Online Master’s Degree in Counseling

A master's degree is the most common type of graduate program. There are several options for counseling students – the Master of Arts (MA), and the Master of Science (MS or MSc) including ones that are in an online format. Master's degrees are great qualifications for graduates seeking higher-level counseling jobs requiring more specialized knowledge. However, they are also great springboards toward doctorate degrees for careers in academia.
2025 Best Online Master's in Counseling
Looking for the best online master's in counseling? counselingpsychology.org has you covered. We rank top programs to help you find the right fit. Our list considers quality, affordability, and flexibility. Start your journey to becoming a counselor with a program that meets your needs. Learn how we choose our rankings https://counselingpsychology.org/rankings-methodology/.
The College of New Jersey
Ewing, NJ - Public 4-Year - tcnj.edu
Master's - Master of Arts in School Counseling
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The College of New Jersey's Master of Arts in School Counseling offers an innovative hybrid learning approach that transcends traditional educational boundaries. This CACREP-accredited program combines online coursework with immersive summer sessions in Portugal, creating a globally-oriented educational experience. Designed for both domestic and international students, the program provides comprehensive pathways to New Jersey School Counseling Certification and internationally recognized qualifications. Students benefit from a flexible 60-credit curriculum that emphasizes experiential learning, multicultural competencies, and professional development in school counseling environments.
- CACREP accredited program
- Hybrid learning format
- 60 total credit hours
- Global summer courses Portugal
- NJ School Counseling Certification
- International student friendly
- Online and in-person options
- Standard certification available
- Experienced counseling faculty
- Experiential learning approach
William & Mary
Williamsburg, VA - Public 4-Year - wm.edu
Master's - Master of Education in Counseling
Concentration: School Counseling - Online Learning - Visit Website
William & Mary's Online Master of Education in Counseling offers a specialized School Counseling concentration designed to prepare K-12 educational professionals. Through a comprehensive CACREP-accredited curriculum, students develop advanced skills in academic guidance, career exploration, and emotional support strategies. The program uniquely integrates social justice principles with practical training, featuring two on-campus residencies and extensive field experiences. Designed for working professionals, the flexible online format allows completion in three years, with small class sizes ensuring personalized learning and robust preparation for school counseling licensure.
- CACREP-accredited program.
- Online with two on-campus residencies.
- Focus on social justice and diversity.
- Prepares for K-12 counseling licensure.
- Includes practicum and internship.
- Small class sizes.
- Dynamic learning platform.
- Can complete in three years.
- Covers academic and emotional support.
Master's - M.Ed. in Counseling - Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Concentration: Military & Veterans Counseling - Online Learning - Visit Website
William & Mary's Online Clinical Mental Health Counseling M.Ed. with a Military & Veterans Counseling focus provides specialized training for professionals dedicated to supporting military populations. This comprehensive 60-credit program blends theoretical foundations with practical fieldwork, emphasizing the unique mental health needs of service members and veterans. Through carefully designed practicum and internship experiences, students develop advanced counseling skills tailored to military community challenges. CACREP-accredited and meeting Virginia licensure standards, the program prepares graduates to deliver compassionate, culturally informed mental health support.
- CACREP-accredited program
- Focus on Military & Veterans
- 60 credit hours
- Online program format
- Bachelor's degree required
- Includes practicum and internships
- Prepares for licensure in Virginia
- Small program size
- Dedicated faculty
- Fieldwork opportunities
Johnson University
Knoxville, TN - Private 4-year - johnsonu.edu
Master's - Master of Arts in Counseling
Concentration: School Counseling - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Johnson University's Master of Arts in Counseling with a School Counseling concentration offers a CACREP-accredited, hybrid program. Students gain practical experience through 600+ clinical hours, preparing them for licensure as Professional School Counselors. The 60-credit hour curriculum integrates a Christian worldview and emphasizes ethical practice and cultural responsiveness. The program benefits from a low 12:1 student-faculty ratio.
- CACREP-accredited school counseling program
- Hybrid learning format
- 600+ clinical experience hours
- Christian worldview integration
- Low 12:1 student-faculty ratio
- Licensure preparation
- Comprehensive curriculum
Master's - Master of Arts in Counseling
Concentration: Clinical Mental Health Counseling - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Johnson University's CACREP-accredited Master of Arts in Counseling, Clinical Mental Health Counseling concentration, prepares students for licensure with 1,000 clinical contact hours. This hybrid program offers flexibility, allowing completion in 2.5-5 years. The curriculum integrates a Christian counseling perspective. A low 12:1 faculty-to-student ratio ensures personalized training.
- CACREP Accredited Concentration
- Hybrid Learning Format
- Low 12:1 Faculty Ratio
- 1,000 Clinical Contact Hours
- Professional Licensure Preparation
- Christian Counseling Perspective
- Flexible Program Duration
- Two Weekend Campus Residencies
- Diverse Practicum Options
- Professional Supervisor Credentials
Master's - Master of Arts in Counseling
Concentration: School Counseling - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Johnson University's hybrid Master of Arts in Counseling, School Counseling concentration, blends theoretical training with 600+ clinical hours in K-12 schools. This CACREP-accredited, 60-credit program prepares graduates for Tennessee licensure. Integrating a Christian worldview, the program features a low student-faculty ratio and flexible completion options (2.5-5 years).
- CACREP-accredited program
- Hybrid learning format
- Christian worldview integration
- Low 12:1 student-faculty ratio
- 600+ clinical hours experience
- Tennessee school counselor licensure
- Two weekend campus residencies
- Flexible completion 2.5-5 years
Master's - Master of Arts in Counseling
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Johnson University's Master of Arts in Counseling offers CACREP-accredited concentrations in Clinical Mental Health and School Counseling. This hybrid program, with a 12:1 student-faculty ratio, blends theory and practice. Students complete 600-1,000 clinical hours, preparing for professional licensure. The curriculum integrates a holistic Christian approach and flexible completion timelines (2.5-5 years).
- CACREP-accredited counseling program
- Hybrid learning format
- 12:1 student-faculty ratio
- Two concentration options
- 600-1,000 clinical hours
- Christian holistic approach
- Professional licensure preparation
Westminster College
New Wilmington, PA - Private 4-year - westminster.edu
Master's - School Counselor
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Westminster College's School Counselor Master of Education program provides comprehensive training for aspiring educational counselors through a flexible hybrid learning model. Tailored to meet Pennsylvania and Ohio certification standards, students complete 33-39 semester hours with rigorous internship requirements ranging from 300-600 hours. The curriculum strategically balances theoretical foundations and practical counseling skills, preparing graduates to effectively support student development and navigate complex educational environments. A comprehensive final exam ensures students demonstrate advanced competencies in school counseling techniques and professional standards.
- Hybrid learning format
- 33-39 semester hours
- PA certification option
- OH certification option
- 300-600 hour internships
- Comprehensive exam required
- Focus on counseling theory
- Practical skills development
- Meets PA certification standards
- Adapts to OH licensure changes
Master's - Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Concentration: Adult - Online Learning - Visit Website
Westminster College's Clinical Mental Health Counseling Master's program with an Adult concentration offers advanced professional development for mental health practitioners. Designed for working professionals, the program provides a flexible online format with no standardized test requirements. Students engage in a comprehensive curriculum focused on adult psychological dynamics, intervention strategies, and leadership skills. The 12-month self-paced program enables students to enhance their counseling expertise while maintaining professional commitments, with competitive per-credit tuition and multiple annual start dates supporting diverse career trajectories.
- Online and on-campus options
- No GRE/GMAT required
- 12-month self-paced program
- Requires 3.0 GPA
- 6 annual starting points
- 8-week course sessions
- Regionally accredited program
- Adult concentration available
- Previous bachelor's degree needed
Master's - Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Concentration: Youth - Online Learning - Visit Website
Westminster College's Clinical Mental Health Counseling Master's program featuring a Youth Concentration delivers specialized training for professionals dedicated to adolescent and youth mental health support. This innovative online program enables students to develop advanced counseling techniques specifically tailored to developmental challenges facing young populations. With a self-paced 12-month curriculum, competitive tuition, and no standardized test barriers, the program empowers counselors to effectively guide and support youth through critical psychological and emotional transitions.
- Online and on-campus options
- 12-month self-paced program
- No GRE/GMAT required
- 3.0 GPA minimum
- Competitive per-credit tuition
- Youth counseling concentration
- Multiple start points annually
- 8-week course sessions
Master's - Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Concentration: School - Online Learning - Visit Website
Westminster College's Clinical Mental Health Counseling Master's program with a School concentration provides targeted preparation for counseling professionals seeking leadership roles in educational mental health settings. Blending online and on-campus learning, the program offers unparalleled flexibility for working adults and recent graduates. Featuring competitive tuition, no standardized test requirements, and six annual start points, students can strategically develop advanced counseling skills aligned with school-based mental health needs while maintaining professional flexibility.
- Online and on-campus options
- School concentration available
- Competitive tuition rates
- No GRE or GMAT required
- Six start points annually
- 3.0 GPA admission requirement
- Bachelor's degree required
- Two recommendations needed
- Flexible for working professionals
- Prepares for leadership roles
John Brown University
Siloam Springs, AR - Private 4-year - jbu.edu
Master's - Master of Science in Counseling
Concentration: Marriage and Family Therapy - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
John Brown University's Master of Science in Counseling specializes in Marriage and Family Therapy, offering a transformative 60-credit program that bridges academic excellence with practical clinical skills. Designed for aspiring therapists, the CACREP-accredited curriculum provides comprehensive training through flexible evening and weekend classes across multiple Arkansas locations. Students receive personalized mentorship, gaining advanced therapeutic techniques and a faith-integrated approach to mental health counseling. With an impressive 97% post-graduation employment rate and robust clinical training, graduates are well-prepared for licensure and professional success in diverse counseling settings.
- CACREP accredited program
- Marriage & Family Therapy emphasis
- 60 total credit hours
- Multiple campus locations
- Evening/weekend classes
- Minimum 2.75 undergraduate GPA
- Individual faculty interview required
- 42 core counseling credits
- 15 clinical requirement credits
- 97% post-graduation employment
Master's - Master of Science in Counseling
Concentration: Play Therapy - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
John Brown University's Play Therapy concentration within the Master of Science in Counseling program provides specialized training for professionals seeking advanced skills in child-centered therapeutic approaches. The comprehensive 60-credit curriculum integrates innovative play therapy techniques with foundational counseling principles, preparing students for impactful interventions with children and families. Featuring experienced licensed counselor faculty, a high national exam pass rate, and robust practicum placement support, students develop sophisticated therapeutic strategies that promote emotional healing and developmental understanding.
- CACREP Accredited Program
- 60 total credit hours
- Marriage & Family Therapy emphasis
- Three campus locations
- 87% national exam pass rate
- Licensed counselor faculty
- Undergraduate GPA 2.75+ required
- Practicum placement support
- 97% job placement rate
- Evening/weekend classes
Master's - Master of Science in Counseling
Concentration: Adventure Therapy - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
John Brown University's Adventure Therapy concentration offers a dynamic Master of Science in Counseling program that reimagines therapeutic intervention through experiential learning. This innovative 60-credit curriculum combines traditional counseling methodologies with outdoor and experiential techniques, preparing students to leverage environmental and physical challenges as transformative healing tools. With a comprehensive approach emphasizing professional ethics, personal growth, and clinical expertise, students gain unique skills to engage clients through non-traditional therapeutic modalities across diverse mental health settings.
- CACREP Accredited Program
- Marriage & Family Therapy Emphasis
- 60 Total Credit Hours
- Evening/Weekend Classes
- Multiple Campus Locations
- 100% Clinical Placement Rate
- 87% National Exam Pass Rate
- Minimum 2.75 Undergraduate GPA
- Individual Admissions Interview
- Face-to-Face Training Model
Master's - Master of Science in Counseling
Concentration: Clinical Mental Health Counseling - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
John Brown University's Clinical Mental Health Counseling program offers a robust, comprehensive Master of Science in Counseling designed to equip professionals for dynamic mental health careers. This 60-credit CACREP-accredited program provides flexible online and in-person training, integrating evidence-based techniques with a compassionate, faith-centered approach. Students benefit from experienced clinical faculty, a 100% clinical placement rate, and specialized coursework preparing them for Licensed Professional Counselor certification. With affordable tuition and multiple concentration options, the program addresses growing mental health professional demands through comprehensive, practical training.
- 60 total credit hours
- Online and in-person formats
- CACREP accredited (in-person)
- No GRE required
- Cost $600 per credit
- 100% clinical placement rate
- Multiple concentration options
- Licensure preparation
- Christ-centered approach
- Experienced clinical faculty
Monmouth University
West Long Branch, NJ - Private 4-year - monmouth.edu
Master's - M.S.Ed. in School Counseling
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Monmouth University's hybrid M.S.Ed. in School Counseling is a 60-credit program blending online and evening classes. Accredited by CACREP, it fulfills New Jersey's school counseling certification and LPC licensure requirements. The program emphasizes social justice, diversity, and experiential learning through internships. Small class sizes and experienced faculty provide individualized support. The program prepares graduates to address students' academic and emotional needs in P-12 schools.
- 60-credit curriculum
- Hybrid program format
- CACREP accredited
- Small class sizes
- Experienced faculty
- Dedicated placement coordinator
- Social justice focus
- Diversity emphasis
- Experiential learning opportunities
- Meets NJ certification requirements
- LPC licensure preparation
- Flexible for adult learners
- Evening classes available
- Strong internship support
- Inclusive program environment
Commonwealth University of Pennsylvania
Bloomsburg, PA - Public 4-Year - commonwealthu.edu
Master's - School Counseling (M.S.)
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Commonwealth University's School Counseling Master's program cultivates transformative educational leaders through a dynamic 48-credit curriculum. Designed for professionals seeking comprehensive training, the program delivers 100% online coursework with flexible scheduling options. Students gain advanced counseling techniques, advocacy skills, and Pennsylvania PK-12 School Counseling Certification. The hybrid program welcomes diverse undergraduate backgrounds and emphasizes practical application, enabling graduates to excel in educational and mental health settings. With no GRE requirement and multiple career pathway opportunities, students receive personalized guidance through evening classes and in-person practicum experiences.
- 100% Online Coursework
- 48-credit Comprehensive Program
- Pennsylvania PDE Approved
- No GRE Required
- Multiple Career Pathways
- Evening Class Scheduling
- Flexible Full/Part-Time Options
- In-Person Practicum Experiences
Master's - Master's in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Online Learning - Visit Website
Commonwealth University's Clinical Mental Health Counseling Master's program provides a comprehensive CACREP-accredited pathway for aspiring mental health professionals. This 60-credit online degree enables students to become licensed counselors through flexible learning models. Featuring synchronous and asynchronous instruction, the program eliminates campus visit requirements while delivering robust practical training. Students engage in a 100-hour practicum and 600-hour local internship, benefiting from small 25-student cohorts and expert faculty mentorship. With a remarkable 100% employment rate and 92% national exam pass rate, graduates are well-positioned for diverse counseling careers across multiple professional settings.
- 100% Online CACREP Accredited
- Full/Part-Time Flexible Options
- No Campus Visits Required
- 600-Hour Local Internship
- Small 25-Student Cohorts
- 100% Employment Rate
- National Exam Prep Included
- Multiple Start Dates
- No GRE Required
- 12 Transfer Credits Accepted
Master's - Master's in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Concentration: Counseling Military Veterans and Their Families - Online Learning - Visit Website
Commonwealth University's Clinical Mental Health Counseling Master's program specializes in Counseling Military Veterans and Their Families, offering a targeted 60-credit online curriculum. This CACREP-accredited degree prepares professionals to support veteran populations through comprehensive mental health training. Students gain specialized skills tailored to understanding military culture, trauma, and unique counseling challenges. The flexible program accommodates working professionals with part-time and full-time options, ensuring accessible advanced education. With a 100% graduate employment rate, 600-hour internship experience, and no campus visit requirements, students develop advanced clinical competencies for working across mental health agencies, hospitals, and private practice settings.
- 100% Online CACREP Accredited Program
- 60-credit Master's Degree
- No Campus Visits Required
- Veterans Concentration Available
- 100% Graduate Employment Rate
- Flexible Part-Time/Full-Time Options
- Synchronous and Asynchronous Learning
- 600-Hour Internship Experience
- No GRE Required for Admission
- Max 25 Students per Cohort
Master's - Master's in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Concentration: Counseling Children and Adolescents - Online Learning - Visit Website
Commonwealth University's Clinical Mental Health Counseling Master's program offers a specialized concentration in Counseling Children and Adolescents, providing comprehensive online training for mental health professionals. This 60-credit CACREP-accredited curriculum emphasizes targeted intervention strategies for young populations through innovative courses like Child and Adolescent Counseling and Creative Therapies. Students develop advanced clinical skills, ethical practice foundations, and professional competencies applicable across diverse settings. With a 100% employment rate, 85% national exam pass rate, and a maximum 25-student cohort, the program ensures personalized learning and state licensure preparation through a rigorous 600-hour internship experience.
- 100% Online CACREP Accredited
- 60-credit Comprehensive Program
- No Campus Visits Required
- Flexible Full/Part-Time Options
- 100% Employment Rate
- Counseling Children/Adolescents Concentration
- 85% National Exam Pass Rate
- 600-hour Internship Experience
- State Licensure Preparation
- 25-student Maximum Cohort Size
University of Nebraska at Kearney
Kearney, NE - Public 4-Year - unk.edu
Master's - School Counseling - Elementary (PK-8)
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Nebraska at Kearney offers a hybrid Master of Science in Education in School Counseling - Elementary (PK-8), designed for aspiring school counselors. This 43-credit program, accredited by CAEP, emphasizes equity, social justice, and the development of clinical skills for diverse student populations. It uniquely accommodates individuals without a teaching background by requiring only 12 additional online credit hours in teacher education. The program includes practicum and internship opportunities, preparing graduates for Nebraska State Department endorsement. Highlights include a non-teacher pathway, blended course delivery, and a focus on professional identity development.
- 43 total credit hours
- Accredited by CAEP
- Hybrid program format
- Non-teacher pathway available
- Nebraska State Department endorsed
- Online and blended courses
- Minimum 3.0 GPA required
- Professional references needed
- Practicum and internship included
- Diverse counseling skill development
Master's - Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
At the University of Nebraska at Kearney, the Clinical Mental Health Counseling master's program is a 60-credit, CACREP-accredited hybrid program. It prepares students for careers in various settings, including community agencies and private practice, with a projected 23% job market growth. The curriculum focuses on culturally sensitive mental health services, client assessment, and treatment strategies. Flexible scheduling caters to working professionals, and the program offers pathways for dual licensure in mental health and substance abuse counseling. Highlights include blended delivery, evening and online course options, and preparation for multiple counseling licenses.
- 60 credit hours graduate program
- Blended online/campus delivery
- CACREP accredited program
- Prepares for multiple counseling licenses
- Flexible scheduling for working professionals
- Projected 23% job market growth
- Diverse career placement opportunities
- Evening and online course options
Master's - School Counseling - Secondary (7-12)
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Nebraska at Kearney's hybrid Master of Science in Education in School Counseling - Secondary (7-12) equips professionals to address the unique challenges of adolescent students. This 43-credit, CAEP-accredited program combines theoretical knowledge with practical experience, focusing on ethical practice and multicultural counseling. It meets Nebraska State Department of Education endorsement requirements and includes a non-teacher pathway. Highlights include a focus on rural mental health, comprehensive guidance training, and a field-based practitioner model, preparing graduates to provide critical support in secondary school settings.
- Accredited by CAEP
- 43 total credit hours
- Hybrid program delivery
- Non-teacher pathway available
- Comprehensive guidance training
- Focus on rural mental health
- Multicultural counseling emphasis
- Online and blended courses
- Field-based practitioner model
- Professional identity development
University of Louisiana at Monroe
Monroe, LA - Public 4-Year - ulm.edu
Master's - Master of Science in Counseling
Concentration: School Counseling - Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of Louisiana at Monroe's online Master of Science in Counseling with School Counseling concentration provides comprehensive training for aspiring K-12 school counselors. Through a CACREP-accredited curriculum, students develop essential leadership and advocacy skills while exploring multicultural counseling, career development, and ethical practices. The rigorous 60-credit hour program integrates theoretical knowledge with practical experiences, including practicum and internship opportunities. Students benefit from specialized electives in play therapy and addiction counseling, preparing them to effectively support diverse student populations and navigate complex educational environments.
- CACREP-accredited program.
- 60 credit hours required.
- Online program option.
- Prepares for K-12 certification.
- Includes practicum and internship.
- Multicultural counseling focus.
- Career development courses.
- Ethical practices training.
- Leadership and advocacy skills.
- Research-based curriculum.
- Electives in play therapy.
- Addiction counseling options.
- Interdisciplinary collaboration.
- Practical experience emphasized.
- Supports diverse populations.
Master's - Master of Science in Counseling
Concentration: Addictions Counseling - Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of Louisiana at Monroe's Master of Science in Counseling with Addictions Counseling concentration equips students with advanced skills in mental health and substance use disorder treatment. This comprehensive program prepares professionals for LPC licensure through an intensive curriculum covering assessment, diagnosis, and therapeutic interventions. Students gain expertise in individual, group, and family counseling techniques, with coursework emphasizing counseling theories, multicultural perspectives, and specialized addiction strategies. While not yet CACREP-accredited, the program provides robust clinical training and prepares graduates for diverse roles in mental health and addiction treatment settings.
- 60 credit hours
- Online program
- LPC licensure eligible
- Focus on DSM-5 disorders
- Training in diverse counseling methods
- Courses on psychopharmacology
- Multicultural counseling included
- Practicum and internship required
- Not yet CACREP accredited
- Prepares for state addiction counselor license
What Are the Various Master’s in Counseling Degree Specialties?
You may find master’s in counseling specialties, including:
- Master’s in Addiction Counseling
- Master’s in Biblical Counseling
- Master’s in Genetic Counseling
- Master’s in Clinical Counseling
- Master’s in MFT
- Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
- Master’s in Pastoral Counseling
Can I Get a Master's Degree in Counseling Online?
Distance learning options are available for master's degrees in counseling. Much like traditional on-campus programs, students can complete the program in a little over one year – though closer to two years is most common. However, distance/online learning is designed for a more flexible and slower pace. It's possible to complete a master's degree over three or even more years.
There are, of course, some disadvantages to online programs. Mostly, you will lack the social and communal aspects of being a grad student. Direct connections with fellow students and professors can be harder with online programs, and students must be disciplined enough to complete coursework around other distractions.
What Can I Expect in an Online Master's Degree in Counseling Program?
Master's degrees in counseling typically come with a specialty – it is at this level that you will niche down. Examples include Art Therapy, School Counseling, Clinical Mental Health, and Marriage & Family Therapy.
You may have some general courses to study which will be mixed in with your program specialization:
- Introduction to Counseling
- Human Development
- Career Counseling and Lifestyle
- Group Counseling
- Counseling Programs Development
- Social and Cultural Diversity
- Assessment Procedures
- Psychopathology
- Substance Abuse and Addictions
- Research Methods
- Career Counselling
- Ethics and Professionalism
- Advanced Issues in Psychotherapy
- Practicum
- Special Projects
- Internship and other practice experience may be required during the program
- Dissertation/thesis
Each state may have different requirements. To find out specific requirements, click on your state.

- AL Alabama
- AK Alaska
- AZ Arizona
- AR Arkansas
- CA California
- CO Colorado
- CT Connecticut
- DE Delaware
- FL Florida
- GA Georgia
- HI Hawaii
- ID Idaho
- IL Illinois
- IN Indiana
- IA Iowa
- KS Kansas
- KY Kentucky
- LA Louisiana
- ME Maine
- MD Maryland
- MA Massachusetts
- MI Michigan
- MN Minnesota
- MS Mississippi
- MO Missouri
- MT Montana
- NE Nebraska
- NV Nevada
- NH New Hampshire
- NJ New Jersey
- NM New Mexico
- NY New York
- NC North Carolina
- ND North Dakota
- OH Ohio
- OK Oklahoma
- OR Oregon
- PA Pennsylvania
- RI Rhode Island
- SC South Carolina
- SD South Dakota
- TN Tennessee
- TX Texas
- UT Utah
- VT Vermont
- VA Virginia
- WA Washington
- WV West Virginia
- WI Wisconsin
- WY Wyoming
What Are the Master's Degree in Counseling Admission Requirements?
Universities typically ask for the following as minimum entry requirements for applicants:
- A relevant bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited college or university
- A background in counseling, psychology, education, social work, or equivalent
- A statement of purpose
- Recommendation letters – two or three are normal
- Portfolio or work record
- International students will be expected to convert their qualifications through a dedicated and recognized program and fulfill all the above criteria
- English proficiency is required. Non-citizens and those from non-exempt countries must prove English language capability
What Is the Length of a Master's Degree in Counseling?
Most online master's degrees in the U.S. take between one and two years to complete, with 18 months being the most typical. It is rarely possible to complete in one year due to the type of work and the amount of workload.
Adult learners with graduate certificates may sometimes be permitted to use their credits towards a master's degree, therefore reducing the amount of work. However, in most cases, that graduate certificate must have been conferred by the same university where you now intend to complete a master's program.
How Much Does a Master's Degree in Counseling Cost?
There is no standard rate for a master's degree, and in most cases, you pay by the year rather than by credit (as is the case at the undergraduate level). Tuition varies depending on the school's prestige and program demand. Typical tuition is reportedly around $12,000 for public institutions, while private universities can be upwards of $30,000 or more per year.
Most students seek loans to pay the cost of tuition as self-funding can be a hardship straight after a bachelor's. Loans help spread the cost over many years.
Despite common belief, FAFSA money is available for master's students. Due to its lower limit, it may not be ideal. The Federal Stafford Loan and the Federal Grad Plus Loan are alternative funds specifically for grad students.
Students can also check for scholarships – some are available purely on academic performance, while others have set criteria based on demographics (socioeconomic background, demographic identity, etc.).
Popular Counseling Specialties
Counseling careers are available in a range of specializations, whether you are interested in working with groups, individuals, couples, and more. The following are some popular specialties - visit our Counseling Careers page for more.

School Counselor
School Counselors provide academic, career, and personal counseling services to students in elementary, middle, and high schools. They also collaborate with teachers, parents, and administrators to promote student success and support their emotional and social well-being.
Couples Counselor
Couples Counselors help partners through difficult life periods such as infidelity, separation, divorce, and other relationship strains.
Substance Abuse Counselor
Those needing help with addictions to alcohol, drugs, and more can find help and support by working with a Substance Abuse/Addictions Counselor.