2026 Best Master's in Counseling Programs in Colorado

CounselingPsychology.org presents an authoritative guide to the best Master's in Counseling Programs across Colorado, helping aspiring mental health professionals navigate their educational journey. Our comprehensive rankings consider factors like program quality, faculty expertise, student outcomes, and innovative learning approaches. With the growing demand for accessible education, online and remote counseling programs have become increasingly important, offering flexibility for working professionals and students in rural areas. These virtual learning platforms enable students to earn advanced degrees without geographic constraints, making quality counseling education more attainable than ever. Our expert team has carefully evaluated each program to provide accurate, transparent insights into Colorado's top counseling graduate schools. Learn more about our comprehensive ranking methodology.
#1

University of Northern Colorado

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

Master's - Clinical Mental Health Counseling

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

University of Northern Colorado's Clinical Mental Health Counseling Master's program offers a robust hybrid learning experience designed for aspiring mental health professionals. The CACREP-accredited curriculum spans 60 credit hours, providing comprehensive training in counseling techniques, diagnostic strategies, and ethical practice. Students benefit from multiple campus delivery options, including flexible weekend and semester formats. The program emphasizes clinical training with live supervision and prepares graduates for national counselor certification. Unique program highlights include working with diverse populations and access to a state-of-the-art Psychological Services Clinic. As a military-friendly institution, the university supports veterans and active-duty service members pursuing counseling careers.

  • 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's online Master of Arts in School Counseling is a comprehensive 60-credit program designed to transform educators into impactful school counselors. With a unique blend of biblical principles and clinical training, students explore social-emotional development, academic success strategies, and career readiness. The flexible program allows completion in just 30 months, featuring three in-person residencies in Colorado. CACREP-aligned curriculum prepares graduates for professional licensure, emphasizing holistic student support. Admission requires a bachelor's degree with a 2.5 GPA, background check, and personal interview. Ideal for professionals seeking a faith-integrated approach to counseling in educational settings.

  • 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

Colorado Christian University's online Clinical Mental Health Counseling Master's program with a Substance Use Disorders concentration offers specialized training in addiction treatment. This CACREP-accredited, 69-credit curriculum provides comprehensive preparation for addressing complex substance abuse and co-occurring mental health challenges. Students receive evidence-based addiction treatment training, trauma-informed care techniques, and clinical interventions. The program's hybrid format includes three summer residencies, enabling completion in approximately 30 months. Graduates are academically positioned for Professional Counselor and Addiction Counselor licensure, entering a rapidly growing field with projected 23% expansion by 2026.

  • 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

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 Marriage and Family Therapy Master's program offers a comprehensive 60-credit journey into advanced counseling techniques. COAMFTE-accredited and delivered in a hybrid format, the program distinguishes itself through intimate class sizes of 12-18 students and a remarkable 95% job placement rate. Students explore systemic therapy approaches while gaining hands-on clinical training across on-campus and weekend formats. The program costs $806 per credit hour, totaling approximately $48,360, and can be completed in 2.5-3 years. Located at the Thornton Campus, this program is particularly attractive for students seeking a flexible, experiential learning environment with strong professional preparation in marriage and family therapy. Clinical practicum and internship experiences are integrated into the curriculum.

  • 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
#4

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 represents a comprehensive program prioritizing social justice and holistic student development. CACREP-accredited and designed for P-12 educational settings, this innovative degree eliminates GRE requirements while offering flexible start dates in January, June, and September. Students benefit from an extensive experiential learning framework, including a 100-hour practicum and 600-hour internship that prepares graduates for professional licensure. The curriculum strategically addresses academic, career, and socio-emotional counseling needs, leveraging cutting-edge live class technology and instruction from experienced industry professionals. Financial aid options enhance program accessibility, making it an attractive pathway for aspiring school counselors seeking a robust, flexible educational 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
#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's Master of Arts in Counseling focuses intensely on School Counseling, providing a robust hybrid learning experience that balances online coursework with critical in-person campus interactions. Spanning 60 credit hours, the program uniquely prepares professionals for educational environments through comprehensive training in ethics, diversity, crisis intervention, and specialized school counseling techniques. With two mandatory campus visits, students receive immersive practical experiences through practicum and internship components. This flexible program accommodates working professionals while maintaining high academic standards, ensuring graduates are well-equipped to make meaningful impacts in school counseling settings.

  • 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

Adams State University's Clinical Mental Health Counseling Master's program delivers a comprehensive online curriculum designed to cultivate advanced intervention and diagnostic skills for diverse mental health career paths. The program strategically aligns with Colorado's Licensed Professional Counselor certification requirements, positioning graduates for success in clinical environments like hospitals, social service agencies, and private practices. Through specialized internship opportunities, students gain hands-on experience that bridges theoretical knowledge with practical application. The program's flexible online format enables students to balance professional development with existing commitments while preparing for impactful roles in community mental health counseling.

  • Online Master's Program
  • Prepares for LPC Certification
  • Diverse Career Placement Settings
  • Specialized Internship Opportunities
  • Colorado State Licensure Track
Show 1 More Programs ˅
*From: U.S. Department of Education, IPEDS 2023 dataset. 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.

2026 Affordable Master's in Counseling Program Options

Pursuing a Master's in Counseling can be a transformative career path, especially for students seeking affordable educational opportunities across Colorado. With careful research, aspiring counselors can find programs that balance quality education and manageable tuition costs in regions like Denver, Boulder, and Colorado Springs. These economical options help students minimize financial stress while preparing for meaningful careers in mental health support. By exploring various program offerings, students can discover options that align with their professional goals and budget constraints. Understanding the importance of accessible education, these counseling programs aim to provide comprehensive training without overwhelming students with excessive financial burdens.
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)
Regis University
  • 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
  • $13,000 - $19,400 (Graduate)
University of Denver
  • 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
  • $46,700 - $70,000 (Graduate)
*Data reference: NCES IPEDS 2023 Final Release.

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
*Source documentation: IPEDS 2023 Technical Review Panel report, NCES.

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