FAQ

As the counselling profession is characterized by solid personal relationships, our classes are taught face-to-face by full time Gonzaga University professors and adjunct faculty. Many of our adjunct faculty are Canadian residents who have extensive experience within the field. We remain committed to bringing students a model of excellence in content, delivery, and direct feedback.

Our Master of Counselling program is designed so that students can maintain their lives and well-being in addition to attending graduate school on a full-time basis. The faculty place the highest value on family and relationships, as well as in maintaining mental health. Commonly, students travel some distance to attend class; in this case, it is the responsibility of each student to plan with their place of employment so that they can be in full attendance. Your commitment to graduate study at this level takes time and energy. As such, you can count on our understanding and support.

The program is completed in two years. It is delivered using a cohort model.

The increasingly cohesive and non-competitive group of approximately 20 students remains together throughout the duration of the program. The faculty engender open communications systems, characterized by forthrightness and courage in all facets of program-related work. Many assignments are collaborative, making effective teamwork essential to success. This is an ideal opportunity for practitioners to form close professional networks to rely on throughout their counseling career.

Classes meet approximately twice a month, during Friday evening (5 - 9pm) and Saturday morning (8am - 2pm). Please note: The above information is subject to change at the faculty’s discretion.

The location for our Fall 2025 cohort has not yet been determined.  

As scientist-practitioners, we honor the rich traditions and knowledge within the psychology profession. Although a bachelor's degree in psychology is not a pre-requisite for admission, it is highly recommended. For applicants without this degree, we provide a reading list in preparation for a knowledge-based competency exam. Students must pass this exam prior to advancement to candidacy. Contact the Counselor Education department at 509-313-6290 or 866-380-5323 for more information.

There is one residency that take place on the Gonzaga University campus in Spokane. This is one month long and occurs in the summer between year one and year two. During this residency, you will take two of your classes with your cohort. Students continue to describe this residency as one of their most challenging and most rewarding experiences. 

A new cohort begins each Fall semester.

In addition to the standard graduate admissions requirements, the faculty hold comprehensive interviews to screen potential candidates. In-person interviews are offered in Canada, typically during March; however, the exact date of interviews may vary from year to year. We highly value the range of life experiences and educational backgrounds of our students, which contribute to the rich diversity of our cohort.

Gonzaga offers a very competitive tuition. The program costs the credit rate multipled by the number of credits in the program. Tuition rates are evaluated every year.

For current tuition rates and information about how to finance your degree go to our Tuition and Financing page.