2026 Best Master's in Counseling Programs in South Carolina

Counseling Psychology.org presents its comprehensive guide to the best Master's in Counseling Programs in South Carolina, highlighting top-tier educational opportunities for aspiring mental health professionals. Our expert team has carefully evaluated programs that offer robust curriculum, experienced faculty, and strong clinical training experiences. With the growing demand for accessible education, online and distance learning options have become increasingly important, allowing students to balance professional and academic commitments. South Carolina's counseling programs stand out for their innovative approaches to mental health education, providing students with cutting-edge training in therapeutic techniques and professional development. Whether you're seeking a traditional campus experience or a flexible virtual learning environment, these programs offer exceptional pathways to a rewarding counseling career. Learn more about our ranking methodology.
#1

Columbia International University

Columbia, SC - Private 4-year - ciu.edu

Master's - Postgraduate Certificate in Marriage & Family Counseling

Online Learning - Visit Website

Columbia International University's Postgraduate Certificate in Marriage & Family Counseling offers a specialized training pathway for professionals seeking advanced therapeutic skills. The program uniquely integrates biblical perspectives with practical counseling techniques, preparing students for state licensing as therapist interns. Designed for online learners, the certificate equips students to work effectively with couples, families, children, and adolescents. Emphasizing comprehensive family dynamics and mental health understanding, students develop nuanced intervention strategies across diverse counseling environments. The program stands out for its holistic approach, blending professional competence with spiritual development and practical clinical skills.

  • Postgraduate Certificate Available
  • Advanced Counseling Training
  • State Licensing Preparation
  • Focuses on Families/Couples
  • Biblical Counseling Perspective

Master's - Master of Arts in Clinical Counseling

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Columbia International University's Master of Arts in Clinical Counseling provides a comprehensive 60-credit program combining professional mental health training with a distinctive biblical worldview. Available through a flexible hybrid format, students can complete coursework online and through brief campus residencies. The program meets South Carolina licensure requirements and prepares compassionate counseling professionals through an integrated approach. Students accumulate 700 clinical hours, maintain a minimum 3.0 GPA, and have up to seven years to complete the degree. With a strong emphasis on personal growth and therapeutic relationship development, this program offers a unique educational pathway for aspiring clinical counselors.

  • 60 credit hours total program
  • Hybrid residential/online delivery
  • Biblical worldview integration
  • Professional counseling licensure track
  • Minimum 3.0 GPA required
  • 700 total clinical hours
  • South Carolina LPC preparation
  • 7-year maximum completion time
Show 1 More Programs ˅
#2

Citadel Military College of South Carolina

Charleston, SC - Public 4-Year - citadel.edu

Master's - Master of Education in Counselor Education

Concentration: Elementary School Counseling - Online Learning - Visit Website

The Citadel Military College's online Master of Education in Counselor Education provides a specialized Elementary School Counseling track designed for professionals seeking K-8 counseling roles. This comprehensive 60-credit program emphasizes multicultural education and comprehensive student support strategies. Requiring a 600-hour internship, the curriculum prepares graduates for state licensure and potential Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) or National Certified Counselor (NCC) certifications. With a 3.0 GPA admission requirement, the program focuses on developing skilled counselors equipped to address diverse student developmental needs through advanced counseling theories and practical training.

  • Online program flexibility.
  • 60 credit hours required.
  • 600-hour internship included.
  • 3.0 GPA admission requirement.
  • Prepares for state licensure.
  • Focus on elementary counseling.
  • Multicultural education emphasis.
  • Pathway to LPC certification.
  • Pathway to NCC certification.
  • Comprehensive counseling curriculum.

Master's - Master of Education in Counselor Education

Concentration: Secondary School Counseling - Online Learning - Visit Website

The Citadel's online Master of Education in Counselor Education offers a targeted Secondary School Counseling concentration for aspiring middle and high school counseling professionals. This rigorous 60-credit program emphasizes comprehensive student development across academic, personal, and career domains. Through an extensive 600-hour internship, students gain practical experience and multicultural competencies essential for modern educational counseling. The curriculum prepares graduates for state licensure, focusing on advanced counseling techniques and strategies to support adolescent student populations. Admission requires a 3.0 undergraduate GPA and demonstrates a commitment to inclusive, supportive educational environments.

  • Fully online program
  • 60 credit hours total
  • 600-hour school internship
  • State licensure preparation
  • Specialization in Secondary Counseling
Show 1 More Programs ˅
#3

Winthrop University

Rock Hill, SC - Public 4-Year - winthrop.edu

Master's - Master of Education in Counseling and Development

Concentration: School Counseling - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Winthrop University's Master of Education in School Counseling offers a robust two-year program designed to cultivate highly skilled educational counseling professionals. Accredited by CACREP, this 60-credit hybrid program emphasizes cultural competence and ethical practice in P-12 educational settings. Students develop comprehensive skills in academic, career, and personal student development through intensive coursework and practical on-site clinic experiences. The program uniquely supports state certification compatibility across 50 states and requires a minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA. Graduates are prepared to make transformative impacts in diverse educational environments, with opportunities for professional growth and meaningful student support.

  • CACREP Nationally Accredited
  • Two-year, 60-credit program
  • State certification in 50 states
  • On-site counseling clinics
  • 3.0 undergraduate GPA required
  • Campus-based learning format
  • No program prerequisites
  • Professional recommendations needed
#4

Southern Wesleyan University

Central, SC - Private 4-year - swu.edu

Master's - D. Clifton Wood Master of Science in Counseling Psychology

Concentration: Mental Health - Online Learning - Visit Website

Southern Wesleyan University delivers a robust online Master of Science in Counseling Psychology specializing in Mental Health, providing a comprehensive 60-credit program designed for aspiring mental health professionals. Through a faith-integrated curriculum, students develop advanced counseling skills, mastering contemporary mental health theories and evidence-based techniques. The program prepares graduates for the National Counselor Exam while offering flexible online learning, personalized academic coaching, and hands-on internship experiences. With a competitive $500 per credit hour rate and completion timeframe of 24-30 months, students benefit from a holistic approach to psychological training that emphasizes whole-person development and professional competency.

  • 60 total credit hours
  • Online + internship format
  • $500 per credit hour
  • 24-30 months completion
  • 3.0 GPA minimum requirement
  • Dedicated academic success coach
  • Eight core counseling exam prep courses
  • Faith-integrated curriculum
#5

Anderson University

Anderson, SC - Private 4-year - andersonuniversity.edu

Master's - Master of Science (M.S.) in Clinical Mental Health Counseling

Online Learning - Visit Website

Anderson University's online Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling provides comprehensive professional training rooted in a Christian counseling perspective. The 60-credit, two-year program prepares students for licensed counseling roles through evidence-based curriculum focusing on advanced counseling theories, specialized techniques in grief and couples counseling, and extensive practical experience. Designed for working professionals, the program offers flexible learning while emphasizing ethical practice and diverse clinical settings. Students complete mandatory practicum and internship experiences, gaining hands-on skills essential for professional counseling careers. The program is pursuing CACREP accreditation and requires a bachelor's degree for admission. Entrance exam requirements are not explicitly specified, making it accessible for diverse applicants seeking a rigorous mental health counseling education.

  • Online graduate program
  • 60 total credit hours
  • 2-year program duration
  • Pursuing CACREP accreditation
  • Bachelor's degree required
  • Christian counseling foundation
  • Practicum and internship included
  • Licensure preparation
  • Multiple career setting options
*IPEDS 2023, U.S. Department of Education, National Center for Education Statistics.

How to Find a Counseling Program in South Carolina

Finding a counseling program in South Carolina requires that students consider the many things that go into choosing a good counseling program. South Carolina students have a variety of counseling program options, including certificate programs and degree programs in counseling.

Counseling Degree Pathways in South Carolina

South Carolina offers counseling degree pathways for students who want to work in the counseling profession. Good programs that meet the educational requirements for licensure or certification as a counselor in South Carolina provide students with a counseling pathway that is likely to help students find the right program.

  • Associate's Degree – The minimum level of education that a counselor will achieve. It will require two years of education. While it will open you up to job positions, far more will be available to you at higher-level degrees.
  • Bachelor's Degree – Four years of study. It provides the basic level of education for a counselor.
  • Master's Degree – A master’s degree is oftentimes the degree that makes the most sense for an aspiring counselor, especially one that is to be licensed. It requires a bachelor’s degree plus two years of study.
  • Graduate Certificate – A graduate certificate is not a degree, but it will help you narrow down a specialty. It only requires one year or less of study.
  • Doctorate Degree – The highest level of education that a counselor can achieve. It requires either a bachelor’s degree or master’s degree and three to six years of additional study.

Choose a Counseling Specialty

A South Carolina counseling program often allows students to choose a counseling specialty. One example is the Master of Arts in Counseling at Webster University.

The program allows students to choose between the emphasis on clinical mental health counseling, the emphasis on community counseling, or the emphasis on couples, marriage, family, and child counseling.

Clemson University provides students with the opportunity to choose several counseling program options. The university offers a Master of Education – clinical mental health counseling specialization, Master of Education – school counseling specialization, or educational specialist in counselor education option.

Check School Accreditation

Typically, accreditation is provided by the Council for the Accreditation of Counseling or Related Educational Programs (CACREP) or the American Psychological Association (APA).

Check school accreditation to learn if a particular school or program has the required accreditation for counselor licensure or certification. South Carolina State University offers a master's degree in rehabilitation counseling. The school does not list accreditation information for the program. The university does provide information on taking exams.

The University of South Carolina provides accreditation information for all its counseling programs, including the counseling education Ph.D. program.

Online vs. Traditional Counseling Programs in South Carolina

Counseling programs in South Carolina are typically offered in a traditional on-campus setting.

Students who wish to complete a counseling program online in South Carolina should make sure that the program is offered online before enrolling and paying for tuition and fees.

Becoming Licensed as a Counselor in South Carolina

Students who want to become licensed as a counselor to practice in South Carolina should make sure that they complete all requirements for licensure or the credentialing process.

The South Carolina Board of Examiners for Licensure of Professional Counselors, Marriage and Family Therapists, Addiction Counselors, and Psycho-Education Specialists provides licensing services and renewals for counselors in the state.

2026 Affordable Master's in Counseling Program Options

Finding an affordable Master's in Counseling program in South Carolina can be crucial for aspiring mental health professionals. Students in cities like Charleston, Columbia, and Greenville have several low-cost options to pursue their graduate education. These programs offer high-quality training without placing an overwhelming financial burden on students. Exploring tuition-friendly master's degrees allows individuals to invest in their career development and gain specialized skills in counseling and mental health support. Prospective students can compare program highlights, consider financial aid opportunities, and select a path that aligns with their professional goals and budget constraints. The right educational investment can launch a meaningful career in counseling and mental health services.
School NameHighlightsAnnual Estimated Tuition & Fees
Southern Wesleyan University
  • 60 total credit hours
  • Online + internship format
  • $500 per credit hour
  • 24-30 months completion
  • 3.0 GPA minimum requirement
  • Dedicated academic success coach
  • Eight core counseling exam prep courses
  • Faith-integrated curriculum
  • $11,000 - $16,500 (Graduate)
Erskine College
  • 60 credit hours
  • Campus and online options
  • Full-time in 2 years
  • $550 per credit hour
  • 3.0 GPA required
  • Interview admission step
  • Biblical studies included
  • Clinical fieldwork required
  • $11,500 - $17,200 (Graduate)
Columbia International University
  • 48 credit hours.
  • Campus-based program.
  • Prepares for SC licensure.
  • 3.0 GPA required.
  • Includes practicum and internship.
  • Christian faith affirmed.
  • 10-year completion limit.
  • Transfer credit accepted.
  • $9,300 - $14,000 (Graduate)
*Original data: IPEDS 2023, NCES, U.S. Department of Education.

List of Counseling Degree Programs in South Carolina

Are you searching for a counseling degree program in South 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.

Jump to City:

Anderson, SC

Anderson University

  • Master's - Master of Science (M.S.) in Clinical Mental Health Counseling

    Online Learning - Website

    • Online graduate program
    • 60 total credit hours
    • 2-year program duration
    • Pursuing CACREP accreditation
    • Bachelor's degree required
    • Christian counseling foundation
    • Practicum and internship included
    • Licensure preparation

Central, SC

Southern Wesleyan University

  • Master's - D. Clifton Wood Master of Science in Counseling Psychology

    Concentration: Mental Health - Online Learning - Website

    • 60 total credit hours
    • Online + internship format
    • $500 per credit hour
    • 24-30 months completion
    • 3.0 GPA minimum requirement
    • Dedicated academic success coach
    • Eight core counseling exam prep courses
    • Faith-integrated curriculum

Charleston, SC

Citadel Military College of South Carolina

  • Master's - Master of Education in Counselor Education

    Concentration: Elementary School Counseling - Online Learning - Website

    • Online program flexibility.
    • 60 credit hours required.
    • 600-hour internship included.
    • 3.0 GPA admission requirement.
    • Prepares for state licensure.
    • Focus on elementary counseling.
    • Multicultural education emphasis.
    • Pathway to LPC certification.
  • Master's - Master of Education in Counselor Education

    Concentration: Secondary School Counseling - Online Learning - Website

    • Fully online program
    • 60 credit hours total
    • 600-hour school internship
    • State licensure preparation
    • Specialization in Secondary Counseling

Clemson, SC

Clemson University

  • Master's - Clinical Mental Health Counseling

    Campus Based - Website

    • 60-credit CACREP-accredited program
    • 700 hours clinical field experience
    • LPC credential preparation
    • No GRE required for admission
    • Flexible part-time or full-time options
  • Master's - Counselor Education, School Counseling Emphasis

    Campus Based - Website

    • CACREP-accredited master's program
    • Two specialization options
    • No GRE required
    • 700 field experience hours
    • Licensure preparation
    • Part-time and full-time options
    • Courses in Clemson and Greenville

Columbia, SC

Columbia International University

  • Master's - Addictions Counseling, MA

    Campus Based - Website

    • 48 credit hours.
    • Campus-based program.
    • Prepares for SC licensure.
    • 3.0 GPA required.
    • Includes practicum and internship.
    • Christian faith affirmed.
    • 10-year completion limit.
    • Transfer credit accepted.
  • Master's - Master of Arts in Clinical Counseling

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • 60 credit hours total program
    • Hybrid residential/online delivery
    • Biblical worldview integration
    • Professional counseling licensure track
    • Minimum 3.0 GPA required
    • 700 total clinical hours
    • South Carolina LPC preparation
    • 7-year maximum completion time
  • Doctorate - PhD in Counselor Education and Supervision

    Online Learning - Website

    • Online with residencies
    • 60 credit hours
    • $625 per credit hour
    • ABHE, SACSCOC accredited
    • For licensed counselors
    • Advanced training in teaching
    • Focus on research and leadership
    • Christ-centered scholarship

University of South Carolina

  • Graduate Certificate - Certificate of Graduate Study in Drug and Addiction Studies

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Hybrid learning format
    • Focus on vulnerable populations
    • Community partnerships
    • Advanced addiction knowledge
    • Career enhancement skills
    • Professional and ethical training
    • Policy advocacy focus
    • Clinical evaluation skills
  • Doctorate - Counselor Education, Ph.D.

    Campus Based - Website

    • 63 post-master's credit hours.
    • CACREP accredited program.
    • Focus on teaching, research, supervision.
    • Requires master's degree for admission.
    • Two years relevant experience needed.
    • Includes clinical practicum, internships.
    • Advanced counseling theories covered.
    • Emphasis on transcultural counseling.

Orangeburg, SC

South Carolina State University

  • Master's - Master of Education in Counselor Education

    Concentration: Elementary School Counseling - Campus Based - Website

    • CACREP-accredited counseling program
    • 60-63 credit hour degree
    • 700 internship hours required
    • Elementary school counseling focus
    • 14:1 student-faculty ratio
    • Initial SC state certification eligible
    • Evening and weekend classes
    • Professional organizations networking
  • Master's - Master of Education in Counselor Education

    Concentration: Secondary School Counseling - Campus Based - Website

    • CACREP-accredited counseling program
    • 60-63 credit hour degree
    • 600 internship hours
    • Evening and weekend classes
    • Secondary school counseling focus
    • Professional certification preparation
    • Career development opportunities
    • Small 14:1 student-faculty ratio
  • Graduate Certificate - Graduate Certificate in Addiction & Trauma

    Online Learning - Website

    • 18 semester credit hours
    • Fully online program
    • 8-week semester terms
    • Same tuition for all students
    • Targeted for working professionals
    • Evidence-based addiction education
    • Potential one-year completion

Rock Hill, SC

Winthrop University

  • Master's - Master of Education in Counseling and Development

    Concentration: School Counseling - Online & Campus Based - Website

    • CACREP Nationally Accredited
    • Two-year, 60-credit program
    • State certification in 50 states
    • On-site counseling clinics
    • 3.0 undergraduate GPA required
    • Campus-based learning format
    • No program prerequisites
    • Professional recommendations needed
*Official data: NCES IPEDS 2023 dataset. https://nces.ed.gov/ipeds/

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