of my experience has been the opportunity to come back to Walden to teach future school counselors and clinical mental health counselors.
Ariel D. HarrisonPhD in Counselor Education and Supervision Graduate, Walden Faculty Member
My doctorate from Walden opened more professional opportunities for me and boosted my confidence to start my counseling practice, which became a group practice in less than a year.
Letitia Browne-James PhD in Counselor Education and Supervision Graduate, President of the Florida Counseling Association
My experience as a Walden CES student has been influenced by my relationship with my peers, the encouragement of professors, and the increased visibility of Black faculty.
Rhemma Payne PhD in Counselor Education and Supervision Student, Student Creator of Tapestry
FAQ About Walden’s Online PhD in Counselor Education and Supervision
Can I be a counselor without a PhD?
Yes. A master’s degree is typically needed to work in the mental health field as a counselor in the United States. You’ll also need to be licensed by your state’s licensing board. However, if your goal is to teach future counselors and mental health professionals, you’ll need to earn your PhD in Counselor Education and Supervision. Since 2013, new faculty members of Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP)-accredited programs are required to hold doctoral degrees in counselor education and supervision.
What can I do with a PhD in Counselor Education and Supervision?
With a PhD in Counselor Education and Supervision, you can pursue a career as an educator or a practitioner. The majority of our Walden graduates accept employment in graduate counseling programs as full-time faculty. Other graduates become clinic directors and supervisors in mental health clinics and schools, conduct research, or open a private practice.
Can I earn a PhD in Counselor Education and Supervision online?
Yes. All of Walden’s programs are online. Since 1970, Walden has been offering distance learning to meet the needs of working adults who wanted to continue their professional education. Online learning provides the perfect opportunity to earn a degree while balancing work and other obligations.
Why would I need a PhD in Counselor Education and Supervision?
In 2009, the Council for the Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP) passed standards that required all counselor training programs to hire only doctoral graduates from CACREP-accredited counselor education and supervision programs as the faculty training future counselors. The only path to become a professor in the field of counselor education is to complete a doctoral degree from a CACREP-accredited counselor education and supervision program.
What is special about Walden’s PhD in Counselor Education and Supervision?
Walden students come from all over the world, creating a wealth of diverse perspectives. Our faculty are also diverse. Our faculty come from diverse backgrounds and have a variety of expertise. Students can select a dissertation chair with expertise that aligns with their own interests. In addition, all our faculty have doctoral degrees and are licensed practitioners. We offer individualized attention and small class sizes of 15 students or less. Walden is also led by its mission of social change. As a result, students and faculty engage worldwide in programs to create change and make our world a better place for all. Walden’s student support is also among the finest. You’ll be supported through every step of your degree program with access to the Writing Center, the library, personal advisors, and more. Finally, our faculty are available to provide one-on-one support for students in their development of the required skills and dispositions to be confident and competent professionals. We are committed to graduating every student admitted.
Is Our PhD in Counselor Education and Supervision program accredited?
Yes. The PhD in Counselor Education and Supervision program at Walden University is fully accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP). Additionally, Walden is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
How long does it take to earn a doctoral degree in counselor education and supervision?
Students can complete the PhD in Counselor Education and Supervision in as few as three years. Most students complete the degree in less than five years.
1The Professional Counselor, The Pipeline Problem in Doctoral Counselor Education and Supervision.
2Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Postsecondary teachers, SOC code 25-1199. Retrieved September 2020. National long-term projections may not reflect local and/or short-term economic or job conditions, do not guarantee actual job growth, and are subject to change.
Walden University’s PhD in Counselor Education and Supervision program is accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP), a specialized accrediting body recognized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA).
Note on Licensure:
The PhD in Counselor Education and Supervision is not a licensure program and does not prepare an individual to become a licensed counseling professional.
Note: Time to completion and cost are not estimates of individual experience and will vary based on individual factors applicable to the student. Factors may be programmatic or academic, such as tuition and fee increases; transfer credits accepted by Walden; program or specialization changes; unsuccessful course completion; credit load per term; part-time vs. full-time enrollment; writing, research, and editing skills; use of external data for the doctoral study/dissertation; and individual progress in the program. Other factors may include personal issues such as the student’s employment obligations, caregiving responsibilities, or health issues; leaves of absence; or other personal circumstances.