Doctoral Degrees | Amberton University

Amberton University offers an online Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) in Counseling consisting of 60 credit hours designed for practitioners, educators, and researchers. According to program details, the degree follows American Counseling Association (ACA) standards but does not independently meet Texas academic requirements for Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) certification.

How is the Ed.D. in Counseling structured?

The curriculum requires 60 doctoral-level credit hours. According to the program specifications, this total includes 18 core courses totaling 54 credit hours and six credit hours for an Applied Doctoral Project (ADP).

Students must pass an Oral Departmental Comprehensive Exam and submit a final project approved by faculty. The university provides the program online to allow students to balance professional and family commitments.

Did You Know? The Amberton University Ed.D. in Counseling curriculum allocates 54 of its 60 total credit hours specifically to 18 core courses.

Why does the degree not automatically grant Texas licensure?

Completing the Ed.D. in Counseling does not satisfy the academic requirements for becoming a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in the State of Texas. According to the university, students pursuing that specific license must complete additional steps.

Required additions include the Professional Orientation to Counseling (CSL6780) course and passing the Counselor Preparation Comprehensive Exam (CPCE). Students must also complete Practicum 1 (CSL6840) and Practicum 2 (CSL6845).

Expert Insight: Samantha Carter notes that the distinction between earning a doctoral degree and meeting state licensure requirements creates a critical professional gap. Students may find that while the degree advances their academic standing, the specific state-mandated practicums and exams are the actual keys to legal practice in Texas.

What happens next for students seeking certification?

Students interested in national certification may seek information through the NBCC | National Board for Certified Counselors. Those focusing on Texas state requirements can find answers via the Texas Behavioral Health Executive Council.

Depending on their career goals, graduates could pursue the additional CSL coursework and practicums to qualify for the LPC. This path is likely to be the primary route for those intending to practice privately or in social services within Texas.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary focus of the Ed.D. in Counseling program?
The program emphasizes a systems-based approach focused on working with diverse populations in private, academic, community, and social services settings.

How many credit hours are required for the degree?
The curriculum comprises 60 doctoral-level credit hours.

What must a student do to be eligible for a practicum?
According to the program, students must complete all coursework required for the degree and pass the required exams.

How do you balance the pursuit of an advanced degree with current professional licensing requirements?