2026 Best Master's in Counseling Programs in Oregon

Counseling Psychology.org presents its comprehensive guide to the best Master's in Counseling Programs in Oregon, highlighting top-tier academic opportunities for aspiring mental health professionals. With an increasing demand for qualified counselors, these programs offer robust training in therapeutic techniques, research methods, and clinical practice. Online and distance learning options have become increasingly important, providing flexibility for students balancing work and education. These virtual programs ensure that geographic constraints no longer limit access to high-quality counseling education. Oregon's counseling programs stand out for their innovative curriculum, experienced faculty, and strong connections to local mental health networks. Whether students seek traditional classroom experiences or remote learning pathways, these programs prepare graduates for impactful careers in counseling and psychological support. View our comprehensive ranking methodology.
#1

Western Seminary

Portland, OR - Private 4-year - westernseminary.edu

Master's - MA in Counseling

Concentration: Clinical Mental Health Counseling - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Western Seminary's MA in Counseling offers a distinctive Clinical Mental Health Counseling concentration that integrates Christian theological perspectives with professional counseling training. CACREP-accredited, this hybrid program provides students comprehensive preparation through 700 clinical experience hours. Graduates are equipped for diverse mental health settings, from private practices to agencies, with a remarkable 98% national exam pass rate. The program's flexible scheduling and three-year completion option accommodates working professionals, while maintaining rigorous academic standards. Students benefit from a holistic approach that emphasizes whole-person care and prepares them for licensure across multiple states.

  • CACREP Accredited Program
  • 68 Total Credits
  • 3-Year Completion Option
  • Hybrid Learning Model
  • 700 Clinical Experience Hours
  • Christian Theological Integration
  • 98% National Exam Pass Rate
  • Addiction Studies Certificate Available
  • Portland Campus Location
  • 3.0 GPA Admission Requirement

Master's - MA in Counseling

Concentration: Clinical Mental Health Counseling - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Western Seminary's MA in Counseling concentration in Clinical Mental Health Counseling provides a robust educational pathway blending professional training with biblical insights. The CACREP-accredited hybrid program combines online and on-campus learning in Portland, offering students early clinical exposure through 700 hands-on experience hours. Curriculum encompasses critical areas like psychopathology, multicultural counseling, and addiction studies. Designed for aspiring counselors seeking licensure, the program requires a bachelor's degree with a 3.0 GPA. Flexible three-year completion timeline and available financial aid make this an accessible option for emerging mental health professionals.

  • CACREP accredited
  • Hybrid program format
  • 700 clinical hours
  • 3 years to complete
  • Biblical and theological integration
  • Licensure preparation
  • Hands-on training early
  • Financial aid available
  • 3.0 GPA requirement
  • Portland campus location

Master's - MA in Counseling

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Western Seminary's MA in Counseling program delivers comprehensive mental health training through a unique hybrid model integrating biblical studies and clinical expertise. CACREP-accredited, the program offers students flexibility with online and in-person coursework in Portland, OR. Students complete 700 clinical hours, gaining practical experience while developing a compassionate, Christian-informed counseling approach. Designed for working professionals, the three-year program accommodates diverse schedules. Admission requires a bachelor's degree and 3.0 GPA, ensuring a strong academic foundation for future counseling practitioners across various mental health settings.

  • CACREP accredited
  • Hybrid program format
  • 700 clinical hours
  • Christian worldview integration
  • 3-year completion time
  • Portland, OR location
  • Bachelor's degree required
  • 3.0 GPA for admission
  • Biblical studies included
  • Clinical mental health focus
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#2

Oregon Institute of Technology

Klamath Falls, OR - Public 4-Year - oit.edu

Master's - Marriage and Family Therapy M.S.

Concentration: Medical Family Therapy, Substance Use Disorder Treatment, Integrated Behavioral Healthcare - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Oregon Tech's Marriage and Family Therapy M.S. offers a comprehensive hybrid program focusing on medical family therapy, substance use disorder treatment, and integrated behavioral healthcare. The curriculum uniquely prepares therapists for rural mental health settings, emphasizing multicultural competence and trauma-informed care. Students develop advanced clinical skills through specialized training in complex family dynamics, ethical practice, and culturally sensitive interventions. The program's innovative approach integrates medical perspectives with systemic therapy techniques, positioning graduates to address diverse mental health challenges effectively across community settings.

  • Multicultural mental health focus
  • Rural healthcare specialization
  • Trauma-informed training
  • Medical Family Therapy concentration
  • Substance use disorder expertise
  • Ethical practice emphasis
  • Integrated behavioral healthcare

Master's - Marriage and Family Therapy M.S.

Concentration: Substance Use Disorder Treatment - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Oregon Tech's Marriage and Family Therapy M.S. with a Substance Use Disorder Treatment concentration provides specialized hybrid training for mental health professionals. The program delivers comprehensive clinical preparation through an innovative curriculum emphasizing rural healthcare, multicultural competence, and integrated behavioral health strategies. Students gain advanced expertise in substance abuse treatment, trauma-informed care, and systemic therapy approaches. Graduates emerge as versatile practitioners equipped with cultural sensitivity, ethical practice skills, and practical interventions tailored to diverse community mental health needs.

  • Master's in Marriage & Family Therapy
  • Focuses on rural mental health
  • Multicultural therapy training
  • Trauma-informed care emphasis
  • Integrated behavioral healthcare
  • Medical Family Therapy practices
  • Substance use disorder treatment
  • Culturally responsive approach
  • Collaboration with local organizations

Master's - Marriage and Family Therapy M.S.

Concentration: Integrated Behavioral Healthcare - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Oregon Tech's Marriage and Family Therapy M.S. in Integrated Behavioral Healthcare offers a transformative hybrid program designed to cultivate advanced therapeutic skills. Students receive specialized training in rural mental health, medical family therapy, and comprehensive behavioral health integration. The curriculum emphasizes multicultural perspectives, trauma-informed methodologies, and ethical practice standards. Through collaborative learning experiences and culturally responsive approaches, graduates develop sophisticated clinical competencies enabling them to address complex mental health challenges across diverse community settings with professional excellence and compassionate intervention.

  • Multicultural mental health focus
  • Rural healthcare specialization
  • Trauma-informed training
  • Medical Family Therapy integration
  • Strong local service collaboration
  • Culturally responsive curriculum
  • Ethical practice emphasis
  • Substance use disorder expertise
Show 2 More Programs ˅
#3

George Fox University

Newberg, OR - Private 4-year - georgefox.edu

Master's - Marriage, Couple and Family Counseling

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

George Fox University offers a transformative Master's in Marriage, Couple and Family Counseling that uniquely blends professional training with spiritual integration. This hybrid program prepares students for dual licensure as LPC and LMFT through a comprehensive 64-credit curriculum. Students gain advanced therapeutic skills via hands-on clinical internships, experiencing both online and in-person learning formats. The program's CACREP accreditation ensures high-quality education with a 700-hour clinical component. Emphasizing systemic perspectives and cultural competence, graduates benefit from promising employment prospects with a projected 16% job growth. Tailored for aspiring counselors seeking flexible, spiritually-informed training, the program offers day, evening, and weekend class options.

  • 2-4 year program length
  • Dual licensure (LPC/LMFT)
  • 64 semester credit hours
  • Online and in-person tracks
  • CACREP accredited
  • 700-hour clinical internship
  • $51,328 total tuition
  • Day, evening, weekend classes
  • Spiritual integration approach
  • 16% job growth projection

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

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

George Fox University's Clinical Mental Health Counseling Master's program delivers a comprehensive, flexible pathway to professional counseling excellence. This CACREP-accredited hybrid program enables students to complete their degree in 2-4 years through adaptable online and in-person tracks. Focused on developing culturally competent mental health professionals, the curriculum prepares students for the Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) exam. With a projected 19% field growth by 2033, students receive rigorous training in advanced counseling techniques, trauma response, and play therapy. The program integrates spiritual perspectives and offers specialized learning opportunities, making it an ideal choice for those committed to transformative mental health practice.

  • CACREP Accredited Program
  • 2-4 Year Completion Options
  • Online and In-Person Tracks
  • $826 Per Semester Credit Hour
  • Prepares for LPC Licensure
  • Flexible Day/Evening Courses
  • Systemic Counseling Perspective
  • Spiritual Integration Approach
  • Play Therapy Opportunities
  • Trauma Response Specialization
Show 1 More Programs ˅
#4

Oregon State University

Corvallis, OR - Public 4-Year - oregonstate.edu

Master's - Master of Counseling in School Counseling

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Oregon State University's School Counseling Master's program offers a transformative hybrid learning experience tailored for education professionals. CACREP-accredited and designed for working counselors, this three-year part-time degree integrates online coursework with bimonthly campus sessions. Students develop advanced counseling competencies focusing on diversity, social justice, and student support strategies. The program enables participants to maintain employment while pursuing national counselor certification, with a unique collaborative cohort model. Graduates emerge equipped to address complex educational challenges and provide comprehensive support across diverse student populations, leveraging flexible learning modalities.

  • CACREP-accredited program
  • Hybrid online/in-person format
  • Part-time, 3-year duration
  • Work while studying
  • Diversity and social justice focus
  • National counselor certification eligible
  • No full-time enrollment option
  • Twice-quarterly campus meetings
  • Collaborative cohort learning

Master's - Master of Counseling in Clinical Mental Health

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Oregon State University's Clinical Mental Health Counseling Master's program provides a rigorous hybrid pathway for aspiring licensed counselors. This CACREP-accredited degree meets multi-state licensure requirements through a flexible, part-time curriculum emphasizing diversity and social justice. Students complete coursework online while attending bimonthly in-person sessions in Corvallis, allowing continued professional employment. The three-year program features a low 1:12 faculty-student ratio, ensuring personalized academic guidance. Designed for working professionals, the program prepares graduates to deliver comprehensive mental health services with advanced therapeutic skills and a nuanced understanding of clinical intervention strategies.

  • Hybrid online/face-to-face format
  • CACREP-accredited program
  • 3-year part-time completion
  • Work while studying
  • Licensure preparation
  • Diversity and social justice focus
  • 1:12 faculty-student ratio
  • No full-time option available
Show 1 More Programs ˅
#5

Bushnell University

Eugene, OR - Private 4-year - bushnell.edu

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

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Bushnell University's Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling offers a robust hybrid program designed to transform aspiring counselors into skilled professionals. The 60-credit curriculum, accredited by CACREP, blends in-person and online learning over 28 months, featuring an innovative onsite counseling clinic for practical experience. Students benefit from a multicultural counseling approach, emphasizing diversity, ethical practice, and professional development. With an impressive 81-90% licensure exam pass rate, the program requires a 3.0 undergraduate GPA and costs $830 per credit. The Christian-affiliated university provides comprehensive professional supervision and prepares students for licensure as professional counselors through a rigorous, evidence-based educational model.

  • 60-credit hybrid program
  • CACREP accredited program
  • 28-month completion time
  • 81-90% licensure exam pass rate
  • Onsite counseling clinic experience
  • Licensure preparation focused
  • Multicultural counseling emphasis
  • $830 per credit tuition
  • 3.0 GPA admission requirement
  • Professional supervision included
*Source: National Center for Education Statistics, IPEDS 2023 survey data.

How to Find a Counseling Program in Oregon

There is more to finding a good counseling program in Oregon than simply choosing any college or university that offers a counseling program. A good Oregon counseling program provides students with the knowledge and skills that they need to become competent counselors. Many things, including counseling specialties and accreditation, are some considerations for choosing an Oregon counseling program.

Counseling Degree Pathways in Oregon

Students have the opportunity to choose a variety of counseling degree pathways from among the Oregon counseling programs.

  • Associate's Degree – This is a two-year degree and provides the minimum education for some entry-level counseling jobs.
  • Bachelor's Degree – This is a four-year degree and provides a basic level of education for a counselor.
  • Master's Degree – The most common degree amongst counselors. It requires a bachelor’s degree and an additional two years of study.
  • Graduate Certificate – A graduate certificate is not a degree, but it is helpful in providing a better understanding of a counseling specialty. It can be achieved in less than a year.
  • Doctorate Degree – The highest level of education for a counselor. It requires either a bachelor’s degree or a master’s degree and an additional three to six years of study.

Choose a Counseling Specialty

Many students start their counseling education journey having already chosen a counseling specialty. Some students choose to explore available counseling specialties when they consider a particular Oregon counseling program.

The counseling psychology program at the University of Oregon offers a Spanish-language specialization.

George Fox University provides students with the opportunity to choose three specializations in the School Counselor program. Choose the master's degree in school counseling track I, the master's degree in school counseling track II, or the certificate in school counseling, which is a licensure-only program.

Check School Accreditation

It is important to check school counseling program accreditation before enrolling in a program. Schools in Oregon that offer counseling programs often provide accreditation information on the counseling program page. Usually, accreditation is provided either by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling or Related Educational Programs (CACREP) or the American Psychological Association (APA).

Oregon State University provides accreditation information that is easy to locate on the page. The Western Seminary Counselor page also displays easily identifiable accreditation information on its page that lists counselor programs in Oregon.

Online vs. Traditional Counseling Programs in Oregon

Most counseling programs in Oregon are offered in the traditional format. Students who want to pursue a counseling program in an online format do have options.

Oregon State University offers a Ph.D. in Counseling in a hybrid format. Students complete some degree requirements in class, and some requirements online.

Becoming Licensed As a Counselor in Oregon

Becoming licensed in Oregon is required for students who want a counseling career. It is the student’s responsibility to make sure that they complete the licensure and credentialing requirements for their Oregon counseling degree program.

The Board of Licensed Professional Counselors and Therapists regulates the counselors in Oregon.

2026 Affordable Master's in Counseling Program Options

Finding an affordable master's degree in counseling can be a game-changer for professionals seeking to advance their careers in Oregon. Students across Portland, Eugene, and Salem are looking for programs that balance quality education with reasonable tuition costs. These programs offer aspiring counselors the opportunity to gain specialized skills without overwhelming financial burden. By exploring low-cost options, students can invest in their professional development and future career potential. The following table highlights several master's programs in counseling across Oregon, showcasing different program strengths, unique features, and price ranges that make advanced education more accessible. Prospective students will find valuable insights into educational opportunities that support their academic and professional goals.
School NameHighlightsAnnual Estimated Tuition & Fees
Corban University
  • CACREP-accredited program.
  • Hybrid learning model.
  • 60 credits in two years.
  • Christian perspective integrated.
  • Prepares for Oregon licensure.
  • Evening and online classes.
  • Scholarships available.
  • Diverse practicums and internships.
  • $7,600 - $11,400 (Graduate)
George Fox University
  • CACREP Accredited Program
  • 2-4 Year Completion Options
  • Online and In-Person Tracks
  • $826 Per Semester Credit Hour
  • Prepares for LPC Licensure
  • Flexible Day/Evening Courses
  • Systemic Counseling Perspective
  • Spiritual Integration Approach
  • $13,000 - $19,400 (Graduate)
Bushnell University
  • 60-credit hybrid program
  • CACREP accredited program
  • 28-month completion time
  • 81-90% licensure exam pass rate
  • Onsite counseling clinic experience
  • Licensure preparation focused
  • Multicultural counseling emphasis
  • $830 per credit tuition
  • $14,000 - $21,000 (Graduate)
*Data from: Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS), 2023.

List of Counseling Degree Programs in Oregon

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

Ashland, OR

Southern Oregon University

  • Master's - Master in Clinical Mental Health Counseling

    Campus Based - Website

    • CACREP National Accreditation
    • Licensed Professional Counselor Preparation
    • Western Regional Graduate Program
    • Out-of-State Tuition Assistance
    • Diversity and Academic Excellence Scholarships

Corvallis, OR

Oregon State University

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

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Hybrid online/face-to-face format
    • CACREP-accredited program
    • 3-year part-time completion
    • Work while studying
    • Licensure preparation
    • Diversity and social justice focus
    • 1:12 faculty-student ratio
    • No full-time option available
  • Master's - Master of Counseling in School Counseling

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • CACREP-accredited program
    • Hybrid online/in-person format
    • Part-time, 3-year duration
    • Work while studying
    • Diversity and social justice focus
    • National counselor certification eligible
    • No full-time enrollment option
    • Twice-quarterly campus meetings
  • Doctorate - Doctor of Philosophy in Counseling

    Concentration: Counselor Education - Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Hybrid online/face-to-face format.
    • CACREP-accredited program.
    • Part-time, designed for working professionals.
    • Focus on antiracism and social justice.
    • Requires Master's in Counseling or related.
    • 3.0 GPA minimum for admission.
    • Cohort-based learning model.
    • Faculty-student mentoring relationships.

Eugene, OR

Bushnell University

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

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • 60-credit hybrid program
    • CACREP accredited program
    • 28-month completion time
    • 81-90% licensure exam pass rate
    • Onsite counseling clinic experience
    • Licensure preparation focused
    • Multicultural counseling emphasis
    • $830 per credit tuition
  • Master's - Master of Arts in School Counseling

    Campus Based - Website

    • 48-57 total program credits
    • Two specialized program tracks
    • 600-hour supervised internship
    • Evening class format
    • TSPC accredited program
    • $755 per credit cost
    • Two-year completion time
    • Christian-oriented approach
  • Graduate Certificate - Certificate in School Counseling

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Hybrid evening and online format
    • 33 total credit program
    • 22-month completion time
    • Practitioners as instructors
    • TSPC accredited program
    • 600 hours internship experience
    • Requires existing graduate degree
    • Preliminary PK-12 Counseling License

La Grande, OR

Eastern Oregon University

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

    Online Learning - Website

    • 100% Online Coursework
    • No GRE Required
    • 90 Quarter Credits Total
    • $537 Per Credit
    • Two-Year Program Option
    • No In-Person Residency
    • Three Clinical Experience Terms
    • Expert Faculty Mentorship

Newberg, OR

George Fox University

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

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • CACREP Accredited Program
    • 2-4 Year Completion Options
    • Online and In-Person Tracks
    • $826 Per Semester Credit Hour
    • Prepares for LPC Licensure
    • Flexible Day/Evening Courses
    • Systemic Counseling Perspective
    • Spiritual Integration Approach
  • Graduate Certificate - Master's Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • CACREP accredited.
    • Flexible online/in-person.
    • 2-4 years completion.
    • 60 credit hours.
    • $826 per credit.
    • Prepares for LPC licensure.
    • Spiritual integration focus.
    • Diverse clinical settings.

Portland, OR

Lewis & Clark College

  • Master's - Master of Arts in Professional Mental Health Counseling—Specialization in Addictions

    Concentration: Addictions - Campus Based - Website

    • CACREP-accredited counseling program
    • Specialization in Addictions treatment
    • Minimum 62 semester hours required
    • Practicum and internship included
    • Eligible for professional counselor licensure
  • Master's - Master of Education in School Counseling

    Campus Based - Website

    • 45 semester hours required.
    • Full-time or part-time study.
    • 21-24 months program length.
    • Campus-based program.
    • Focus on K-12 school counseling.
    • Emphasizes social justice.
    • Includes school placements.
    • Advisors support students.

Portland State University

  • Master's - Counseling: Clinical Mental Health

    Campus Based - Website

    • Campus-based program.
    • Focuses on practical training.
    • Prepares for diverse settings.
    • Skills for mental health care.
    • Comprehensive curriculum.
  • Master's - School Counseling

    Campus Based - Website

    • 90 credit master's degree.
    • On-campus delivery method.
    • Fall start term.
    • Prepares for P-12 school counseling.
    • Focus on social justice and equity.
    • Cultural competence emphasis.
    • Transformative field experiences.
    • Accredited by TSPC and CACREP.
  • Graduate Certificate - School Counseling Certificate

    Campus Based - Website

    • Campus-based program
    • Focus on Pre-K to 12th grade
    • Meets licensure requirements
    • For post-master's students
    • Blends theory and practice

University of Western States

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

    Online Learning - Website

    • 100% Online Degree
    • 90 Quarter Credits Total
    • MPCAC Accredited Program
    • Standardized Patient Program
    • Licensure Exam Preparation
    • 5 Terms Clinical Placement
    • $631 Per Credit Tuition
    • Spring and Fall Entry Terms

Western Seminary

  • Master's - MA in Counseling

    Concentration: Clinical Mental Health Counseling - Online & Campus Based - Website

    • CACREP Accredited Program
    • 68 Total Credits
    • 3-Year Completion Option
    • Hybrid Learning Model
    • 700 Clinical Experience Hours
    • Christian Theological Integration
    • 98% National Exam Pass Rate
    • Addiction Studies Certificate Available

Salem, OR

Corban University

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

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • CACREP-accredited program.
    • Hybrid learning model.
    • 60 credits in two years.
    • Christian perspective integrated.
    • Prepares for Oregon licensure.
    • Evening and online classes.
    • Scholarships available.
    • Diverse practicums and internships.
*Source: U.S. DOE National Center for Education Statistics, IPEDS 2023 collection.

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