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.
2026 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
University of Northern Colorado's Marriage, Couples, and Family Counseling/Therapy M.A. is a 66-75 credit CACREP-accredited program preparing students for LMFT licensure. Focusing on systems theory and interpersonal dynamics, it requires a 3.0 GPA for admission, with GRE scores needed if below this threshold. The program includes a mandatory pre-admission workshop, core courses, practicum, and internship components. Starting in fall or summer, it's designed for those seeking hands-on training in relationship counseling within Colorado's educational setting.
- 66-75 credit master's program.
- Prepares for LMFT licensure.
- CACREP accredited program.
- 3.0 GPA admission requirement.
- GRE required if GPA below 3.0.
- Pre-admission workshop required.
- Fall and summer start terms.
- Located in Greeley, Colorado.
- Focus on systems theory.
- Includes practicum and internship.
Master's - School Counseling
Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Northern Colorado's School Counseling M.A. program offers CACREP-accredited training for National Certified Counselor certification. This 63-75 credit program combines theoretical foundations with 600 hours of internship experience across diverse school settings. Available at Greeley Campus with traditional scheduling or Denver Center with weekend classes for working professionals, it features small class sizes and faculty with real-world expertise. No entrance exam is explicitly required, focusing instead on preparing graduates for licensure and effective student support.
- 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
University of Northern Colorado's Clinical Mental Health Counseling Master's program provides CACREP-accredited, 60-credit hybrid training for diverse counseling careers. With flexible delivery across multiple campuses including weekend and semester formats, students develop skills in diagnosis, treatment planning, and ethical practice through hands-on clinical supervision. The program emphasizes work with diverse populations and utilizes the state-of-the-art Psychological Services Clinic. No entrance exam is mentioned as required, preparing graduates for national certification and opportunities in various 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
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 Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy is a 60-credit hybrid program preparing students for licensure as therapists. The 2.5-3 year program features evening and weekend classes with experiential learning and small cohorts. Students complete a practicum and internship at the on-campus Regis Center for Counseling, Family and Play Therapy. This COAMFTE-accredited program requires an on-campus interview as part of admissions but does not require a graduate entrance exam. Graduates are equipped for careers in community mental health, private practice, and educational settings.
- 60 credit hour program.
- 2.5-3 years to complete.
- $896 per credit hour tuition.
- On-campus interview required.
- Two admissions essays needed.
- Two recommendation forms required.
- Official transcripts from accredited college.
- Current resume required.
- Completed online application.
- Small class sizes.
Master's - Master of Arts in Counseling: Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Campus Based - Visit Website
Regis University's Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling is a 60-credit campus-based program designed to meet Colorado Licensed Professional Counselor requirements. The CACREP-accredited program boasts exceptional outcomes including a 100% national counseling exam pass rate and 95% job placement within one year. Students develop advanced counseling skills through hands-on training at the onsite clinic, with flexible evening and weekend formats allowing completion in 2.5-3 years. The program emphasizes social justice and evidence-based techniques, preparing graduates for diverse mental health settings without requiring a graduate entrance exam.
- 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 Denver
Denver, CO - Private 4-year - du.edu
Master's - Master of Arts in School Counseling
Online Learning - Visit Website
University of Denver's online Master of Arts in School Counseling is CACREP-accredited and prepares graduates to serve P-12 students with a social justice focus. This 22-month program requires no GRE and includes a 100-hour practicum plus 600-hour internship for real-world experience. Rolling admissions with start dates in January, June, and September make this program accessible, with financial aid available to support students pursuing licensure eligibility.
- 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 (Clinical Mental Health Counseling)
Campus Based - Visit Website
The Clinical Mental Health Counseling concentration within University of Denver's Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology emphasizes evidence-based practices and holistic approaches over 24 months. This MPCAC-accredited campus program prepares students for licensure as Professional Counselors through comprehensive coursework and community practicum experiences. With 100% tuition assistance available, graduates are equipped for diverse mental health careers, and the program requires no entrance exam.
- 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
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
University of Colorado Denver's Master of Arts in Couple and Family Therapy is a COAMFTE-accredited program that emphasizes systemic, relational approaches to therapy. This 54-credit curriculum requires 2.5-3.5 years of study with mandatory clinical placements and prepares graduates for the National Marital and Family Therapy Exam. The program features evening and weekend classes, a strong social justice focus, and requires three recommendation letters, transcripts, a resume, written statement, and a $50 application fee. Admissions occur in fall and spring with specific deadlines, and while international students are eligible, English proficiency is required. No entrance exam is mentioned as required for this master's level program.
- 54 credits required
- 2.5 to 3.5 years completion
- On campus delivery
- COAMFTE accredited
- Prepares for licensure exam
- Clinical placements required
- Three recommendation letters
- $50 application fee
- Transcripts required
- Resume/CV required
Master's - Master of Arts in Counseling, School Counseling
Campus Based - Visit Website
The Master of Arts in Counseling, School Counseling at University of Colorado Denver is a CACREP-accredited program that prepares students to become advocates for children and adolescents with a strong emphasis on diversity, equity, and inclusion. This 63-credit program typically takes 3-4 years to complete and offers real-world experience through the Student and Community Counseling Center. Courses are scheduled in late afternoon and evening hours to accommodate working professionals. The competitive admissions process requires letters of recommendation, transcripts, a resume, and a written statement. No entrance exam is mentioned as required for this master's level program.
- 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 (Clinical Mental Health)
Campus Based - Visit Website
University of Colorado Denver's Master of Arts in Counseling with a Clinical Mental Health concentration is a CACREP-accredited program designed to prepare students for licensure as Licensed Professional Counselors. This rigorous 63-credit curriculum emphasizes culturally responsive care and provides hands-on training through live supervision and practical experience in diverse clinical settings. The program typically requires 3-4 years to complete and features competitive admissions with a mandatory group interview. Graduates are equipped to address critical mental health needs in various professional environments. No entrance exam is mentioned as required for this master's level program.
- 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 (Addictions Counseling)
Campus Based - Visit Website
Metropolitan State University of Denver's Master of Science in Clinical Behavioral Health with an Addictions Counseling concentration prepares students for dual licensure as Licensed Addiction Counselors (LAC) and Licensed Professional Counselors (LPC) in Colorado. This 61-credit program emphasizes practical skills through practicum and internship experiences, with no GRE required for admission. Designed for working professionals, it offers evening and weekend classes in a hybrid format, taking 2.5-3 years to complete at approximately $585 per credit. The curriculum focuses specifically on addiction treatment methodologies, preparing graduates for diverse clinical settings.
- 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



