Rollins College

What you'll study

The programme provides an integrated curriculum that balances theory, research and applied practice. Core topics typically include assessment and diagnosis, counselling and psychotherapeutic techniques, crisis intervention, group work, lifespan development, and evidence-based interventions for common mental health concerns. Students also study social determinants of health, systems and community-based services, cultural competence, ethical and legal issues, and programme evaluation.

Instruction emphasises skill development through role-plays, case formulation, and supervised practicum placements in community agencies, hospitals and schools. Research methods and outcome measurement are included so graduates can interpret and contribute to practice-informed evidence. Elective options and seminars often allow specialisation in areas such as trauma-informed care, substance use recovery, geriatric mental health, or integrated behavioural health in primary care.

Entry requirements

• A recognised bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution in a related discipline (for example psychology, social work, health sciences or a closely related field).
• A competitive academic record; selection is based on the whole application rather than a single grade or score.
• A personal statement outlining professional goals and reasons for pursuing the programme.
• Professional or academic references that speak to the applicant’s suitability for applied mental health work.
• Relevant experience working or volunteering in human services is desirable and may strengthen an application.
• Successful applicants may be invited to an interview; admission is contingent on completing any required background checks or health clearances for placement sites.

Career prospects

Graduates enter a range of roles across mental health and allied services. Typical positions include community mental health practitioner, counsellor in outpatient or residential settings, case manager, behavioural health coordinator in primary care, programme specialist for non-profit organisations, and roles in policy or advocacy focused on mental health access. With additional post-graduate licensure or certification where required, graduates may progress to independently licensed counsellor, clinical supervisor, or director-level positions in agencies and health systems. The programme also prepares students for further study at the doctoral level or for specialised certification pathways.

Why study at Rollins College

• Small cohort sizes and a liberal arts foundation create a close-knit learning environment with significant faculty mentoring and personalised feedback.
• Strong connections with community partners in the Orlando region provide diverse practicum and internship opportunities across clinical and social-service settings.
• Faculty bring practitioner experience and scholarship to teaching, emphasising applied skills, ethics and culturally responsive practice.
• Flexible scheduling and professional development resources support students who are working or seeking career transitions into allied health professions.
• Interdisciplinary collaboration across campus allows students to draw on expertise in psychology, social sciences and health-related fields to enrich their training.