Best Online Master’s in Counseling Programs

Counseling might be the career you've been looking for. Explore our top ranked online master's in counseling programs to get started.
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Updated on November 30, 2023
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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.
  • 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.
  • 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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#1 Best Online Master’s in Counseling Programs

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.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$14,791
Out-of-state
$14,791
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$7,935
Out-of-state
$7,935
Retention Rate
81%
Admission Rate
50%
Students Enrolled
93,349
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
93% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#2 Best Online Master’s in Counseling Programs

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.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$10,856
Out-of-state
$10,856
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$11,044
Out-of-state
$11,044
Retention Rate
Not provided
Admission Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
221
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
Not provided
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission
#3 Best Online Master’s in Counseling Programs

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.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$9,100
Out-of-state
$18,200
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$6,678
Out-of-state
$13,356
Retention Rate
63%
Admission Rate
93%
Students Enrolled
5,734
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
82% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#4 Best Online Master’s in Counseling Programs

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.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$37,250
Out-of-state
$37,250
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$8,121
Out-of-state
$8,121
Retention Rate
68%
Admission Rate
78%
Students Enrolled
4,071
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
100% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission
#5 Best Online Master’s in Counseling Programs

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. 

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$31,000
Out-of-state
$31,000
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$21,621
Out-of-state
$21,621
Retention Rate
55%
Admission Rate
72%
Students Enrolled
2,076
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
46% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education
#6 Best Online Master’s in Counseling Programs

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.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$6,665
Out-of-state
$19,344
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$6,360
Out-of-state
$16,176
Retention Rate
Not provided
Admission Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
5,274
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
62% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#7 Best Online Master’s in Counseling Programs

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.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$31,436
Out-of-state
$31,436
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$3,594
Out-of-state
$3,594
Retention Rate
72%
Admission Rate
52%
Students Enrolled
1,371
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
71% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#8 Best Online Master’s in Counseling Programs

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.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$34,136
Out-of-state
$34,136
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$13,374
Out-of-state
$13,374
Retention Rate
82%
Admission Rate
64%
Students Enrolled
3,504
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
90% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education
#9 Best Online Master’s in Counseling Programs

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.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$35,060
Out-of-state
$35,060
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$16,740
Out-of-state
$16,740
Retention Rate
86%
Admission Rate
73%
Students Enrolled
5,855
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
97% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission
#10 Best Online Master’s in Counseling Programs

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.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$30,890
Out-of-state
$30,890
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$11,340
Out-of-state
$11,340
Retention Rate
81%
Admission Rate
71%
Students Enrolled
5,492
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
53% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

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

Source: National Center for Education Statistics

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:

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

Everything Else You Need to Know About Starting Your Career in Counseling

Admissions Requirements for a Master's in Counseling Program

Programs typically require:

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:

Counseling vs. Social Work
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.

BestColleges.com is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.

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