Best Online Master’s in Counseling Programs
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Nick Bognar hated his job so much that he started going to therapy. To his surprise, his therapist eventually suggested a new career — in counseling.
She told me that I'd be good at it, because I'm creative and attuned,
said Bognar. Curious, he did some research. Immediately, I was hooked. I thought: These are the kinds of conversations I want to be having for the rest of my life.
If you'd also love a career that's all about building relationships and helping others, consider an online master's degree in counseling. Here's how to get started:
- Explore this page to determine whether counseling is the right choice for you.
- Check out the top-ranked online master's degree in counseling programs, as well as our sponsored programs.
- Request more information from schools you're interested in to find the best fit for your schedule, your pocketbook, and your career goals.
What Is Counseling?
-
Definition: Counselors provide clinically informed, client-focused support in a safe, relational setting. They arm clients with tools to address specific problems or life challenges.
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Purpose: According to the American Counseling Association, the purpose of counseling is to
empower diverse individuals, families, and groups to accomplish mental health, wellness, education, and career goals.
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Place of Work: Licensed counselors work pretty much everywhere people need support or guidance. That includes hospitals, mental health facilities, residential care facilities, and shelters. They could also work in therapy offices, prisons, businesses, schools, and religious institutions. Some even work at career centers, nonprofits, and recovery houses.
Featured Counseling Degrees
Why Should I Get an Online Master's in Counseling?
Maybe you already have a bachelor's degree in a mental health field and want professional opportunities beyond entry-level assistantships.
Or, maybe you're looking to make a meaningful career change.
“I went back for my master's degree while I was still a teacher. I knew I wanted to help students in a more holistic way — not just in the classroom. I had no idea how many opportunities a counseling degree would create for me.”
— Quanesha Johnson, MA, LPC, NCC, Founder
To work directly with counseling clients, you need a license. To qualify for a license, you need a master's degree in counseling. And an online master's degree is often the most affordable and accessible way to get there.
Benefits of a Master's in Counseling
- Higher salaries
- Broader job opportunities
- Qualify for licensure
- Qualify for national certification
- Can open a private practice
- Access to liability insurance
- Field training
- Learn transferable career skills
- Job growth
- Work in a variety of fields
Reasons to Get Your Graduate Degree Online
- More flexibility than a traditional degree
- Complete coursework remotely
- Learn from anywhere
- Great for career-changers
What Are the Best Online Counseling Degrees?
Rankings compiled by the BestColleges Ranking Team
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Liberty University
Lynchburg, VA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Hybrid | Mix of Self-Paced and Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $565
Out of State | $565
Credits to Graduate
60
Program Information
Degree Completion Program | No
Program Accreditation | The Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs
Liberty's many online and hybrid programs make the school an attractive option for graduate students. The master's degree in counseling online at Liberty features classes in human growth and development and crisis counseling. You'll also study clinical diagnosis and treatment planning. Along with asynchronous online coursework, you'll complete a one-week intensive on campus.
Application materials include two recommendation letters, official undergraduate transcripts, and a personal statement. Liberty uses a 2.7 undergrad GPA cutoff. The university offers about a 50% tuition discount to active-duty service members and honorably discharged veterans.
Ottawa University-Online
Ottawa, KS - 4 years
- Online
Hybrid | Mix of Self-Paced and Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $635
Out of State | $635
Credits to Graduate
60-63
Program Information
Degree Completion Program | No
Program Accreditation | Higher Learning Commission
You should consider OU if you want a customizable education. OU's online master's in counseling offers specializations in expressive arts therapy, gerocounseling, and the treatment of trauma abuse and deprivation. Foundational classes include counseling theories and social and cultural concerns in counseling.
OU uses a minimum 3.0 undergrad GPA cutoff for all graduate programs. Other admission requirements include a 300- to 500-word professional essay, a resume, and an application fee. You must also submit three recommendation letters.
University of West Alabama
Livingston, AL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Hybrid | Mix of Self-Paced and Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $429
Out of State | $429
Credits to Graduate
60
Program Information
Degree Completion Program | No
Program Accreditation | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
You should consider UWA if you live near the university's Livingston campus. UWA's master's degree in counseling online program offers a hybrid curriculum with a practicum in local healthcare settings. Classes within the mental health concentration include the techniques of counseling, career development and counseling, and counseling children and adolescents.
UWA requires a digital admissions portfolio that includes your resume, professional goals essay, and a video interview. You must also submit three recommendation letters.
Concordia University-Irvine
Irvine, CA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Hybrid | Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $683
Out of State | $683
Credits to Graduate
60
Program Information
Degree Completion Program | No
Program Accreditation | The Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs
If you want an online education that resembles the traditional graduate school experience, CUI may be a good option. CUI's online master's in counseling includes scheduled classes on the theories of counseling, the field's social and cultural foundations, and career and lifestyle development. You'll build upon what you learned in class by completing a supervised practicum and two internships.
You must hold a minimum 3.0 GPA to apply. CUI also requires a 500-word essay, two professional references, and an interview.
Medaille College
Buffalo, NY - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Hybrid | Mix of Self-Paced And Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $925
Out of State | $925
Credits to Graduate
60
Program Information
Degree Completion Program | No
Program Accreditation | The Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs
If your career goals include working in a hospital or community agency, consider researching Medaille College. Medaille's online master's degree in counseling prepares you for licensure in New York state with coursework in group dynamics, microskills counseling, and assessment and evaluation. You'll also collaborate with your peers during scheduled virtual classes and complete a 600-hour clinical internship.
To apply, you must fill out the FAFSA, submit an updated resume, and interview with the faculty admissions committee. Medaille also requires a statement of intent. You can graduate in just two years.
Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center
Lubbock, TX - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Hybrid | Self-Paced Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $265
Out of State | $579
Credits to Graduate
60
Program Information
Degree Completion Program | No
Program Accreditation | The Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs
Consider TTUHSC if you want a fully online curriculum complemented by internships and practicums. TTUHSC's online master's in counseling offers two annual start dates and emphasizes telehealth. Coursework covers counseling theories, psychopathology and diagnosis, and abnormal behavior.
Admission requirements include a minimum 3.0 undergrad GPA, two recommendation letters, and a resume. You must submit additional forms if you do not hold American citizenship or residency.
Catawba College
Salisbury, NC - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Hybrid | Self-Paced Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $599
Out of State | $599
Credits to Graduate
60
Program Information
Degree Completion Program | No
Program Accreditation | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Catawba offers small class sizes and many experiential learning opportunities. Catawba's online master's degree in counseling lets you graduate in two years. The program requires classes in group counseling, career development, and counseling couples and families. And you'll end the program with a counseling internship.
You need a minimum 3.0 GPA to apply. Catawba also requires three recommendation letters and a 500-word essay. Graduates qualify for a provisional North Carolina counseling license.
Eastern University
Saint Davids, PA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Hybrid | Mix of Self-Paced and Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $781
Out of State | $781
Credits to Graduate
60
Program Information
Degree Completion Program | No
Program Accreditation | Master's in Psychology and Counseling Accreditation Council
Eastern University stands out from other top schools with its accelerated online programs. The master's in counseling online degree at Eastern lets you graduate in two years and offers concentrations in three areas, including trauma studies. Scheduled online classes and an in-person practicum help you qualify for licensure in Pennsylvania and states with reciprocity.
You can apply with a bachelor's degree in any subject. However, Eastern University requires some undergrad prerequisites and at least a 3.0 GPA. Veterans and their families may receive a tuition discount.
Bradley University
Peoria, IL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Hybrid | Mix of Self-Paced and Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $990
Out of State | $990
Credits to Graduate
60
Program Information
Degree Completion Program | No
Program Accreditation | The Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs
Bradley University offers small class sizes and a personalized educational experience. The online master's degree in counseling offers core classes in group counseling principles, couples and family counseling, and counseling diverse populations. You'll use what you learned in the virtual classroom during an in-person practicum and two internships.
You may apply for the fall, spring, or summer term. Bradley offers unconditional admission to applicants with a minimum 3.0 GPA. Other requirements include an essay and two professional recommendations.
Concordia University-Wisconsin
Mequon, WI - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Hybrid | Mix of Self-Paced and Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $669
Out of State | $669
Credits to Graduate
45-60
Program Information
Degree Completion Program | No
Program Accreditation | Higher Learning Commission
CUW offers you an education with an emphasis on Christian teachings. CUW's master's in counseling online degree features coursework in trauma counseling, career counseling foundations, and tests and measurements. Graduation requirements include attending two in-person classes on CUW's Mequon campus.
You must submit official transcripts, a one-page essay, and two recommendation letters to apply. CUW does not require GRE or GMAT scores. The university considers transfer credits less than seven years old.
How Much Does an Online Master's Degree Cost?
Average Annual Cost of a Graduate Degree
Public Institution
$12,394
Private Nonprofit Institution
$26,621
My biggest piece of advice is to avoid taking out student loans if you can,
said Nirmala Bijraj, LMHC. Find an accredited program that doesn't cost a lot. Some people think they should pay more for an 'elite' program — but no one has ever asked me where I got my degree. The curriculum is pretty standard across programs. Save your money and focus on gaining strong experience — that's what matters most in this profession.
Read More:
How Long Does It Take to Get a Master's Degree in Counseling Online?
Most master's degrees in counseling take two years of full-time study to complete, including a practicum and a field internship. Some online programs offer accelerated tracks that take as little as 18 months.
Course Credits Required
60 - 72
Field Education Required*
600+ hours
*Depending on your program and specialization
Becoming a Licensed Counselor
Want to work legally? Of course you do — which means you'll need a license. Licensure requirements vary by state, but generally include:
- Graduate degree from an accredited college or university
- An additional 3,000 supervised client hours (over a minimum of two years)
- At least one national licensing exam:
- National Counselor Examination (NCE)
- National Clinical Mental Health Counselor Examination (NCMHC)
Working towards licensure can be the toughest part of the process, because you have to find ways to support yourself while you get your supervised hours, which are rarely paid. I waited tables the entire time,
said Nick Bognar, MFT.
Pro Tip
Don't put off your exams! Get them out of the way early, while your coursework is still fresh in your mind.
How Much Do Counselors Make?
You might assume that when you sign up to become a professional counselor, you're also signing up for a lifetime of low pay. But you're wrong.
There is a persistent belief that you can't — or shouldn't — make money helping people,
said Nick Bognar, MFT. And sure, there are a lot of ways to not make money in this business. But there are also ways to make terrific money and have a satisfying career.
Median annual salary for K-12 school counselors
$63,460
(Data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook)
Salary for top 10% of earners in the counseling profession
$98,190+
(Data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook)
Your salary will depend on your specialization, location, and employer. One of the most popular specializations is education, guidance, and career counseling. Check out average salaries for these counselors by state in 2021:
Read More: Best Online Master's in Marriage and Family Therapy (MFT) Counseling Programs
How to Consider Your ROI
A master's degree is a great way to get access to interesting jobs and better pay. But before you make the grad school leap, take a moment to consider the potential return on your investment.
- Will your salary cover student loan payments, rent, and groceries?
- How long will it take you to pay off any loans you might take out?
- Will you be able to meet your life and savings goals as well as your career goals?
Remember, your counseling career doesn't have to be static,
said Nirmala Bijraj, LMHC. If you're not making enough money, you can always level up by adding a new specialization, working with a new demographic, raising your rates, or taking your skills into a new industry.
What Jobs Can I Get With an Online Master's in Counseling?
That's what's so cool about this degree. It gives you so many options.
You can work in hospitals, colleges, schools, government agencies, or [a] private practice. You can be a consultant, a coach, or write books. There's a lot of flexibility. Over time, you'll discover your personal niche. These days, I specialize in nonmonogamy and open relationships. It's fascinating,
said Bijraj.
Some other popular careers for licensed counselors include:
- Mental health counselor
- School counselor
- Career counselor
- Marriage and family counselor
- College counselor
- Grief and bereavement counselor
- Trauma counselor
- Military counselor
- Christian/Pastoral counselor
- Rehabilitation counselor
- Substance misuse counselor
Job Outlook for Counseling Degree-Holders
The BLS reports faster-than-average job growth across counseling specializations between 2021 and 2031.
- School and career counselors will see a projected 10% job growth.
- Marriage and family counselors will see a projected 14% job growth.
- Substance misuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors will see a projected 22% job growth.
Read More:
Is a Master's Degree in Counseling Worth It?
“Yes. Because this job is about so much more than just being in the counseling office. On a good year, I'll see maybe 150 people — but there are 7 billion people on this planet who need help. So I try to push what I've learned out into the world wherever I can: I have a podcast, I do speaking engagements, and I share what I know with my entire community.”
— Dr. Saudia L. Twine, Ph.D., LPC, LLMFT, NCC, Minister
“I'll be honest: If you aren't an active and enthusiastic consumer of therapy in your own life, you probably don't have any business becoming a counselor. You can't be an unexamined person and do this job. So much of it is a soft science that requires you to watch people try and fail, over and over again. Be prepared for the work to be tough. But it means you get to be a therapist — which is honestly the best thing ever.”
— Nick Bognar, MFT
“Historically, society doesn't value work that it can't either consume or profit off of. Mental health work hasn't been valued, in that sense. But the narrative is finally starting to shift: Celebrities talk openly about mental conditions. Young people do, too. TikTok therapists have huge followings. Demand for people like us is really growing. Collectively, we are starting to understand how important this kind of work is.”
— Quanesha Johnson, MA, LPC, NCC
“This degree teaches you how to see people: How to understand the human condition — what makes us tick, what hurts us and heals us. Can you grasp how powerful that is? It's a skill you can leverage into a million different careers. I used that skill to build the largest divorce mediation firm in San Diego. When I sold that company, I opened a private relationship counseling practice. I set my own rates, I make great money, and I make people's lives better. Completely worth it.”
— Nancy Fagan, Relationship Therapist, LMFT
Still looking for the right fit? Explore similar programs:
Everything Else You Need to Know About Starting Your Career in Counseling
Admissions Requirements for a Master's in Counseling Program
Programs typically require:
- An undergraduate degree, often preferring degrees in:
- A minimum undergraduate GPA of 2.7-3.0
- Official transcripts
- 2-3 letters of recommendation
- A personal statement
- A resume
- In some cases, a criminal background check
Read More: BestColleges Comprehensive Guide to Graduate Admissions
MA vs. MS in Counseling
Functionally, there isn't much difference between an MA and an MS in counseling. Both qualify you for licensure and require roughly the same core curriculum.
Knowing the Difference: Counseling vs. Social Work
Both a master's degree in counseling and master's degree in social work qualify graduates to work as licensed therapists. But there are some important differences:
| Factor | Counseling | Social Work |
|---|---|---|
| Focus | Primarily focused on one-on-one care and building a relationship with the client | Typically focused on connecting a client, family, group, or community with the resources needed to thrive |
| Practice | Practice has a tight mental health focus with emphasis on clinical education and theory | Practice has broader focus that includes advocacy, addressing societal problems, and influencing public policy |
| Licensure | Licensure typically requires a degree from a CACREP or MPCAC accredited master's program | Licensure typically requires a degree from a CSWE accredited program |
For me, the main difference between counseling and social work comes down to relationships and rapport. Social workers take a more macro approach to care: How do I connect this person to the people, resources, and opportunities they need? Counseling is all about direct care. I never want to be even a degree removed from providing that intimate human touch,
said Quanesha Johnson, MA, LPC, NCC.
