Best Doctorate in Counseling Programs
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A doctorate in counseling allows graduate students the chance to build extensive knowledge and clinical expertise to prepare for careers as clinical leaders, counseling researchers, or counseling educators.
A doctoral program is a logical next step for many working counselors with a master's degree. And while deciding to begin a doctoral program and potentially take on more debt deserves careful consideration, many students use this academic path to expand career options and increase earning potential. Prospective students also consider whether to enroll in an online or on-campus program. For many, the program cost and dedication are worthy investments.
Throughout their 2-4 year doctoral program, students gain expert knowledge and significant clinical experience. Additionally, degree seekers have the chance to tackle specialized coursework in areas like school counseling, substance abuse counseling, and mental health counseling.
Continue reading to learn more about doctorate in counseling programs, what these programs can do for you, and see which programs top our ranking.
Top Three Benefits of a Counseling Degree
Counseling Is a Growing Field
The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), projects that jobs for mental health counselors will grow by 23% between 2020 and 2030. Additionally, the BLS projects that marriage and family therapist jobs could see a 16% growth by 2030.
A Doctorate in Counseling Can Lead to Leadership Roles
Graduates with a doctorate in counseling have specialized knowledge and clinical skills that can help them secure managerial and leadership roles. Some of these positions include clinical counseling supervisors, directors of counseling, and clinical counseling directors.
Graduates Can Expect A Wide Selection of Career Options
Counseling doctorate graduates have access to various specialized areas, including mental health counseling, addiction counseling, school counseling, and marriage and family counseling. Additionally, some professionals secure jobs in academia as postsecondary instructors and researchers.
Popular Doctorate in Counseling Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
Best Accredited Doctorate in Counseling Programs
Public School Programs
| Accredited University | Grad Tuition | Program Information |
|---|---|---|
| Adams State University Alamosa, CO |
In State | $4,590 Out of State | $7,830 |
Accreditation | Higher Learning Commission Admission Rate | 99% |
| Auburn University Auburn, AL |
In State | $9,828 Out of State | $29,484 |
Accreditation | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges Admission Rate | 81% |
| Ball State University Muncie, IN |
In State | $8,850 Out of State | $21,954 |
Accreditation | Higher Learning Commission Admission Rate | 77% |
| Louisiana Tech University Ruston, LA |
In State | $6,592 Out of State | $13,333 |
Accreditation | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges Admission Rate | 64% |
| Oklahoma State University Stillwater, OK |
In State | $5,531 Out of State | $21,034 |
Accreditation | Higher Learning Commission Admission Rate | 70% |
| Pennsylvania State University (University Park) University Park, PA |
In State | $21,960 Out of State | $37,694 |
Accreditation | Middle States Commission on Higher Education Admission Rate | 76% |
| Radford University Radford, VA |
In State | $8,915 Out of State | $17,441 |
Accreditation | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges Admission Rate | 75% |
| SUNY at Albany Albany, NY |
In State | $11,310 Out of State | $23,100 |
Accreditation | Middle States Commission on Higher Education Admission Rate | 54% |
| Temple University Philadelphia, PA |
In State | $16,956 Out of State | $23,346 |
Accreditation | Middle States Commission on Higher Education Admission Rate | 60% |
| Texas A&M University College Station, TX |
In State | $6,677 Out of State | $18,700 |
Accreditation | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges Admission Rate | 58% |
| Texas Tech University Lubbock, TX |
In State | $5,958 Out of State | $13,428 |
Accreditation | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges Admission Rate | 69% |
| Texas Woman's University Denton, TX |
In State | $4,973 Out of State | $12,569 |
Accreditation | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges Admission Rate | 93% |
| University at Buffalo Buffalo, NY |
In State | $11,310 Out of State | $23,100 |
Accreditation | Middle States Commission on Higher Education Admission Rate | 61% |
| University of Akron Main Campus Akron, OH |
In State | $8,306 Out of State | $13,812 |
Accreditation | Higher Learning Commission Admission Rate | 73% |
| University of Florida Gainesville, FL |
In State | $10,770 Out of State | $27,335 |
Accreditation | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges Admission Rate | 37% |
| University of Georgia Athens, GA |
In State | $8,878 Out of State | $25,186 |
Accreditation | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges Admission Rate | 45% |
| University of Houston Houston, TX |
In State | $8,370 Out of State | $17,746 |
Accreditation | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges Admission Rate | 65% |
| University of Iowa Iowa City, IA |
In State | $10,079 Out of State | $29,026 |
Accreditation | Higher Learning Commission Admission Rate | 83% |
| University of Kansas Lawrence, KS |
In State | $9,989 Out of State | $23,951 |
Accreditation | Higher Learning Commission Admission Rate | 93% |
| University of Kentucky Lexington, KY |
In State | $12,055 Out of State | $31,215 |
Accreditation | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges Admission Rate | 96% |
| University of Memphis Memphis, TN |
In State | $9,216 Out of State | $12,672 |
Accreditation | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges Admission Rate | 85% |
| University of Missouri-Kansas City Kansas City, MO |
In State | $9,542 Out of State | $24,636 |
Accreditation | Higher Learning Commission Admission Rate | 61% |
| University of North Dakota Grand Forks, ND |
In State | $10,534 Out of State | $18,434 |
Accreditation | Higher Learning Commission Admission Rate | 81% |
| University of North Texas Denton, TX |
In State | $5,900 Out of State | $13,496 |
Accreditation | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges Admission Rate | 74% |
| University of Northern Colorado Greeley, CO |
In State | $10,867 Out of State | $19,620 |
Accreditation | Higher Learning Commission Admission Rate | 91% |
| University of Oklahoma Norman, OK |
In State | $6,583 Out of State | $21,242 |
Accreditation | Higher Learning Commission Admission Rate | 80% |
| University of Oregon Eugene, OR |
In State | $14,958 Out of State | $26,811 |
Accreditation | Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities Admission Rate | 82% |
| University of South Dakota Vermillion, SD |
In State | $6,062 Out of State | $11,656 |
Accreditation | Higher Learning Commission Admission Rate | 86% |
| University of Wisconsin-Madison Madison, WI |
In State | $10,728 Out of State | $24,054 |
Accreditation | Higher Learning Commission Admission Rate | 54% |
| Virginia Commonwealth University Richmond, VA |
In State | $12,701 Out of State | $26,039 |
Accreditation | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges Admission Rate | 87% |
| Washington State University Pullman, WA |
In State | $11,493 Out of State | $25,248 |
Accreditation | Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities Admission Rate | 76% |
| Wayne State University Detroit, MI |
In State | $16,285 Out of State | $35,274 |
Accreditation | Higher Learning Commission Admission Rate | 73% |
| West Virginia University Morgantown, WV |
In State | $10,134 Out of State | $26,154 |
Accreditation | Higher Learning Commission Admission Rate | 84% |
| Western Michigan University Kalamazoo, MI |
In State | $10,134 Out of State | $30,432 |
Accreditation | Higher Learning Commission Admission Rate | 80% |
Private School Programs
| Accredited University | Grad Tuition | Program Information |
|---|---|---|
| Alaska Pacific University Anchorage, AK |
In State | $11,700 Out of State | $11,700 |
Accreditation | Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities Admission Rate | 89% |
| American International College Springfield, MA |
In State | $11,579 Out of State | $11,579 |
Accreditation | New England Commission on Higher Education Admission Rate | 65% |
| Andrews University Berrien Springs, MI |
In State | $27,216 Out of State | $27,216 |
Accreditation | Higher Learning Commission Admission Rate | 67% |
| Barry University Miami, FL |
In State | $17,820 Out of State | $17,820 |
Accreditation | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges Admission Rate | 51% |
| Boston College Chestnut Hill, MA |
In State | $30,600 Out of State | $30,600 |
Accreditation | New England Commission on Higher Education Admission Rate | 27% |
| Boston University Boston, MA |
In State | $54,720 Out of State | $54,720 |
Accreditation | New England Commission on Higher Education Admission Rate | 19% |
| Carlow University Pittsburgh, PA |
In State | $18,766 Out of State | $18,766 |
Accreditation | Middle States Commission on Higher Education Admission Rate | 92% |
| College of Saint Elizabeth Morristown, NJ |
In State | $18,018 Out of State | $18,018 |
Accreditation | Middle States Commission on Higher Education Admission Rate | 74% |
| Columbia University in the City of New York New York, NY |
In State | $47,600 Out of State | $47,600 |
Accreditation | Middle States Commission on Higher Education Admission Rate | 5% |
| Felician University Lodi, NJ |
In State | $19,080 Out of State | $19,080 |
Accreditation | Middle States Commission on Higher Education Admission Rate | 86% |
| Fordham University New York, NY |
In State | $34,608 Out of State | $34,608 |
Accreditation | Middle States Commission on Higher Education Admission Rate | 46% |
| Holy Family University Philadelphia, PA |
In State | $9,000 Out of State | $9,000 |
Accreditation | Middle States Commission on Higher Education Admission Rate | 73% |
| Howard University Washington, DC |
In State | $31,309 Out of State | $31,309 |
Accreditation | Middle States Commission on Higher Education Admission Rate | 36% |
| Lehigh University Bethlehem, PA |
In State | $27,000 Out of State | $27,000 |
Accreditation | Middle States Commission on Higher Education Admission Rate | 32% |
| Liberty University Lynchburg, VA |
In State | $7,980 Out of State | $7,980 |
Accreditation | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges Admission Rate | 51% |
| Loyola University Chicago Chicago, IL |
In State | $18,594 Out of State | $18,594 |
Accreditation | Higher Learning Commission Admission Rate | 67% |
| Marquette University Milwaukee, WI |
In State | $21,060 Out of State | $21,060 |
Accreditation | Higher Learning Commission Admission Rate | 83% |
| Mercer University Macon, GA |
In State | $15,422 Out of State | $15,422 |
Accreditation | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges Admission Rate | 74% |
| Mississippi College Clinton, MS |
In State | $11,250 Out of State | $11,250 |
Accreditation | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges Admission Rate | 42% |
| New York University New York, NY |
In State | $33,408 Out of State | $33,408 |
Accreditation | Middle States Commission on Higher Education Admission Rate | 16% |
| Northcentral University La Jolla, CA |
In State | $16,983 Out of State | $16,983 |
Accreditation | Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission Admission Rate | |
| Northeastern University Boston, MA |
In State | $24,793 Out of State | $24,793 |
Accreditation | New England Commission on Higher Education Admission Rate | 18% |
| Northwest University Kirkland, WA |
In State | $19,101 Out of State | $19,101 |
Accreditation | Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities Admission Rate | 93% |
| Northwestern University Evanson, IL |
In State | $56,067 Out of State | $56,067 |
Accreditation | Higher Learning Commission Admission Rate | 9% |
| Our Lady of the Lake University San Antonio, TX |
In State | $16,326 Out of State | $16,326 |
Accreditation | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges Admission Rate | 68% |
| Rivier University Nashua, NH |
In State | $11,340 Out of State | $11,340 |
Accreditation | New England Commission on Higher Education Admission Rate | 75% |
| Saint Mary's University of Minnesota Winona, MN |
In State | $9,180 Out of State | $9,180 |
Accreditation | Higher Learning Commission Admission Rate | 92% |
| Seton Hall University South Orange, NJ |
In State | $23,580 Out of State | $23,580 |
Accreditation | Middle States Commission on Higher Education Admission Rate | 74% |
| Teachers College, Columbia University New York, NY |
In State | $40,800 Out of State | $40,800 |
Accreditation | Middle States Commission on Higher Education Admission Rate | |
| Texas Wesleyan University Fort Worth, TX |
In State | $14,173 Out of State | $14,173 |
Accreditation | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges Admission Rate | 42% |
| University of Chicago Chicago, IL |
In State | $60,300 Out of State | $60,300 |
Accreditation | Higher Learning Commission Admission Rate | 6% |
| University of Denver Denver, CO |
In State | $51,336 Out of State | $51,336 |
Accreditation | Higher Learning Commission Admission Rate | 59% |
| University of Miami Coral Gables, FL |
In State | $37,800 Out of State | $37,800 |
Accreditation | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges Admission Rate | 27% |
| University of St. Thomas Saint Paul, MN |
In State | $24,766 Out of State | $24,766 |
Accreditation | Higher Learning Commission Admission Rate | 81% |
How We Rank Schools
Each year, the BestColleges Ranking Team evaluates hundreds of programs to produce our annual Best Doctorate in Counseling ranking. In 2022, the team sourced the most recent data available from the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System and College Navigator, both of which are hosted by NCES. We identified 68 schools that qualify for our ranking, listed in alphabetical order. The programs in our list are based on the following criteria.
- Each school must be an accredited public or private, nonprofit institution.
- Must offer a doctorate degree program in the given subject.
- Must submit an annual report to NCES.
The BestColleges Ranking Team is made up of contributors from our data science and product management teams. These contributors operate independently from the editorial team. All BestColleges school rankings are produced by the ranking team and are free of editorial influence. Read our Editorial Policy and Standards to learn more.
Popular Doctorate in Counseling Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
What Can I Expect From a Doctorate in Counseling Program?
Those enrolling in a doctorate in counseling program can expect to complete their degree in 2-4 years. Degree-seekers encounter advanced counseling theories and clinical techniques in their graduate school coursework. Some common classes include topics such as advanced theories of counseling, research methods in psychological sciences, and advocacy and leadership in counseling.
In addition to core academic requirements, doctoral students can pursue academic specializations in areas like substance abuse and educational and vocational counseling. Before graduation, counseling students typically complete a dissertation or a degree-culminating research project. It is also common for students to complete fieldwork in a clinical setting before graduating.
Check Out The Student's Guide to College Planning
Program Snapshot
| Average Graduate Degree Tuition Cost | Public institution: $12,410 Private institution: $26,597 |
| Length | 2 years |
| Credits | 30 |
| Program Tracks | Doctor of philosophy (Ph.D.) |
| Example Concentrations (Remove if N/A) | |
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| Example Courses |
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What Programs Are Similar to Counseling?
What Are the Admission Requirements?
The admission requirements for a doctorate in counseling program can vary, but applicants typically hold a master's degree in a related field. Some programs may require several years of professional counseling experience.
In addition to a completed application, prospective students may have to submit GRE scores, a professional resume, letters of recommendation, and an essay outlining academic and career goals. When preparing for graduate school, students should review admission checklists to ensure they meet all requirements.
Explore Our Graduate Admissions Guide
How Do I Pay for a Doctorate Degree in Counseling?
What Can I Do With This Degree?
Those earning a doctorate in counseling commonly pursue various research or teaching opportunities in academia, while others work as practitioners in clinical settings. Graduates interested in utilizing their skills in clinical settings, and those working in higher education, can expect these careers to grow over the next decade.
According to the BLS, jobs for mental health counselors are projected to expand by 23% between 2020 and 2030. Similarly, the BLS projects that marriage and family therapist jobs could grow by 16% over that same ten-year period.
Individuals with doctoral degrees commonly secure salaries at the top of their fields. The BLS notes that the top 10% of marriage and family therapists earn more than $96,520, and top earning mental health counselors make more than $77,980 per year.
Keep reading to review some popular counseling careers and how much they earn.
Popular Counseling Careers
| Career | Median Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| School Counselor | $60,510 |
| Mental Health Counselor | $48,520 |
| Marriage and Family Therapist | $49,880 |
| Postsecondary Teacher | $79,640 |
| Community Service Managers | $74,000 |
Learn More About Counseling Careers
Counseling Not for You? Check Out These Related Careers.
Counseling Licensing and Certification
Those pursuing a career in counseling must complete all of the academic and clinical requirements to secure professional licensure. Requirements vary between states, but counselors must hold a master's degree and complete over 2,000 hours of supervised clinical experience. Students can review state-by-state requirements through the National Board for Certified Counselors.
And while many individuals enrolling in a doctorate in counseling program already hold professional certification, students can enhance their skills through academic specializations and additional clinical experiences.
Should I Get a Doctorate in Counseling Online?
When choosing a college and deciding whether you should attend online or on campus, prospective students should consider the differences between these two academic delivery options. Keep reading to see if an online degree is worth it for you.
Online vs. On-Campus Degrees
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
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| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
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How to Choose an Online Degree Program
| Factors to Consider | Resources |
|---|---|
| Cost | Comparing the Costs of Online vs. On-Campus Programs |
| Program Format | Synchronous Learning vs. Asynchronous Learning |
| Accreditation | How Does Online College Accreditation Work? |
| Student Support | Your Guide to Online Student Services and Opportunities |
Frequently Asked Questions About Counseling Programs
Is a doctorate in counseling worth it?
For individuals interested in performing at the top of their field, completing a doctorate in counseling offers the academic and clinical skills that graduates can convert into expanded career options and earning potential. Degree-seekers in these programs complete high-level coursework, research, and hands-on experiences.
In addition to campus-based opportunities, online programs offer a flexible and affordable option. Online students have the unique ability to complete academic requirements while keeping up with personal and professional obligations.
What can I do with a doctorate in counseling?
A doctorate in counseling prepares graduates for an expansive list of careers in both academia and clinical settings. Some popular career paths include jobs such as clinical counseling directors, postsecondary teachers, and postdoctoral research associates.
Owing to the experience and status that comes with a doctoral degree, graduates often tackle managerial and leadership roles. These professionals can work in higher education, clinical settings, private practice, and nonprofits.
How long does it take to get a doctorate in counseling?
The time it takes to earn a doctorate in counseling can vary between programs. Students holding a master's degree typically graduate in 2-4 years or after taking 60-70 credits. Degree-seekers in these programs complete traditional coursework, intensive research, and supervised clinical experiences.
Some common doctoral courses include advanced theory of counseling, research methods in psychological sciences, and leadership and advocacy in counseling. Alongside supervised clinical work, some programs also require an internship before graduation.
How much money can I make with a doctorate in counseling?
Those graduating with a doctorate in counseling can typically anticipate expanded career options and enhanced earning potential. The BLS reports a median annual salary of about $50,000 for marriage and family therapists. And while those wages may seem a bit low for a doctoral graduate, the top 10% of earners make more than $96,520 per year.
Additionally, graduates who tackle roles in supervisory positions and leadership roles tend to earn more. Graduate students can pursue additional specialized certificates and professional certifications to boost their resumes.
What are the highest-paying jobs with a doctorate in counseling?
Job specifics, location, professional specialization, and experience can all impact how much people can make after completing their doctorate in counseling. The highest-paying jobs for doctoral graduates usually include managerial roles and positions that require extensive professional experience.
Professional credentials can also enhance earning potential. Certification as an approved clinical supervisor, principal investigator, and clinical project manager often accompanies increased wages.
Feature Image: Marko Geber / DigitalVision / Getty Images
