2025 Best Master's in Counseling Programs in Colorado

Looking for the best master's in counseling programs in Colorado? counselingpsychology.org has ranked the top options to help you decide. These programs prepare students for careers in mental health with quality education and training. Online programs are key, offering flexibility for those balancing work or family. Distance learning options make it easier to pursue your degree from anywhere. Find out how we rank these programs and what makes them stand out. https://counselingpsychology.org/rankings-methodology/

#1

University of Northern Colorado

Greeley, CO - Public 4-Year - unco.edu

Master's - Clinical Mental Health Counseling

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

The University of Northern Colorado offers a hybrid Master's in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, blending online coursework with in-person training to accommodate working professionals and full-time students alike. This CACREP-accredited program spans 60 credit hours, emphasizing practical skills in diagnosis, treatment planning, and ethical counseling practices. Unique to this program is the access to the state-of-the-art Psychological Services Clinic for hands-on clinical training under faculty supervision. With flexible scheduling options across multiple campuses, students can tailor their education to fit their lives. Graduates are equipped for diverse roles in mental health settings, ready to pursue national counselor certification. No entrance exam is required for admission.

  • 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
#2

Colorado Christian University

Lakewood, CO - Private 4-year - ccu.edu

Master's - Master of Arts in School Counseling

Online Learning - Visit Website

Colorado Christian University offers a Master of Arts in School Counseling online, tailored for individuals aiming to support students' academic and personal growth. This 60-credit program, blending biblical principles with professional counseling skills, prepares graduates for licensure as school counselors. It emphasizes social/emotional development, academic achievement, and career readiness. The flexible schedule allows completion in about 30 months, including three Colorado-based residencies. Admission requires a bachelor's degree with a 2.5 GPA, a background check, and an interview. No entrance exam is mentioned. This program is ideal for those seeking to make a difference in educational settings with a faith-based approach.

  • 60 total credit hours.
  • Online program with residencies.
  • Prepares for licensure.
  • Flexible 30-month completion.
  • Focus on ASCA domains.
  • Biblical truth integration.
  • Admission interview required.
  • 2.5 GPA minimum.
  • Background check needed.
  • Supports holistic development.

Master's - M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling

Concentration: Substance Use Disorders - Online Learning - Visit Website

The M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling with a concentration in Substance Use Disorders at Colorado Christian University is a CACREP-accredited online program. It prepares students to tackle addiction and mental health issues through a Christian lens, covering evidence-based treatments and trauma-informed care. The 69-credit curriculum can be completed in 30 months, featuring a hybrid format with three summer residencies. Graduates are equipped for LPC and LAC licensure, entering a rapidly growing field. The program does not specify an entrance exam requirement, emphasizing flexibility and a strong foundation in addiction counseling within a faith-based framework.

  • 100% online or hybrid format
  • CACREP-accredited program
  • 69 total credit hours
  • Complete in 30 months
  • Three summer residencies required
  • Christian worldview integration
  • Prepare for LPC and LAC licensure
  • Evidence-based addiction treatment
  • Trauma-informed care focus
  • Transfer up to 12 graduate credits
Show 1 More Programs ˅
#3

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 program stands out for its CACREP accreditation and emphasis on social justice, preparing students to meet the diverse needs of P-12 students. Unique features include no GRE requirement, a flexible 22-month completion track, and multiple start dates throughout the year. The program integrates a 100-hour practicum and a 600-hour internship, offering hands-on experience in real-world settings. With rolling admissions and financial aid options, it's designed for accessibility. The curriculum focuses on academic, career, and social/emotional development, supported by live class technology and instructors with industry experience.

  • 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
#4

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 offers a hybrid M.A. in Marriage and Family Therapy, blending online and on-campus learning to prepare students for careers in mental health. This 60-credit program, accredited by COAMFTE, focuses on systemic and relational therapy, with a strong emphasis on experiential learning and clinical training. Students enjoy small class sizes and benefit from a high job placement rate of 95%. The program, which costs $806 per credit hour, can be completed in 2.5 to 3 years and includes practicum and internship opportunities. No entrance exam is required for admission, making it accessible to a wide range of applicants.

  • 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
#5

Adams State University

Alamosa, CO - Public 4-Year - adams.edu

Master's - Master of Arts in Counseling

Concentration: School Counseling - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Adams State University offers a Master of Arts in Counseling with a concentration in School Counseling, designed for those aiming to make a difference in educational environments. This hybrid program combines online learning with two required campus visits in Alamosa, focusing on ethics, diversity, and crisis intervention among other key areas. The 60-credit curriculum includes specialized courses, practicum, and internship experiences, preparing graduates for real-world challenges. Accredited and flexible, it's perfect for working professionals seeking a balance between studies and career. No entrance exam is required, making it accessible to a wide range of applicants.

  • Hybrid program format
  • 60 credit hours
  • School Counseling concentration
  • Two campus visits required
  • Includes practicum and internship
  • Covers ethics and diversity
  • Flexible for working professionals
  • Accredited curriculum
  • Specialized counseling courses
  • Practical skills development

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

Online Learning - Visit Website

The online Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Adams State University prepares students for a variety of mental health careers, offering skills in intervention and diagnosis. This program is a step towards Colorado Licensed Professional Counselor certification, with graduates finding opportunities in clinics, hospitals, and private practice. Through specialized internships, students gain hands-on experience in community counseling. The program is entirely online, providing flexibility for students. No entrance exam is required, emphasizing accessibility and convenience for aspiring mental health professionals.

  • Online Master's Program
  • Prepares for LPC Certification
  • Diverse Career Placement Settings
  • Specialized Internship Opportunities
  • Colorado State Licensure Track
Show 1 More Programs ˅
*Citation: National Center for Education Statistics, IPEDS 2023. Available at: https://nces.ed.gov/ipeds/

How to Find a Counseling Program in Colorado

Locating a Colorado counseling program that is best for you depends on your personal needs. You can choose programs based on affordability needs, scheduling, level of study, specialization options, location, and almost anything else. You'll find no shortage of programs that have different combinations of these variables.

Counseling Degree Pathways in Colorado

You can enroll in a Colorado counseling degree program so long as you have a high school diploma or equivalent. Which degree you ought to enroll in depends on your current qualifications and career aspirations. The degree options are:

  • Associate: An associate degree in counselingprovides entry-level education that can qualify you for low-level work within the counseling field. A high school diploma is required.
  • Bachelor's: A bachelor's degree in counseling is four years of study, covering general education topics and counseling topics. It can prepare you for working under a licensed professional counselor, and also for master's degree graduate work. A high school diploma is required.
  • Master's: A master's degree in counseling is the standard for becoming a licensed counselor in Colorado. Programs take one to two years of full-time study to complete. A bachelor's degree is required.
  • Doctorate: A doctorate degree takes three to six years (or more) years, but affords an extensive opportunity to study at a high academic level. Research-based Ph.D. programs and clinically based Psy.D. programs are both doctorates.
  • Graduate Certificate: A graduate certificate takes only one to two semesters to complete. It's not a degree, but instead, it offers the opportunity to specialize within the field. A bachelor's degree is required.

Base your choice of degree on your current qualifications, and what will help you advance academically or professionally as you want.

Choose a Counseling Specialty

Some counselors focus on a particular type of counseling. If you know what type of counseling you'd like to do, you might consider a counseling degree program that has a specialization track. There are specialization tracks for many different areas, including:

  • Clinical mental health counseling
  • School counseling
  • Career counseling
  • Christian counseling
  • Marriage and family therapy

Accreditation

Accrediting bodies certify schools, guaranteeing that the programs offered meet accepted academic standards. Choose an accredited counseling degree program, and you'll both receive a good education and earn a recognized degree.

The American Psychological Association (APA) and Council for the Accreditation of Counseling and Related Education Programs (CACREP) both accredit counseling degrees in Colorado and the broader U.S.

Online vs. Traditional Counseling Programs in Colorado

Accredited counseling degrees are available through online programs and traditional programs. Online programs usually cost less, and sometimes have more flexible scheduling options. Traditional programs provide for direct in-classroom (and in-hallway) conversations, and they might have more internships available. Select an online or traditional program as suits your situation.

Becoming Licensed as a Counselor in Colorado

To become a licensed counselor in Colorado, you'll have to complete a master's degree that includes a 700-hour internship. You then have to complete 2,000 hours of supervised practice, pass a state licensing exam, pass a national licensing exam, and pay a fee.

All Colorado counseling licenses expire in August of odd-numbered years (i.e. 2023, 2025, etc.). Renewing requires completing 40 hours of professional development and paying the renewal fee.

2025 Affordable Master's in Counseling Program Options

Finding an affordable Master's in Counseling program in Colorado for 2025 is key for students aiming to advance their careers without high costs. The table highlights options with varied tuition ranges, ensuring there are low-cost choices. It lists schools by their programs and what makes each stand out, focusing on economical paths to a degree. This helps future counselors pick a program that fits their budget and goals in cities across Colorado.

School NameHighlightsAnnual Estimated Tuition & Fees
Metropolitan State University of Denver
  • 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
  • $8,500 - $12,800 (Graduate In-State)
  • $10,200 - $15,300 (Graduate Non-Resident)
Adams State University
  • Online Master's Program
  • Prepares for LPC Certification
  • Diverse Career Placement Settings
  • Specialized Internship Opportunities
  • Colorado State Licensure Track
  • Covers ethics and diversity
  • Flexible for working professionals
  • Accredited curriculum
  • $8,300 - $12,500 (Graduate In-State)
  • $10,500 - $15,800 (Graduate Non-Resident)
University of Northern Colorado
  • 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
  • $11,800 - $17,700 (Graduate In-State)
  • $20,300 - $30,500 (Graduate Non-Resident)
*The data used in this analysis come from NCES's IPEDS 2023 survey.

List of Counseling Degree Programs in Colorado

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

Alamosa, CO

Adams State University

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

    Online Learning - Website

    • Online Master's Program
    • Prepares for LPC Certification
    • Diverse Career Placement Settings
    • Specialized Internship Opportunities
    • Colorado State Licensure Track
  • Master's - Master of Arts in Counseling

    Concentration: School Counseling - Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Hybrid program format
    • 60 credit hours
    • School Counseling concentration
    • Two campus visits required
    • Includes practicum and internship
    • Covers ethics and diversity
    • Flexible for working professionals
    • Accredited curriculum
  • Graduate Certificate - School Counseling Certificate

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • CACREP-accredited Master's degree required
    • 18 total credit hours
    • 600-hour school internship
    • Hybrid program format
    • Cohorts begin in May
    • Requires Colorado residency
    • Synchronous weekly internship class
    • Three diverse school settings
  • Doctorate - Doctor of Philosophy in Counselor Education and Supervision

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Hybrid program format
    • 66 semester hours required
    • CACREP accredited master's prerequisite
    • 3.0 GPA admission requirement
    • GRE scores needed
    • On-campus interview mandatory
    • Focus on scholarly inquiry
    • Emphasis on professional leadership

Colorado Springs, CO

University of Colorado Colorado Springs

  • Master's - Clinical Mental Health Counseling

    Campus Based - Website

    • CACREP-accredited program
    • 60-credit curriculum
    • Meets Colorado LPC requirements
    • Includes fieldwork opportunities
    • National Counselor Exam prep
    • Focus on psychotherapy principles
    • Skills in human development
    • Group dynamics training
  • Master's - Counseling, MA - School Counseling

    Campus Based - Website

    • 60-credit program
    • CACREP accredited
    • Prepares for LPC credentials
    • Summer semester start
    • Day or evening cohorts
    • Practical experience included
    • No teaching experience required
  • Graduate Certificate - Substance Use & Recovery Graduate Certificate

    Online Learning - Website

    • 18 credit hours
    • Online, on-campus, hybrid
    • NAADAC approved
    • Licensed Addictions Counselor prep
    • Culturally responsive care
    • Trauma-informed modalities
    • Fall semester admission
    • April 20 application deadline

Denver, CO

Metropolitan State University of Denver

  • Master's - Master of Science in Clinical Behavioral Health

    Concentration: Addictions Counseling - Campus Based - Website

    • 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

Regis University

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

    Campus Based - Website

    • 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
  • Doctorate - Ph.D. in Counselor Education and Supervision

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Hybrid online and in-person format.
    • 60 credit hours required.
    • $995 per credit hour.
    • Master's degree and LPC/LPCC required.
    • Focus on multicultural and ethical practices.
    • Capstone project for real-world impact.
    • Prepares for clinical and academic roles.
    • Faculty interview part of admissions.

University of Colorado Denver/Anschutz Medical Campus

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

    Campus Based - Website

    • 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
  • Master's - Master of Arts in Counseling

    Concentration: Clinical Mental Health - Campus Based - Website

    • 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

University of Denver

  • Master's - Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology

    Concentration: Clinical Mental Health Counseling - Campus Based - Website

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

    Online Learning - Website

    • CACREP Accredited
    • 22-Month Track Available
    • No GRE Required
    • Online Program
    • 100-hour Practicum
    • 600-hour Internship
    • Licensure Eligibility
    • Rolling Admissions
  • Graduate Certificate - School Counseling Certificate

    Campus Based - Website

    • 24 Credit Hours Certificate
    • CACREP-Accredited Program
    • Flexible Start Dates
    • Supervised Internship Included
    • Master's Degree Required
    • Minimum 3.0 GPA Required
    • Evidence-Based Curriculum
    • Social Justice Focus

Fort Collins, CO

Colorado State University-Fort Collins

  • Bachelor's - Psychology Major, Addictions Counseling Concentration

    Concentration: Addictions Counseling - Campus Based - Website

    • Campus-based program
    • Prepares for Colorado certification
    • Includes internship hours
    • Focus on addiction treatment
    • Ethical standards emphasized
    • No advanced degree required
    • Hands-on counseling skills
    • Psychobiology of addictions
  • Master's - Master of Addiction Counseling in Psychology and Social Work

    Campus Based - Website

    • Dual licensure preparation.
    • 83 credit program.
    • Advanced standing option.
    • Campus-based learning.
    • Focus on co-occurring disorders.
    • Evidence-based treatment training.
    • Social justice advocacy.
    • Research methods included.
  • Master's - Master of Addiction Counseling in Psychology

    Campus Based - Website

    • 2-year program duration.
    • Campus-based learning.
    • Includes internship for licensure.
    • Focus on addiction counseling skills.
    • Prepares for Colorado licensure.
    • Bachelor's degree required for admission.
    • Minimum 3.0 GPA needed.
    • Covers motivational interviewing.
  • Master's - Master of Arts in Counseling and Career Development, Plan B, Clinical Mental Health Counseling Specialization

    Campus Based - Website

    • 60-credit program
    • Clinical Mental Health Counseling specialization
    • Campus-based learning
    • Accredited by CACREP
    • Licensure-eligible in Colorado
    • National Certified Counselor eligible
    • Includes clinical practicum
    • 600-hour internship
  • Master's - Master of Arts in Counseling and Career Development

    Concentration: School Counseling - Campus Based - Website

    • CACREP-accredited program
    • Specialization in School Counseling
    • Licensure-eligible upon graduation
    • Includes clinical practicum and internship
    • Focus on K-12 student needs
    • Emphasizes advocacy and leadership
    • On-campus program only
    • Prepares for National Certified Counselor
  • Graduate Certificate - Graduate Certificate in Substance Use Disorder Identification and Treatment

    Campus Based - Website

    • 12 credit program.
    • Campus-based learning.
    • Focus on diverse populations.
    • Covers motivational interviewing.
    • Includes cognitive behavioral therapy.
    • Empirically supported tools.
    • Advanced addiction counseling.
    • Neuropharmacology of addiction.

Greeley, CO

University of Northern Colorado

  • Master's - Clinical Mental Health Counseling

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • 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
  • Master's - School Counseling

    Campus Based - Website

    • 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
  • Doctorate - Counselor Education and Supervision Ph.D.

    Campus Based - Website

    • CACREP-accredited program
    • 83-92 credit hours required
    • Full-time: 3.5-4 years
    • Part-time: 5-6 years
    • Located in Greeley, CO
    • Prepares for academic and clinical roles
    • Contact for admission details

Lakewood, CO

Colorado Christian University

  • Master's - M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling

    Concentration: Substance Use Disorders - Online Learning - Website

    • 100% online or hybrid format
    • CACREP-accredited program
    • 69 total credit hours
    • Complete in 30 months
    • Three summer residencies required
    • Christian worldview integration
    • Prepare for LPC and LAC licensure
    • Evidence-based addiction treatment
  • Master's - Master of Arts in School Counseling

    Online Learning - Website

    • 60 total credit hours.
    • Online program with residencies.
    • Prepares for licensure.
    • Flexible 30-month completion.
    • Focus on ASCA domains.
    • Biblical truth integration.
    • Admission interview required.
    • 2.5 GPA minimum.
  • Graduate Certificate - Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling

    Online Learning - Website

    • CACREP-accredited program
    • 60 total credit hours
    • Online and hybrid formats
    • 700 hours of practicum/internship
    • Optional emphases available
    • Prepares for licensure exams
    • Christian faith integration
    • Designed for busy adults
  • Doctorate - Ph.D. in Counselor Education and Supervision

    Online Learning - Website

    • 60 credit hours
    • Nearly 100% online
    • Two in-person residencies
    • Dissertation integrated into curriculum
    • Accredited by HLC
    • Aligned with CACREP standards
    • Christ-centered education
    • Prepares for leadership roles

Red Rocks Community College

  • Master's - Clinical Mental Health Counseling

    Campus Based - Website

    • Partnership with The Chicago School.
    • Online and campus options.
    • GPA requirement of 2.3.
    • Includes community service.
    • Prepares for licensure in Colorado.
    • Associate to Master's pathway.
    • Practical experience opportunities.
    • Small class sizes.

USAF Academy, CO

United States Air Force Academy

  • Bachelor's - Behavioral Sciences

    Concentration: Psychology, Sociology, Human factors - Campus Based - Website

    • Three unique concentrations available
    • Scientific method foundation
    • Diverse career opportunities
    • Advanced research methods training
    • Cross-cultural competency development
    • Cutting-edge technology integration
    • Preparation for graduate studies
*Reference: National Center for Education Statistics, IPEDS 2023 data system.

Share This:
LinkedIn
Reddit