Spalding’s 2 New Grad Programs Gain Regional Accreditation

Spalding University’s two newest graduate degree programs – the Doctor of Social Work and the Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling – have been officially approved by Spalding’s regional accrediting body to enroll students and begin classes this fall.

The Executive Council of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) recently informed Spalding that both new programs have met the requirements to join the scope of Spalding’s accreditation and get started in August.

The decision means that Spalding now officially has launched the first DSW program in Louisville and one of the first in Kentucky, providing advanced training for master’s-level social workers who seek to teach at the university level, lead organizations or participate in advanced practice. Further, its curriculum will focus on social justice while providing opportunities for students of color and from other minority groups.

Meanwhile, the new master’s in clinical mental health counseling will provide a graduate-level option for students who seek to become professional counselors, with a curriculum focused on compassion. Applications are still being accepted for the inaugural fall cohort, with Spalding alumni eligible for a 10 percent discount in tuition.

The master’s program, which is part of Spalding’s College of Education, is launching at a time when the job demand for mental health counselors is projected to grow 22 percent from 2018 to 2028, according to the U.S. Bureau for Labor Statistics. Additionally, the coronavirus pandemic has raised stress and anxiety for people around the country, amplifying the need for competent, compassionate mental health professionals.

“Anytime a program receives approval or accreditation it validates the hard work of the contributors,” Program Director Dr. Teah Moore said. “It tells prospective students we have met certain standards to be here. I’m now looking forward to launching this program and welcoming the new cohort for Fall 2020.”

“Anytime a program receives approval or accreditation it validates the hard work of the contributors,” Program Director Dr. Teah Moore said. “It tells prospective students we have met certain standards to be here. I’m now looking forward to launching this program and welcoming the new cohort for Fall 2020.”

As for the DSW, Spalding School of Social Work Chair Dr. Shannon Cambron said that new program is “ground-breaking” and that earning accreditation from SACSCOC “reflects the relentless commitment to excellence by both the University and the School of Social Work.”

“This program is another example of living out the University’s mission to meet the needs of the times,” Cambron said, “and as we welcome our inaugural cohort of doctoral students/change agents, we do so with a keen awareness of this moment in history and an excitement for the radical justice work these future Doctors of Social Work are destined to do.