Graduate Counseling

Professional Licensure Disclosure

The Department of Graduate Counseling at John Brown University has determined that the MS in Counseling curriculum meets the Arkansas state educational requirements for the Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) designation.  In addition, the Counseling department has determined that the addition of the Marriage & Family Therapy emphasis courses to the MS in Counseling curriculum meets the Arkansas state educational requirements for the Licensed Marriage & Family Therapy (LMFT) designation. 

Although John Brown University makes every effort to disclose and provide resources for licensure requirements for each state, it is important that students also inquire with their state licensing board, where they intend to apply for licensure, to determine the requirements for licensure in their field.

IMPORTANT: Prospective and current students should keep in mind that licensing and authorization requirements will vary by state and that relocating during the course of a program to another state could affect whether that student can continue in the program and/or meet the eligibility requirements of that state. If you are considering relocating, please contact your program to determine authorization and licensure eligibility requirements.

Graduating from the MS in Counseling degree program does not guarantee professional licensure in any state or country as licensure is often determined by more than simply meeting educational requirements. Click here for more information about state licensure.

Disqualifying Offenses for Professional Licensure

A background check is NOT an admissions requirement for Department of Graduate Counseling program admission. However, students accepted into the MS in Counseling program will have to pass a background check prior to being eligible for clinical work in Practicum/Internship or obtaining professional licensure. Each state has formally adopted a list of criminal offenses that substantially relate to the practice of behavioral health counseling and pose a reasonable threat to the public or others working in the same occupation. State licensing boards can deny the licensure application of any person with a conviction of any of these offenses according to “Licensing restrictions based on criminal records” (Senate Bill 451; 17-2-102).