Westminster Launches Two New Masters Degrees 

January 24, 2007

Master of Arts in Teaching and Master of Science in Counseling Psychology 

Westminster College announced today that it is adding two new masters degrees to its academic offerings. The two new masters degrees are a Master of Science in Counseling Psychology (MSPC) offered in the School of Arts and Sciences and a Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) offered in the School of Education. The two new degrees bring the total number of masters degrees offered by the college to nine.

The Master of Science in Counseling Psychology

Starting in the fall of 2007, the MSPC will prepare students for clinical practice and potential licensure as a Licensed Professional Counselor, typically employed in hospitals, agencies and private practice settings. This program will train students in assessment techniques and counseling interventions, developing students' abilities for effective clinical practice with children, adolescents, and adults. Additionally, a partnership with the acclaimed International Psychotherapy Institute will provide opportunities for students to draw from the clinical expertise of its local, national, and international faculty for supervision, teaching, and specialized programming.

The three year program will require that students complete 60 hours of graduate work, including a one year internship placement. Westminster will accept a cohort of 15-20 students into the program each year. In keeping the program small, the college hops to ensure that each student is provided the opportunity for close, supportive peer relationships and attentive faculty mentors. The application deadline for the fall 2007 class is April 15, 2007.


Master of Arts in Teaching

Launching in the summer of 2007, the MAT program was created for students who have completed a bachelor's degree and have now decided that they would like to pursue a career as a teacher. The full-time, three semester format allows college graduates who have no prior teacher preparation coursework to learn and apply the theories of teaching during a yearlong applied practice in school settings with diverse learners.

Three distinct tracks are available leading to a master's degree and teacher licensure: Early Childhood, Elementary Education and Secondary Education. Depending on the track selected, between 39 and 45 credit hours are required. Recognizing the critical need for today's teacher to be able to adapt to different learning styles and multi-cultural classrooms, this program includes practical experiences in a variety of classroom settings, and a capstone immersion experience outside of Utah. Applications are being accepted now for the Master of Arts in Teaching.

Those wishing to apply to either the MSPC or MAT programs should visit www.westminstercollege.edu or call 801-832-2200.

Westminster College, founded in 1875, is a private, comprehensive, liberal arts college dedicated to students and their learning. Impassioned teaching and active learning are the hallmarks of the Westminster experience. The college prepares its students for success through a strong foundation of liberal education combined with cutting-edge professional programs at both the undergraduate and graduate levels. Located where the magnificent Rocky Mountains meet the vibrant city of Salt Lake, Westminster blends classroom learning with experiences presented by its unique location to help students develop skills and attributes critical for success in a rapidly changing world. U.S. News & World Report consistently ranks Westminster in the top tier of regional colleges and universities in the West, and as an excellent educational value. Additionally, the college was named to the Princeton Review's "The Best 361 Colleges" for 2007. For more information, visit www.westminstercollege.edu.