1. What is Residency?
Grace College requires a summer residency experience for all students who are enrolled in classes in the online Clinical Mental Health Counseling (CMHC) program. Residency is a 6 day on-campus experience designed for intensive learning opportunities as well as community development with students and faculty. Students will also receive important orientation, advising, and training information during these residential periods.
2. Are classes offered during Residency?
The Department of Online Graduate Counseling (DOGC) has carefully planned the CMHC schedule of study with student development in mind. Classes offered during residency focus on intensive training in preparation for clinical courses. Students prepare for their next clinical course experience during residency week with an emphasis on counseling skills, practicum, or internship.
3. What costs should I prepare for during Residency?
Students are charged a $400 residency fee on their student accounts that includes all classes, meals, extracurricular activities, and snacks for the week. Students have the option to stay on campus for a reasonable fee that is also charged to their student account. These student account fees could potentially be covered by student financial aid, if applicable. Students should consider the following additional residency costs: 1) transportation to and from Residency (an airport shuttle is typically offered for a nominal fee) and 2) hotel accommodations (if staying on or off campus), The school assists with information on travel, lodging, and what to bring and what to expect at residency.
4. How should I dress during Residency?
The CMHC program is meant to train the student to become professionals in the field of clinical mental health counseling. We expect the CMHC student’s attire to reflect their unique status as graduate students and future professionals. Business-casual is recommended.
5. Should I bring my family or spouse to Residency?
Students must prepare for a rigorous Residency schedule that requires both graduate-level coursework and spiritual/relational development. Some students consider bringing their families with them during Residency, but it is important to note that there is limited free time in the Residency schedule. Residency is an opportunity to build relationships with peers and faculty, and that can be difficult to do with competing family responsibilities. Students must make the best decision for their situation.
6. Should I bring my computer or tablet to Residency?
Yes! Students are required to bring a laptop computer to Residency. Students will be in intensive classes each day and computer use will be necessary.
7. Where do I go if I have more questions about Residency?
The DOGC staff and faculty are committed to helping our CMHC students successfully navigate our exceptional master’s degree program. We desire to make your Residency experience a highlight of your program at Grace College. Please contact us with any question, big or tiny, and it will be our pleasure to help you. Call us toll-free at 888.249.0533.
