2025 Best Master's in Counseling Programs in Arizona

Looking for the best Master's in Counseling programs in Arizona? counselingpsychology.org ranks top schools to help you find the right fit. Our list focuses on quality, affordability, and student support. Online programs are key, offering flexibility for those balancing work or family. Distance learning options make earning your degree easier, no matter where you live. Check out our full rankings and see how we choose the best programs. https://counselingpsychology.org/rankings-methodology/

#1

Prescott College

Prescott, AZ - Private 4-year - prescott.edu

Master's - Master of Science in Counseling

Concentration: Marriage, Couple, and Family Counseling - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Prescott College's Master of Science in Counseling with a concentration in Marriage, Couple, and Family Counseling is a hybrid program that combines online learning with a 3-day campus residency. Accredited by CACREP, this 60-credit program emphasizes social justice and interdisciplinary approaches, preparing graduates for licensure. The cost is $830 per credit, and the program offers unique concentrations including human sexuality and somatic counseling. No entrance exam is required, making it accessible for aspiring counselors focused on transformative family therapy.

  • Online with 3-day campus residency
  • 60 total credit program
  • $830 per credit cost
  • CACREP accredited program
  • Spring 2025 priority deadline: Oct 1, 2024
  • Multiple counseling concentrations
  • Post-graduate certificate options
  • Social justice curriculum focus
  • Prepares for professional licensure
  • Interdisciplinary learning approach

Master's - Master of Science in Counseling

Concentration: Human Sexuality Counseling - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

The Master of Science in Counseling at Prescott College, specializing in Human Sexuality Counseling, is a hybrid program requiring minimal residency. This CACREP-accredited 60-credit program, at $830 per credit, integrates social justice principles into counseling practices. It prepares students for licensure without the need for an entrance exam, offering a flexible pathway to address complex emotional and sexual health issues in diverse populations.

  • CACREP-accredited counseling program
  • Online with 3-day campus residency
  • 60 total credit hours
  • $830 per credit
  • Spring 2025 application deadline: Nov 15
  • Multiple concentration options
  • Marriage/Family Counseling emphasis
  • Flexible learning pathways
  • Social justice curriculum focus
  • Forbes-recognized program

Master's - Master of Science in Counseling

Concentration: Social Justice in Counseling - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Prescott College offers a Master of Science in Counseling with a Social Justice in Counseling concentration, blending online coursework with limited residency. This CACREP-accredited program, costing $830 per credit for 60 credits, focuses on transcultural mental health dynamics and does not require an entrance exam. It's designed for those aiming to become licensed professional counselors with a strong commitment to equity and holistic wellness.

  • CACREP-accredited counseling program
  • Online with 3-day campus residency
  • 60 total credit hours
  • $830 per credit cost
  • Spring 2025 app deadline: Nov 15
  • Multiple counseling concentrations
  • Social justice learning approach
  • Minimal in-person requirements
  • Internship and practicum included
  • Forbes-recognized program

Master's - Master of Education in School Counseling

Online Learning - Visit Website

The Master of Education in School Counseling at Prescott College is an online program focusing on K-12 student support, social justice, and cultural diversity. Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, this 36-credit program prepares graduates for Arizona certification without an entrance exam requirement. It's ideal for professionals seeking flexible learning options to advance their careers in school counseling.

  • Online delivery method.
  • 36 credits required.
  • Focus on social justice.
  • Prepares for K-12 counseling.
  • Accredited by HLC.
  • Arizona certification eligible.
  • Experienced faculty.
  • Cultural diversity emphasis.
  • Career paths outlined.
  • Flexible for professionals.

Master's - Master of Science in Counseling

Concentration: Clinical Mental Health Counseling - Online Learning - Visit Website

Prescott College's online Master of Science in Counseling with a Clinical Mental Health Counseling concentration prepares students for licensure in mental health counseling. This program emphasizes practical skills, ethical practice, and assessment techniques, suitable for working professionals. No entrance exam is required, and financial aid options are available, making it an accessible choice for those pursuing a career in mental health care.

  • Online program format
  • Clinical Mental Health focus
  • Prepares for licensure
  • Flexible for professionals
  • Competitive tuition costs
  • Financial aid available
  • Bachelor's degree required
  • Practical skills emphasis
  • Ethical practice training
  • Assessment techniques covered
Show 4 More Programs ˅
#2

Arizona State University

Tempe, AZ - Public 4-Year - asu.edu

Master's - Master of Counseling

Online Learning - Visit Website

Arizona State University's Master of Counseling program, offered online, is designed for aspiring licensed counselors, emphasizing multicultural competencies. This 60-credit program blends mental health, clinical practice, and cultural sensitivity, preparing graduates for diverse settings like community agencies and private practice. With options for thesis or practitioner tracks, it includes practicum and internship experiences. Admission requires a bachelor's degree, a 3.00 GPA, and a comprehensive application. Notably, the program does not require an entrance exam, making it accessible to a broader range of students.

  • 60 credit hour comprehensive program
  • Multicultural counseling focus
  • Approved by Arizona Board of Behavioral Health
  • Online and in-person options
  • Prepares for professional counselor licensure
  • Practicum and internship included
  • 3.00 minimum GPA requirement
  • Flexible thesis or exam pathway

Master's - Addiction Psychology, MS

Online Learning - Visit Website

The online Master of Science in Addiction Psychology at Arizona State University focuses on preparing students for addiction counselor licensure. This 33-credit program combines research and clinical training, covering counseling, case management, and program oversight. It aligns with national certification requirements and includes a practicum and applied project. Ideal for those with a bachelor's degree, especially in behavioral health, the program caters to working professionals seeking flexibility. Like the Master of Counseling, it does not mandate an entrance exam, facilitating easier access for qualified candidates.

  • Online program format
  • Prepares for licensure
  • 33 credit hours
  • Includes practicum
  • Applied project required
  • Meets national certification
  • Flexible for professionals
  • Strong job growth
  • Bachelor's degree required
  • Behavioral health background preferred
Show 1 More Programs ˅
#3

Ottawa University-Surprise

Surprise, AZ - Private 4-year - ottawa.edu

Master's - Master of Arts in Education - School Counseling

Online Learning - Visit Website

Ottawa University-Surprise offers an online Master of Arts in Education - School Counseling program designed for aspiring school counselors. This program does not require an entrance exam, making it accessible for many students. It focuses on preparing graduates to support K-12 students' academic, personal, and career development through culturally sensitive counseling strategies. The curriculum includes practical applications like early intervention techniques and team consultation methods, aligning with Arizona licensure requirements. With CAEP accreditation and options for both online and residential study, the program boasts a comprehensive counseling curriculum, practicum opportunities, and highlights the growing demand for school counselors, projected at 8% job growth.

  • Online and residential campus options
  • State-approved in Arizona, Kansas
  • CAEP accreditation
  • 8% projected job growth
  • No teaching experience required
  • Median annual wage $57,040
  • Comprehensive counseling curriculum
  • Practicum opportunities
  • Multicultural counseling techniques

Master's - Master of Science in Addiction Counseling

Online Learning - Visit Website

The Master of Science in Addiction Counseling at Ottawa University-Surprise is an accelerated online program that prepares students for careers in addressing substance abuse and dependency disorders. No entrance exam is required for admission, facilitating an easier application process. The program meets licensure requirements in many states and covers essential topics such as psychopharmacology, multicultural counseling, and family systems. With NASAC accreditation, students complete 36 credit hours and 150 practicum contact hours, equipping them with skills in assessment and therapeutic interventions. The addiction counseling field is expected to grow by 23%, offering graduates diverse career opportunities in various settings.

  • Online accelerated master's program
  • Meets state licensure requirements
  • 36 total credit hours
  • NASAC accredited program
  • 150 practicum contact hours
  • Career outlook: 23% growth
  • Multiple career settings available
Show 1 More Programs ˅
#4

Arizona State University Online

Scottsdale, AZ - Public 4-Year - asu.edu

Master's - Master of Counseling

Concentration: Clinical Mental Health Counseling - Online Learning - Visit Website

Arizona State University Digital Immersion offers an online Master of Counseling with a concentration in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, designed to prepare students for licensure as professional counselors. This 60-credit program emphasizes multicultural counseling, trauma response, and clinical techniques, combining rigorous coursework with three semesters of supervised field experiences. Admission is competitive, requiring a minimum 3.00 GPA, and focuses on personal growth and multicultural awareness. The program is military-friendly and does not require an entrance exam, offering weekly virtual group supervision and a comprehensive curriculum for aspiring mental health professionals.

  • 60 total credit hours
  • Online program with field experiences
  • 20 total classes
  • 7.5-15 weeks per class
  • Prepares for professional licensure
  • Multicultural counseling focus
  • Three supervised field experiences
  • Competitive graduate admission
  • Weekly virtual group supervision

Master's - Master of Science in Addiction Psychology

Online Learning - Visit Website

The Master of Science in Addiction Psychology at Arizona State University Digital Immersion is an online program that prepares students for licensure as addiction counselors. As an NAADAC Approved Education Provider, the program integrates the latest addiction research with clinical expertise, offering a curriculum focused on addiction treatment and counseling. This military-friendly program does not require an entrance exam, making it accessible for those aiming to impact the field of addiction psychology through a blend of research and practical skills.

  • Online program format
  • NAADAC Approved Education Provider
  • Prepares for state licensure
  • Combines research and clinical expertise
  • Focus on addiction counseling
Show 1 More Programs ˅
*Source: U.S. DOE, IPEDS 2023 collection, National Center for Education Statistics.

How to Find a Counseling Program in Arizona

Multiple Arizona postsecondary schools grant counseling degrees. There are degree programs at all levels of postsecondary education, in many different specialties, and both in-person and online. Compare the many different options that are available, and choose a counseling program that meets your needs and aspirations. You might consider budget, schedule, interests, and career goals.

Counseling Degree Pathways in Arizona

Counseling degree programs can last from a few months to many years, depending on what level you're qualified for and want. The degree options include:

  • Associate Degree: Normally is a two-year program that can be completed after high school (or a GED).
  • Bachelor's Degree: Normally is a four-year program that can be completed after high school (or GED). Can also be completed in two years after an associate degree.
  • Master's Degree: Normally is a one to two-year program that can be completed after a bachelor's degree.
  • Doctorate Degree: Normally is a three to six-year program that can be completed after a bachelor's or master's degree. Can be a professional (Psy.D.) or a research (Ph.D.) degree.
  • Graduate Certificate: Normally a six-month to one-year program that can be completed after a bachelor's or master's degree. It is often used to specialize in a particular counseling discipline.

You can work your way up through the degree programs as you advance your career. A graduate (master's or doctorate) degree is required to become a licensed counselor, but you can begin working in the field with an associate’s or bachelor's degree.

Choose a Counseling Specialty

As a counselor, you can offer general counseling or focus on a specialty. For example, there are degree programs specializing in:

  • Clinical and mental health counseling
  • Clinical rehabilitation counseling
  • School counseling
  • Christian counseling
  • Family and marital therapy

This is just a small sampling of the many different counseling specialties that you can go into.

Accreditation

Any counseling degree program that you consider should be accredited. The main accrediting bodies for counseling programs are the Council for the Accreditation of Counseling and Related Education Programs (CACREP) and the American Psychological Association (APA). All of the University of Arizona's programs are accredited, as are many other schools' programs.

Online vs. Traditional Counseling Programs in Arizona

The counseling degree programs offered include both online and in-person options. Going to school online is frequently more affordable, more convenient, and has more flexible scheduling options. Going in-person allows you to interface directly with students and faculty, and also grants you greater access to internship and library resources.

Becoming Licensed as a Counselor in Arizona

To become licensed as a counselor in Arizona, you must complete a graduate degree program in counseling or a related field (e.g. psychology, substance abuse, marriage and family studies, etc.). The program must be accredited and at least 60 semester hours long.

You must also complete an internship consisting of 700 total hours, including 240 hours with direct client contact. You then must work in a supervised capacity for at least two years, before passing the licensure exam and paying the associated fee.

Once licensed, you must renew your license every two years. Renewal requires 30 hours of continuing education.

2025 Affordable Master's in Counseling Program Options

Finding an affordable Master's in Counseling in Arizona for 2025 is key for students. The right program balances cost and quality. Our table lists options with tuition ranges and highlights. It helps you compare low-cost and cost-effective choices. Arizona offers diverse settings for counseling careers, from cities like Phoenix to Tucson. Affordable programs make advanced education accessible. This ensures more professionals can enter the field without heavy debt.

School NameHighlightsAnnual Estimated Tuition & Fees
Prescott College
  • Online program format
  • Clinical Mental Health focus
  • Prepares for licensure
  • Flexible for professionals
  • Competitive tuition costs
  • Financial aid available
  • Bachelor's degree required
  • Practical skills emphasis
  • $14,000 - $21,000 (Graduate)
Arizona State University
  • Online program format
  • Prepares for licensure
  • 33 credit hours
  • Includes practicum
  • Applied project required
  • Meets national certification
  • Flexible for professionals
  • Strong job growth
  • $10,700 - $16,100 (Graduate In-State)
  • $21,400 - $32,100 (Graduate Non-Resident)
Northern Arizona University
  • CACREP-accredited since 1998
  • 60-credit hour master's program
  • 95% job placement rate
  • No GRE required (3.0+ GPA)
  • Multiple campus locations
  • Prepares for licensure
  • Evidence-based counseling training
  • Face-to-face experiential learning
  • $10,000 - $15,100 (Graduate In-State)
  • $17,700 - $26,500 (Graduate Non-Resident)
*NCES IPEDS database, 2023 release. Available at: https://nces.ed.gov/ipeds/

List of Counseling Degree Programs in Arizona

Are you searching for a counseling degree program in Arizona? Browse our comprehensive list of schools offering counseling programs, both online and on-campus, and follow the links to learn more about what each program has to offer.

Jump to City:

Flagstaff, AZ

Northern Arizona University

  • Master's - Clinical Mental Health Counseling, Master of Arts

    Campus Based - Website

    • CACREP-accredited since 1998
    • 60-credit hour master's program
    • 95% job placement rate
    • No GRE required (3.0+ GPA)
    • Multiple campus locations
    • Prepares for licensure
    • Evidence-based counseling training
    • Face-to-face experiential learning
  • Master's - Counseling - School Counseling

    Campus Based - Website

    • CACREP-accredited program
    • Prepares for K-12 Guidance Counselor Certification
    • 60-unit curriculum
    • Includes fieldwork and internship
    • 100% completion rate
    • 95% job placement rate
    • Faculty are industry leaders
    • Available in multiple locations
  • Graduate Certificate - Culturally-Centered Addictions Research Training

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • 15-unit graduate certificate
    • Hybrid program delivery
    • Focus on substance use disorders
    • Interprofessional healthcare settings
    • Year-long research experience
    • Culturally-centered practices
    • Web and community-based learning
    • For clinicians and doctoral students

Glendale, AZ

Arizona Christian University

  • Bachelor's - Bachelor of Arts in Behavioral Health

    Campus Based - Website

    • 17:1 faculty-student ratio
    • Biblical integration focus
    • 135-hour internship
    • Counseling or coaching specialization
    • Prepares for graduate studies
    • Diverse career opportunities
    • Hands-on counseling skills
    • American Psychological Association objectives
  • Bachelor's - Bachelor of Arts in Behavioral Health

    Concentration: Counseling, Coaching - Campus Based - Website

    • Biblical liberal arts foundation
    • Two concentration options
    • 135-hour internship included
    • 17:1 faculty-student ratio
    • Comprehensive psychology curriculum
    • Prepares for graduate studies
    • Diverse career path opportunities

Prescott, AZ

Prescott College

  • Master's - Master of Education in School Counseling

    Online Learning - Website

    • Online delivery method.
    • 36 credits required.
    • Focus on social justice.
    • Prepares for K-12 counseling.
    • Accredited by HLC.
    • Arizona certification eligible.
    • Experienced faculty.
    • Cultural diversity emphasis.
  • Master's - Master of Science in Counseling

    Concentration: Clinical Mental Health Counseling - Online Learning - Website

    • Online program format
    • Clinical Mental Health focus
    • Prepares for licensure
    • Flexible for professionals
    • Competitive tuition costs
    • Financial aid available
    • Bachelor's degree required
    • Practical skills emphasis

Scottsdale, AZ

Arizona State University Online

  • Master's - Counseling (School Counseling), MC

    Concentration: School Counseling - Campus Based - Website

    • 60 credit hour master's program
    • PreK-12 School Counselor Certification
    • Multicultural counseling focus
    • Mental health licensure eligible
    • Practicum and internship included
    • 3.00 minimum GPA required
    • Comprehensive professional preparation
  • Master's - Master of Counseling

    Concentration: Clinical Mental Health Counseling - Online Learning - Website

    • 60 total credit hours
    • Online program with field experiences
    • 20 total classes
    • 7.5-15 weeks per class
    • Prepares for professional licensure
    • Multicultural counseling focus
    • Three supervised field experiences
    • Competitive graduate admission
  • Master's - Master of Science in Addiction Psychology

    Online Learning - Website

    • Online program format
    • NAADAC Approved Education Provider
    • Prepares for state licensure
    • Combines research and clinical expertise
    • Focus on addiction counseling

Surprise, AZ

Ottawa University-Surprise

  • Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Addiction Counseling

    Online Learning - Website

    • Online program format
    • Accelerated 8-week terms
    • Focus on cultural competence
    • Covers AOD and co-occurring disorders
    • Practical skills for diverse settings
    • High school diploma required
    • Prepares for hospital and rehab roles
    • Meets growing counselor demand
  • Master's - Master of Arts in Education - School Counseling

    Online Learning - Website

    • Online and residential campus options
    • State-approved in Arizona, Kansas
    • CAEP accreditation
    • 8% projected job growth
    • No teaching experience required
    • Median annual wage $57,040
    • Comprehensive counseling curriculum
    • Practicum opportunities
  • Master's - Master of Science in Addiction Counseling

    Online Learning - Website

    • Online accelerated master's program
    • Meets state licensure requirements
    • 36 total credit hours
    • NASAC accredited program
    • 150 practicum contact hours
    • Career outlook: 23% growth
    • Multiple career settings available

Tempe, AZ

Arizona State University

  • Bachelor's - Counseling and Applied Psychological Science

    Concentration: Substance Abuse and Addictions - Online Learning - Website

    • First of its kind program
    • 135-hour required internship
    • Online bachelor's degree
    • 120 total credit hours
    • 7.5-week class format
    • Leads to LSAT credential
    • Prepares for graduate studies
  • Master's - Addiction Psychology, MS

    Online Learning - Website

    • Online program format
    • Prepares for licensure
    • 33 credit hours
    • Includes practicum
    • Applied project required
    • Meets national certification
    • Flexible for professionals
    • Strong job growth
  • Master's - Counseling (School Counseling), MC

    Campus Based - Website

    • 60 credit hours
    • Campus-based program
    • Focus on multicultural counseling
    • Eligible for Arizona licensure
    • School Counselor Certificate
    • Practical training opportunities
    • Full-time completion in 2 years
    • Diverse educational settings focus
  • Master's - Master of Counseling

    Online Learning - Website

    • 60 credit hour comprehensive program
    • Multicultural counseling focus
    • Approved by Arizona Board of Behavioral Health
    • Online and in-person options
    • Prepares for professional counselor licensure
    • Practicum and internship included
    • 3.00 minimum GPA requirement
    • Flexible thesis or exam pathway
  • Graduate Certificate - Addiction and Substance-Use Related Disorders

    Online Learning - Website

    • Online program format
    • 21 credit hours required
    • Meets Arizona licensure requirements
    • Focus on evidence-based interventions
    • Covers multicultural issues
    • Includes psychopharmacology
    • Admission GPA 3.00 minimum
    • Bachelor's or master's degree required

Tucson, AZ

University of Arizona

  • Master's - Master of Arts in Counseling

    Concentration: Clinical Mental Health Counseling - Campus Based - Website

    • CACREP-accredited program
    • Clinical Mental Health focus
    • In-person campus program
    • Licensure preparation
    • Diverse practice settings
    • Multicultural competence training
    • Ethical counseling practices
    • Social justice emphasis
  • Doctorate - Counselor Education and Supervision, Ph.D.

    Campus Based - Website

    • 76 total program credits
    • Main campus in Tucson, AZ
    • In-person program format
    • Minimum 3.5 graduate GPA
    • CACREP accredited program
    • Master's degree required
    • Leadership and advocacy focus
    • Research-intensive curriculum
  • Doctorate - PhD in Health Behavior Health Promotion

    Campus Based - Website

    • 63 credit hours required
    • Four to five years completion
    • Research-oriented program
    • Focus on community health
    • Master's degree prerequisite
    • Campus-based in Tucson
    • Accredited program
    • Diverse curriculum
*Postsecondary education statistics from IPEDS 2023, NCES.

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