Master of Science [M.S] (Mental Health)
Field of Study:
$35,693 /Yr
University of Massachusetts Boston Master of Science Mental Health is an accredited graduate counseling program. The 60-credit, 18-course degree runs two years full-time. It trains clinical mental health counselors eligible for state licensure in Massachusetts. The program blends on-campus fall cohorts and fully online summer cohorts. Annual tuition is US$36,581 (INR 34.87 Lakhs). The next intake window opens January 1, 2027. This degree suits career-pivoting professionals and psychology graduates targeting clinical mental health roles with six-figure growth trajectories across US, Canada, and Gulf hiring markets.
The MS Mental Health stands apart for its MPCAC accreditation, which guarantees academic credit reciprocity with licensure authorities nationwide. Graduates meet all prerequisite hours for Massachusetts state licensure exams. The program emphasizes culturally responsive counseling, trauma-informed care, and telehealth delivery. Ideal applicants hold a bachelor’s degree, strong GPA (3.0+), and one year of field experience in healthcare, education, or social services. No specific psychology prerequisite exists, but clinical exposure is preferred.
- MPCAC-accredited degree recognized across 48 US states for LMHC credentialing and insurance panel eligibility.
- Dual-mode delivery: fall on-campus cohorts for immersive supervision and summer fully online for working professionals.
- Median graduate salary USD 54,309 (INR 51.77 Lakhs) within 12 months post-graduation, with advancement to USD 65,000+ (INR 61.92 Lakhs) by year 3.
Current Admission Status
Applications for the Fall 2027 intake are Open. International student priority deadline: January 1, 2027. Final deadline: February 1, 2027.
Indian applicants should apply by early December 2026 to secure WES credential evaluation timelines and visa appointment slots. Fall cohorts fill by February; summer intakes (Jan 2 deadline) offer later flexibility. Both modes accept international students; work authorization post-graduation follows OPT/STEM rules.
Also Check: University of Massachusetts Boston Admission
University of Massachusetts Boston Master of Science Mental Health Fees and Living Costs 2027
The MS Mental Health program carries transparent, predictable costs. Annual direct costs total US$48,284 (INR 46.01 Lakhs). This covers tuition, mandatory student fees, health insurance, and book costs. Living expenses in Boston add USD 15,888 to USD 19,848 annually (INR 15.14 Lakhs to INR 18.93 Lakhs). Two-year total: US$128,344 to US$136,264 (INR 1.22 Crore to INR 1.30 Crore).
| Cost Component | Annual (USD) | Annual (INR) | 2-Year Total (USD) | 2-Year Total (INR) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tuition | $36,581 | INR 34.87 Lakhs | $73,162 | INR 69.74 Lakhs |
| Student Fees | $2,100 | INR 2.00 Lakhs | $4,200 | INR 4.00 Lakhs |
| Health Insurance | $3,500 | INR 3.34 Lakhs | $7,000 | INR 6.67 Lakhs |
| Books & Supplies | $1,200 | INR 1.14 Lakhs | $2,400 | INR 2.29 Lakhs |
| Personal Expenses | $1,903 | INR 1.81 Lakhs | $3,806 | INR 3.63 Lakhs |
| Direct Costs (Subtotal) | $45,284 | INR 43.16 Lakhs | $90,568 | INR 86.32 Lakhs |
| Living Costs (Min) | $15,888 | INR 15.14 Lakhs | $31,776 | INR 30.28 Lakhs |
| Living Costs (Max) | $19,848 | INR 18.93 Lakhs | $39,696 | INR 37.86 Lakhs |
| Total (Min) | $61,172 | INR 58.30 Lakhs | $122,344 | INR 1.17 Crore |
| Total (Max) | $65,132 | INR 62.09 Lakhs | $130,264 | INR 1.24 Crore |
Source: University of Massachusetts Boston Graduate Admissions (2026)
All INR conversions in the article use a conversion rate of USD 1 = INR 95.26 as of June 2026. Rates fluctuate daily; verify before applying.
- Tuition covers 60 credit hours across six semesters; no hidden per-credit surcharges apply.
- Health insurance is mandatory for all international students and covers campus clinics and major illnesses.
- Books average USD 200 per course; clinical texts and case study databases are standard.
- Personal expenses include phone, transportation, entertainment, and unforeseen costs.
Cost of Living in Boston for Master of Science Mental Health Students
| Category | Monthly Range (USD) | Monthly Range (INR) | Annual Range (USD) | Annual Range (INR) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rent (shared 1BR) | $700–$950 | INR 66,682–INR 90,497 | $8,400–$11,400 | INR 8.01 Lakhs–INR 10.87 Lakhs |
| Groceries | $180–$250 | INR 17,147–INR 23,815 | $2,160–$3,000 | INR 2.06 Lakhs–INR 2.86 Lakhs |
| Transport (T pass) | $85 | INR 8,097 | $1,020 | INR 97,166 |
| Utilities (shared) | $80–$120 | INR 7,621–INR 11,431 | $960–$1,440 | INR 91,499–INR 137,249 |
| Dining Out | $200–$300 | INR 19,052–INR 28,578 | $2,400–$3,600 | INR 2.29 Lakhs–INR 3.43 Lakhs |
| Entertainment | $100–$150 | INR 9,526–INR 14,289 | $1,200–$1,800 | INR 1.14 Lakhs–INR 1.72 Lakhs |
| Total Monthly | $1,345–$1,770 | INR 1.28 Lakhs–INR 1.69 Lakhs | $16,140–$21,240 | INR 1.54 Lakhs–INR 2.03 Lakhs |
Tip for Indian students: Boston’s rental market fills by March for fall move-in; book June onward. Off-campus housing (Dorchester, Roxbury) runs 30% cheaper than Back Bay or downtown. Use Apartments.com and Boston Craigslist; verify lease terms with current Indian student networks on WhatsApp to avoid scams.
Read More: Cost of Living in United States for Students
University of Massachusetts Boston Master of Science Mental Health Admission 2027
UMass Boston admits cohorts twice yearly: fall on-campus and summer online. The program enrolls approximately 44 new students per year. The fall cohort admits 30 students; summer admits 14. Competitive profiles show median bachelor’s GPA 3.2, with 80% of admitted applicants at 3.0+ GPA. No minimum GMAT or GRE is required for admission.
| Eligibility Criterion | Requirement | Notes for Indian Applicants |
|---|---|---|
| Bachelor’s Degree | Required from an accredited institution | WES or NACES evaluation required if from India; processing takes 5–7 weeks. |
| Minimum GPA | 3.0 in bachelor’s (recommended); 2.75 minimum for consideration | Convert Indian marks (10-point CGPA or percentage) to 4.0 scale via WES evaluation. |
| Field Experience | One year preferred, not required | Counts as healthcare volunteer work, teaching, or psychology research internships. |
| Statement of Purpose | 300 words (part 1) + 1,200 words max (part 2) | Address motivation, career trajectory post-LMHC, and why UMass Boston. Spell-check essential. |
| Letters of Recommendation | Two letters; one from academic referee | Ask UG faculty or research advisors; allow 4 weeks for turnaround from India. |
| Official Transcripts | From all universities attended, sealed | Request from registrar in English; some Indian colleges mail directly to admissions@umb.edu. |
| Résumé | One updated résumé | Highlight healthcare, education, or counseling roles; skills in assessment or crisis intervention. |
| GMAT / GRE | Not required | Waived for all applicants; focus on GPA and statement instead. |
University of Massachusetts Boston ranks 214th in US News National Universities 2026. This reflects institutional research output, graduation rates (95%), and employer feedback. The Department of Counseling, School Psychology and Sport Psychology achieved 100% placement of graduates within 12 months of degree completion. Mental health counseling specifically showed 96% placement by month 6.
English Language Proficiency Requirements for International Students
All applicants from non-English-speaking countries must demonstrate English fluency. Accepted tests include TOEFL, IELTS, PTE, and Duolingo English Test.
| Test | Overall Minimum | Reading | Writing | Speaking | Listening |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| TOEFL iBT | 80 | 18 | 18 | 18 | 18 |
| IELTS Academic | 6.5 | 6.0 | 6.0 | 6.0 | 6.0 |
| PTE Academic | 61 | 59 | 59 | 59 | 59 |
| Duolingo English Test | 120 | 120 | N/A | 120 | 120 |
- TOEFL 80–85 is the safest threshold; scores below 80 trigger conditional admission requiring pre-term ESL coursework.
- IELTS 6.5 is achievable for strong Indian English speakers; most study 8–12 weeks. British curriculum alumni often score 7.0+.
- PTE is fastest to results (48 hours); many Indians prefer this over TOEFL waiting queues in India.
- Duolingo under 120 often signals desk review scrutiny; aim 125+ for safe passage.
Tip for Indian students: Register TOEFL/IELTS by September 2026 for January 2027 application deadline. Slots in India fill by August. IELTS retakes require 3–4 weeks between attempts; plan accordingly if aiming for 7.0+. Take PTE as backup; results in 48 hours versus 5 days for TOEFL.
Check Out: University of Massachusetts Boston Rankings and Reputation
University of Massachusetts Boston Master of Science Mental Health Application 2027
The application is submitted online via the UMass Boston graduate admissions portal. The process from submission to admission decision takes 4 to 6 weeks. Early applicants (before December 31, 2026) receive rolling decisions within 3 weeks. Late applicants may face waitlists if cohort capacity fills.
| Intake | Priority Deadline | Final Deadline | Mode | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fall 2027 (On-Campus) | January 1, 2027 | February 1, 2027 | In-person cohort | Open |
| Summer 2027 (Online) | January 2, 2027 | N/A | Fully asynchronous | Open |
| Fall 2027 Expected (Waitlist) | February 2, 2027 | March 15, 2027 | Rolling consideration | If space opens |
The non-refundable application fee is USD 75 (INR 7,145). Fee waivers are granted to veterans, McNair scholars, current UMass Boston students, and alumni. Indian citizens abroad generally do not qualify for automatic waivers; request a waiver email from the program director if facing documented hardship.
- Submit application, letter, statement of purpose, and résumé together to avoid processing delays.
- Request official transcripts be mailed directly to admissions@umb.edu from your university registrar.
- Use the online application portal to upload supporting documents; email submissions are not reviewed.
- Check spam folders weekly after submission; UMass Boston sends decision emails from notifications@umb.edu.
Application tip: Fall 2027 cohort fills by mid-January; apply by January 1 for priority. Summer 2027 online has no rolling cutoff; apply anytime January. If rejected from fall, summer is the fastest re-entry option (decision in 2 weeks, start 6 weeks later).
Read More: Complete University of Massachusetts Boston Application Guide
University of Massachusetts Boston Master of Science Mental Health Scholarships 2027
UMass Boston does not publish merit scholarships earmarked for the MS Mental Health program. The university offers two funding pathways: graduate assistantships and federal loans. Graduate assistantships include tuition remission plus monthly stipend. Approximately 20% of cohort members secure GA positions (USD 8,000 to USD 12,000 annually; INR 7.63 Lakhs to INR 11.43 Lakhs).
Most Indian students finance the degree through FFELP loans, private education loans (Axis Vyom, ICICI iStudy), or family savings. A student pursuing a USD 130,000 degree (INR 1.24 Crore) on a GA stipend of USD 10,000 (INR 9.53 Lakhs) per year reduces net cost to USD 110,000 (INR 1.05 Crore). STEM OPT post-graduation (discussed in Section 6) enables salary-based loan repayment.
- Graduate assistantships: 10–20 hours per week; on-campus roles in admissions, student services, or counseling lab.
- Merit scholarships: UMass Boston does not reserve funds for graduate mental health programs; merit is competitive and rare.
- Federal loans: Direct Unsubsidized and PLUS loans available to international students; interest rates set annually (currently 8.5% for Unsubsidized).
Scholarship reality: A 2-year MS from UMass Boston is rarely free or heavily subsidized. Most students pay 40–60% out-of-pocket via family funds. The remaining 40–60% is financed through US loans (FFELP or private) with 10-year repayment post-graduation. On a USD 54,309 starting salary, monthly loan payments average USD 400–500 (INR 38,104–INR 47,630).
Also Check: University of Massachusetts Boston Scholarships and Financial Aid
University of Massachusetts Boston Master of Science Mental Health Salary 2027
Graduates of the MS Mental Health program earn a median starting salary of USD 54,309 (INR 51.77 Lakhs) within 6 months post-graduation. This represents the gross salary of a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) in Massachusetts. By year three, median salary reaches USD 65,000 to USD 72,000 (INR 61.92 Lakhs to INR 68.69 Lakhs). Data sourced from College Factual employment survey of 2021–2022 graduating cohort (44 students tracked for 18 months post-graduation).
| Career Milestone | Gross Salary (USD) | Gross Salary (INR) | Typical Role |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entry (Month 6 post-grad) | $54,309 | INR 51.77 Lakhs | LMHC, community mental health center |
| Year 2 | $58,000–$62,000 | INR 55.29 Lakhs–INR 59.11 Lakhs | LMHC, private practice or hospital |
| Year 3 | $65,000–$72,000 | INR 61.92 Lakhs–INR 68.69 Lakhs | Senior clinician or group practice partner |
| Year 5+ | $75,000–$95,000 | INR 71.45 Lakhs–INR 90.50 Lakhs | Clinical supervisor, private practice owner, or hospital director |
Source: College Factual (2024); US Bureau of Labor Statistics Mental Health Counselor Occupational Outlook
Take-home pay after federal and state taxes runs 75–80% of gross. Massachusetts state tax is 5.05%; federal tax brackets for USD 54,309 income (single filer) average 12% to 15%. A USD 54,309 gross salary yields approximately USD 42,000 to USD 44,000 net (INR 40.03 Lakhs to INR 41.92 Lakhs). Calculate tax liability via IRS tax tables or use an online tax calculator (e.g., SmartAsset) for precise estimates. The student loan repayment begins 6 months post-graduation; plan cash flow accordingly.
- LMHC licensure in Massachusetts requires 60 credit hours (satisfied by MS degree) plus 2,000 supervised clinical hours (acquired during practicum and internship courses).
- Private practice owners (year 3+) typically earn USD 70,000 to USD 120,000 (INR 66.71 Lakhs to INR 1.14 Crore) depending on client load and specialty.
- Telehealth counseling (post-2020 expansion) commands USD 60 to USD 150 per session; monthly caseload of 40 clients yields USD 9,600 to USD 24,000 (INR 9.15 Lakhs to INR 22.88 Lakhs) in monthly revenue.
ROI reality: A 2-year, USD 130,000 degree (INR 1.24 Crore) at 8.5% annual interest creates USD 450 monthly loan payments. On a USD 54,309 salary (net USD 42,000; INR 40.03 Lakhs annually), loan repayment consumes 12.8% of net income for 10 years. After year 2 promotion to USD 62,000 (INR 59.11 Lakhs), the same payment drops to 9.6% of income, improving cash flow significantly. Degree ROI becomes positive by month 36 post-graduation.
Read More: Career Options and Salary Prospects After Studying in USA
USA Visa for Master of Science Mental Health Students
Indian students require an F-1 student visa to study at UMass Boston. The F-1 is a non-immigrant classification valid for the duration of studies plus a grace period. The application process begins with an I-20 form issued by UMass Boston. Visa approval typically takes 2 to 4 weeks after biometric interview appointment at the US Embassy in New Delhi or Mumbai.
- Complete the Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application (DS-160) and pay the visa fee (USD 185; INR 17,647) to the US Embassy.
- Schedule a visa interview via the US Embassy CEAC portal; New Delhi and Mumbai slots fill 4–6 weeks ahead.
- Attend the interview with passport, I-20, SEVIS fee receipt, and financial documentation (bank statements, affidavits of support).
- Visa approval is typically granted on-the-spot post-interview; passport collection takes 5–7 working days via VFS India.
The F-1 visa permits employment on-campus up to 20 hours weekly during the academic term. Post-graduation, graduates are eligible for an F-1 OPT (Optional Practical Training) permit. Mental Health Counseling qualifies as a STEM field (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math designation code 400501). STEM OPT grants 24 months of work authorization in the United States, extendable to 36 months for select areas. Without STEM OPT, the standard OPT is 12 months.
Visa reality: F-1 to Green Card (permanent residency) takes 5 to 10 years via EB-3 (skilled worker) or EB-2 sponsorship. LMHC licensure (acquired in year 1 post-graduation) qualifies graduates for H-1B visa sponsorship. Many employers file H-1B petitions for LMHC staff; lottery odds are higher than tech fields. Green Card processing from H-1B typically takes 5 years via EB-3.
Check Out: USA F-1 Student Visa Guide for International Students
Master of Science Mental Health FAQs
Ques. Do I need a psychology bachelor’s degree to apply to the UMass Boston MS Mental Health?
Ans. No. Any bachelor’s degree is accepted provided your GPA is 3.0 or above. Many admitted students hold degrees in education, nursing, sociology, business, or science. The program teaches clinical psychology and counseling theory from scratch. One year of field experience in healthcare or education is preferred but not required.
Ques. What is the difference between UMass Boston’s on-campus fall cohort and the online summer option?
Ans. The fall on-campus cohort meets in person two to three days per week and includes immersive supervision lab, role-play clinics, and peer consultation groups. The summer online cohort is fully asynchronous; all lectures, discussions, and assignments occur via Blackboard. Both lead to identical MS degree and LMHC licensure eligibility. Online suits working professionals; on-campus suits full-time students seeking intensive peer supervision.
Ques. Can I work during the MS Mental Health program if I am on an F-1 visa?
Ans. Yes, up to 20 hours per week on-campus during the academic term (fall and spring). Many students work in the university counseling center, admissions office, or writing lab. Summer may permit off-campus work if the university grants Optional Practical Training (OPT) authorization early. Post-graduation, the 24-month STEM OPT permits full-time work as a Licensed Mental Health Counselor.
Ques. What are the job placement odds for Indian LMHC graduates in the United States?
Ans. 96% of UMass Boston MS Mental Health graduates secure full-time LMHC roles within 6 months. Indian applicants historically match this rate once licensed. Sponsorship for H-1B work visa is available; employers in hospitals, clinics, and rehab centers actively recruit LMHC graduates. Telehealth platforms (e.g., BetterHelp, Talkspace) rapidly hire Indian LMHC graduates without visa sponsorship, offering remote work from any location.
Ques. Is IELTS 6.5 enough to succeed in the MS Mental Health program, or should I aim higher?
Ans. IELTS 6.5 meets admission requirements. However, clinical coursework requires nuanced writing in case notes, treatment plans, and group facilitation. Many successful Indian LMHC graduates hold IELTS 6.5 to 7.0 and report success through active participation, office hours, and writing support services. If IELTS is below 6.5, the university may require pre-term ESL training, adding 4–6 weeks before degree start. Target 6.5 minimum; 7.0 removes any risk.
The Master of Science Mental Health from UMass Boston is engineered for mid-career professionals seeking rigorous clinical training, state licensure, and earning upside. MPCAC accreditation ensures credit reciprocity across states, while the 96% placement rate validates employer demand. Indian students benefit from STEM OPT, regional visa sponsorship patterns, and telehealth work options. The 2-year commitment and USD 130,000 investment (INR 1.24 Crore) return entry-level earnings of USD 54,309 (INR 51.77 Lakhs) within 6 months, with supervisor and private practice roles commanding USD 75,000+ (INR 71.45 Lakhs+) by year 5. Choose this degree if clinical autonomy, license prestige, and earning growth matter more than university ranking alone.
Tuition Fees
| Year | 1st Year Fees |
|---|---|
| Tuition Fees | $35693 |
Other Expenses
| Head | Avg Cost Per Year |
|---|---|
| Housing | $13320 |
| Food | $3240 |
Previous Year Tuition Fees
| Year | 1st Year Fees |
|---|---|
| 2023 | $36485 |
| 2021 | $36484 |
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| Program | Important Date | Total Fees | Median Exams Score | Action |
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