2025 Best Master's in Counseling Programs in South Carolina

Looking for the best master's in counseling programs in South Carolina? counselingpsychology.org has ranked the top options to help you decide. These programs prepare students for rewarding careers in mental health. Online programs are key, offering flexibility for those balancing work or family. Distance learning options make it easier to earn your degree from anywhere. Find out which schools made the list and start your journey today. Learn more about how we rank programs at https://counselingpsychology.org/rankings-methodology/.

#1

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 of South Carolina offers a Master of Education in Counselor Education with a concentration in Elementary School Counseling, designed for aspiring counselors in K-8 settings. This 60-credit online program includes a 600-hour internship and prepares students for state licensure. Admission requires a 3.0 undergraduate GPA, a personal statement, and official transcripts. The curriculum emphasizes human development, counseling theories, and multicultural education, preparing graduates to support diverse student populations. Additionally, the program provides pathways to Licensed Professional Counselor or National Certified Counselor certifications. No entrance exam is required for this online program.

  • 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

Focusing on Secondary School Counseling, The Citadel Military College of South Carolina's Master of Education in Counselor Education is a 60-credit online program aimed at professionals seeking to impact students' academic, personal, and career development. The program includes a 600-hour internship and prepares graduates for state licensure. Applicants must have a 3.0 undergraduate GPA and submit a personal statement. The curriculum fosters advanced counseling skills and multicultural competence, with no entrance exam required. This online program is ideal for those committed to supporting diverse student populations in secondary education settings.

  • Fully online program
  • 60 credit hours total
  • 600-hour school internship
  • State licensure preparation
  • Specialization in Secondary Counseling
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#2

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 offers an online Postgraduate Certificate in Marriage & Family Counseling, designed for professionals seeking to enhance their therapeutic skills. This program focuses on advanced training for counseling couples, families, children, and adolescents, with an emphasis on biblical perspectives. It prepares students for state licensing as therapist interns, providing a deep understanding of family dynamics and mental health. The program is military-friendly and does not require an entrance exam, making it accessible to a wide range of students.

  • 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

The Master of Arts in Clinical Counseling at Columbia International University is a hybrid program that combines online coursework with two brief campus residencies. This 60-credit program integrates a biblical worldview with professional counseling skills, preparing students for licensure in South Carolina. It requires a minimum GPA of 3.0 and includes 700 clinical hours. The program is military-friendly and does not specify an entrance exam requirement, offering flexibility for students to balance their studies with personal commitments.

  • 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 ˅
#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 Counseling and Development with a concentration in School Counseling is a hybrid program designed to prepare students for impactful careers in educational settings. This CACREP-accredited program requires a 3.0 undergraduate GPA and professional recommendations but does not necessitate an entrance exam. Spanning two years and 60 credits, it emphasizes cultural competence, ethical practice, and hands-on experience through on-site clinics. Graduates are equipped to support P-12 students' academic, career, and personal development, with the program ensuring state certification compatibility across all 50 states. The hybrid format combines campus-based learning with flexibility, making it a military-friendly option without program prerequisites.

  • 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's D. Clifton Wood Master of Science in Counseling Psychology, with a concentration in Mental Health, is an online program that blends faith-based principles with professional counseling education. This 60-credit program is designed to prepare students for the National Counselor Exam, focusing on mental health theories, ethical practices, and evidence-based techniques. The curriculum is tailored for those seeking to enhance their skills in supporting psychological well-being, offering a flexible online format complemented by internship experiences. With a requirement of a 3.0 GPA for admission and no mention of an entrance exam, the program emphasizes whole-person development through a faith-integrated approach, personalized coaching, and practical training.

  • 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 offers an online Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, blending rigorous academic training with a Christian perspective. This 60-credit, two-year program is designed for those seeking licensure, featuring coursework in counseling theories, techniques, and specialized areas such as grief and couples counseling. Practical experience is a cornerstone, with required practicum and internships to hone skills in diagnosis, treatment, and ethical practice. Ideal for working professionals, the program provides flexibility without sacrificing the depth of training or community engagement. Graduates are prepared for diverse roles in clinical practices, church ministries, and hospitals. While the program is pursuing CACREP accreditation, it does not require an entrance exam, making it accessible to a broad range of applicants.

  • 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
*The data used in this analysis come from NCES's IPEDS 2023 survey.

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.

2025 Affordable Master's in Counseling Program Options

Finding an affordable Master's in Counseling in South Carolina for 2025 is key for students. The right program balances cost and quality. Our table lists options with their tuition range and highlights. It helps you compare low-cost and cost-effective choices. This makes picking the best fit easier. South Carolina offers several options in larger cities and regions. Affordable programs mean less debt after graduation. This is vital for future counselors focusing on helping others, not finances.

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)
Winthrop University
  • 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
  • $13,000 - $19,500 (Graduate In-State)
  • $24,600 - $36,900 (Graduate Non-Resident)
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)
*Citation: National Center for Education Statistics. (2023). IPEDS Data Center. https://nces.ed.gov/ipeds/

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-Columbia

  • 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
*Data retrieved from: National Center for Education Statistics, IPEDS 2023.

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