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Best Online Masters in Counseling Programs
Accredited Online Masters in Counseling Programs
One of the most important factors to consider when reviewing the best online counseling masters programs for you is the accreditation of the program. Having a degree from an accredited program may be one of the requirements for licensure in most states, so selecting a properly-accredited program could be very important. The Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP) and the Masters in Psychology and Counseling Accreditation Council (MPCAC) are two entities that confer accreditation for some of the top online counseling programs in the United States. It is best to review the licensure requirements in the state where you intend to practice in order to understand the degree accreditations you need to look for.
Compare Online Masters in Counseling Degrees
Below is a list of the 28 schools offering the online counseling masters programs that could be the best for you within the United States. The schools are listed based on six factors we think are important to consider when selecting a counseling program.
Best Online Counseling Programs
| School Name | Degree Name | Live Classes | Mobile App (Offline Capable) | Field Placement Services | Class Size Under 15 | GRE Required | Campus Visit Required | Number of Factors Met |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| University of Denver | Master of Arts in School Counseling | Live | Offline Capable | Services Available | Less Than 15 | No GRE Required | No Visit Required | |
| New York University | - Master of Arts in Counseling and Guidance - Master of Arts in Counseling for Mental Health and Wellness |
Live | Offline Capable | Services Available | Less Than 15 | No GRE Required | No Visit Required | |
| University of Southern California | Master of Arts in Counseling | Live | Offline Capable | Services Available | More Than 15 | No GRE Required | Visit Required | |
| Northwestern University | Master of Education in School Counseling | Live | Offline Capable | Services Available | More Than 15 | GRE Required if undergrad GPA is below 2.75 | Visit Required | |
| Vanderbilt University | Master of Education in School Counseling | Live | Offline Capable | Services Available | More Than 15 | No GRE Required | No Visit Required | |
| The Chicago School of Professional Psychology | Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling | Live and Not Live | Connection Required | Services Available | More Than 15 | No GRE Required | Visit Required | |
| Grace College | Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling | Live | Connection Required | Services Available | Less Than 15 | No GRE Required | Visit Required | |
| Malone University | Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling | Not Live | Offline Capable | Services Available | More Than 15 | No GRE Required | Visit Required | |
| Union Institute and University | Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling | Live and Not Live | Connection Required | Services Available | Less Than 15 | No GRE Required | Visit Required | |
| Antioch University | Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling | Live and Not Live | Connection Required | Services Available | More Than 15 | No GRE Required | Visit Required | |
| Bellevue University | Master of Science in Clinical Counseling | Not Live | Connection Required | Services Available | Less Than 15 | No GRE Required | Visit Required | |
| Cornerstone University | Master of Arts in Counseling | Live and Not Live | Connection Required | No Services Available | Less Than 15 | No GRE Required | Visit Required | |
| Lindsey Wilson College | Master of Education in Mental Health Counseling | Not Live | Connection Required | Services Available | Less Than 15 | No GRE Required | Visit Required | |
| Lock Haven University | Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling | Live and Not Live | Connection Required | Services Available | More Than 15 | GRE Required depending on GPA | No Visits Required | |
| Messiah College | Master of Arts in Counseling | Live and Not Live | Connection Required | No Services Available | Less Than 15 | No GRE Required | Visit Required | |
| North Carolina Central University | Master of Arts in Counseling | Live and Not Live | Connection Required | Services Available | Less Than 15 | GRE Required | Visit Required | |
| North Carolina State University | Master of Education in Counseling | Live | N/A | Services Available | More Than 15 | GRE Required | No Visits Required | |
| Palo Alto University | Master of Arts in Counseling | Live | Connection Required | Services Available | More Than 15 | No GRE Required | Visit Required | |
| University of Louisiana - Monroe | Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health or School Counseling | Live and Not Live | Connection Required | Services Available | Less Than 15 | GRE Required | Visit Required | |
| Wake Forest University | Master of Arts in Counseling | Live and Not Live | Connection Required | Services Available | Less Than 15 | GRE Required | Visit Required | |
| Bradley University | Master of Arts in Counseling | Live and Not Live | Connection Required | Services Available | More Than 15 | GRE Required if GPA is below 3.0 | Visit Required | |
| Edinboro University | Master of Arts in Counseling | Not Live | Connection Required | No Services Available | More Than 15 | No GRE Required | No Visit Required | |
| Hodges University | Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling | Not Live | Connection Required | No Services Available | Less Than 15 | No GRE Required | Visit Required | |
| Indiana Wesleyan University | Master of Arts in Counseling | Not Live | Offline Capable | No Services Available | Less Than 15 | GRE Required | Visit Required | |
| Lamar University | Master of Education in Clinical Mental Health Counseling | Live and Not Live | Connection Required | No Services Available | Less Than 15 | GRE Required | Visit Required | |
| University of Massachusetts - Boston | - Master of Education in School Counseling - Master of Science in Mental Health Counseling - Master of Science in Rehabilitation Counseling | Live and Not Live | Connection Required | Services Available | More Than 15 | GRE Required | Visit Required | |
| Adams State University | Master of Arts in Counseling | Not Live | Connection Required | No Services Available | More Than 15 | No GRE Required | Visit Required | |
| Regent University | Master of Arts in Counseling | Not Live | Connection Required | Services Available | More Than 15 | GRE Required | Visit Required |
All Online Masters in Counseling Programs - School Insights
University of Denver - 6/6 Factors
- Social justice emphasis
- Use data to build comprehensive school counseling plans
- Mock counseling sessions and in-field experience requirements
Sponsored Program
| Degree Name | Graduation Rate | Percent of Online Graduate Students | Average Length of Program |
|---|---|---|---|
| Master of Arts in School Counseling | 75% | 22% | As few as 24 months |
Graduation rate and online student information retrieved from College Navigator - National Center for Education Statistics
New York University - 6/6 Factors
- Pursue school counselor certification.
- Apply for positions in public and private pre-K–12 schools.
- Work with a field placement team to secure local field education placements.
Sponsored Program
| Degree Name | Graduation Rate | Percent of Online Graduate Students | Average Length of Program |
|---|---|---|---|
| - Master of Arts in Counseling and Guidance - Master of Arts in Counseling for Mental Health and Wellness |
84% | 4% | 1.5-2+ years |
Graduation rate and online student information retrieved from College Navigator - National Center for Education Statistics
Northwestern University - 5/6 Factors
- Develop the knowledge and skills to pursue licensure as a mental health counselor
- A “learning-by-doing” curriculum model
- Gain hands-on clinical experience
Sponsored Program
| Degree Name | Graduation Rate | Percent of Online Graduate Students | Average Length of Program |
|---|---|---|---|
| Master of Arts in Counseling | 94% | 10% | 1.5-3.5 years |
Graduation rate and online student information retrieved from College Navigator - National Center for Education Statistics
University of Southern California - 5/6 Factors
- Field Experiences in your community
- Curriculum developed by USC faculty
- Live online classes
Sponsored Program
| Degree Name | Graduation Rate | Percent of Online Graduate Students | Average Length of Program |
|---|---|---|---|
| Master of Education in School Counseling | 92% | 22% | 2-3 years |
Graduation rate and online student information retrieved from College Navigator - National Center for Education Statistics
Vanderbilt- 5/6 Factors
- Ranked among best graduate schools of education by U.S. News & World Report for 2019
- Pursue counseling licensure
- Guided placements in local schools for hands-on field experience
Sponsored Program
| Degree Name | Graduation Rate | Percent of Online Graduate Students | Average Length of Program |
|---|---|---|---|
| Master of Education in Human Development Counseling | 92% | 2% | 3-4 years |
Graduation rate and online student information retrieved from College Navigator - National Center for Education Statistics
The Chicago School of Professional Psychology - 4/6 Factors
- Program can be completed in 3 years part-time
- Learn from practitioner faculty
- 8 out of 9 students placed within 2 weeks of graduation
Visit The Chicago School of Professional Psychology Program Website
| Degree Name | Graduation Rate | Percent of Online Graduate Students | Average Length of Program |
|---|---|---|---|
| Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling | N/A | N/A | 3 years |
Graduation rate and online student information retrieved from College Navigator - National Center for Education Statistics
Grace College - 4/6 Factors
- Offering graduate degrees in counseling since 1995
- Christian college applying biblical values and beliefs to its coursework
- Six, seven, and eight semester plans of study
Visit Grace College Program Website
| Degree Name | Graduation Rate | Percent of Online Graduate Students | Average Length of Program |
|---|---|---|---|
| Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling | 62% | 47% | 3 years |
Graduation rate and online student information retrieved from College Navigator - National Center for Education Statistics
Malone University - 4/6 Factors
- Applicants with any undergraduate degree are welcome
- 99% placement rate after graduation
- Program centered around Christian faith
Visit Malone University Program Website
| Degree Name | Graduation Rate | Percent of Online Graduate Students | Average Length of Program |
|---|---|---|---|
| Master of Education in Human Development Counseling | 49% | 32% | 3-3.5 years |
Graduation rate and online student information retrieved from College Navigator - National Center for Education Statistics
Union Institute & University - 4/6 Factors
- January, May, and August start dates
- Full-time & part-time plans of study available
- Option to earn a Certificate in Alcohol and Drug Abuse Counseling
Visit Union Institute Program Website
| Degree Name | Graduation Rate | Percent of Online Graduate Students | Average Length of Program |
|---|---|---|---|
| Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling | N/A | 32% | 2-5 years |
Graduation rate and online student information retrieved from College Navigator - National Center for Education Statistics
Antioch University - 3/6 Factors
- Students with all undergraduate degrees welcome
- Program features both synchronous and asynchronous courses
- No application fee for the online program
Visit Antioch University Program Website
| Degree Name | Graduation Rate | Percent of Online Graduate Students | Average Length of Program |
|---|---|---|---|
| Master of Education in Human Development Counseling | N/A | N/A | 3 years |
Graduation rate and online student information retrieved from College Navigator - National Center for Education Statistics
Bellevue University - 3/6 Factors
- Program developed on national licensing standards
- Transfer eligible credits from other schools
- Master core content and foundational areas of knowledge in the counseling profession
Visit Bellevue University Program Website
| Degree Name | Graduation Rate | Percent of Online Graduate Students | Average Length of Program |
|---|---|---|---|
| Master of Science in Clinical Counseling | 17% | 86% | 2-3 years |
Graduation rate and online student information retrieved from College Navigator - National Center for Education Statistics
Cornerstone University - 3/6 Factors
- 6 credits per semester part-time or a 9 credits per semester full-time study plan options
- Program includes Bible and theology classes
- 75% of financial aid applicants receive an institutional grant
Visit Cornerstone University Program Website
| Degree Name | Graduation Rate | Percent of Online Graduate Students | Average Length of Program |
|---|---|---|---|
| Master of Education in Human Development Counseling | 53% | 45% | 3-4 years |
Graduation rate and online student information retrieved from College Navigator - National Center for Education Statistics
Lindsey Wilson College - 3/6 Factors
- Curriculum features 8-week asynchronous courses
- Program centered around ethics and multiculturalism as core values
- Option to earn a Certificate in Substance Abuse Counseling concurrently
Visit Lindsey Wilson College Program Website
| Degree Name | Graduation Rate | Percent of Online Graduate Students | Average Length of Program |
|---|---|---|---|
| Master of Education in Mental Health Counseling | 35% | 19% | 2 years |
Graduation rate and online student information retrieved from College Navigator - National Center for Education Statistics
Lock Haven University - 3/6 Factors
- Choose between full-time (three courses per semester) or part-time (two courses per semester) plan of study
- The only Pennsylvania public university offering an online Clinical Mental Health Counseling CMHC program
- Program includes synchronous and asynchronous classes
Visit Lock Haven University Program Website
| Degree Name | Graduation Rate | Percent of Online Graduate Students | Average Length of Program |
|---|---|---|---|
| Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling | 55% | 49% | 3-4 years |
Graduation rate and online student information retrieved from College Navigator - National Center for Education Statistics
Messiah College - 3/6 Factors
- Designed to help students to become competent school counselors capable of working with elementary and secondary school students
- Two-, three- and four-year plans of study with flexible start dates
- Christian faith-integrated curriculum
Visit Messiah College Program Website
| Degree Name | Graduation Rate | Percent of Online Graduate Students | Average Length of Program |
|---|---|---|---|
| Master of Arts in Counseling | 81% | 86% | 2-4 years |
Graduation rate and online student information retrieved from College Navigator - National Center for Education Statistics
North Carolina Central University - 3/6 Factors
- Program features synchronous and asynchronous classes
- School promotes multiculturalism, ethical training, and theoretical development
- Ten full-time counselor education faculty on staff
Visit North Carolina Central Program Website
| Degree Name | Graduation Rate | Percent of Online Graduate Students | Average Length of Program |
|---|---|---|---|
| Master of Education in Mental Health Counseling | 44% | 20% | N/A |
North Carolina State University - 3/6 Factors
- Counselor education program established in 1946
- Commitment to multicultural diversity with 37.5% ethnic minority presence in the master's programs
- Three-year, part-time cohort program with year-round courses
Visit NC State University Program Website
| Degree Name | Graduation Rate | Percent of Online Graduate Students | Average Length of Program |
|---|---|---|---|
| Master of Education in Counseling | 79% | 19% | 3 Years |
Graduation rate and online student information retrieved from College Navigator - National Center for Education Statistics
Palo Alto University - 3/6 Factors
- Program start dates in fall and spring quarters
- Offering graduate degrees in counseling since 1975
- Classes taught by distinguished faculty
Visit Palo Alto University Program Website
| Degree Name | Graduation Rate | Percent of Online Graduate Students | Average Length of Program |
|---|---|---|---|
| Master of Arts in Counseling | 79% | 22% | 2.5 years |
Graduation rate and online student information retrieved from College Navigator - National Center for Education Statistics
University of Louisiana - Monroe - 3/6 Factors
- Online courses presented in 8-week sessions
- Limited admission guarantees great student-faculty ratio
- Job placement rate of nearly 100% in 2017
Visit University of Louisiana Program Website
| Degree Name | Graduation Rate | Percent of Online Graduate Students | Average Length of Program |
|---|---|---|---|
| Master of Education in Mental Health Counseling | 41% | 30% | 2 Years |
Graduation rate and online student information retrieved from College Navigator - National Center for Education Statistics
Wake Forest University - 3/6 Factors
- 95% pass rate on the National Counselor exam
- 24/7 tutoring services and tech support available to online students
- Learn from world-class thought leaders in the counseling field
Visit Wake Forest University Program Website
| Degree Name | Graduation Rate | Percent of Online Graduate Students | Average Length of Program |
|---|---|---|---|
| Master of Education in Mental Health Counseling | 88% | 11% | 2-3 Years |
Graduation rate and online student information retrieved from College Navigator - National Center for Education Statistics
Bradley University - 2/6 Factors
- Get ready for the National Counselor Exam
- Select your site supervisor with assistance from the school
- Learn how counseling affects brain function through an innovative approach called neurocounseling
Visit Bradley University Program Website
| Degree Name | Graduation Rate | Percent of Online Graduate Students | Average Length of Program |
|---|---|---|---|
| Master of Arts in Counseling | 73% | 58% | 2-3 Years |
Graduation rate and online student information retrieved from College Navigator - National Center for Education Statistics
Edinboro University - 2/6 Factors
- MA in Counseling program recognized nationally for excellence and affordability
- Enter the Post-master’s certificate in Art Therapy program concurrently
- Learn from distinguished faculty
Visit Edinboro University Program Website
| Degree Name | Graduation Rate | Percent of Online Graduate Students | Average Length of Program |
|---|---|---|---|
| Master of Arts in Counseling | 43% | 76% | 2-3 Years |
Graduation rate and online student information retrieved from College Navigator - National Center for Education Statistics
Hodges University - 2/6 Factors
- Will prepare you for your licensing board exam in the field of mental health counseling
- A pathway that will enable you to work in clinical practice, as a substance abuse counselor, or a life coach
- 4-week mini-semesters with 1 class plan of study
Visit Hodges University Program Website
| Degree Name | Graduation Rate | Percent of Online Graduate Students | Average Length of Program |
|---|---|---|---|
| Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling | 27% | 53% | 3.5 Years |
Graduation rate and online student information retrieved from College Navigator - National Center for Education Statistics
Indiana Wesleyan University - 2/6 Factors
- Integrated professional counseling and faith studies
- Counseling programs offered on a full-time and part-time basis
- Assistantships, article publication and research opportunities available
Visit Indiana Wesleyan Univeristy Program Website
| Degree Name | Graduation Rate | Percent of Online Graduate Students | Average Length of Program |
|---|---|---|---|
| Master of Arts in Counseling | 52% | 86% | 2-3 Years |
Graduation rate and online student information retrieved from College Navigator - National Center for Education Statistics
Lamar University - 2/6 Factors
- Program completion in as few as 30 months
- Multiple program start dates available
- Classes taught by distinguished faculty
Visit Lamar University Program Website
| Degree Name | Graduation Rate | Percent of Online Graduate Students | Average Length of Program |
|---|---|---|---|
| Master of Education in Clinical Mental Health Counseling | 30% | 83% | 2.5 Years |
Graduation rate and online student information retrieved from College Navigator - National Center for Education Statistics
University of Massachusetts, Boston - 2/6 Factors
- Program based on a full-time, cohort model
- Plan of study features both synchronous and asynchronous courses
- Program begins in the summer semester
Visit University of Massachusetts, Boston Program Website
| Degree Name | Graduation Rate | Percent of Online Graduate Students | Average Length of Program |
|---|---|---|---|
| - Master of Education in School Counseling - Master of Science in Mental Health Counseling - Master of Science in Rehabilitation Counseling |
48% | 22% | 2-4 Years |
Graduation rate and online student information retrieved from College Navigator - National Center for Education Statistics
Adams State University - 1/6 Factors
- Program accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, CACREP, and the Colorado Department of Education
- Learn from world-class faculty
- Fall, spring, and summer semester start dates
Visit Adams State University Program Website
| Degree Name | Graduation Rate | Percent of Online Graduate Students | Average Length of Program |
|---|---|---|---|
| Master of Arts in Counseling | 29% | 91% | 2.5 Years |
Graduation rate and online student information retrieved from College Navigator - National Center for Education Statistics
Regent University - 1/6 Factors
- Studies emphasizing Christian values and relationships
- 100% full-time faculty with terminal degrees
- 16-week course sessions available
Visit Regent University Program Website
| Degree Name | Graduation Rate | Percent of Online Graduate Students | Average Length of Program |
|---|---|---|---|
| Master of Arts in Counseling | 61% | 81% | 2 Years |
Graduation rate and online student information retrieved from College Navigator - National Center for Education Statistics
Best Online Counseling Program Factors
Online Class Format
Online masters in counseling programs may offer live (synchronous) or not live (asynchronous) classes. Synchronous classes require that all students and the instructor be online at a set time in order to participate in face-to-face, real-time training and discussions. Asynchronous classes, on the other hand, allow students the flexibility to access the class content at their convenience. While reading assignments and homework still have specific due dates, students have the freedom to complete the coursework at times of their choice.
Offline Capability
A program mobile application that is available offline allows students to continue learning at their own pace even when they don't have internet connection. Distance learners can benefit from flexibility so an offline-capable app would be a great asset to their learning process.
Small Class Size
In general, classes with smaller class sizes allow students more opportunities to participate in the learning process and interactions.
GRE Test Score Requirement
Most online counseling programs require successful passing of the Graduate Record Exam (or GRE). Some schools however, have waived the GRE test requirement.. Programs that waive the GRE requirement may focus on other criteria such as undergraduate GPA, professional references, essays and personal interviews when determining a candidate's acceptance in the program.
Campus Visit Requirements
Many online counseling programs require students to be present on campus for weeklong residencies or other in-person activities.
Field Placement Services
Online counseling program students need to complete clinical residencies at facilities such as hospitals and schools. Universities and colleges that have field placement teams have established relationships with many health and educational organizations across the country and are able to assist their students with placement within suitable facilities near their area of residency.
Why Choose an Online Counseling Program?
The most appealing facet of online education is the flexibility to obtain a degree without disrupting other aspects of your life such as family and career. Synchronous classes are usually scheduled in the evening, and asynchronous classes allow students to access the course assignments at times most convenient for them. They also allow students to complete any required residencies and internships at facilities near the student's home.
Online programs broaden widely the list of educational opportunities for prospective students. They can attend and receive a degree from some of the best online counseling masters programs in the country without having to worry about relocation and moving expenses or having to leave their family for months at a time.
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