2025 Best Master's in Counseling Programs in Nebraska

Finding the best master's in counseling programs in Nebraska is key for your career. At counselingpsychology.org, we rank these programs to help you choose. Online programs matter because they offer flexibility. They let you learn from anywhere, fitting your schedule. Whether you prefer distance learning or virtual classes, there are options for you. Our rankings guide you to the right program. Learn how we rank programs https://counselingpsychology.org/rankings-methodology/.

#1

University of Nebraska at Kearney

Kearney, NE - Public 4-Year - unk.edu

Master's - School Counseling - Elementary (PK-8)

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

The University of Nebraska at Kearney offers a Master of Science in Education in School Counseling - Elementary (PK-8), a hybrid program designed to prepare professionals for delivering quality counseling services in elementary schools. This program stands out for its interdisciplinary approach, focusing on equity and social justice, and requires a minimum 3.0 GPA for admission. It includes 43 credit hours, with practicum and internship components, and is accredited by CAEP. The program is notable for its non-teacher pathway, allowing individuals with any undergraduate degree to become school counselors by completing 12 additional online credit hours of teacher education training.

  • 43 total credit hours
  • Accredited by CAEP
  • Hybrid program format
  • Non-teacher pathway available
  • Nebraska State Department endorsed
  • Online and blended courses
  • Minimum 3.0 GPA required
  • Professional references needed
  • Practicum and internship included
  • Diverse counseling skill development

Master's - Clinical Mental Health Counseling

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

At the University of Nebraska at Kearney, the Clinical Mental Health Counseling master's program is a 60-credit hybrid offering that prepares students for careers in diverse settings, including community agencies and private practice. Accredited by CACREP, this program emphasizes culturally sensitive mental health services and offers flexible scheduling for working professionals. It includes pathways for dual licensure in mental health and substance abuse counseling, reflecting the program's comprehensive approach to meeting the growing demand for mental health professionals, with a projected job market growth of 23%.

  • 60 credit hours graduate program
  • Blended online/campus delivery
  • CACREP accredited program
  • Prepares for multiple counseling licenses
  • Flexible scheduling for working professionals
  • Projected 23% job market growth
  • Diverse career placement opportunities
  • Evening and online course options

Master's - School Counseling - Secondary (7-12)

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

The University of Nebraska at Kearney's Master of Science in Education in School Counseling - Secondary (7-12) is a hybrid program that equips professionals to address the unique challenges of adolescent students. Accredited by CAEP, this 43-credit hour program focuses on ethical practice, multicultural counseling, and rural mental health. It offers a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical experience, preparing graduates for Nebraska State Department of Education endorsement. The program is designed for both teachers and non-teachers, emphasizing professional identity development and comprehensive guidance training in a field-based practitioner model.

  • Accredited by CAEP
  • 43 total credit hours
  • Hybrid program delivery
  • Non-teacher pathway available
  • Comprehensive guidance training
  • Focus on rural mental health
  • Multicultural counseling emphasis
  • Online and blended courses
  • Field-based practitioner model
  • Professional identity development
Show 2 More Programs ˅
#2

Creighton University

Omaha, NE - Private 4-year - creighton.edu

Master's - School Counseling

Online Learning - Visit Website

Creighton University offers an online Master of Science in School Counseling, ideal for those aiming to impact child and adolescent development within school systems. This program, rooted in Jesuit values, provides flexible online learning with specialization options in Elementary, Secondary, or PK-12 Guidance Counseling. A 600-hour internship aligns with Nebraska certification standards, and the curriculum adheres to ASCA guidelines. Educators benefit from guaranteed scholarships. Admission prerequisites include a bachelor's degree with a 3.0 GPA, alongside submission of transcripts, a resume, personal statement, and recommendations. No entrance exam is mentioned, offering accessibility for aspiring counselors.

  • Online program flexibility.
  • 36-48 credit hours.
  • 600-hour internship.
  • Jesuit values emphasis.
  • Scholarships for educators.
  • Three specialization tracks.
  • ASCA standards-based curriculum.
  • 3.0 GPA requirement.
  • Background check required.
  • Personal interview possible.

Master's - School Counseling

Concentration: Elementary School Counseling - Online Learning - Visit Website

Focused on Elementary School Counseling, Creighton University's online Master of Science in School Counseling equips education professionals with the skills to support young students effectively. The program blends Jesuit principles with a curriculum meeting ASCA standards, including a 600-hour internship. Tailored for educators, it offers scholarships and requires a bachelor's degree with a 3.0 GPA for admission. The program's online format and 36-48 credit hour requirement cater to working professionals, emphasizing mental health support and developmental strategies without specifying an entrance exam.

  • Fully online master's program
  • 600-hour internship included
  • Specialized counseling tracks
  • Scholarships for educators
  • ASCA national model curriculum
  • Jesuit values integration
  • 3.0 GPA admission requirement
  • 36-48 credit hour program

Master's - School Counseling

Concentration: Secondary School Counseling - Online Learning - Visit Website

Creighton University's online Master of Science in School Counseling with a concentration in Secondary School Counseling prepares educators to address the unique challenges of adolescent students. The program features a flexible online format, ASCA-aligned curriculum, and a mandatory 600-hour internship. Scholarships reduce tuition for educators, and admission requires a bachelor's degree with a 3.0 GPA. Designed for professionals, it offers tracks in Elementary, Secondary, and PK-12 counseling, focusing on practical skills without the need for an entrance exam, making advanced education accessible.

  • Fully online program
  • Multiple counseling track options
  • 600-hour internship included
  • Scholarships for educators
  • Jesuit values-based curriculum
  • Meet ASCA national standards
  • Customizable degree path
  • Professional counseling preparation
Show 2 More Programs ˅
#3

Concordia University-Nebraska

Seward, NE - Private 4-year - cune.edu

Master's - MA Marriage and Family Therapy

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Concordia University-Nebraska's MA in Marriage and Family Therapy is a hybrid program that integrates faith with professional counseling, offering a unique perspective on mental health. This 62-64 credit hour program includes online synchronous classes and on-campus residencies, aligning with COAMFTE standards. With a focus on practical experience, students complete a 300-hour practicum, preparing for state licensure in diverse settings. The program, costing $500 per credit hour, is designed to be completed in 24 months, starting with a fall cohort. It's ideal for those seeking a Christ-centered approach to therapy, without requiring an entrance exam.

  • 62-64 credit hour program
  • $500 per credit hour
  • 8-week course format
  • 24 months to complete degree
  • Online synchronous classes
  • Fall cohort start
  • 300-hour practicum required
  • COAMFTE standards aligned
  • Christ-centered perspective
  • Preparation for state licensure
  • On-campus residencies included
  • Career paths in therapy/counseling

Master's - M.A. School Counseling

Online Learning - Visit Website

The M.A. in School Counseling at Concordia University-Nebraska is a fully online program designed for professionals aiming to impact PK-12 students' lives. Spanning 50-62 credit hours at $450 per credit, it offers flexibility with an 8-week course format. The curriculum includes a 100-hour practicum and a 450-hour internship, aligning with the ASCA model. This faith-based program prepares graduates for roles in academic guidance and crisis intervention, with special rates available for eligible students. No entrance exam is required, making it accessible for those ready to advocate for students' academic and emotional needs.

  • 100% Online Program
  • 8-week Course Format
  • 50-62 Credit Hours
  • 100-hour Practicum Included
  • 450-hour Supervised Internship
  • $450 per Credit Hour
  • Special Rates Available
  • Faith-Based Instruction
  • ASCA Model Alignment
  • PK-12 Grade Level Experience
Show 1 More Programs ˅
#4

University of Nebraska-Lincoln

Lincoln, NE - Public 4-Year - unl.edu

Master's - Marriage and Family Therapy Specialization (M.S.)

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

The University of Nebraska-Lincoln's hybrid Master's in Marriage and Family Therapy is a 24-month, 53-credit program that equips students with advanced skills in trauma-informed and attachment-based therapies. Accredited by COAMFTE since 1993, it emphasizes ethical clinical practices and multicultural sensitivity, preparing graduates for licensure in Nebraska. The program boasts a small cohort size of 8-12 students, ensuring personalized supervision and over 500 clinical contact hours. Unique features include a focus on distance therapy technology and a 12-month internship. Applications are due by December 1, 2024, with no entrance exam required for admission.

  • 24-month program completion
  • 53 total credit hours
  • COAMFTE accredited since 1993
  • 500+ clinical contact hours
  • 12-month internship placements
  • Cohort size 8-12 students
  • Application deadline Dec. 1, 2024
  • State licensure preparation
  • Advanced trauma-informed training
  • Distance therapy technology focus
#5

Bellevue University

Bellevue, NE - Private 4-year - bellevue.edu

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

Online Learning - Visit Website

Bellevue University offers a Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, a CACREP-accredited online program designed to equip students with the skills necessary for professional counseling. This 60-credit program emphasizes assessment, diagnosis, and treatment planning, complemented by 100 practicum and 600 clinical internship hours for hands-on experience. Notably, the program does not require a GRE for admission, making it accessible to a broader range of students. With tuition set at $660 per credit, Bellevue University provides an affordable pathway to licensure, offering flexibility for students through its online format. Graduates are prepared to serve diverse populations in various mental health settings.

  • CACREP-accredited online program
  • 60 credit hour curriculum
  • No GRE required
  • $660 per credit
  • 100 practicum hours
  • 600 clinical internship hours
  • Prepares for counseling licensure
  • Flexible online/campus options
  • Professional counseling skills training
  • Diverse client population preparation
*Data citation: NCES, IPEDS 2023 Final Release Data.

How to Find a Counseling Program in Nebraska

Your chosen counseling program should meet your current personal needs and future vocational goals. A program's tuition, schedule, location, degree level, and specialization might influence your choice.

Counseling Degree Pathways in Nebraska

You can earn a counseling degree at any level of post-high school education. The degree options are a(n):

  • Associate degrees – Two-year programs that can be completed after a high school diploma. Programs may qualify you for entry positions in the field.
  • Bachelor's degrees – Four-year programs that can be completed after a high school diploma. Programs may qualify you for entry or mid-tier positions.
  • Master's degrees – One to two-year programs that can be completed after a bachelor's degree. Programs may qualify you for licensure as a professional counselor.
  • Doctorate degrees – Three to six-year programs that can be completed after a bachelor's or master's degree. Programs may qualify you for leadership positions and/or research positions. A Ph.D. doctorate is researched-focused, and a Psy.D. is clinically focused.
  • Graduate certificates – Six to twelve-month programs that can be completed after a bachelor's or master's degree. Programs may help you specialize and/or advance.

You'll have to choose a degree that you currently meet the prerequisite for. Choose whichever degree you can enroll in, and will best prepare you for future academic study or professional work.

Choose a Counseling Specialty

Counselors provide general and/or specialized counseling services. Some examples of specialties that you can focus on are:

  • Community counseling
  • School counseling
  • Student affairs and college counseling
  • Mental health counseling
  • Gerontological counseling

You'll find that there are a number of other specialization tracks available through bachelor's, master's, doctorate, and graduate certificate programs. The specializations available tend to become more narrow as you advance in your degree.

Check School Accreditation

Accredited counseling degree programs have been vetted by peer institutions, and certified that they meet minimum educational criteria. Only an accredited program will qualify for licensure, and you can only transfer credits from an accredited program.

Nebraska licensure requires that you complete a master's degree accredited by one of the following accrediting bodies:

Online vs. Traditional Counseling Programs in Nebraska

Accredited counseling programs are available through both online and traditional learning modes. Choose whichever is better suited for your situation and goals. You might select an online program for its affordability and/or flexibility. You might choose a traditional program if you want the in-person discussions that take place during classes.

Becoming a Licensed Counselor in Nebraska

To become a licensed mental health provider in Nebraska, you must complete an accredited master's degree. The program must include a three-credit practicum, and you still need 3,000 hours of practical supervised experience after graduating. You can take the licensure exam after completing these prerequisites.

You must be a licensed mental health provider before you can apply to become a certified professional counselor in Nebraska.

LMHP licenses expire on September 1st of every even-numbered year. Renewing requires 32 continuing education units.

2025 Affordable Master's in Counseling Program Options

Finding affordable Master's in Counseling programs in Nebraska for 2025 is key for students. The table lists options with program highlights and tuition ranges. Affordable and cost-effective education helps more people pursue their goals without heavy debt. Nebraska offers several choices, making it easier to find a program that fits your budget. Look for low-cost options to save money while getting a quality education. The right program can lead to a rewarding career in counseling. Check the table for details on each school's offerings.

School NameHighlightsAnnual Estimated Tuition & Fees
Chadron State College
  • 39-credit graduate counseling program
  • Two endorsement pathway options
  • PK-12 counseling concentration
  • Practicum and internship experiences
  • Ethical counseling professional development
  • Multicultural counseling focus
  • Nebraska School Counselor endorsement
  • Addiction counseling options
  • $5,100 - $7,700 (Graduate In-State)
  • $8,900 - $13,400 (Graduate Non-Resident)
University of Nebraska at Kearney
  • Accredited by CAEP
  • 43 total credit hours
  • Hybrid program delivery
  • Non-teacher pathway available
  • Comprehensive guidance training
  • Focus on rural mental health
  • Multicultural counseling emphasis
  • Online and blended courses
  • $6,300 - $9,400 (Graduate In-State)
  • $12,500 - $18,700 (Graduate Non-Resident)
Concordia University-Nebraska
  • 100% Online Program
  • 8-week Course Format
  • 50-62 Credit Hours
  • 100-hour Practicum Included
  • 450-hour Supervised Internship
  • $450 per Credit Hour
  • Special Rates Available
  • Faith-Based Instruction
  • $6,100 - $9,200 (Graduate)
*Based on: IPEDS 2023, U.S. Department of Education. https://nces.ed.gov/ipeds/

List of Counseling Degree Programs in Nebraska

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

Bellevue, NE

Bellevue University

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

    Online Learning - Website

    • CACREP-accredited online program
    • 60 credit hour curriculum
    • No GRE required
    • $660 per credit
    • 100 practicum hours
    • 600 clinical internship hours
    • Prepares for counseling licensure
    • Flexible online/campus options

Chadron, NE

Chadron State College

  • Master's - Clinical Mental Health Counseling

    Campus Based - Website

    • 60 credit hour comprehensive program
    • Licensure preparation in Nebraska
    • Diverse counseling course offerings
    • Practical field experience included
    • Cultural competency focus
    • Professional ethics training
    • Multicultural counseling emphasis
    • Addiction counseling options
  • Master's - School Counseling

    Concentration: PK-12 - Campus Based - Website

    • 39-credit graduate counseling program
    • Two endorsement pathway options
    • PK-12 counseling concentration
    • Practicum and internship experiences
    • Ethical counseling professional development
    • Multicultural counseling focus
    • Nebraska School Counselor endorsement
  • Master's - School Counseling

    Concentration: PK-8, 7-12 - Campus Based - Website

    • 39-54 credit hours.
    • Campus-based program.
    • Prepares for Nebraska endorsement.
    • Multicultural counseling focus.
    • Practical field experiences included.
    • Financial aid available.
    • Scholarships for eligible students.
    • Ethical guidelines emphasized.

Crete, NE

Doane University

  • Master's - Master of Arts in Counseling

    Concentration: Clinical Mental Health Counseling - Campus Based - Website

    • CACREP-accredited Clinical Mental Health Counseling
    • Evening classes in Lincoln campus
    • Practicum and internship clinical experience
    • Professional Identity Development Seminars
    • State licensure preparation
    • Diverse learning opportunities
    • Real-world client counseling experience
    • Competency-based practitioner model
  • Master's - Master of Education in School Counseling

    Campus Based - Website

    • 48 credit hours
    • Campus-based program
    • 150 practicum hours
    • 450 internship hours
    • 3.0 GPA requirement
    • Praxis II test required
    • For certified teachers
    • Additional 12 credits option

Kearney, NE

University of Nebraska at Kearney

  • Master's - Clinical Mental Health Counseling

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • 60 credit hours graduate program
    • Blended online/campus delivery
    • CACREP accredited program
    • Prepares for multiple counseling licenses
    • Flexible scheduling for working professionals
    • Projected 23% job market growth
    • Diverse career placement opportunities
    • Evening and online course options
  • Master's - School Counseling - Elementary (PK-8)

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • 43 total credit hours
    • Accredited by CAEP
    • Hybrid program format
    • Non-teacher pathway available
    • Nebraska State Department endorsed
    • Online and blended courses
    • Minimum 3.0 GPA required
    • Professional references needed
  • Master's - School Counseling - Secondary (7-12)

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Accredited by CAEP
    • 43 total credit hours
    • Hybrid program delivery
    • Non-teacher pathway available
    • Comprehensive guidance training
    • Focus on rural mental health
    • Multicultural counseling emphasis
    • Online and blended courses
  • Graduate Certificate - Alcohol and Drug Counseling Graduate Certificate

    Online Learning - Website

    • 12 credit hours
    • 100% online
    • Licensed professional instructors
    • Practicum included
    • Focus on addiction counseling
    • Ethical standards training
    • Culturally diverse interventions
    • High job growth field

Omaha, NE

Creighton University

  • Master's - School Counseling

    Online Learning - Website

    • Online program flexibility.
    • 36-48 credit hours.
    • 600-hour internship.
    • Jesuit values emphasis.
    • Scholarships for educators.
    • Three specialization tracks.
    • ASCA standards-based curriculum.
    • 3.0 GPA requirement.
  • Master's - School Counseling

    Concentration: Elementary School Counseling - Online Learning - Website

    • Fully online master's program
    • 600-hour internship included
    • Specialized counseling tracks
    • Scholarships for educators
    • ASCA national model curriculum
    • Jesuit values integration
    • 3.0 GPA admission requirement
    • 36-48 credit hour program
  • Master's - School Counseling

    Concentration: Secondary School Counseling - Online Learning - Website

    • Fully online program
    • Multiple counseling track options
    • 600-hour internship included
    • Scholarships for educators
    • Jesuit values-based curriculum
    • Meet ASCA national standards
    • Customizable degree path
    • Professional counseling preparation

University of Nebraska at Omaha

  • Master's - Master of Science in Counseling

    Concentration: Clinical Mental Health Counseling - Campus Based - Website

    • 60-credit CACREP accredited program
    • Licensure preparation in Nebraska
    • Diverse counseling career paths
    • Comprehensive field experience
    • Multicultural counseling training
  • Master's - Master of Science in School Counseling

    Campus Based - Website

    • 48-credit MS degree
    • NDE-Approved program
    • Thesis option available
    • Campus-based program
    • Field experiences included
    • Teaching Program Alternative Permit
    • Various plans of study
    • Full-time and part-time options

Seward, NE

Concordia University-Nebraska

  • Master's - M.A. School Counseling

    Online Learning - Website

    • 100% Online Program
    • 8-week Course Format
    • 50-62 Credit Hours
    • 100-hour Practicum Included
    • 450-hour Supervised Internship
    • $450 per Credit Hour
    • Special Rates Available
    • Faith-Based Instruction

Wayne, NE

Wayne State College

  • Graduate Certificate - Addictions Counseling Graduate Certificate

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • 12 credit hours
    • Hybrid program format
    • No application fee
    • Focus on addictions counseling
    • Prepares for Nebraska licensure
    • Courses in dual diagnosis
    • Clinical issues covered
    • Alcohol/drug assessment training
*Source: IPEDS 2023, National Center for Education Statistics (NCES). https://nces.ed.gov/ipeds/

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