Best Master’s Degree in Counseling Programs in Denver

Denver is a thriving hub for mental health professionals, making it an ideal location to pursue a master's degree in counseling. With Colorado’s growing emphasis on behavioral health services and recent expansions in state mental health funding, demand for well-trained counselors is high. According to the Colorado Department of Labor and Employment, the state anticipates a 23% increase in need for mental health counselors between 2020 and 2030—a rate that far outpaces the national average.
This favorable outlook, combined with Denver’s diverse communities and strong university presence, positions the city as a prime destination for graduate study in counseling. Programs in the region offer a variety of specializations, clinical training opportunities, and flexible learning formats to meet the needs of aspiring professionals. In addition, Denver's growing population and increasing awareness of mental health issues have created a surge in demand for services across all age groups. From elementary school children to aging adults, mental health counselors are becoming a vital part of community care systems.
This guide compares the top master's in counseling programs in Denver, with attention to accreditation, practicum placements, curriculum options, and factors that influence graduate outcomes. It also offers insight into licensure processes and real-world applications for aspiring counselors who seek to serve in Colorado.
2025 Top Accredited Master's in Counseling Programs in Denver
University of Northern Colorado
Greeley, CO - Public 4-Year - unco.edu
Master's - Marriage, Couples, and Family Counseling/Therapy M.A.
Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Northern Colorado's Master's in Marriage, Couples, and Family Counseling/Therapy is a CACREP-accredited program that equips students with the skills to address relationship dynamics and systemic therapy. With a focus on licensure for LMFTs, the program includes 66-75 credit hours of coursework, clinical training, and specialized classes on trauma and intervention. A minimum GPA of 3.0 is required, along with a pre-admission workshop and interpersonal skills assessment. This program is ideal for those seeking to make a significant impact in mental health through counseling.
- CACREP Accredited Program
- 66-75 Total Credit Hours
- Licensure Track for LMFT
- Specialized Relationship Systems Focus
- Minimum 3.0 GPA Requirement
- Comprehensive Clinical Training
- Diverse Coursework Options
- Pre-Admission Workshop Required
- Interpersonal Skills Assessment
- Trauma and Intervention Courses
Master's - School Counseling
Campus Based - Visit Website
Aspiring school counselors can pursue a Master of Arts in School Counseling at the University of Northern Colorado, a CACREP-accredited program. Offering 600 hours of internship and eligibility for Nationally Certified Counselor certification, the program is available in traditional and weekend formats. Small class sizes and experienced faculty ensure personalized attention, preparing graduates for licensure and diverse educational settings. The program requires 63-75 credits and emphasizes hands-on training in various school environments.
- CACREP-accredited program
- 600-hour internship
- Nationally Certified Counselor eligible
- Small class sizes
- Experienced faculty
- Greeley and Denver options
- Hands-on training
- Diverse school settings
- Licensure preparation
- 63-75 credits required
Master's - Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The Clinical Mental Health Counseling Master's program at the University of Northern Colorado offers a flexible, CACREP-accredited curriculum with 60 credit hours. Designed for both professionals and full-time students, it provides clinical training under live supervision and prepares graduates for national counselor certification. With options for weekend and semester formats across multiple campuses, students gain expertise in counseling techniques, diagnosis, and ethical practice, readying them for careers in diverse mental health settings.
- 60 total credit hours
- CACREP accredited program
- Multiple campus delivery options
- Flexible weekend and semester formats
- Clinical training with live supervision
- Prepare for national counselor certification
- Work with diverse populations
- State-of-the-art Psychological Services Clinic
University of Denver
Denver, CO - Private 4-year - du.edu
Master's - Master of Arts in School Counseling
Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of Denver's online Master of Arts in School Counseling is a CACREP-accredited program tailored for future counselors aiming to support P-12 students. It emphasizes social justice, equipping graduates to tackle academic, career, and social/emotional challenges. Notably, the program doesn't require a GRE for admission, offers a fast-track 22-month completion option, and includes extensive practical training through a 100-hour practicum and a 600-hour internship. With rolling admissions and start dates in January, June, and September, it's designed for flexibility. Financial aid options enhance accessibility, preparing students for licensure and impactful careers in school counseling.
- CACREP Accredited
- 22-Month Track Available
- No GRE Required
- Online Program
- 100-hour Practicum
- 600-hour Internship
- Licensure Eligibility
- Rolling Admissions
- Start Dates in Jan, Jun, Sep
- Social Justice Focus
Master's - Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology
Concentration: Clinical Mental Health Counseling - Campus Based - Visit Website
At the University of Denver, the Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology with a concentration in Clinical Mental Health Counseling prepares students for licensure as Professional Counselors. This 24-month, MPCAC-accredited program blends rigorous coursework with practical experience, focusing on evidence-based practices, holistic approaches, and social justice. Unique features include 100% tuition assistance for students, practicum experiences in community settings, and opportunities for research. Graduates are well-equipped for diverse roles in mental health, with pathways to clinical practice or further doctoral studies, making it a comprehensive choice for aspiring mental health professionals.
- 90 Credit Hours Clinical Concentration
- 24-Month Program Length
- Licensure Preparation Track
- Practicum in Community Settings
- 100% Tuition Assistance
- MPCAC Accredited Program
- Diverse Career Opportunities
- Research and Clinical Tracks
Regis University
Denver, CO - Private 4-year - regis.edu
Master's - M.A. in Marriage and Family Therapy
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Regis University's M.A. in Marriage and Family Therapy is a COAMFTE-accredited hybrid program blending online and on-campus learning. This 60-credit program focuses on systemic and relational therapy, preparing students for licensure with a 95% job placement rate. Unique for its small class sizes and hands-on clinical training, the program costs $806 per credit, totaling around $48,360. No entrance exam is required, emphasizing experiential learning at the Thornton Campus. Ideal for those seeking flexible scheduling with weekend formats, it's designed for completion in 2.5-3 years, including practicum and internship opportunities.
- 60-credit Master's degree program
- 95% job placement rate
- COAMFTE accredited program
- $806 per credit hour
- 2.5-3 years to complete
- Small class sizes
- On-campus and weekend formats
- Practicum and internship included
- Thornton Campus location
- Systemic therapy approach
Master's - Master of Arts in Counseling: Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Campus Based - Visit Website
The Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Regis University is a CACREP-accredited, campus-based program requiring 60 credits. It boasts a 100% pass rate on national counseling exams and a 95% job placement rate within a year of graduation. With tuition at $896 per credit, the program offers evening and weekend classes for flexibility, meeting Colorado's LPC academic requirements. A standout feature is its onsite counseling training clinic and emphasis on social justice. No entrance exam is specified, making it accessible for aspiring counselors aiming for diverse mental health settings.
- 60-credit counseling program
- 100% national exam pass rate
- 95% job placement rate
- Meets LPC academic requirements
- 2.5-3 year completion time
- $896 per credit hour
- Evening and weekend classes
- Onsite counseling training clinic
- CACREP accredited program
- Social justice emphasis
University of Colorado Denver/Anschutz Medical Campus
Denver, CO - Public 4-Year - ucdenver.edu
Master's - Master of Arts in Couple and Family Therapy
Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Colorado Denver/Anschutz Medical Campus offers a COAMFTE-accredited Master of Arts in Couple and Family Therapy, focusing on social justice, diversity, and systemic approaches. This 54-credit program, completed in 2.5-3.5 years, provides mentored clinical experiences for comprehensive mental health services. Admission is competitive, requiring an interview and three recommendation letters, with deadlines on Feb 1 for Fall and Sept 1 for Spring. The program is military-friendly and benefits from an on-campus hospital, enhancing practical learning opportunities.
- COAMFTE Accredited Program
- 54-credit Master's Degree
- On-campus program
- 2.5-3.5 years completion time
- Fall/Spring admission cycles
- Application deadline: Feb 1 (Fall)
- Application deadline: Sept 1 (Spring)
- Required interview process
- Three recommendation letters needed
- Social justice focused curriculum
Master's - Master of Arts in Counseling, School Counseling
Campus Based - Visit Website
At the University of Colorado Denver/Anschutz Medical Campus, the CACREP-accredited Master of Arts in Counseling, School Counseling program prepares students to advocate for children and adolescents with a focus on inclusion and diversity. The 63-credit curriculum, designed for completion in 3 to 4 years, includes real-world experience at the Student and Community Counseling Center. Classes are scheduled in late afternoon and evening to accommodate working professionals. Competitive admissions require letters of recommendation, transcripts, a resume, a written statement, and a group interview. The program is military-friendly and supported by an on-campus hospital.
- CACREP-accredited program
- 63 credit hours
- 3 to 4 years completion
- On campus courses
- Late afternoon classes
- Evening classes available
- Real-world counseling experience
- Focus on diversity
- Equity-focused services
- Competitive admissions
Master's - Master of Arts in Counseling
Concentration: Clinical Mental Health - Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Colorado Denver/Anschutz Medical Campus presents a CACREP-accredited Master of Arts in Counseling with a concentration in Clinical Mental Health. This 63-credit program trains students to offer culturally responsive care, preparing them for licensure as Professional Counselors. Through live supervision and practical training, students engage in diverse client settings. The program, completed in 3-4 years, features competitive admissions and a mandatory group interview. It's military-friendly and benefits from the resources of an on-campus hospital, ensuring a comprehensive educational experience.
- CACREP-accredited program
- 63 total credit hours
- On-campus counseling clinic
- Licensed Professional Counselor preparation
- Culturally responsive framework
- Diverse client settings training
- 3-4 year completion time
- Supervised counseling experience
- Competitive admissions process
- Group interview required
Metropolitan State University of Denver
Denver, CO - Public 4-Year - msudenver.edu
Master's - Master of Science in Clinical Behavioral Health
Concentration: Addictions Counseling - Campus Based - Visit Website
Metropolitan State University of Denver offers a Master of Science in Clinical Behavioral Health with a concentration in Addictions Counseling, tailored for those aiming to impact lives through addiction and professional counseling. This program stands out by enabling students to pursue dual licensure as Licensed Addiction Counselors (LAC) and Licensed Professional Counselors (LPC), enhancing their employability in various therapeutic environments. With a total of 61 credits, the curriculum is designed for flexibility, featuring evening and weekend classes, a hybrid learning format, and no GRE requirement, making it accessible for working professionals. The program emphasizes a skills-based approach, integrating practicum and internship experiences to prepare students for real-world challenges. Estimated completion time is 2.5-3 years for full-time students, with part-time options available, and costs approximately $585 per credit, totaling around $35,100-$38,610.
- Dual LAC and LPC licensure
- 61 total credit program
- Evening and weekend classes
- No GRE required
- Skills-based curriculum
- Hybrid learning format
- $585 per credit
- Full-time track 2.5-3 years
- Part-time option available
- Practicum and internship included
Why Earn a Master's in Counseling in Denver?
Denver’s healthcare infrastructure, counseling clinics, nonprofit mental health organizations, and public school systems provide a range of training and employment options. As counseling programs in the region are closely aligned with community needs, students gain direct exposure to real-world challenges and diverse populations. Many programs also collaborate with Denver-based mental health providers to offer clinical placements, mentorships, and specialized training opportunities.
Colorado’s policy environment further supports behavioral health growth. Recent legislative initiatives have increased funding for school-based mental health services, substance abuse prevention programs, and integrated behavioral care models. Denver-based students benefit from access to culturally varied urban and suburban populations, proximity to major medical centers and school districts, and numerous professional networking opportunities through local and statewide organizations such as the Colorado Counseling Association.
In addition to academic advantages, studying in Denver provides a high quality of life. The city offers a vibrant urban environment with access to outdoor recreation, cultural events, and a progressive community that values wellness and education.
Key Considerations When Choosing a Denver Counseling Program
Before selecting a program, it is important to evaluate several critical factors beyond location and cost. Accreditation, clinical training opportunities, and licensure alignment are essential to long-term success. Additional elements such as faculty expertise, alumni outcomes, and student support services can also influence the overall quality and impact of a counseling degree.
Accreditation
The Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP) sets national standards for counseling education. All listed Denver programs meet CACREP criteria, ensuring that graduates are eligible for licensure in Colorado. Accreditation also facilitates reciprocity across state lines for graduates who may eventually relocate.
Licensure Preparation
Colorado LPC candidates must complete a 60-credit graduate program, pass the National Counselor Examination (NCE), and complete 2,000 hours of post-degree supervision. School counselor candidates must meet specific course and internship requirements governed by the Colorado Department of Education. Programs that provide exam preparation resources and licensure support services can help graduates transition more smoothly into professional practice.
Practicum and Internship Experiences
Hands-on clinical experience is vital for skill development. Most programs offer 600–700 hours of supervised training. Students should consider the quality of supervision, variety of placement sites, and faculty support. Some programs offer in-house training clinics, while others provide access to external community-based mental health agencies, schools, and hospitals throughout the Denver area.
Flexible Learning Formats
Evening, weekend, and hybrid course options make Denver programs accessible to working professionals. Applicants should assess whether a program's delivery format matches their schedule and learning preferences. Flexibility can also help students better manage the demands of coursework, employment, and family responsibilities.
Career Outlook for Counseling Graduates in Denver
Counseling graduates in Denver enter a strong job market supported by public and private investment in mental health services. Career paths are available in diverse settings with opportunities for advancement and specialization. The expansion of telehealth, school-based counseling, and integrated behavioral care means that qualified professionals are needed in traditional and emerging roles.
Employment Settings
Graduates often find employment in:
- Community mental health centers
- Public school districts
- Private group or solo practices
- Substance abuse treatment programs
- Hospital-based behavioral health departments
- Correctional facilities and juvenile justice programs
- Veterans' services and trauma recovery centers
Each of these environments offers unique challenges and rewards. Some graduates choose to specialize in working with youth, while others pursue careers in grief counseling, trauma-informed care, or couples therapy. Denver’s diversity of clients and clinical settings makes it possible to explore a wide range of professional paths.
Salary and Job Growth Trends
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics:
- Mental Health Counselors in the Denver metro area earn a median salary of $56,700
- School Counselors earn a median of $63,200
Salaries vary based on setting, credentials, and experience. Those in private practice or specialized areas such as trauma, bilingual counseling, or neurodiverse populations often command higher wages. With increasing demand and a statewide workforce shortage in mental health services, graduates may also benefit from employer-sponsored tuition reimbursement, sign-on bonuses, or loan repayment programs through nonprofit organizations.
Steps to Licensure in Colorado
Step | Requirement |
1 | Earn a CACREP-accredited 60-credit master's degree |
2 | Complete 2,000 hours of supervised post-degree experience |
3 | Pass the National Counselor Examination (NCE) |
4 | Apply for licensure through the Colorado DORA |
In addition to meeting these requirements, some professionals pursue further certifications such as Licensed Addiction Counselor (LAC) or certification in play therapy, trauma counseling, or EMDR. Continuing education and professional development are essential to long-term growth and ethical practice.
Admissions Process and Tips
Admission to Denver's top counseling programs is competitive, and each institution has specific requirements. Strong applicants demonstrate academic readiness, interpersonal skills, and a clear motivation for entering the field. Admissions committees are looking for candidates who will not only succeed academically but also contribute to the learning community and uphold ethical standards in professional practice.
Typical Application Requirements
- Bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited institution
- GPA of 3.0 or higher (program-dependent)
- Letters of recommendation
- Statement of purpose detailing counseling goals
- In-person or virtual interview with faculty
- Resume or CV outlining relevant experience
Application deadlines often fall between January and March for fall enrollment. Prospective students should verify exact dates and begin the process early to secure placement in desired cohorts. Attending program information sessions or speaking with current students can provide helpful insights when preparing application materials.
Charting a Successful Counseling Career in Denver
Denver’s top counseling programs prepare students for meaningful careers in a region deeply committed to mental health services. From trauma-informed care to school counseling and private practice, these programs equip graduates with the knowledge and experience to serve a wide range of communities. Employers in the region consistently seek counselors who are culturally competent, adaptable, and committed to ethical service.
With strong local demand, accessible training opportunities, and a diverse population, Denver offers a supportive environment for building a counseling career. Students who carefully select an accredited program and engage fully in clinical experiences are well-positioned to thrive in this evolving field. Long-term success often includes participation in professional associations, ongoing training, and supervision beyond licensure. Building a strong foundation through graduate education can open doors to leadership, teaching, or advocacy roles in the broader mental health landscape.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics – Mental Health Counselors
- Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP)
- Colorado Department of Labor and Employment
- Colorado Department of Regulatory Agencies – LPC Requirements
- Colorado Counseling Association

