Best Counseling Schools in South Dakota

2026 Best Master's in Counseling Programs in South Dakota

Counseling Psychology dot org has carefully evaluated and ranked the top Master's in Counseling Programs across South Dakota, focusing on academic excellence, program flexibility, and student outcomes. Our comprehensive analysis highlights institutions that offer robust training for aspiring mental health professionals, with a special emphasis on online and distance learning options that provide accessible education for working adults and students in rural areas. These programs prepare graduates to make meaningful contributions to mental health services in South Dakota, addressing critical community needs through comprehensive counseling training. Virtual learning platforms have expanded opportunities for students who might otherwise face geographical barriers to advanced education. These carefully curated rankings reflect our commitment to identifying programs that combine rigorous academic standards with innovative teaching approaches. Review our detailed ranking methodology.

#1

University of South Dakota

Vermillion, SD - Public 4-Year - usd.edu

Master's - Addiction Counseling and Prevention

Online Learning - Visit Website

The University of South Dakota's online Master's in Addiction Counseling and Prevention offers a comprehensive, flexible program targeting working professionals seeking advanced roles in substance abuse treatment. Spanning 33-45 credit hours, the curriculum provides in-depth training on substance use disorders, co-occurring conditions, and relapse prevention strategies. Students benefit from evidence-based practices, community partnership experiences, and preparation for South Dakota's highest addiction counseling credentials. The program emphasizes practical skills development, small class sizes, and national NASAC accreditation. Graduates can expect strong employment placement opportunities and a scientifically grounded approach to addiction counseling. Financial aid and assistantships are available for eligible students, enhancing accessibility and professional development.

• Online program flexibility.
• 33-45 credit hours.
• Prepares for state credentialing.
• Focus on co-occurring disorders.
• Science-based addiction education.
• Small class sizes.
• Over 200 faculty experience years.
• Internship opportunities available.
• High employment placement rate.
• Accredited by NASAC.

#2

Northern State University

Aberdeen, SD - Public 4-Year - northern.edu

Master's - Counseling (MSEd)

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

Northern State University's School Counseling master's program offers a robust CACREP-accredited pathway for professionals seeking K-12 educational counseling expertise. With a 60-credit hybrid curriculum, students benefit from flexible HyFlex learning formats that accommodate working professionals. The program emphasizes comprehensive student support strategies, preparing graduates for school guidance certification through intensive internship experiences. Synchronous and asynchronous course options enable students to balance academic pursuits with professional responsibilities, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of academic, personal, and career development techniques for school counseling environments.

• CACREP Accredited Program
• HyFlex Delivery Option
• 60 Credit Hours
• Two-Year Completion Time
• K-12 School Counseling Focus
• Internship Opportunities
• Synchronous and Asynchronous Classes

Master's - Master of Science in Counseling

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

Northern State University's Clinical Mental Health Counseling master's degree provides advanced training for aspiring mental health professionals. This 60-credit CACREP-accredited program delivers comprehensive training through a hybrid learning model, blending theoretical knowledge with practical application. Students gain sophisticated skills in addressing complex psychological challenges through structured internships and practicums. The curriculum emphasizes professional development, enabling graduates to effectively support diverse client populations. With experienced faculty and flexible learning formats, the program prepares counselors to navigate intricate mental health landscapes while maintaining a rigorous academic standard.

• CACREP Accredited Program
• HyFlex Delivery Format
• 60 Credit Hour Program
• Two-Year Completion Time
• Clinical Mental Health Focus
• Experienced Professional Faculty
• Internship and Practicum Opportunities
• Comprehensive Counseling Curriculum

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*IPEDS 2023 data, National Center for Education Statistics, U.S. Department of Education.

How to Find a Counseling Program in South Dakota

Counseling degree programs are available from colleges and universities throughout South Dakota. Which of the available programs is best for you depends on numerous factors. Consider the degree offered, cost of tuition, mode of instruction, and other details as you evaluate each specific program.

Counseling Degree Pathways in South Dakota

Counseling degrees are offered at both the undergraduate and graduate levels. An undergraduate program requires at least high school or a GED, while a graduate program requires that you first graduate college with a bachelor's degree. The various options are:

• Associate Degree: Undergraduate degree lasting two years. Can prepare you for entry-level counseling work.

• Bachelor's Degree: Undergraduate degree lasting four years. Can prepare you for entry- and mid-level work.

• Master’s Degree: Graduate degree lasting one to two years. Required to become a licensed professional counselor (LPC) in South Dakota.

• Doctorate Degree: Graduate degree lasting three to six years. Can be research (Ph.D.) or clinical (Psy.D.) in nature, and qualifies you for the highest positions.

• Graduate Certificate: Graduate certificate (not a degree) lasting six to twelve months. Can help you specialize after completing a bachelor's or master's.
  

Choose a Counseling Specialty

Counselors in South Dakota offer specialized and non-specialized services. Should you want to specialize, you can do so through a degree or certificate program. Some examples of specializations that are available include:

• Clinical mental health counseling

• Clinical rehabilitation counseling

• School counseling

• Career counseling

• Marriage, couple, and family counseling

Check School Accreditation

Only accredited counseling programs provide recognized degrees and certificates. A non-accredited school's program likely won't qualify for future academic work or licensure. Any program you consider should thus be accredited.

The three main accrediting bodies for counseling programs are the Council for the Accreditation of Counseling and Related Education Programs (CACREP), and the American Psychological Association (APA).

Both South Dakota State University and the University of South Dakota are accredited, as are other schools in the state.

Online vs. Traditional Counseling Programs in South Dakota

You can choose to enroll in an online or traditional counseling program or a hybrid one. Online programs tend to have lower tuition costs and more flexible class schedules, while traditional ones have in-person classes that afford plenty of discussions. Hybrid programs combine the advantages of each type.

Base your choice of online, traditional, or hybrid on your financial needs, other obligations, and desired experience.

Becoming a Licensed Counselor in South Dakota

To become a licensed professional counselor in South Dakota, you'll have to complete an accredited master's degree in counseling or something similar. The program must include a 100-hour practicum, and a 600-hour internship.

After graduating with a master's degree, you'll then have to complete 2,000 hours of supervised counseling work, pass a licensure exam, and pay a licensing fee.

Your license will then have to be renewed every odd-numbered year (e.g. 2023, 2025, 2027). Renewal requires paying a fee, and completing 40 hours of continuing education.

List of Counseling Degree Programs in South Dakota

Are you searching for a counseling degree program in South Dakota? 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.