2026 Best Master's in Counseling Programs in Kentucky

Discovering the best Master's in Counseling Programs in Kentucky has never been more critical, and our experts at counselingpsychology.org have carefully evaluated top educational opportunities across the state. Our comprehensive rankings consider factors like curriculum quality, faculty expertise, student outcomes, and the growing importance of distance learning options for aspiring counseling professionals. Kentucky offers diverse programs that prepare students for meaningful careers in mental health, with several universities providing robust online and traditional pathways to advanced counseling degrees. For students seeking flexibility, virtual and remote learning platforms have expanded access to high-quality graduate education, enabling working professionals and rural students to pursue their academic goals. Our rankings provide an essential guide for those navigating the complex landscape of counseling education in Kentucky. Review our comprehensive ranking methodology.
#1

Campbellsville University

Campbellsville, KY - Private 4-year - campbellsville.edu

Master's - Master of Marriage and Family Therapy

Online Learning - Visit Website

Campbellsville University's fully online Master of Marriage and Family Therapy is a comprehensive 60-credit program designed to equip professionals with advanced therapeutic skills. Focusing on trauma response, crisis intervention, and addiction counseling, students engage in flexible 8-week courses taught by licensed professionals. The program uniquely offers a 300-hour practicum experience, preparing graduates for a promising career with projected 15% job growth. Priced affordably at $445 per credit hour, the COAMFTE-accredited program emphasizes practical, hands-on learning for aspiring licensed therapists seeking comprehensive family and relationship counseling expertise.

  • 100% Online Degree
  • 60 Total Credit Hours
  • 8-Week Course Length
  • 3-Year Estimated Completion
  • COAMFTE Accredited
  • $445 Per Credit Hour
  • Next Start Date: 03/17/2025
  • 300-Hour Practicum Required
  • 19 Total Courses
  • GPA Requirement: 3.0

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

Online Learning - Visit Website

Campbellsville University's online Master of Arts in Education in School Counseling provides a robust 48-credit curriculum tailored for educators seeking to support student development. With no GRE/GMAT requirement, the program emphasizes comprehensive counseling strategies for K-12 environments. Students complete three supervised internships totaling 400 fieldwork hours, gaining practical experience in addressing academic, social, emotional, and career needs. Integrating Christian principles and professional ethics, the program offers affordable tuition at $319 per credit hour and prepares graduates to make meaningful interventions in students' educational journeys.

  • Fully online master's program
  • 48 credit hours, 18 months
  • No GRE/GMAT required
  • 400 total internship hours
  • $319 per credit hour
  • Christian values integration
  • CAEP and SACSCOC accredited
  • Rank advancement potential
  • Expert practicing counselor faculty

Master's - Master of Social Work

Concentration: Addiction Area of Focus - Online Learning - Visit Website

Campbellsville University's online Master of Social Work with an Addiction Area of Focus offers a specialized pathway for professionals committed to substance abuse treatment. Designed by licensed practitioners, the program provides a trauma-informed curriculum preparing students for Licensed Clinical Drug and Alcohol Counselor certification. Featuring 450 practicum hours, coursework covers advanced practice techniques, psychopathology, and change theory. The flexible online format allows students to develop comprehensive skills addressing critical challenges in addiction counseling, making it ideal for those seeking to make significant contributions in addressing substance abuse and mental health challenges.

  • Online MSW program.
  • Addiction Area of Focus.
  • Trauma-informed curriculum.
  • Prepares for LCDAC licensure.
  • Flexible online learning.
  • 450-hour practicum included.
  • Courses on psychopathology.
  • Change theory covered.
  • Advanced group treatment skills.
  • Christian values foundation.

Master's - Master of Theology

Online Learning - Visit Website

Campbellsville University's online Master of Theology provides a comprehensive theological education with three distinct emphasis areas: biblical studies, pastoral leadership, and theological studies. Tailored for working professionals, the 30-credit program offers remarkable flexibility without GRE/GMAT requirements. Students can transfer up to 12 credits and benefit from affordable tuition at $324 per credit hour. The program equips ministry professionals with advanced biblical knowledge, leadership skills, and theological understanding, preparing graduates for diverse roles in religious leadership, academic research, and community service across various ministry contexts.

  • Online format
  • 30 credit hours
  • $324 per credit
  • No GRE/GMAT required
  • Accepts 12 transfer credits
  • Three emphasis areas
  • Flexible for working adults
  • Expert faculty
  • Accredited by SACSCOC
  • For all ministry fields
Show 3 More Programs ˅
#2

Western Kentucky University

Bowling Green, KY - Public 4-Year - wku.edu

Master's - Marriage, Couple, and Family Counseling

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Western Kentucky University's Marriage, Couple, and Family Counseling Master's program offers a robust hybrid educational pathway for aspiring mental health professionals. Students can leverage residential and online learning modalities to develop comprehensive clinical skills. The CACREP-accredited program emphasizes hands-on training through the Talley Family Counseling Center, preparing graduates for licensed professional counseling roles. With flexible course structures and a supportive cohort model, students gain practical therapeutic expertise essential for addressing complex family dynamics and mental health challenges. Military-friendly and designed for career-driven learners, this program provides a strategic approach to professional counseling development.

  • Master of Arts in Education
  • Residential and online options
  • CACREP Accredited Program
  • Hands-on clinical experience
  • Talley Family Counseling Center training
  • Licensed professional preparation

Master's - Master of Arts in Education in Clinical Mental Health Counseling

Online Learning - Visit Website

Western Kentucky University's online Master of Arts in Education in Clinical Mental Health Counseling provides a comprehensive 60-credit hour program tailored for mental health professionals. Through live synchronous and fully online courses, students can pursue licensure as a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC). The curriculum combines advanced theoretical knowledge with practical therapeutic skills, enabling graduates to address diverse mental health needs. With fall semester start options, JUMP program eligibility, and a flexible online format, this program accommodates working professionals seeking to advance their counseling careers while maintaining personal and professional commitments.

  • Fully online program delivery
  • 60 credit hour curriculum
  • Live synchronous zoom courses
  • Fall semester start
  • JUMP program eligible
  • Pathway to LPCC licensure
Show 1 More Programs ˅
#3

Morehead State University

Morehead, KY - Public 4-Year - moreheadstate.edu

Master's - Counseling, M.A.

Concentration: School Counseling - Online Learning - Visit Website

Morehead State University's online Master of Arts in Counseling offers a specialized School Counseling concentration that prepares educators for transformative roles in P-12 educational settings. Spanning 36 credit hours, this comprehensive program provides a direct pathway to Kentucky's Provisional School Counseling Certificate. Students benefit from flexible online learning, rigorous clinical training, and admission flexibility. The program uniquely accommodates multiple entrance exam options, including GRE and Miller Analogies Test, with a competitive minimum 2.75 GPA requirement. Military-friendly and designed for working professionals, this degree equips graduates with advanced counseling skills tailored specifically to school environments and student developmental needs.

  • Online program
  • 36 credit hours
  • School Counseling concentration
  • Leads to KY certification
  • Minimum GPA 2.75 required
  • GRE or MAT scores needed
  • TOEFL for international students
  • Prepares for K-12 roles

Master's - Counseling, M.A.

Concentration: Rank I in School Counseling - Online Learning - Visit Website

Morehead State University's advanced online Master of Arts in Counseling features a specialized Rank I in School Counseling track, offering educators an exceptional professional development opportunity. This meticulously crafted 36-credit program provides comprehensive training for P-12 counseling professionals seeking advanced certification. Emphasizing flexible admission standards, the program welcomes candidates with strong academic backgrounds and offers multiple entrance pathways. Graduates gain sophisticated clinical skills, professional knowledge, and credentials that enhance career opportunities in Kentucky's educational landscape. The online format accommodates working professionals, ensuring accessibility and convenience while maintaining rigorous academic standards.

  • Online Master's Degree
  • 36 Credit Hour Program
  • Kentucky P-12 Counseling Certification
  • Minimum 2.75 Undergraduate GPA
  • Flexible Admission Requirements
  • Rank I in School Counseling Option
Show 1 More Programs ˅
#4

University of the Cumberlands

Williamsburg, KY - Private 4-year - ucumberlands.edu

Master's - Master of Arts in Education

Concentration: School Counseling - Online Learning - Visit Website

The University of the Cumberlands offers a highly specialized online Master of Arts in Education with a School Counseling concentration, tailored for licensed educators seeking professional advancement. This comprehensive program emphasizes developing critical skills in student support, academic guidance, and psychological well-being. Designed for working professionals, students can complete the 30-credit curriculum in just over a year, providing a flexible pathway to enhance educational leadership. The program stands out for its targeted approach to school counseling, preparing graduates to make meaningful interventions in educational settings. Accredited and strategically structured, it enables educators to broaden their professional impact while maintaining current work responsibilities.

  • 30 credit hours
  • Accredited program
  • Online format
  • Focus on school counseling
  • Flexible scheduling
  • For licensed educators
  • Year-long completion
  • Enhances teaching outcomes
  • Supports professional achievement
  • Develops leadership skills

Master's - Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling

Online Learning - Visit Website

University of the Cumberlands' online Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling provides a rigorous 60-credit professional training program for aspiring mental health professionals. With a competitive $449 per credit hour tuition, the curriculum integrates multicultural counseling perspectives, evidence-based practices, and comprehensive clinical experiences. The program prepares students to assess, diagnose, and treat diverse mental health disorders across various populations. Emphasizing professional identity development and practical skills, graduates are equipped for diverse career paths in counseling, rehabilitation, and educational settings. CACREP accredited and designed for flexibility, this program accommodates both recent graduates and working professionals seeking advanced clinical training.

  • 60 credit hour program
  • Online flexible learning
  • $449 per credit hour
  • CACREP accredited program
  • Practicum and internship included
  • 3.0 GPA admission requirement
  • Career growth in mental health
  • Multicultural counseling focus
Show 1 More Programs ˅
#5

The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary

Louisville, KY - Private 4-year - sbts.edu

Master's - Master of Arts in Biblical Counseling and Practical Theology

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary's Master of Arts in Biblical Counseling and Practical Theology delivers a comprehensive hybrid program that integrates theological training with advanced counseling principles. With a strategic 60-credit curriculum designed for completion in two years, students explore biblical counseling through both online and on-campus learning formats. The program uniquely prepares graduates for ministry roles in churches, counseling centers, and missionary settings, emphasizing a theological approach to counseling. Tuition is competitively priced at $322 per credit hour, with no restrictive bachelor's degree requirements. An attractive feature includes potential ACBC certification pathways and practical practicum experiences, making it ideal for ministry-focused counseling professionals seeking comprehensive theological and counseling training.

  • 60 credit hours.
  • Hybrid program option.
  • $322 per credit hour.
  • 2 years to complete.
  • No specific bachelor's field required.
  • Biblical-theological counseling focus.
  • Prepares for church and missions roles.
  • ACBC certification pathway available.
  • Includes practicum courses.
  • Flexible course delivery options.
*Credit: NCES, Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System, 2023.

How to Find a Counseling Program in Kentucky

As you evaluate the various counseling programs in Kentucky, make sure you ultimately select one that works well for you. The right program will have a degree, specialization, tuition, and schedule that matches your interests and needs.

Counseling Degree Pathways in Kentucky

Which degree you should apply for depends on your current credentials and future goals. You might consider a(n):

  • Associate Degree: two-year degree that requires a high school diploma (or equivalent)

A master's or doctorate degree is required to become licensed, and a doctorate can prepare you for the highest levels of work. You might go into clinical leadership with a Psy.D. doctorate or research with a Ph.D. doctorate. Graduate certificates are primarily used for specialization, after either a bachelor's or master's program.

For undergraduate students, an associate degree offers a quick and relatively inexpensive way to enter the field. A bachelor's provides more employment opportunities as you gain experience.

Choose a Counseling Specialty

Counselors may provide general services or specialized services. Specialization is a good choice if you want to work with a particular population, or if you want a way to differentiate yourself.

Should you decide to specialize, a number of Kentucky schools with counseling degrees have specialized tracks. For example, you might be able to complete a degree with a focus on the following:

  • Play and expressive arts therapy
  • Marriage and family therapy
  • School counseling
  • College and career counseling
  • Addictions counseling

Accreditation

Make sure that you ultimately earn a recognized counseling degree. Only accredited schools are guaranteed to provide degrees that are recognized by employers and other schools.

Most counseling degrees are accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Education Programs (CACREP). You might also consider a program that's accredited by the American Psychological Association (APA).

Online vs. Traditional Counseling Programs in Kentucky

Kentucky schools have both online and traditional (in-class) counseling programs. An online program makes a degree attainable even if you have other obligations, and online programs usually have lower tuition rates. A traditional program provides the classroom experience, which usually results in more interaction with others, and also gives you easy access to library resources.

Whether you should attend an online or traditional counseling program depends on what you need from a program. Select whichever mode better suits your situation.

Becoming a Licensed Counselor in Kentucky

Before you can apply to become a licensed professional counselor in Kentucky, you must first complete a master's degree of at least 60 graduate semester hours. The degree has to include at least 600 hours of practicum (CACREP-accredited programs will). Upon graduating, you'll have to meet additional requirements: 4,000 hours of supervised work, a licensing exam, and a fee.

Once you're fully licensed, the license must be renewed every year. Renewal is due on October 31st and requires you to complete 10 continuing education units annually.

2026 Affordable Master's in Counseling Program Options

Finding an affordable Master's in Counseling program in Kentucky can make a significant difference for aspiring mental health professionals. Across the state, from Louisville to Lexington and beyond, students have opportunities to pursue advanced education without overwhelming financial burden. Exploring low-cost programs allows individuals to invest in their career goals while managing educational expenses. These programs offer pathways for students to gain advanced clinical skills, preparing them for meaningful careers in counseling and mental health services. By carefully comparing tuition ranges and program highlights, students can identify options that balance quality education with financial accessibility, making their professional dreams more attainable.
School NameHighlightsAnnual Estimated Tuition & Fees
University of the Cumberlands
  • 30 credit hours
  • Accredited program
  • Online format
  • Focus on school counseling
  • Flexible scheduling
  • For licensed educators
  • Year-long completion
  • Enhances teaching outcomes
  • $3,600 - $5,500 (Graduate)
Campbellsville University
  • Online format
  • 30 credit hours
  • $324 per credit
  • No GRE/GMAT required
  • Accepts 12 transfer credits
  • Three emphasis areas
  • Flexible for working adults
  • Expert faculty
  • $7,900 - $11,900 (Graduate)
Murray State University
  • 42 credit hours
  • Hybrid program format
  • Provisional School Counseling certificate
  • $375 per credit hour
  • January 15 application deadline
  • Practicum and internship included
  • Focus on diverse client needs
  • Leadership skills development
  • $8,300 - $12,400 (Graduate)
*Citation: IPEDS 2023, National Center for Education Statistics, U.S. DOE.

List of Counseling Degree Programs in Kentucky

Are you searching for a counseling degree program in Kentucky? 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:

Bowling Green, KY

Western Kentucky University

  • Master's - Master of Arts in Education in Clinical Mental Health Counseling

    Campus Based - Website

    • CACREP Accredited Program
    • No GRE/GMAT Required
    • 60-credit hour program
    • Residential and Online Pathways
    • Kentucky Licensure Preparation
    • National Certification Eligible
    • Specialized Elective Options
    • Two Mandatory On-Campus Intensives
  • Master's - Master of Arts in Education in Clinical Mental Health Counseling

    Online Learning - Website

    • Fully online program delivery
    • 60 credit hour curriculum
    • Live synchronous zoom courses
    • Fall semester start
    • JUMP program eligible
    • Pathway to LPCC licensure
  • Graduate Certificate - Addictions Education

    Online Learning - Website

    • 12 credit hour online certificate
    • Interdisciplinary addiction training
    • Suitable for mental health professionals
    • Flexible course scheduling
    • Comprehensive addiction counseling skills

Campbellsville, KY

Campbellsville University

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

    Online Learning - Website

    • Fully online master's program
    • 48 credit hours, 18 months
    • No GRE/GMAT required
    • 400 total internship hours
    • $319 per credit hour
    • Christian values integration
    • CAEP and SACSCOC accredited
    • Rank advancement potential
  • Master's - Master of Social Work

    Concentration: Addiction Area of Focus - Online Learning - Website

    • Online MSW program.
    • Addiction Area of Focus.
    • Trauma-informed curriculum.
    • Prepares for LCDAC licensure.
    • Flexible online learning.
    • 450-hour practicum included.
    • Courses on psychopathology.
    • Change theory covered.
  • Graduate Certificate - Graduate Certificate in School Counseling

    Online Learning - Website

    • 12 credit hour certification
    • Fully online program
    • No teaching certification required
    • $310 per credit hour
    • Accredited by SACSCOC
    • Accepts 9 transfer credits
    • Christian values-based education
    • Expert doctorate-holding faculty

Columbia, KY

Lindsey Wilson College

  • Master's - Master of Education in Counseling

    Concentration: Mental Health Counseling - Online Learning - Website

    • CACREP Accredited Program
    • 60 Semester Hour Curriculum
    • Mental Health Counseling Concentration
    • Online and Campus Formats
    • 9 Hours Clinical Instruction
    • Provisional Licensure Eligible
    • Diverse Career Opportunities
    • 3.00 GPA Requirement
  • Graduate Certificate - Certificate in Substance Abuse Counseling

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Hybrid learning format
    • 13 credit hours
    • Focus on substance abuse
    • Prepares for state certification
    • Internship opportunities
    • Flexible for professionals
    • Covers legal and treatment strategies
    • Requires bachelor's degree
  • Doctorate - Doctor of Philosophy in Counselor Education & Supervision

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • CACREP accredited program
    • Hybrid learning format
    • 69 credit hours required
    • 3-4 years completion time
    • Focus on five core areas
    • Requires master's degree
    • GRE scores needed
    • Professional references required

Highland Heights, KY

Northern Kentucky University

  • Master's - Clinical Mental Health Counseling, M.S.

    Campus Based - Website

    • CACREP-accredited program
    • 60-credit comprehensive curriculum
    • 600 internship hours required
    • Prep for mental health licensure
    • 2.75 undergraduate GPA minimum
    • Diverse counseling practice settings
    • Multiple admission entry points
    • Comprehensive clinical training
  • Master's - Master of Arts in School Counseling

    Campus Based - Website

    • CACREP and NCATE accredited
    • 60 semester hours
    • Prepares for P-12 settings
    • Minimum 2.75 GPA required
    • Includes mandatory internship
    • Courses on crisis intervention
    • Eligible for KY certification
    • Strong professional identity focus

Lexington, KY

University of Kentucky

  • Master's - Master's of Arts in Counseling

    Concentration: Clinical Mental Health Counseling - Online Learning - Website

    • CACREP-accredited counseling program
    • Clinical Mental Health concentration
    • No GRE required for admission
    • 2.75 undergraduate GPA minimum
    • Online program format
    • Personal interview required
    • Three recommendation letters needed
    • Must maintain 3.0 GPA
  • Doctorate - Early Childhood, Special Education, and Counselor Education and Supervision

    Concentration: Counselor Education, Research, and Policy - Campus Based - Website

    • CACREP accredited until 2030.
    • Campus-based program.
    • Focus on rehabilitation counseling.
    • Requires master's degree.
    • GRE scores mandatory.
    • Professional experience preferred.
    • Advanced doctoral seminars.
    • Leadership in research and policy.

Louisville, KY

Spalding University

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

    Campus Based - Website

    • 2-year master's degree program
    • 60 total credit hours
    • CACREP accredited program
    • Small cohort model (20 students)
    • Face-to-face course delivery
    • On-campus clinic experiences
    • Practicum and internship included
    • Prepared for National Counselor Exam

University of Louisville

  • Master's - M.Ed. in Counseling & Personnel Services

    Concentration: School Counseling - Campus Based - Website

    • 60-credit professional counseling program
    • P-12 School Counseling focus
    • CACREP and CAEP accredited
    • Rank I certification available
    • Minimum 2.75 GPA required
    • Professional practice opportunities

Morehead, KY

Morehead State University

  • Master's - Counseling, M.A.

    Concentration: Rank I in School Counseling - Online Learning - Website

    • Online Master's Degree
    • 36 Credit Hour Program
    • Kentucky P-12 Counseling Certification
    • Minimum 2.75 Undergraduate GPA
    • Flexible Admission Requirements
    • Rank I in School Counseling Option
  • Master's - Counseling, M.A.

    Concentration: School Counseling - Online Learning - Website

    • Online program
    • 36 credit hours
    • School Counseling concentration
    • Leads to KY certification
    • Minimum GPA 2.75 required
    • GRE or MAT scores needed
    • TOEFL for international students
    • Prepares for K-12 roles

Murray, KY

Murray State University

  • Master's - Master of Arts in School Counseling

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • 42 credit hours
    • Hybrid program format
    • Provisional School Counseling certificate
    • $375 per credit hour
    • January 15 application deadline
    • Practicum and internship included
    • Focus on diverse client needs
    • Leadership skills development

Richmond, KY

Eastern Kentucky University

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

    Campus Based - Website

    • 60 credit hours total
    • CACREP accredited program
    • Hybrid instructional model
    • Free textbooks for students
    • In-state tuition $541/credit
    • 100-hour practicum requirement
    • 600-hour internship experience
    • Can transfer up to 18 credits
  • Master's - Master of Arts in Education – School Counseling

    Campus Based - Website

    • 60 credit hours total program
    • In-state tuition $419-$541
    • CACREP and CAEP accredited
    • Free textbooks for students
    • Hybrid predominantly online courses
    • Prepare for school counseling certification
    • Required practicum and internship
    • Personalized faculty mentoring
  • Doctorate - Counselor Education and Supervision

    Concentration: Clinical Mental Health Counseling - Campus Based - Website

    • 63-hour doctoral program.
    • Specialization in Clinical Mental Health Counseling.
    • Focus on rural counseling and leadership.
    • 3 years full-time or 4 years part-time.
    • CACREP accredited master’s degree required.
    • Preference for work experience and licensure progress.
    • Includes practicum and internship.
    • Personalized internship experiences.

Williamsburg, KY

University of the Cumberlands

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

    Online Learning - Website

    • 60 credit hour program
    • Online flexible learning
    • $449 per credit hour
    • CACREP accredited program
    • Practicum and internship included
    • 3.0 GPA admission requirement
    • Career growth in mental health
    • Multicultural counseling focus
  • Master's - Master of Arts in Education

    Concentration: School Counseling - Online Learning - Website

    • 30 credit hours
    • Accredited program
    • Online format
    • Focus on school counseling
    • Flexible scheduling
    • For licensed educators
    • Year-long completion
    • Enhances teaching outcomes
  • Doctorate - Ph.D. in Counselor Education and Supervision

    Online Learning - Website

    • Online program format
    • 66 credit hours required
    • $449 per credit hour
    • CACREP-accredited curriculum
    • Focus on research and dissertation
    • Advanced clinical skills training
    • Leadership and advocacy emphasis
    • Prepares for academia and clinical leadership
*Dataset citation: NCES. (2023). IPEDS Data Center. https://nces.ed.gov/ipeds/

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