Best Counseling Schools in Kentucky
Proving counseling services to communities in Kentucky can be as lucrative as it is rewarding. Kentucky has several colleges and universities that offer counseling degrees. If you’re interested in this field, here are some of the best counseling programs in Kentucky.
2025 Best Master's in Counseling Programs in Kentucky
Looking for the best master's in counseling programs in Kentucky? counselingpsychology.org ranks top schools to help you find the right fit. Our list highlights programs that stand out for quality, affordability, and student support. Online programs are key, offering flexibility for those balancing work or family. Distance learning options make earning your degree easier, no matter where you live. Learn more about how we rank programs at https://counselingpsychology.org/rankings-methodology/.
Campbellsville University
Campbellsville, KY - Private 4-year - campbellsville.edu
Master's - Master of Marriage and Family Therapy
Online Learning - Visit Website
Campbellsville University offers an online Master of Marriage and Family Therapy, a 60-credit program designed for those aiming to become licensed therapists. With courses in trauma response and addiction counseling, the program includes a 300-hour practicum and is priced at $445 per credit hour. No entrance exam is required, and the program is COAMFTE accredited, preparing graduates for a field with a projected 15% job growth by 2032.
- 100% Online Degree
- 60 Total Credit Hours
- 8-Week Course Length
- 3-Year Estimated Completion
- COAMFTE Accredited
- $445 Per Credit Hour
- Next Start Date: 03/17/2025
- 300-Hour Practicum Required
- 19 Total Courses
- GPA Requirement: 3.0
Master's - Master of Arts in Education in School Counseling
Online Learning - Visit Website
The online Master of Arts in Education in School Counseling at Campbellsville University is a 48-credit program focusing on addressing students' academic, social, and emotional needs. It includes 400 fieldwork hours and is affordably priced at $319 per credit hour. No GRE/GMAT is required, and the program integrates Christian values, offering flexible online learning for aspiring school counselors.
- Fully online master's program
- 48 credit hours, 18 months
- No GRE/GMAT required
- 400 total internship hours
- $319 per credit hour
- Christian values integration
- CAEP and SACSCOC accredited
- Rank advancement potential
- Expert practicing counselor faculty
Master's - Master of Social Work
Concentration: Addiction Area of Focus - Online Learning - Visit Website
Campbellsville University's online Master of Social Work with an Addiction Area of Focus prepares students for roles in substance abuse treatment. The program features a trauma-informed curriculum and a 450-hour practicum, with no entrance exam required. It's designed for those seeking to become Licensed Clinical Drug and Alcohol Counselors, offering flexible online study options.
- Online MSW program.
- Addiction Area of Focus.
- Trauma-informed curriculum.
- Prepares for LCDAC licensure.
- Flexible online learning.
- 450-hour practicum included.
- Courses on psychopathology.
- Change theory covered.
- Advanced group treatment skills.
- Christian values foundation.
Master's - Master of Theology
Online Learning - Visit Website
Campbellsville University's online Master of Theology program provides advanced studies in biblical and theological fields, with three emphasis areas available. Priced at $324 per credit hour and requiring 30 credits, the program accepts up to 12 transfer credits and does not require a GRE/GMAT. It's ideal for working adults looking to advance in ministry or related careers.
- Online format
- 30 credit hours
- $324 per credit
- No GRE/GMAT required
- Accepts 12 transfer credits
- Three emphasis areas
- Flexible for working adults
- Expert faculty
- Accredited by SACSCOC
- For all ministry fields
Morehead State University
Morehead, KY - Public 4-Year - moreheadstate.edu
Master's - Counseling, M.A.
Concentration: School Counseling - Online Learning - Visit Website
Morehead State University's online Master of Arts in Counseling with a School Counseling concentration is tailored for future school counselors in Kentucky. This 36-credit hour program not only prepares students for the Kentucky Provisional School Counseling Certificate for grades P-12 but also emphasizes the development of essential clinical skills and knowledge. Admission criteria include a minimum GPA of 2.75, GRE or Miller Analogies Test scores, and TOEFL for international applicants. Ideal for those aiming to impact K-12 educational settings, the program is military-friendly and offers a flexible online format.
- Online program
- 36 credit hours
- School Counseling concentration
- Leads to KY certification
- Minimum GPA 2.75 required
- GRE or MAT scores needed
- TOEFL for international students
- Prepares for K-12 roles
Master's - Counseling, M.A.
Concentration: Rank I in School Counseling - Online Learning - Visit Website
The Rank I in School Counseling concentration at Morehead State University is an online Master of Arts in Counseling program designed for educators seeking advanced certification in school counseling for grades P-12 in Kentucky. Spanning 36 credit hours, the program focuses on equipping students with the necessary skills for effective school counseling. Admission requires a minimum undergraduate GPA of 2.75 or a graduate GPA of 3.0, with testing requirements adaptable for high achievers. This military-friendly program is perfect for professionals looking to enhance their qualifications in a flexible online environment.
- Online Master's Degree
- 36 Credit Hour Program
- Kentucky P-12 Counseling Certification
- Minimum 2.75 Undergraduate GPA
- Flexible Admission Requirements
- Rank I in School Counseling Option
Western Kentucky University
Bowling Green, KY - Public 4-Year - wku.edu
Master's - Marriage, Couple, and Family Counseling
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Western Kentucky University offers a hybrid Master's program in Marriage, Couple, and Family Counseling, designed for those aiming to become licensed counselors. This CACREP-accredited program blends residential and online learning options, providing flexibility for students. It emphasizes hands-on clinical experience, including training at the Talley Family Counseling Center, to prepare graduates for impactful careers in family therapy. The program does not require an entrance exam, making it accessible to a wide range of students. Its military-friendly approach and supportive cohort model further enhance its appeal to diverse learners.
- Master of Arts in Education
- Residential and online options
- CACREP Accredited Program
- Hands-on clinical experience
- Talley Family Counseling Center training
- Licensed professional preparation
Master's - Master of Arts in Education in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Online Learning - Visit Website
The Master of Arts in Education in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Western Kentucky University is a fully online program that prepares students for licensure as Licensed Professional Clinical Counselors (LPCC). Featuring live synchronous Zoom courses and a 60-credit hour curriculum, this program offers flexibility and robust training in mental health counseling. No entrance exam is required, and the program is JUMP eligible, providing a pathway for students to quickly advance their careers. Starting in the fall semester, it's designed for those committed to supporting mental health in various settings, with a focus on developing advanced counseling skills.
- Fully online program delivery
- 60 credit hour curriculum
- Live synchronous zoom courses
- Fall semester start
- JUMP program eligible
- Pathway to LPCC licensure
University of the Cumberlands
Williamsburg, KY - Private 4-year - ucumberlands.edu
Master's - Master of Arts in Education
Concentration: School Counseling - Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of the Cumberlands offers an online Master of Arts in Education with a concentration in School Counseling, tailored for educators aiming to enhance their skills in fostering student well-being and academic achievement. This 30-credit, CACREP-accredited program is designed for licensed educators, providing the flexibility to complete studies in just over a year. It emphasizes leadership development and professional achievement without requiring an entrance exam, making it accessible for busy professionals seeking advancement in school counseling.
- 30 credit hours
- Accredited program
- Online format
- Focus on school counseling
- Flexible scheduling
- For licensed educators
- Year-long completion
- Enhances teaching outcomes
- Supports professional achievement
- Develops leadership skills
Master's - Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Online Learning - Visit Website
Prepare for a fulfilling career in mental health with the University of the Cumberlands' online Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. This 60-credit, CACREP-accredited program equips students with the skills to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health issues across diverse populations. At $449 per credit, it includes practicum and internship experiences, focusing on multicultural counseling and evidence-based practices. No entrance exam is required, offering a path for graduates and professionals to pursue careers in counseling, rehabilitation, and education with a strong professional identity.
- 60 credit hour program
- Online flexible learning
- $449 per credit hour
- CACREP accredited program
- Practicum and internship included
- 3.0 GPA admission requirement
- Career growth in mental health
- Multicultural counseling focus
The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary
Louisville, KY - Private 4-year - sbts.edu
Master's - Master of Arts in Biblical Counseling and Practical Theology
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary offers a Master of Arts in Biblical Counseling and Practical Theology, a hybrid program that combines online flexibility with on-campus learning. This 60-credit hour program is designed for completion in two years, priced at $322 per credit hour. It welcomes applicants with any accredited bachelor's degree, focusing on biblical-theological counseling to prepare graduates for ministry roles in churches, counseling centers, and missions. The program includes practicum courses and offers a pathway to ACBC certification. No entrance exam is required, making it accessible for those called to serve in counseling from a faith-based perspective.
- 60 credit hours.
- Hybrid program option.
- $322 per credit hour.
- 2 years to complete.
- No specific bachelor's field required.
- Biblical-theological counseling focus.
- Prepares for church and missions roles.
- ACBC certification pathway available.
- Includes practicum courses.
- Flexible course delivery options.
How to Find a Counseling Program in Kentucky
As you evaluate the various counseling programs in Kentucky, make sure you ultimately select one that works well for you. The right program will have a degree, specialization, tuition, and schedule that matches your interests and needs.
Counseling Degree Pathways in Kentucky
Which degree you should apply for depends on your current credentials and future goals. You might consider a(n):
- Associate Degree: two-year degree that requires a high school diploma (or equivalent)
- Bachelor's Degree: four-year degree that requires a high school diploma
- Master's Degree: one to two-year degree that requires a bachelor's
- Doctorate Degree: three to six-year degree that requires a bachelor's or master's
- Graduate Certificate: six to twelve-month certificate that requires a bachelor's
A master's or doctorate degree is required to become licensed, and a doctorate can prepare you for the highest levels of work. You might go into clinical leadership with a Psy.D. doctorate or research with a Ph.D. doctorate. Graduate certificates are primarily used for specialization, after either a bachelor's or master's program.
For undergraduate students, an associate degree offers a quick and relatively inexpensive way to enter the field. A bachelor's provides more employment opportunities as you gain experience.
Choose a Counseling Specialty
Counselors may provide general services or specialized services. Specialization is a good choice if you want to work with a particular population, or if you want a way to differentiate yourself.
Should you decide to specialize, a number of Kentucky schools with counseling degrees have specialized tracks. For example, you might be able to complete a degree with a focus on the following:
- Play and expressive arts therapy
- Marriage and family therapy
- School counseling
- College and career counseling
- Addictions counseling
Accreditation
Make sure that you ultimately earn a recognized counseling degree. Only accredited schools are guaranteed to provide degrees that are recognized by employers and other schools.
Most counseling degrees are accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Education Programs (CACREP). You might also consider a program that's accredited by the American Psychological Association (APA).
Online vs. Traditional Counseling Programs in Kentucky
Kentucky schools have both online and traditional (in-class) counseling programs. An online program makes a degree attainable even if you have other obligations, and online programs usually have lower tuition rates. A traditional program provides the classroom experience, which usually results in more interaction with others, and also gives you easy access to library resources.
Whether you should attend an online or traditional counseling program depends on what you need from a program. Select whichever mode better suits your situation.
Becoming a Licensed Counselor in Kentucky
Before you can apply to become a licensed professional counselor in Kentucky, you must first complete a master's degree of at least 60 graduate semester hours. The degree has to include at least 600 hours of practicum (CACREP-accredited programs will). Upon graduating, you'll have to meet additional requirements: 4,000 hours of supervised work, a licensing exam, and a fee.
Once you're fully licensed, the license must be renewed every year. Renewal is due on October 31st and requires you to complete 10 continuing education units annually.
2025 Affordable Master's in Counseling Program Options
Finding an affordable Master's in Counseling in Kentucky for 2025 is key for students. The right program balances cost and quality. Our table lists options with their tuition range and highlights. It helps you compare low-cost and cost-effective choices. Kentucky offers various programs, from urban to rural areas. This guide makes your search easier, focusing on value. Affordable education opens more doors for future counselors.
| School Name | Highlights | Annual Estimated Tuition & Fees |
|---|---|---|
| Murray State University |
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| Eastern Kentucky University |
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| University of the Cumberlands |
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List of Counseling Degree Programs in Kentucky
Are you searching for a counseling degree program in Kentucky? 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.
Bowling Green, KY
Western Kentucky University
- Master's - Master of Arts in Education in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Campus Based - Website
- CACREP Accredited Program
- No GRE/GMAT Required
- 60-credit hour program
- Residential and Online Pathways
- Kentucky Licensure Preparation
- National Certification Eligible
- Specialized Elective Options
- Two Mandatory On-Campus Intensives
- Master's - Master of Arts in Education in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Online Learning - Website
- Fully online program delivery
- 60 credit hour curriculum
- Live synchronous zoom courses
- Fall semester start
- JUMP program eligible
- Pathway to LPCC licensure
- Graduate Certificate - Addictions Education
Online Learning - Website
- 12 credit hour online certificate
- Interdisciplinary addiction training
- Suitable for mental health professionals
- Flexible course scheduling
- Comprehensive addiction counseling skills
Campbellsville, KY
Campbellsville University
- Master's - Master of Arts in Education in School Counseling
Online Learning - Website
- Fully online master's program
- 48 credit hours, 18 months
- No GRE/GMAT required
- 400 total internship hours
- $319 per credit hour
- Christian values integration
- CAEP and SACSCOC accredited
- Rank advancement potential
- Master's - Master of Social Work
Concentration: Addiction Area of Focus - Online Learning - Website
- Online MSW program.
- Addiction Area of Focus.
- Trauma-informed curriculum.
- Prepares for LCDAC licensure.
- Flexible online learning.
- 450-hour practicum included.
- Courses on psychopathology.
- Change theory covered.
- Graduate Certificate - Graduate Certificate in School Counseling
Online Learning - Website
- 12 credit hour certification
- Fully online program
- No teaching certification required
- $310 per credit hour
- Accredited by SACSCOC
- Accepts 9 transfer credits
- Christian values-based education
- Expert doctorate-holding faculty
Columbia, KY
Lindsey Wilson College
- Master's - Master of Education in Counseling
Concentration: Mental Health Counseling - Online Learning - Website
- CACREP Accredited Program
- 60 Semester Hour Curriculum
- Mental Health Counseling Concentration
- Online and Campus Formats
- 9 Hours Clinical Instruction
- Provisional Licensure Eligible
- Diverse Career Opportunities
- 3.00 GPA Requirement
- Graduate Certificate - Certificate in Substance Abuse Counseling
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Hybrid learning format
- 13 credit hours
- Focus on substance abuse
- Prepares for state certification
- Internship opportunities
- Flexible for professionals
- Covers legal and treatment strategies
- Requires bachelor's degree
- Doctorate - Doctor of Philosophy in Counselor Education & Supervision
Online & Campus Based - Website
- CACREP accredited program
- Hybrid learning format
- 69 credit hours required
- 3-4 years completion time
- Focus on five core areas
- Requires master's degree
- GRE scores needed
- Professional references required
Highland Heights, KY
Northern Kentucky University
- Master's - Clinical Mental Health Counseling, M.S.
Campus Based - Website
- CACREP-accredited program
- 60-credit comprehensive curriculum
- 600 internship hours required
- Prep for mental health licensure
- 2.75 undergraduate GPA minimum
- Diverse counseling practice settings
- Multiple admission entry points
- Comprehensive clinical training
- Master's - Master of Arts in School Counseling
Campus Based - Website
- CACREP and NCATE accredited
- 60 semester hours
- Prepares for P-12 settings
- Minimum 2.75 GPA required
- Includes mandatory internship
- Courses on crisis intervention
- Eligible for KY certification
- Strong professional identity focus
Lexington, KY
University of Kentucky
- Master's - Master's of Arts in Counseling
Concentration: Clinical Mental Health Counseling - Online Learning - Website
- CACREP-accredited counseling program
- Clinical Mental Health concentration
- No GRE required for admission
- 2.75 undergraduate GPA minimum
- Online program format
- Personal interview required
- Three recommendation letters needed
- Must maintain 3.0 GPA
- Doctorate - Early Childhood, Special Education, and Counselor Education and Supervision
Concentration: Counselor Education, Research, and Policy - Campus Based - Website
- CACREP accredited until 2030.
- Campus-based program.
- Focus on rehabilitation counseling.
- Requires master's degree.
- GRE scores mandatory.
- Professional experience preferred.
- Advanced doctoral seminars.
- Leadership in research and policy.
Louisville, KY
Spalding University
- Master's - Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Campus Based - Website
- 2-year master's degree program
- 60 total credit hours
- CACREP accredited program
- Small cohort model (20 students)
- Face-to-face course delivery
- On-campus clinic experiences
- Practicum and internship included
- Prepared for National Counselor Exam
University of Louisville
- Master's - M.Ed. in Counseling & Personnel Services
Concentration: School Counseling - Campus Based - Website
- 60-credit professional counseling program
- P-12 School Counseling focus
- CACREP and CAEP accredited
- Rank I certification available
- Minimum 2.75 GPA required
- Professional practice opportunities
Morehead, KY
Morehead State University
- Master's - Counseling, M.A.
Concentration: Rank I in School Counseling - Online Learning - Website
- Online Master's Degree
- 36 Credit Hour Program
- Kentucky P-12 Counseling Certification
- Minimum 2.75 Undergraduate GPA
- Flexible Admission Requirements
- Rank I in School Counseling Option
- Master's - Counseling, M.A.
Concentration: School Counseling - Online Learning - Website
- Online program
- 36 credit hours
- School Counseling concentration
- Leads to KY certification
- Minimum GPA 2.75 required
- GRE or MAT scores needed
- TOEFL for international students
- Prepares for K-12 roles
Murray, KY
Murray State University
- Master's - Master of Arts in School Counseling
Online & Campus Based - Website
- 42 credit hours
- Hybrid program format
- Provisional School Counseling certificate
- $375 per credit hour
- January 15 application deadline
- Practicum and internship included
- Focus on diverse client needs
- Leadership skills development
Richmond, KY
Eastern Kentucky University
- Master's - Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Campus Based - Website
- 60 credit hours total
- CACREP accredited program
- Hybrid instructional model
- Free textbooks for students
- In-state tuition $541/credit
- 100-hour practicum requirement
- 600-hour internship experience
- Can transfer up to 18 credits
- Master's - Master of Arts in Education – School Counseling
Campus Based - Website
- 60 credit hours total program
- In-state tuition $419-$541
- CACREP and CAEP accredited
- Free textbooks for students
- Hybrid predominantly online courses
- Prepare for school counseling certification
- Required practicum and internship
- Personalized faculty mentoring
- Doctorate - Counselor Education and Supervision
Concentration: Clinical Mental Health Counseling - Campus Based - Website
- 63-hour doctoral program.
- Specialization in Clinical Mental Health Counseling.
- Focus on rural counseling and leadership.
- 3 years full-time or 4 years part-time.
- CACREP accredited master’s degree required.
- Preference for work experience and licensure progress.
- Includes practicum and internship.
- Personalized internship experiences.
Williamsburg, KY
University of the Cumberlands
- Master's - Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Online Learning - Website
- 60 credit hour program
- Online flexible learning
- $449 per credit hour
- CACREP accredited program
- Practicum and internship included
- 3.0 GPA admission requirement
- Career growth in mental health
- Multicultural counseling focus
- Master's - Master of Arts in Education
Concentration: School Counseling - Online Learning - Website
- 30 credit hours
- Accredited program
- Online format
- Focus on school counseling
- Flexible scheduling
- For licensed educators
- Year-long completion
- Enhances teaching outcomes
- Doctorate - Ph.D. in Counselor Education and Supervision
Online Learning - Website
- Online program format
- 66 credit hours required
- $449 per credit hour
- CACREP-accredited curriculum
- Focus on research and dissertation
- Advanced clinical skills training
- Leadership and advocacy emphasis
- Prepares for academia and clinical leadership