The Best Master’s in Counseling Psychology Programs

States have different requirements for becoming a counselor, but most require earning a master’s in counseling psychology, passing a standardized national examination, and completing a certain number of supervised hours. This guide outlines what you can do with a master’s in counseling psychology and the top schools to consider.

Many graduates with a master’s in counseling psychology earn a license to become a counselor. They may also earn a doctorate to become a psychologist or pursue a career in social work, coaching, or other related fields. Most counselors specialize in a particular type of counseling, such as with a master’s degree in school counseling, substance use disorders, family counseling, or phobia treatment.

According to Payscale, the average salary of a counselor with a master’s in counseling psychology is $59,000 as of June 2023. The typical pay range is $45,000-$80,000. Salaries vary based on geographic location, certifications, and job demand.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects 22% job growth for substance misuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors between 2021 and 2031. This growth is fueled by the opioid crisis and the large unmet need for mental health services.

The right master’s in counseling psychology depends on your goals and interests, along with the program’s length, reputation, and cost. This guide identifies the top programs in the following areas:

The curriculum should match your specialization interests, including core courses and electives. Because state license requirements vary, you need to check that the program matches the state where you plan to practice.

Accreditation is a third-party review process to ensure that graduates of a master’s in counseling psychology can practice effectively and safely. Attending an accredited program is also vital for getting a license.

If you plan to work while studying, you need a program whose timing and pace match your needs. Many programs are available for part-time as well as full-time students.

Supervised fieldwork such as practicums and internships is vital to your learning. Some programs offer support to students looking for placement.

Most full-time students can finish a master’s in counseling psychology in two years, while part-time students can graduate in 3-5 years. Master’s in counseling psychology programs combine theoretical courses and fieldwork, where students observe and practice under the supervision of a licensed counselor or psychologist. Programs often include a capstone project or thesis.

Master’s in counseling psychology programs have different approaches to fieldwork placement. Some programs provide direct placement or support for students in finding a placement. Other programs may require students to find their own placement. Generally, on-campus programs are more likely to provide placement or extensive support than online programs.

If you want to become a counselor, a master’s in counseling psychology can be your terminal degree, but if you want to become a licensed counseling psychologist, you need a doctorate in psychology.

Most master’s in counseling psychology require a bachelor’s degree or extensive coursework in counseling psychology. Many programs require a GPA of 3.0 or higher, and some require standardized test results, such as GRE or MAT scores.

Most schools require transcripts for all college-level classwork, an application with an essay or personal statement, at least two references, a background check, and an application fee. Some schools allow you to submit unofficial transcripts while applying, but you must send an official transcript before enrolling.

Most master’s in counseling psychology programs admit students with any major related to counseling psychology, such as psychology, sociology, social work, anthropology, or similar disciplines. Schools may also accept students with substantial coursework in these areas if their degree is in another discipline.

Most programs require or strongly prefer a GPA of 3.0 or higher. More competitive programs may require 3.2 or higher. However, many programs have some flexibility, and you may be eligible for conditional admittance if your GPA is below the threshold and other admission factors indicate your potential.

While some schools require GRE or MAT scores, some may waive them for students with a higher GPA. Other schools may accept but do not require them.

The average tuition for public schools costs $12,400 per year, according to the National Center for Education Statistics. The average tuition for private schools doubles at $26,600 per year. You can also expect to pay student fees and expenses for buying or renting books and any needed travel to the campus or fieldwork.

You may be eligible for various scholarships and grants from your school or other organizations, such as government programs, foundations, nonprofits, or corporations. In addition to scholarships, you may be eligible for loans.

A counseling psychologist provides counseling for clients to help them with specific situations or causes of emotional or mental distress. Unlike psychiatrists, counseling psychologists are not authorized to prescribe medication. Most counseling psychologists specialize in a particular type of counseling, type of client, or both.

A clinical psychologist specializes in diagnosing and treating mental health conditions, while a counseling psychologist specializes in helping clients deal with specific situations. For example, a counseling psychologist might help a client having difficulty adjusting to a life change.

Many master’s in counseling psychology online deliver the theoretical coursework online, either synchronously (live courses) or asynchronously (pre-recorded courses). However, you must complete fieldwork in person.

In most states, you need a doctorate to become a counseling psychologist, but you can earn a counseling license with a master’s degree. Some states have different standards for different types of counseling, especially substance use counseling, so be sure to check with your state’s licensing board.