Learning Objectives & Outcomes
Elon University Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling Learning Objectives and Outcomes
Program Learning Objectives (PLOs)
The Program Learning Objectives (PLOs) for the Counseling program at Elon University define the essential knowledge, skills, and professional competencies that counselors-in-training are expected to achieve. These outcomes guide student learning, ensure alignment with CACREP accreditation standards, and prepare graduates to provide ethical, culturally responsive, and evidence-based counseling across diverse populations and clinical settings.
PLO 1
Counselors-in-training will demonstrate comprehensive knowledge of the historical development, current practices, and emerging trends in the counseling profession, including professional roles, ethical standards, and legal responsibilities.
PLO 2
Counselors-in-training will apply knowledge, skills, and advocacy strategies to effectively engage with diverse populations by recognizing, understanding, and responding to social and cultural differences within a pluralistic society.
PLO 3
Counselors-in-training will integrate knowledge of human growth and development to design, implement, and evaluate developmentally appropriate counseling interventions and programs across the lifespan.
PLO 4
Counselors-in-training will demonstrate proficiency in applying a variety of counseling theories, models, and techniques to support individuals, groups, and families across diverse settings, including the ethical and effective use of technology in practice.
PLO 5
Counselors-in-training will critically evaluate and apply ethical practices in assessment, diagnosis and treatment planning, psychopharmacology, research, and program evaluation to ensure evidence-based and culturally responsive counseling practices.
PLO 6
Counselors-in-training will demonstrate knowledge and application of career development to the practice of professional counseling.
Student Learning Outcomes (SLOs)
The Student Learning Outcomes (SLOs) for Elon University’s Clinical Mental Health Counseling (CMHC) program are derived from the program’s overarching Program Learning Outcomes and are directly aligned with the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP) standards. These outcomes define the knowledge, skills, and professional competencies that students are expected to achieve by the completion of the program.
SLO1: Professional Counseling Orientation and Ethical Practice
Students will demonstrate competence in professional roles, functions, and ethical decision-making as guided by the ACA Code of Ethics and related professional standards.
SLO 2: Social and Cultural Identities and Experiences
Students will apply knowledge and skills related to multiculturalism, diversity, equity, and advocacy to serve and support diverse client populations effectively.
SLO 3: Lifespan Development
Students will integrate theories of human growth and development across the lifespan to inform culturally responsive counseling practice.
SLO 4: Career Development
Students will demonstrate proficiency in career development theory, career counseling strategies, and the application of career assessments.
SLO 5: Counseling Practice and Relationships
Students will demonstrate knowledge and application of evidence-based counseling theories, skills, and techniques to build effective helping relationships.
SLO 6: Group Counseling and Group Work
Students will demonstrate competence in group theory, group dynamics, and the facilitation of group counseling interventions.
SLO 7: Assessment and Diagnostic Processes
Students will develop the ability to select, administer, and interpret a variety of assessment tools while considering issues of reliability, validity, ethics, and cultural fairness, while examining diagnostic processes, including differential diagnosis and the use of current diagnostic classification systems.
SLO 8: Research and Program Evaluation
Students will exhibit the ability to critically evaluate research, apply evidence-based practices, and design program evaluation strategies to improve counseling effectiveness.
SLO 9: Clinical Mental Health Counseling – Entry-level Specialized Practice Areas
Students will demonstrate comprehensive knowledge and skills related to the foundations, contextual dimensions, and practices of clinical mental health counseling.