Best Counseling Schools in Utah

2026 Best Master's in Counseling Programs in Utah

Counseling Psychology.org presents its comprehensive ranking of the best Master's in Counseling Programs in Utah, offering prospective students a trusted guide to top-tier educational opportunities. Our expert team evaluates programs based on academic rigor, faculty expertise, student outcomes, and innovative curriculum design. Utah's counseling programs have gained significant recognition for their robust online and distance learning options, making advanced mental health education more accessible than ever. These virtual programs provide flexible pathways for working professionals and students seeking comprehensive counseling training without geographical constraints. Whether you're interested in clinical mental health counseling, school counseling, or marriage and family therapy, Utah's programs offer diverse specializations to match your career goals. Learn more about our ranking methodology.

#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's Master of Education in School Counseling offers a dynamic pathway for aspiring K-12 educational professionals. This hybrid program uniquely blends online and in-person learning across six semesters, providing comprehensive training in student support strategies. Notably, the program eliminates GRE requirements, making it accessible to motivated educators. Students complete a rigorous 51-credit curriculum that emphasizes assessment techniques, intervention methods, and ethical counseling standards. With an impressive 100% licensure and employment rate, graduates are strategically positioned to transform educational environments. The program's affordable $441 per credit hour tuition and mandatory 600-hour internship ensure practical, career-ready preparation in school counseling.

• 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

Utah Valley University's Master of Clinical Mental Health Counseling prepares students for impactful careers in psychological support services. This hybrid program offers a comprehensive approach to mental health treatment, integrating advanced psychotherapy techniques, ethical practice, and inclusive community engagement. Students explore diverse counseling methodologies, focusing on individual and group interventions across various clinical settings. The curriculum emphasizes practical application, ensuring graduates develop nuanced clinical competencies. By prioritizing diversity, cultural sensitivity, and hands-on training, the program equips professionals to address complex mental health challenges. Designed to meet Utah licensure requirements, this program provides a robust foundation for transformative counseling careers.

• 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.

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#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's Master of Education in School Counseling stands out as a comprehensive hybrid program preparing K-12 educational professionals. With national accreditation, the program offers rigorous training in behavioral assessment, intervention strategies, and ethical counseling standards. Students develop advanced skills in individual and group counseling techniques, emphasizing career development and college readiness. The flexible learning format integrates hands-on practicum experiences across diverse school environments. Prospective students must maintain a competitive 3.2 GPA and complete a prerequisite statistics course. The program uniquely positions graduates for school counseling licensure through its holistic, practice-oriented curriculum that bridges theoretical knowledge with practical application.

• 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

*Institutional data extracted from: IPEDS 2023, NCES.

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.