Best Counseling Schools in Michigan
Michigan has many well-respected colleges and universities, and a number of these offer counseling degree programs. If you’re thinking of going to school for counseling, here are some of the best counseling programs in Michigan.

2026 Best Master's in Counseling Programs in Michigan
Western Michigan University
Kalamazoo, MI - Public 4-Year - wmich.edu
Master's - M.A. in Marriage, Couple, and Family Counseling
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Western Michigan University's Marriage, Couple, and Family Counseling Master's program provides a comprehensive 60-hour curriculum focusing on complex family dynamics through a family systems approach. Designed for psychology graduates with a minimum 3.0 GPA, this hybrid program offers extensive clinical training in Kalamazoo and Grand Rapids. Students gain practical experience preparing for professional counselor or marriage and family therapist licensure. The program uniquely blends academic rigor with hands-on learning, positioning graduates for significant career growth in relationship counseling. With mostly in-person instruction and online course options, students benefit from flexible and collaborative learning environments.
- 60-hour master's program
- Family systems approach
- 3.0 GPA minimum requirement
- On-site clinics Kalamazoo/Grand Rapids
- Licensure pathway options
- Mostly in-person instruction
- Hybrid/online course options
- Collaboration with Family Sciences
Master's - School Counseling
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Western Michigan University's School Counseling Master's program equips students to support youth achievement through a comprehensive hybrid curriculum. Accredited by CACREP, the program meets Michigan's school counselor licensure requirements and offers three distinct certification tracks. Located primarily in Kalamazoo with some online courses, students receive practical training opportunities across multiple campus locations. The program emphasizes strong academic preparation, requiring a competitive undergraduate GPA in psychology or related fields. Financial support through scholarships and assistantships enhances student accessibility, while the curriculum prepares graduates for impactful roles in educational counseling settings.
- Hybrid program format
- Meets Michigan licensure requirements
- Three certification tracks available
- Practical training opportunities
- Accredited by CACREP
- Scholarships and assistantships offered
- Strong undergraduate GPA required
Master's - Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Western Michigan University's Clinical Mental Health Counseling Master's program prepares professionals for diverse counseling environments through a comprehensive curriculum. Covering research methods, counseling techniques, ethics, and multicultural perspectives, the hybrid program offers flexible learning in Kalamazoo and Grand Rapids. Targeting psychology graduates with a 3.0 GPA, students gain essential skills for licensed professional counseling. The program's in-person and online formats provide adaptable educational experiences, positioning graduates for robust job market opportunities in mental health counseling with significant career growth potential.
- Accredited counseling program
- In-person and hybrid formats
- Meets LLPC requirements
- Multiple campus locations
- Strong job market outlook
Central Michigan University
Mount Pleasant, MI - Public 4-Year - cmich.edu
Master's - Master of Arts in Counseling
Concentration: School Counseling - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Central Michigan University's Master of Arts in Counseling with a School Counseling concentration provides comprehensive training for professionals dedicated to supporting K-12 students' academic, emotional, and social development. This CACREP-accredited hybrid program strategically blends online and on-campus learning, accommodating working professionals. Students engage in intensive practicum and internship experiences, focusing on advocacy, equity, and inclusive student support. With 60 credit hours, the program cultivates advanced counseling skills targeting holistic student well-being. The curriculum emphasizes hands-on learning, preparing graduates to effectively navigate complex educational environments and champion student success through compassionate, targeted interventions.
- Hybrid learning format
- CACREP accredited
- 60 credit hours
- Hands-on practicum
- Internship with caseload
- Focus on K-12 counseling
- Advocacy and equity focus
- Flexible for professionals
- Licensed faculty
- Community counseling center
Master's - Master's in Counseling
Concentration: Clinical Mental Health Counseling - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Central Michigan University's Clinical Mental Health Counseling concentration offers a robust master's program designed for aspiring mental health professionals. This CACREP-accredited hybrid program delivers comprehensive training through a flexible 60-credit curriculum combining online and on-campus learning. Students develop advanced counseling techniques through direct client interactions, practicums, and supervised internships. The program's dynamic approach allows working professionals to pursue advanced education while gaining practical skills. Licensed faculty guide students through specialized training, emphasizing evidence-based practices and compassionate therapeutic interventions across diverse mental health settings.
- CACREP Accredited Program
- Hybrid Learning Format
- 60 Credit Hours Required
- Three Concentration Options
- Faculty are Licensed Counselors
Master's - Master's in Counseling
Concentration: Addiction Counseling - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Central Michigan University's Addiction Counseling concentration provides an innovative master's program addressing contemporary substance abuse challenges. This CACREP-accredited hybrid program combines theoretical foundations with practical training, preparing students for complex addiction treatment roles. Through a comprehensive 60-credit curriculum, students gain hands-on experience via practicums and internships in various treatment settings. The flexible format accommodates working professionals, offering online and on-campus learning options. Graduates develop sophisticated intervention strategies, prevention techniques, and comprehensive understanding of addiction dynamics, positioning themselves as critical professionals in substance abuse treatment and rehabilitation.
- CACREP accredited program.
- Hybrid learning format.
- 60 credit hours.
- Concentration in Addiction Counseling.
- Practical hands-on learning.
- Flexible for working professionals.
- On-campus and online options.
- Compulsory practicum and internship.
- Prepares for diverse counseling roles.
- Faculty are licensed counselors.
Spring Arbor University
Spring Arbor, MI - Private 4-year - arbor.edu
Master's - Master of Arts in Counseling
Concentration: School Counseling - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Spring Arbor University's Master of Arts in Counseling with School Counseling concentration equips professionals for K-12 educational environments through a CACREP-accredited program. Designed to prepare students for Michigan school counselor licensure, the hybrid program integrates clinical expertise with a Christian perspective. Students engage in comprehensive coursework and practical internships, developing culturally responsive skills essential for supporting student mental health and academic success. The 61-credit curriculum emphasizes ethical practice, professional competence, and holistic student development across diverse educational settings.
- CACREP-accredited counseling program
- K-12 School Counseling track
- Hybrid/online learning options
- Christian perspective integration
- Michigan licensure preparation
- 61-credit hour core program
- Clinical and practical internships
Master's - Master of Arts in Counseling
Concentration: Clinical Mental Health - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Spring Arbor University's Clinical Mental Health Counseling Master's program provides comprehensive training for aspiring mental health professionals. This CACREP-accredited, hybrid program prepares students for Licensed Professional Counselor licensure through a 61-credit curriculum emphasizing advanced clinical skills. Students explore psychopathology, crisis intervention, and diverse counseling approaches while integrating faith-based principles. The program's flexible online and virtual classroom options prioritize cultural responsiveness, enabling graduates to excel in various clinical practice settings with a holistic, compassionate approach to mental health treatment.
- CACREP-accredited counseling program
- Hybrid/online learning options
- Prepares for LPC licensure
- Christian perspective integration
- Diverse clinical practice settings
- 61-credit comprehensive curriculum
- Focuses on cultural responsiveness
Master's - Master of Arts in Counseling
Concentration: Dual Track - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Spring Arbor University's innovative Master of Arts in Counseling offers a dual-track program allowing students to choose between Clinical Mental Health and School Counseling concentrations. The comprehensive 61-credit CACREP-accredited curriculum blends high-quality clinical training with a Christian perspective. Graduates are prepared for diverse counseling roles in schools, agencies, and private practices. With competitive tuition and flexible virtual learning options, this hybrid program provides accessible professional development, emphasizing Michigan licensure preparation and comprehensive counseling skills across multiple professional contexts.
- CACREP-accredited counseling program
- Clinical Mental Health and School Counseling tracks
- Hybrid and online learning options
- Christian perspective integration
- Prepares for Michigan licensure
- 61-credit comprehensive curriculum
- Face-to-face and virtual classroom
- Dual track concentration available
Siena Heights University
Adrian, MI - Private 4-year - sienaheights.edu
Master's - Clinical Mental Health Counseling M.A.
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Siena Heights University's Clinical Mental Health Counseling M.A. offers a robust hybrid program designed for aspiring mental health professionals seeking flexible educational pathways. Blending online and on-campus learning, the program equips students with comprehensive skills in psychological assessment, intervention strategies, and therapeutic techniques. Graduates emerge prepared to address complex mental health challenges across diverse populations. The program's Catholic-affiliated heritage emphasizes holistic patient care and ethical practice. Notably accommodating for working professionals and military personnel, the curriculum provides advanced training in clinical counseling methodologies through an innovative, adaptable learning model.
- Hybrid learning format
- Advanced mental health counseling skills
- Flexible course delivery
- Comprehensive professional preparation
- Blended on-ground and online options
Grand Valley State University
Allendale, MI - Public 4-Year - gvsu.edu
Master's - Master of Education in School Counseling
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Grand Valley State University's Master of Education in School Counseling offers a transformative hybrid program designed for aspiring PK-12 counselors. Students benefit from a flexible learning model combining online and on-campus instruction, spanning 36-42 credits with 15-week courses. The program distinguishes itself through comprehensive training in anti-racist practices, college readiness strategies, and advanced counseling techniques. Aligned with the American School Counselor Association National Model and accredited by the Michigan Department of Education, graduates are well-prepared for professional licensure. Unique admission requirements include a teaching certificate or relevant professional experience, with multiple application deadlines throughout the academic year. The program's evening, weekend, and online options cater to working professionals seeking meaningful educational advancement.
- Hybrid program format
- 36-42 credits required
- 15-week course length
- Accredited by MDE
- Aligns with ASCA model
- Flexible scheduling options
- Evening and weekend classes
- Online for remote students
- Covers anti-racist practices
- Focus on college readiness
How to Find a Counseling Program in Michigan
Selecting a counseling program to attend is a personal choice. While there are many quality programs, the one that you choose should be particularly well-suited for your needs. These could be financial needs, flexibility needs, specialization needs, or other considerations.
Counseling Degree Pathways in Michigan
The first decision to make is what type of degree you want to pursue. This choice should be based on your current academic work, and on what academics are needed for you to reach your goals. You might be ready for either an undergraduate or graduate degree:
- Associate Degrees are two-year programs that qualify you for entry positions within the field.
- Bachelor's Degrees are four-year programs that qualify you for entry and mid-tier positions, possibly moving up as you gain experience. Completing an associate degree first will shorten your bachelor's program by two years.
- Master's Degrees are one to two-year programs that meet the academic requirements for licensure.
- Doctorate Degrees are three to six-year programs that not only meet licensure requirements but go beyond what's academically required for licensed professional counselors (LPCs). These programs involve intensive work in clinical counseling (Psy.D.) or research (Ph.D.). Completing a doctorate will qualify you for faculty and leadership positions.
- Graduate Certificates last less than a year. These aren't degrees but are typically taken after a degree program in order to specialize.
Choose a Counseling Specialty
Should you wish to specialize in a particular type of counseling, you can do so in a couple of ways. Enroll in a degree program that has a specialization track, or complete a graduate certificate. Some examples of potential specializations include:
- Clinical mental health counseling (CMHC)
- College counseling (CLCL)
- School counseling (SCS2)
- Multicultural society interventions (HIMS)
Accreditation
Whatever program you choose to attend should be fully accredited by the Accreditation of Counseling and Related Education Programs (CACREP).
An accredited program has been vetted by other institutions and will be accepted by schools, licensing boards, and employers.
Online vs. Traditional Counseling Programs in Michigan
Accredited Michigan counseling degrees are available through both online and traditional programs. Online programs typically have lower tuition costs and more flexible course schedules. Traditional programs provide for in-person discussions during and outside of class. Which is better for you depends on your resources, obligations, and desired experience.
Becoming a Licensed Counselor in Michigan
To become a licensed counselor in Michigan, you'll need to complete an accredited master's degree that's a minimum of 48 credits. This is less than what many other states require.
The master's degree must include 600 practicum hours, and then you'll need 3,000 hours of supervised work after graduating. The last licensing step is to pass an exam and pay a fee.
Michigan requires counseling licenses to be renewed every three years. There isn't any continuing education requirement for renewal.
2026 Affordable Master's in Counseling Program Options
School Name | Highlights | Annual Estimated Tuition & Fees |
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University of Detroit Mercy |
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Andrews University |
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Alma College |
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List of Counseling Degree Programs in Michigan
Are you searching for a counseling degree program in Michigan? 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.
Adrian, MI
Siena Heights University
- Master's - Clinical Mental Health Counseling M.A.
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Hybrid learning format
- Advanced mental health counseling skills
- Flexible course delivery
- Comprehensive professional preparation
- Blended on-ground and online options
Allendale, MI
Grand Valley State University
- Master's - Master of Education in School Counseling
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Hybrid program format
- 36-42 credits required
- 15-week course length
- Accredited by MDE
- Aligns with ASCA model
- Flexible scheduling options
- Evening and weekend classes
- Online for remote students
Alma, MI
Alma College
- Master's - Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Campus Based - Website
- 60 credit hours, 2-year program
- 90% online coursework
- Two 5-day residencies
- No GRE required
- Aligns with CACREP standards
- 9 credit hours clinical experience
- Michigan licensure preparation
- Diverse counseling focus
Berrien Springs, MI
Andrews University
- Master's - Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Campus Based - Website
- Master of Arts degree
- Campus-based program
- Prepares for licensure
- Hands-on experience
- Holistic approach
- Financial aid available
- Bachelor's degree required
- Master's - School Counseling—MA
Campus Based - Website
- Campus-based program
- Master of Arts degree
- Focus on school counseling
- Blends theory and practice
- Prepares for educational settings
Detroit, MI
University of Detroit Mercy
- Bachelor's - Addiction Studies
Campus Based - Website
- Bachelor of Science in Addiction Studies.
- 18-credit minor available.
- Post-bachelor's and post-master's certificates.
- Meets state certification requirements.
- Job market growth of 22%.
- Over 50 years of program history.
- 80% employment rate post-graduation.
- Interdisciplinary curriculum.
- Master's - Master of Arts with a major in Addiction Counseling
Campus Based - Website
- 60-credit, three-year program
- 100% job placement rate
- Nationally recognized addiction counseling
- Michigan's premier addiction program
- Practical clinical experience included
- Eligible for professional licensure
- Small class sizes
- 10:1 student to faculty ratio
- Master's - School Counseling
Campus Based - Website
- 60-credit program.
- Nationally accredited by CACREP.
- 100% job placement rate.
- Focus on K-12 school counseling.
- Experiential learning emphasis.
- Prepares for licensure in Michigan.
- Comprehensive curriculum.
- Small class sizes.
East Lansing, MI
Michigan State University
- Doctorate - Counselor Education and Supervision
Campus Based - Website
- CACREP accreditation preparation
- Optional Rehabilitation concentration
- Research-focused curriculum
- 3.0 GPA minimum requirement
- Leadership and advocacy training
- Clinical supervision internships
- Comprehensive dissertation research
- Doctorate - Counselor Education and Supervision
Concentration: Rehabilitation and Disability - Campus Based - Website
- PhD program
- Rehabilitation and Disability concentration
- Campus-based
- Leadership and research focus
- Master's degree required
- Letters of recommendation needed
- Personal statement required
- Financial aid available
Grand Rapids, MI
Aquinas College
- Master's - Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Campus Based - Website
- 60-semester hour counseling program
- 25% job market growth projected
- Licensed Professional Counselor preparation
- Practice-based cohort model
- Multicultural counseling competence
- Flexible program completion timeline
- Individual and group therapy training
- Trauma-informed care focus
Kalamazoo, MI
Western Michigan University
- Master's - Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Accredited counseling program
- In-person and hybrid formats
- Meets LLPC requirements
- Multiple campus locations
- Strong job market outlook
- Master's - School Counseling
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Hybrid program format
- Meets Michigan licensure requirements
- Three certification tracks available
- Practical training opportunities
- Accredited by CACREP
- Scholarships and assistantships offered
- Strong undergraduate GPA required
- Graduate Certificate - Addiction Specialization Certificate
Online & Campus Based - Website
- 9-credit hour program.
- Hybrid online and weekend format.
- Designed for CAADC credentialing.
- Flexible for adult learners.
- Aligns with Michigan requirements.
- Graduate Certificate - Clinical Addiction Certificate
Online & Campus Based - Website
- 18-credit hour program
- Hybrid format available
- Financial aid eligible
- Meets Michigan credential requirements
- Field practicum or capstone option
- Courses on substance use
- Cultural humility focus
- Co-occurring disorders covered
- Graduate Certificate - School Counseling
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Graduate Certificate for Licensed Counselors
- K-12 School Counselor Licensure
- No Teaching Certificate Required
- Michigan State Regulation Compliant
- Post-Master's Professional Development
- Doctorate - Counselor Education—Doctoral Program
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Hybrid program format
- CACREP accredited
- Focus on counselor education
- High employment rate
- Multicultural counseling skills
- Teaching and supervision competencies
- Research skills development
- Flexible course locations
Mount Pleasant, MI
Central Michigan University
- Master's - Master of Arts in Counseling
Concentration: School Counseling - Online & Campus Based - Website
- Hybrid learning format
- CACREP accredited
- 60 credit hours
- Hands-on practicum
- Internship with caseload
- Focus on K-12 counseling
- Advocacy and equity focus
- Flexible for professionals
- Master's - Master's in Counseling
Concentration: Addiction Counseling - Online & Campus Based - Website
- CACREP accredited program.
- Hybrid learning format.
- 60 credit hours.
- Concentration in Addiction Counseling.
- Practical hands-on learning.
- Flexible for working professionals.
- On-campus and online options.
- Compulsory practicum and internship.
- Master's - Master's in Counseling
Concentration: Clinical Mental Health Counseling - Online & Campus Based - Website
- CACREP Accredited Program
- Hybrid Learning Format
- 60 Credit Hours Required
- Three Concentration Options
- Faculty are Licensed Counselors
- Graduate Certificate - Postgraduate School Counseling Certificate
Online Learning - Website
- 15-credit online program
- For CACREP-accredited master's holders
- Flexible online classes
- Onsite internships required
- ASCA National Model focus
- Prepares for Michigan licensure
- 2-3 semesters completion time
Rochester Hills, MI
Oakland University
- Master's - Master of Arts in Counseling
Concentration: School Counseling - Campus Based - Website
- CACREP-accredited program.
- Concentration in School Counseling.
- Supervised practicum and internship.
- Focus on research and clinical skills.
- Admissions deadlines April and October.
- Requires official transcripts.
- Supplemental application needed.
- Prepares for careers in schools.
- Doctorate - Doctor of Philosophy in Education: Counseling
Online & Campus Based - Website
- 64-credit hour program
- CACREP accredited
- Hybrid learning format
- Five cognate areas
- Advanced clinical practice focus
- Requires master's degree
- GRE scores needed
- Professional experience required
- Doctorate - Doctor of Philosophy in Education: Counseling
Concentration: Addiction counseling - Online & Campus Based - Website
- 64-credit hour program
- Hybrid learning format
- CACREP accredited
- Concentration in Addiction counseling
- Requires master's degree
- GRE scores needed
- Professional experience required
- Focus on clinical practice
- Doctorate - Doctor of Philosophy in Education: Counseling
Concentration: Mental health counseling - Online & Campus Based - Website
- 64-credit hour program
- Hybrid learning format
- CACREP accredited curriculum
- Mental health counseling concentration
- Requires master's degree
- GRE scores needed
- Professional experience required
- Advanced clinical practice focus
Spring Arbor, MI
Spring Arbor University
- Master's - Master of Arts in Counseling
Concentration: Clinical Mental Health - Online & Campus Based - Website
- CACREP-accredited counseling program
- Hybrid/online learning options
- Prepares for LPC licensure
- Christian perspective integration
- Diverse clinical practice settings
- 61-credit comprehensive curriculum
- Focuses on cultural responsiveness
- Master's - Master of Arts in Counseling
Concentration: Dual Track - Online & Campus Based - Website
- CACREP-accredited counseling program
- Clinical Mental Health and School Counseling tracks
- Hybrid and online learning options
- Christian perspective integration
- Prepares for Michigan licensure
- 61-credit comprehensive curriculum
- Face-to-face and virtual classroom
- Dual track concentration available
- Master's - Master of Arts in Counseling
Concentration: School Counseling - Online & Campus Based - Website
- CACREP-accredited counseling program
- K-12 School Counseling track
- Hybrid/online learning options
- Christian perspective integration
- Michigan licensure preparation
- 61-credit hour core program
- Clinical and practical internships
Ypsilanti, MI
Eastern Michigan University
- Master's - Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Campus Based - Website
- 60-semester hour master's program
- Licensure preparation track
- In-person/hybrid delivery
- Comprehensive counseling core
- Multiple career pathway options
- Supervised counseling experience
- GPA requirement: 2.7-3.0
- Complete within six years
- Master's - Master of Arts in School Counseling
Campus Based - Website
- CACREP accredited program
- 60 semester hours
- 100-hour practicum
- 600-hour internship
- On-campus learning
- Focus on diversity
- Leads to licensure
- For teacher-certified and non-certified
- Graduate Certificate - Post-Master's Certificate in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Campus Based - Website
- Advanced clinical competencies
- 300-600 hour internship
- Focus on mental health
- Ethical and legal training
- Community-based settings
- Not for LLPC licensure
- Post-master's level
- Campus-based program