Best Counseling Schools in Utah

2025 Best Master's in Counseling Programs in Utah

Looking for the best master's in counseling programs in Utah? counselingpsychology.org ranks top schools to help you decide. Online programs offer flexibility, making it easier to balance studies with life. They open doors for those who prefer distance learning or live far from campus. Find a program that fits your needs and start your journey in counseling today. Learn how we rank schools here.

#1

Utah Valley University

Orem, UT - Public 4-Year - uvu.edu

Master's - Master of Education in School Counseling

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Utah Valley University offers a Master of Education in School Counseling, a hybrid program blending online and in-person learning. This 51-credit program, spanning six semesters, is designed for those aiming to impact K-12 students' academic and personal growth. It prepares graduates for Utah licensure with a curriculum focused on counseling techniques, ethical standards, and practical internships. Notably, the program does not require the GRE for admission, has a competitive tuition rate of $441 per credit hour, and boasts a 100% licensure and employment rate among its graduates. Ideal for educators seeking to enhance student support services.

• 51 credit hours total program
• In-person and online options
• No GRE required
• $441 per credit hour
• Minimum 3.0 GPA needed
• Six-semester program design
• 600-hour internship included
• 100% licensure rate
• Professional counseling skills
• K-12 education focus

Master's - Master of Clinical Mental Health Counseling

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

The Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Utah Valley University is a hybrid program that prepares students for licensure in Utah. It emphasizes clinical skills, ethical practice, and serving diverse communities through courses in psychotherapy, human development, and group counseling. The program stands out for its focus on inclusion, practical experience, and preparing graduates for various mental health settings. With a curriculum designed to meet the needs of today's communities, it offers a comprehensive approach to mental health counseling without the need for an entrance exam, making it accessible to a wide range of students.

• Hybrid program format.
• Prepares for Utah licensure.
• Covers psychotherapy and ethics.
• Emphasizes clinical competence.
• Focus on diversity and inclusion.
• Hands-on practical application.
• Career opportunities in various settings.

Show 1 More Programs ˅

#2

Utah State University

Logan, UT - Public 4-Year - usu.edu

Master's - Master of Education in School Counseling

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Utah State University offers a Master of Education in School Counseling, a hybrid program designed for aspiring school counselors seeking to impact K-12 education. This nationally accredited program focuses on preparing students for licensure, emphasizing behavioral assessment, intervention strategies, and ethical practice. With a curriculum that includes individual and group counseling, career development, and college readiness, students gain comprehensive skills. The program blends online coursework with practical, hands-on practicum experiences in schools, catering to working professionals. Admission requirements include a 3.2 GPA, completion of a statistics course, and a compelling statement of professional intent. Notably, the program does not require an entrance exam, making it accessible to a broader range of applicants.

• Nationally accredited program
• Prepare for school counseling licensure
• Hybrid learning format
• Hands-on practicum experiences
• K-12 school counseling focus
• 3.2 GPA admission requirement
• Comprehensive counseling skills training

*Data sourced from: NCES IPEDS survey, 2023. https://nces.ed.gov/ipeds/

How to Find a Counseling Program in Utah

You'll find many counseling programs available through Utah's colleges and universities. As you evaluate the various program options, consider how each one's tuition, schedule, time frame, and curriculum would match your needs. No matter what your needs are, you'll likely find a few programs that are good matches.

Counseling Degree Pathways in Utah

The counseling degrees that are available include both undergraduate and graduate degrees. Depending on your credentials, time frame, and long-term goals, you might choose any of the following degrees:

• Associate Degree: An associate degree will give you quick entry into the counseling field, but you'll have limited job opportunities. The degree takes two years and requires high school.

• Bachelor's Degree: A bachelor's degree will give you more job opportunities and prepare you for a master's program. The degree takes four years and requires high school.

• Master's Degree: A master's degree will allow you to become a licensed counselor (LPC) after you meet some other requirements. The degree takes one to two years and requires a four-year bachelor's.

• Doctorate Degree: A doctorate degree will give you access to high-level research (if a Ph.D.) or clinical (if a Psy.D.) work. The degree takes three to six years and requires at least a bachelor's. Some more competitive programs require a master's.

• Graduate Certificate: A certificate will give you specialized training in a particular type of counseling. The program takes six months to one year and requires at least a bachelor's.

Choose a Counseling Specialty

Some counselors working in Utah provide general services, while others provide specialized services. Numerous different specializations are available. For instance, degree programs offer tracks in:

• Addiction counseling

• Clinical mental health counseling

• Clinical rehabilitation counseling

• School counseling

• Community counseling

If you know what type of counseling you'd eventually like to provide, a degree program track could help you start specializing.

Accreditation

Most Utah colleges and universities that offer counseling degrees are fully accredited, but you should confirm accreditation status with any school that you apply to. Accreditation means that a school's degree meets academic standards and that your degree will be accepted by other institutions.

The Council for the Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP) and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) both accredit master's programs that meet Utah's licensure requirements. Other degrees may be accredited by these groups, the American Psychological Association (APA).

Online vs. Traditional Counseling Programs in Utah

Whether you decide to attend an online or traditional counseling degree program is a personal choice. If you have other responsibilities and/or limited resources, you might prefer a more affordable and flexible online program. If you want to meet professors in person, you might prefer a traditional program.

Becoming a Licensed Counselor in Utah

Utah requires all licensed counselors (LPCs) to complete a master's program that's accredited by CACREP or CHEA. You also have to complete a four-semester practicum, 4,000 hours of post-graduation supervised counseling, and an exam.

LPCs must renew their licenses every two years. Renewing requires that you complete at least 40 CE hours.

List of Counseling Degree Programs in Utah

Are you searching for a counseling degree program in Utah? 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.