Best Counseling Schools in North Carolina
For those interested in a rewarding and challenging career that involves helping people, counseling is a great, in-demand choice. To get there, though, you must complete the proper education. Luckily, North Carolina has many counseling degree programs, from undergrad to graduate, in a variety of convenient formats.
2026 Best Master's in Counseling Programs in North Carolina
Montreat College
Montreat, NC - Private 4-year - montreat.edu
Master's - Master of Science in Counseling Psychology: Marriage and Family Therapy
Online Learning - Visit Website
Montreat College's online Master of Science in Counseling Psychology with Marriage and Family Therapy offers a transformative 54-60 credit graduate program integrating Christian faith with mental health principles. Designed for aspiring therapists, the program provides comprehensive clinical training through flexible eight-week online courses. Students develop advanced therapeutic skills targeting systemic family dynamics while preparing for professional licensure. With impressive national job growth of 21.7% and competitive regional salaries, graduates are well-positioned in the counseling marketplace. The program emphasizes compassionate care, professional development, and requires a minimum 3.0 GPA for admission.
- Online graduate degree program
- 54-60 credit hours total
- 8-week course sessions
- 3.0 minimum GPA required
- Christian faith integration
- Licensed MFT preparation
- Full-time: 6 credit hours/semester
- Optional 60-credit licensure track
- National background check required
- Multiple start dates annually
Master's - Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Montreat College's Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling is a comprehensive hybrid program spanning 60 credit hours with two immersive residencies. CACREP-accredited since 2018, the program eliminates GRE requirements and prepares students for North Carolina Licensed Professional Counselor certification. Blending synchronous and asynchronous learning, students gain hands-on training in diverse mental health settings. The curriculum emphasizes multicultural competency, ethical practice, and professional development. With 100% CPCE pass rates and multiple counseling specialization options, graduates receive rigorous preparation for successful mental health careers.
- 60-credit online hybrid program
- Two required in-person residencies
- CACREP accredited since 2018
- No GRE required for admission
- 100% CPCE pass rates historically
- Prepares for NC licensure
- Multiple counseling specialization options
Master's - Master of Science in Counseling Psychology with Substance Abuse and Addiction Counseling (Substance Abuse and Addiction Counseling)
Online Learning - Visit Website
Montreat College's online Master of Science in Counseling Psychology featuring a Substance Abuse and Addiction Counseling concentration provides specialized training for addressing complex addiction challenges. The program integrates Christian faith principles with evidence-based addiction recovery strategies, preparing students for certification in this critical field. Students develop advanced clinical skills focusing on understanding addiction's root causes, counseling ethics, and intervention techniques. Requiring a minimum 2.75 GPA and comprehensive background checks, the program offers flexible learning designed for working professionals with projected strong job growth in addiction counseling.
- Online learning flexibility.
- Christian faith integration.
- Focus on addiction recovery.
- Prepares for certification.
- Clinical skills development.
- Minimum GPA 2.75 required.
- Background check needed.
- Strong job growth expected.
- Diverse career opportunities.
- Supportive professor network.
North Carolina State University at Raleigh
Raleigh, NC - Public 4-Year - ncsu.edu
Master's - School Counseling
Online Learning - Visit Website
North Carolina State University's Master of Education in School Counseling offers a comprehensive 60-credit online and on-campus program designed to prepare future school counselors. The curriculum provides extensive training in counseling theories, multicultural perspectives, and crisis intervention strategies. Students benefit from no GRE requirement and a 3.0 GPA admission standard, ensuring accessibility for dedicated professionals. The program emphasizes practical experience through practica and internships, positioning graduates for successful licensure and eligibility for the National Counselor Examination. Ideal for educators seeking to support diverse student populations with advanced counseling skills and ethical practice.
- 60-credit program
- On-campus and online options
- No GRE required
- 3.0 GPA admission requirement
- Prepares for licensure
- National Counselor Examination eligible
- Covers counseling theories
- Includes ethics training
- Multicultural counseling focus
- Crisis intervention skills
Master's - Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Online Learning - Visit Website
NC State's online Master of Education in Clinical Mental Health Counseling delivers a robust three-year, part-time program tailored for aspiring behavioral health professionals. This comprehensive degree prepares students to become licensed mental health counselors, therapists, and substance abuse specialists. Without an entrance exam requirement, the program focuses on developmental theory, multicultural perspectives, and evidence-based clinical practices. Students benefit from flexible online learning, extensive field experiences, and a supportive academic environment. The curriculum is strategically designed to meet growing industry demands and equip graduates with advanced counseling competencies.
- Online master's degree program
- Three-year part-time format
- Professional licensure preparation
- No entrance exam required
- Multicultural curriculum focus
- Field experience opportunities
- Cohort-based learning model
- State of NC licensure eligible
Master's - Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
North Carolina State University's Clinical Mental Health Counseling M.Ed. program offers unparalleled flexibility through hybrid learning options. CACREP-accredited and completable in 2-3 years, this program prepares students for Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate certification. The curriculum emphasizes multiculturalism, evidence-based practices, and holistic client wellness. Students gain practical skills through intensive 700-hour field placements, utilizing a scientist-practitioner model. With no GRE or MAT required, the program welcomes dedicated professionals seeking comprehensive training in clinical counseling techniques and developmental theory.
- CACREP Accredited Program
- Online and On-Campus Options
- Two-Three Year Completion
- No GRE/MAT Required
- Multicultural Counseling Emphasis
- 700-hour Field Placement
- Professional Licensure Preparation
- Scientist-Practitioner Model
- Part-Time and Full-Time Options
North Carolina Central University
Durham, NC - Public 4-Year - nccu.edu
Master's - School Counseling, MA
Online Learning - Visit Website
North Carolina Central University's School Counseling MA offers a comprehensive 60-hour program preparing professionals to support K-12 student development. This fully CACREP-accredited program provides flexibility through online and campus learning options, leading to North Carolina licensure. Students develop essential counseling skills through rigorous curriculum and supervised experiences. The program requires a 3.0 GPA, GRE scores, and professional recommendations. Graduates are equipped to address students' academic, career, and personal growth challenges, with a clear pathway to professional certification through the Praxis II specialty exam.
- 60-hour CACREP-accredited program
- Online and campus options
- K-12 school counseling focus
- NC licensure preparation
- 3.0 GPA minimum requirement
- GRE scores needed
- Professional counseling certification
Master's - Clinical Mental Health Counseling, MA
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The Clinical Mental Health Counseling MA at North Carolina Central University prepares students for diverse mental health careers in agencies, private practices, and hospitals. This hybrid program offers national certification opportunities and a potential Clinical Addiction Specialist pathway. CACREP-accredited with flexible online and campus learning, the program demands a 3.0 GPA, GRE scores, and a comprehensive interview. Students receive comprehensive training to become licensed counselors, with curriculum designed to develop advanced therapeutic skills and professional competencies in mental health intervention and support.
- Hybrid program format
- Prepares for NC licensure
- National Certified Counselor eligible
- Clinical Addiction Specialist path
- CACREP accredited
- Online and campus options
- 3.0 GPA requirement
- GRE scores needed
- Interview required
- Comprehensive curricular experiences
Master's - Clinical Mental Health Counseling, MA (Clinical Addiction Specialist)
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
North Carolina Central University's Clinical Mental Health Counseling MA with a Clinical Addiction Specialist concentration provides specialized training for mental health and addiction counseling professionals. This hybrid program combines online and campus instruction, offering three dedicated addiction courses to enhance career opportunities. CACREP-accredited, the program requires a 3.00 GPA, GRE scores, and an interview. Students gain comprehensive skills to address complex mental health and substance abuse challenges, preparing for licensure as professional counselors and clinical addiction specialists with a robust, flexible learning approach.
- Hybrid program format
- CACREP accredited
- Prepares for licensure
- Includes addiction courses
- 3.00 GPA requirement
- GRE scores needed
- Interview required
- Flexible learning options
- Career in mental health
- Addiction counseling focus
Wake Forest University
Winston-Salem, NC - Private 4-year - wfu.edu
Master's - Master of Arts in Counseling (School Counseling)
Online Learning - Visit Website
Wake Forest University's Master of Arts in Counseling offers a specialized School Counseling concentration tailored for education professionals seeking career advancement. This CACREP-accredited online program delivers comprehensive training in K-12 student support, integrating cutting-edge counseling techniques with ethical practices. Students complete 60 semester hours, including intensive practicum and internship experiences designed to prepare graduates for North Carolina licensure. The flexible online format accommodates working professionals, ensuring they can balance academic pursuits with current employment. Unique program features include a strong emphasis on developmental psychology, intervention strategies, and practical skills essential for effectively supporting student mental health and academic success.
- CACREP-accredited program.
- Online and campus options.
- 60 semester hours required.
- Includes practicum and internship.
- Focus on K-12 school counseling.
- Prepares for licensure in NC.
- Combines theory and practice.
- Designed for working professionals.
- Covers ethical counseling practices.
- Admission requires bachelor's degree.
Master's - Master of Arts in Counseling (Clinical Mental Health Counseling)
Online Learning - Visit Website
Wake Forest University's Clinical Mental Health Counseling concentration provides an advanced, comprehensive pathway for professionals seeking expertise in mental health interventions. This CACREP-accredited online program delivers rigorous training through a 60-semester hour curriculum emphasizing diverse therapeutic approaches and evidence-based clinical practices. Students gain robust skills in assessment, diagnosis, and treatment planning, preparing them for Licensed Professional Counselor credentials. The program's online flexibility allows working professionals to pursue advanced education without disrupting current career trajectories. Distinctive elements include specialized coursework in trauma-informed care, multicultural counseling, and comprehensive clinical experiences that equip graduates to address complex mental health challenges across diverse populations.
- CACREP-accredited online program
- 60 semester hours required
- Part-time online format
- Prepares for professional licensure
- Clinical mental health focus
- Comprehensive counseling curriculum
- Practicum and internship included
- Flexible for working professionals
Master's - Master of Arts in Counseling - Addiction
Online Learning - Visit Website
Wake Forest University's Master of Arts in Counseling Addiction concentration represents a specialized three-year online program designed for professionals committed to addressing substance abuse challenges. This CACREP-accredited curriculum provides comprehensive addiction counseling training without GRE requirements, offering unprecedented accessibility. Students engage in 60 semester hours of intensive coursework covering addiction theories, intervention strategies, and clinical experiences. The program's online format enables students to balance academic pursuits with professional responsibilities, making advanced addiction counseling education achievable. Graduates emerge prepared for licensure, equipped with sophisticated understanding of addiction dynamics, prevention techniques, and therapeutic interventions critical for supporting individuals and communities struggling with substance-related disorders.
- CACREP-accredited program.
- Online format for flexibility.
- 60-semester hour requirement.
- Focus on addiction counseling.
- Prepares for licensure.
- No GRE required.
- Three-year completion time.
- Includes clinical experiences.
- Ideal for working professionals.
- Comprehensive curriculum.
Pfeiffer University
Misenheimer, NC - Private 4-year - pfeiffer.edu
Master's - Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Online Learning - Visit Website
Pfeiffer University's online Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling offers a comprehensive 2.5-year program preparing professionals to address critical mental health needs. With 63 credit hours and no GRE requirement, the program provides flexible evening online classes through synchronous and asynchronous learning. Students gain specialized training to become Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselors, developing skills in clinical techniques, multicultural counseling, and advanced intervention strategies. The curriculum emphasizes supporting individuals, couples, and families across diverse settings while preparing graduates for licensure exams.
- Online flexible evening classes
- 63 total credit hours
- No GRE required
- Prepare for LCMHC licensure
- Complete in 2.5 years
- Comprehensive core curriculum
- Preparing for CACREP accreditation
- Synchronous and asynchronous learning
- Internship opportunities included
Master's - Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling (Child and Adolescent Therapy)
Online Learning - Visit Website
Pfeiffer University's online Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling featuring a Child and Adolescent Therapy concentration provides targeted training for counselors specializing in youth mental health. This 2.5-year, 63-credit program eliminates GRE requirements and offers flexible learning formats. Students receive comprehensive training in clinical skills, multicultural counseling, and specialized child therapy techniques. The curriculum prepares graduates for licensure exams while developing deep understanding of mental health interventions for young populations. Synchronous and asynchronous classes accommodate working professionals seeking specialized pediatric counseling expertise.
- Online format
- 2.5 years completion
- 63 credit hours
- No GRE required
- Child and Adolescent Therapy focus
- Synchronous and asynchronous classes
- Affordable tuition
- Prepares for licensure exams
- Multicultural counseling included
- Clinical skills development
Master's - Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling (Human Sexuality & Contextual Sex Therapy)
Online Learning - Visit Website
Pfeiffer University's online Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling with Human Sexuality & Contextual Sex Therapy concentration delivers specialized counseling education. This 63-credit program accommodates working professionals through flexible learning modalities, requiring no GRE for admission. Students receive advanced training in clinical skills, multicultural counseling, and sexuality-related therapeutic approaches. The curriculum prepares graduates to support individuals and couples navigating complex sexual health and mental wellness challenges. Synchronous and asynchronous classes ensure accessibility, while comprehensive coursework positions students for successful licensure and meaningful professional practice.
- Online program format.
- 63 credit hours.
- No GRE required.
- Affordable tuition.
- Focus on human sexuality.
- Prepares for licensure.
- Synchronous and asynchronous learning.
- Specialized training in counseling.
- Multicultural counseling focus.
- Ideal for working professionals.
How to Find a Counseling Program in North Carolina
Many things go into finding a good counseling education program in North Carolina. There are a variety of counseling programs in North Carolina for students to consider when choosing a counseling program that meets their educational and professional career path.
Counseling Degree Pathways in North Carolina
Counseling degree pathways allow students to start their North Carolina counseling education and continue their education if they wish to complete an advanced counseling program. Students sometimes complete a counseling certificate program either at the undergraduate or graduate level.
- Associate's Degree – Two-year degree for those who would like an introduction to counseling or for those who are aiming to become counselors with light educational requirements
- Bachelor's Degree – Four-year degree for a basic level of counseling education
- Master's Degree – The most common degree for a counselor. Requires one to two years of study, and a bachelor’s degree.
- Graduate Certificate – Not a degree, but helpful in taking a path to a specialization. Usually only requires a year or less of study.
- Doctorate Degree – Three to six years of study is required for this degree, as well as a bachelor’s degree or master’s degree.
Choose a Counseling Specialty
North Carolina counseling degree programs may offer counseling specialty options. Students who choose a counseling specialty have the opportunity to focus their counseling program more on their needs or goals.
The North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University offer master's degree programs in counseling. Students choose the Master of Science in mental health counseling – clinical, the Master of Science in mental health counseling – rehabilitation, or the Master of Science in school counseling.
Lenoir-Rhyne University offers students the option of choosing the Master of Arts in counseling – school counseling or the Master of Arts in counseling – clinical mental health counseling.
Check School Accreditation
Accreditation is crucial to a successful career as a counselor. If your program lacks the North Carolina requirements, you will not be able to practice most types of counseling. You can find out if your school is accredited through an organization such as CACREP (the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Programs). Search their database of accredited schools online.
Online vs. Traditional Counseling Programs in North Carolina
Deciding whether to get your counseling education online or in person is as simple as deciding if you require in-person resources such as a school library or peer study groups, or if you live far from the campus and don’t want to relocate.
North Carolina Central University offers an online Master of Arts in clinical mental health counseling degree. The program prepares students to apply for an application as a licensed professional counselor in North Carolina. Online counseling programs are typically the same as on-campus counseling programs.
Students who wish to complete the North Carolina State University Ph.D. in an educational leadership program with a counseling and counselor education concentration do not have an online option. Students complete all program requirements on campus.
Becoming Licensed as a Counselor in North Carolina
It is important that students meet the requirements to become licensed as a counselor in the state if they want to practice in North Carolina. The North Carolina Board of Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselors indicates that "you must have an active license to practice counseling in the state of North Carolina."
The board provides information on applying for licensure for several mental health counseling programs in the state.
The North Carolina General Assembly recently recognized the North Carolina Addictions Specialist Professional Practice Board. The board provides credentialing information for the certified alcohol and drug counselor and provides other credentialing information.
2026 Affordable Master's in Counseling Program Options
| School Name | Highlights | Annual Estimated Tuition & Fees |
|---|---|---|
| Montreat College |
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| Pfeiffer University |
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| North Carolina State University at Raleigh |
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List of Counseling Degree Programs in North Carolina
Are you searching for a counseling degree program in North Carolina? 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.