The School of Education at North Carolina Central University (NCCU) will launch a doctoral program in counseling, counselor education and supervision in fall 2025.
The program is NCCU’s second (current) doctoral program, joining the integrated biosciences doctoral program established more than a decade ago.
“This gets us back on track with the larger plan to increase the number of doctoral programs we offer and to become an R2 research institution,” said Provost and Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs Ontario S. Wooden, Ph.D.
The program’s inception was identified during a state counseling board meeting in 2022. “We heard that our state was in need of supervisors, people to supervise beginning counselors who are working toward their degree and licensure,” said Chadwick Royal, Ph.D., chair of the department of counseling and higher education.
There are just five doctoral programs in counseling at historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) nationwide.
Kyla Kurlan, Ph.D., associate professor, will be doctoral program director. She highlights the programs distinctive features, including a focus on practice-based learning and integration with the department’s community counseling clinic.
What sets this program apart is its commitment to practical experience, Kurian said. Students will complete internships across multiple professional domains and engage in a unique three-article dissertation model that encourages ongoing scholarly writing.
Helen Lupton-Smith, Ph.D., associate professor and counselor education program co-coordinator, emphasized the programs community approach.
“We have a community counseling clinic that is unlike any other,” she said. “We’re looking to interface doctoral students with telehealth services and outreach to underserved countries, creating a truly innovative learning experience.”
The program addresses multiple professional pathways. “Our graduates will be prepared in five key areas: advocacy, leadership, counseling, counselor education and supervision,” Kurian said.
Developing the program had challenges. The department navigated complex approval processes, including endorsement from the UNC Board of Governors and the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).
The program will seek accreditation from the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP), a critical step for ensuring graduates professional opportunities.
The department remains committed to its “boutique” approach, prioritizing quality over quantity.
“Larger is not always better,” said Peggy Whiting, Ed.D., professor and program coordinator. “We want to maintain our ability to truly mentor our students.”
“I see so much potential for greatness,” Kurian said. “The opportunities are great and part of that comes from the passion our faculty have.”
“It shows just the vast array of experiences we offer as an institution,” Wooden said. “That vast portfolio shows a strong academic profile and, in turn, shows us as a stronger institution.”