Best Online Master's in School Counseling

Looking to impact individuals as a school counselor? Here, we outline the best online master's in school counseling degrees so you can find the right fit.
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Updated May 2, 2024

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School counselors play an integral role in the educational support system by guiding students through critical turning points in their lives. With the right support, students can pursue their passions and unlock their full educational potential.

If you are interested in a fulfilling career helping students, learn more about how to become a school counselor, the required education, and the best online master's in school counseling programs in this guide.

The Best Online Master's in School Counseling Programs

#1 Best Online Master’s in School Counseling

Campbellsville University

  • Campbellsville, KY
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Programmatic Accreditation: Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation

Avg. Cost per Credit: $319

Credits to Graduate: 48

Campbellsville University tops our list of best online master's in school counseling programs. The Campbellsville, Kentucky-based program awards a master of arts in education and prepares graduates to counsel pre-K-12 students. The 18-month, Christian-focused curriculum features three field internships and asynchronous coursework that includes counseling theory and practice, cultural competency, and human development.

Admission requires official college transcripts, a 2.75 GPA, a rationale essay, and two references. Kentucky educator Rank I applicants submit a copy of their teaching certificate.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$24,900
Out-of-state
$24,900
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$8,473
Out-of-state
$8,473
Retention Rate
64%
Acceptance Rate
78%
Students Enrolled
12,771
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
72% 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 School Counseling

Seton Hall University

  • South Orange, NJ
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Programmatic Accreditation: Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation

Avg. Cost per Credit: $880

Credits to Graduate: 48

Students can earn their master of arts in school counseling at South Orange, New Jersey's Seton Hall University. The program includes online foundation, counseling, and clinical coursework; periodic campus residencies; and K-12 school-based practicums and internships. Courses cover topics in appraisal and assessment, career development and counseling, learning and behavior modification, and multicultural counseling and psychology.

Applicants submit official transcripts, three recommendation letters, a personal statement, and a resume. The department prefers candidates with a 3.0 GPA.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$42,920
Out-of-state
$42,920
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$24,372
Out-of-state
$24,372
Retention Rate
84%
Acceptance Rate
78%
Students Enrolled
9,814
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
87% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education

#3 Best Online Master’s in School Counseling

North Carolina State University at Raleigh

  • Raleigh, NC
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Programmatic Accreditation: Council for the Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs

Avg. Cost per Credit:

In-State | $526

Out-of-State | $1,635

Credits to Graduate: 37-48

Located in Raleigh, North Carolina State University offers an online master of education in counselor education that emphasizes K-12 counseling theory and practice and multicultural diversity. The part-time program takes three years to complete, including summer terms, and students can take their licensure exams during the final semester of study. The department provides an iPad mini for each enrollee.

Required application materials include official transcripts, three recommendation letters, and a resume. Admitted students must complete their field experiences in North Carolina.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$6,535
Out-of-state
$26,654
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$9,095
Out-of-state
$26,421
Retention Rate
94%
Acceptance Rate
46%
Students Enrolled
36,042
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
91% 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 School Counseling

New York University

  • New York, NY
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Programmatic Accreditation: Masters in Psychology and Counseling Accreditation Council

Avg. Cost per Credit: $2,101

Credits to Graduate: 48

New York University's online master of arts in school counseling prepares pre-K-12 counselors in public and private schools. Students can concentrate on school counseling or bilingual school counseling and graduate in two years. The curriculum features weekly virtual class sessions, online counseling lab experiences, and practicums and internships at schools in students' communities. Enrollees also attend an immersion at the NYC campus.

Rolling admissions offers multiple start dates each year and requires an undergraduate degree with a 3.0 GPA.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$52,204
Out-of-state
$52,204
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$34,704
Out-of-state
$34,704
Retention Rate
90%
Acceptance Rate
21%
Students Enrolled
52,775
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
89% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education

#5 Best Online Master’s in School Counseling

University of West Alabama

  • Livingston, AL
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Programmatic Accreditation: Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation

Avg. Cost per Credit: $429

Credits to Graduate: 60

University of West Alabama, based in Livingston, offers an online master of education in school counseling. The three-year curriculum focuses on advocacy, assessment, evaluation, and providing a range of school counseling services. Enrollees pair with an online mentor and participate in a four-day campus residency. 

Candidates need baccalaureate-level certification in a teaching field or a master's-level educator certificate, along with two years of teaching experience. The program requires submission of a portfolio with an essay, resume, recommendations, and a video interview. 

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%
Acceptance 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

#6 Best Online Master’s in School Counseling

Oregon State University

  • Corvallis, OR
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Programmatic Accreditation: Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs; National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education 

Avg. Cost per Credit: $590

Credits to Graduate: 90 (quarter credits)

Oregon State University awards a master of counseling with an option in school counseling to graduates of the three-year program. The part-time, hybrid curriculum blends online learning, including synchronous practicum and internship courses, and face-to-face attendance on the Corvallis campus. Students complete on-site internships, school-based practicums, personal counseling sessions, and professional development. 

Applicants must reside in Oregon or Washington. The program admits 18 students per year based on academic background, experience, personal and emotional suitability, and educational and professional goals.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$9,846
Out-of-state
$29,445
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$13,257
Out-of-state
$26,109
Retention Rate
85%
Acceptance Rate
82%
Students Enrolled
32,312
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
52% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities

#7 Best Online Master’s in School Counseling

Concordia University-Irvine

  • Irvine, CA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Programmatic Accreditation: Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs

Avg. Cost per Credit: $665

Credits to Graduate: 48

The online master of arts in education: school counseling program at Concordia University Irvine prepares graduates for positions in California schools. Students can finish the Christian-based program in 26 months. Synchronous coursework includes topics in counseling and guidance, crisis response and management, educational assessment, and school law and ethics. Supervised field experience requires on-site attendance. 

Admission requires official transcripts, a 2.75 GPA, a valid teaching credential, and completion of the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing's Basic Skills Requirement training. 

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%
Acceptance 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

#8 Best Online Master’s in School Counseling

University of North Dakota

  • Grand Forks, ND
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Programmatic Accreditation: Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation

Avg. Cost per Credit: $800

Credits to Graduate: 60

The University of North Dakota in Grand Forks offers a master of arts in counseling online with a K-12 school counseling track. Students can graduate in as soon as 36 months of part-time study. The curriculum features asynchronous coursework focused on academic, career, and emotional counseling and intervention; working with families, school staff, and community stakeholders; and facilitating a positive school community.

Applicants need a bachelor's degree with a 2.75 GPA and must submit a personal statement, three professional recommendations, and a resume. 

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$8,540
Out-of-state
$12,810
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$11,060
Out-of-state
$16,590
Retention Rate
81%
Acceptance Rate
87%
Students Enrolled
13,615
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
83% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#9 Best Online Master’s in School Counseling

Monmouth University

  • West Long Branch, NJ
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Programmatic Accreditation: Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs

Avg. Cost per Credit: $1,095

Credits to Graduate: 60

Monmouth University's master of education in school counseling qualifies graduates to become certified school counselors and awards half the credit requirements toward becoming a licensed professional counselor. The hybrid format combines in-person meetings at the West Long Branch, New Jersey, campus with online coursework and on-site field placements.

Rolling admissions requires a bachelor's degree with a 3.0 GPA, two recommendation letters, a group interview, and an essay discussing why social justice is important to the applicant and its role in school counseling.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$39,968
Out-of-state
$39,968
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$27,874
Out-of-state
$27,874
Retention Rate
80%
Acceptance Rate
79%
Students Enrolled
5,674
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
96% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education

#10 Best Online Master’s in School Counseling

St Bonaventure University

  • Saint Bonaventure, NY
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Programmatic Accreditation: Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs

Avg. Cost per Credit: $820

Credits to Graduate: 60

St. Bonaventure University awards a master of science in education in school counseling. The New York-based program offers placement support for field practicums and internships in students' local areas and preparation for the licensed professional counselor exam. Courses combine asynchronous and synchronous learning. Focus areas include counseling and cultural competencies, communication skills, and critical thinking.

Admission requires transcripts showing a bachelor's degree with a 3.0 GPA, a personal statement, two letters of recommendation, and an interview. 

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$35,450
Out-of-state
$35,450
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$14,130
Out-of-state
$14,130
Retention Rate
86%
Acceptance Rate
76%
Students Enrolled
2,540
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
68% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education

How We Chose These Schools

At TheBestSchools, we pride ourselves on our proprietary ranking methodology to help prospective students like you find the best fit. Our ranking system uses data from the U.S. Department of Education to evaluate schools without bias while accounting for key factors like academic quality, online offerings, and affordability.

This ranking is from 2023. Learn more about how our formula works on our ranking methodology page.

Popular Online Counseling Programs

Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.

Choosing an Online Master's in School Counseling Program

Colleges and universities create their own curricula, so students pursuing an online master's in school counseling need to research prospective programs to determine if coursework satisfies local licensure requirements. Students should also consider other factors that may influence their own personal goals. Some factors to consider:

What Else Can I Expect from an Online Master's in School Counseling Program?

During your studies, you will learn about the needs of children and adolescents, child and youth development, how school systems work, different types of counseling, delivering culturally competent counseling, and the legal and ethical standards school counselors adhere to.

Most online master's in school counseling programs take approximately two years to complete and require 50-60 credits. While coursework takes place online, plan to complete fieldwork in person, typically on a school campus. When determining the best online master's in school counseling for your needs, consider the logistics for attending your fieldwork. After you graduate and complete your required supervised experience and pass the national examination, you can apply for a state license. Each state has its own requirements.

Online Master's in School Counseling Curriculum

Child and Adolescent Counseling

This course explores counseling techniques and theories that apply to children and adolescents. Student outcomes include identifying common emotional and behavioral disorders, evidence-based interventions, cultural and environmental factors that impact treatment, and emerging trends. This course may include a final exam or special project. Students can use this opportunity to focus on their ideal target population.

Career Development

School counselors often provide career development. This course emphasizes development theories and strategies for decision-making. Topics include relationships between roles of life and career development, cultural influences, and relevant assessments. Course objectives include identifying a healthy work-life balance. This course often requires a comprehensive final exam.

Group Counseling

School counselors need to understand interpersonal influences on behavior, developmental stages of a group, and theoretical approaches for counseling groups. This course emphasizes group leadership skills. Learning outcomes include demonstrating knowledge and competence in both advanced and fundamental counseling skills. This course often includes a group project.

Ethics and Legal Issues in School Counseling

This course explores the relationship between ethical standards and legal regulations in counseling. Students also explore regulations for professional counseling practices, identify professional issues that impact counselors, and study ethical and legal standards in school counseling.

School Counseling Certifications and Licenses

An accredited master's in school counseling is required to earn a state license. Students must pass the National Counselor Examination (NCE) offered by the National Board for Certified Counselors, which includes 200 multiple-choice questions. Topics include social and cultural diversity, human growth and development, group counseling and group work, and research and program evaluation.

Requirements vary by state. Students should visit their local department of education website to determine specifics. Requirements typically include logged contact hours. For instance, states may demand a specified number of practicum hours acquired under a licensed practitioner, or two or more years of teaching or counseling experience.

Students should also consider reciprocity guidelines if their career goals include moving to a different state. Professionals may need to complete additional coursework for applied experiences before earning reciprocity. The National Board for Professional Teaching Standards also offers a voluntary certification that recognizes K-12 professionals who demonstrate skill with standards-based evidence.

Accreditation for Online Master's in School Counseling Degree Programs

Accrediting agencies establish a minimum standard of quality for educational institutions. Other universities, licensing boards, and employers use these standards to verify that students have been trained properly. Regional accrediting agencies are generally considered more prestigious than national accrediting agencies, which typically only accredit trade and specialty schools.

Transferring to another institution may prove difficult if your school is not regionally accredited, so it's important to check the accreditation status of your institution. There are six regional accrediting agencies. Additionally, students may want to compare state licensing requirements to ensure they qualify to take the exam upon graduating.

Students should also consider programmatic accrediting agencies to verify the quality of a particular school counseling master's degree. For school counselors, these agencies include the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs and the Masters in Psychology and Counseling Accreditation Council.

School Counseling Careers

School counselors help students address any challenges or issues they face in school and guide them on their next steps after graduation. They may address issues, such as bullying, choosing classes, and college applications, or they may help students with learning or behavioral difficulties find the appropriate resources.

Career counselors focus primarily on helping pupils decide on and prepare for a career. They can also work with students outside the school system, such as in nonprofits that focus on career readiness and preparation, or within the juvenile justice system. Some career counselors even work in corporations to interest young graduates in jobs with that organization or help existing employees plan their careers.

School Counselors

School counselors help students establish and reach academic goals. These professionals usually work in elementary and secondary schools. For instance, high school counselors may examine students' career interests to help them identify what they should study in college.

School counselors also help students apply for financial aid, write essays for scholarships, write resumes if they're immediately entering the workforce, and find internship opportunities. School counselors may also administer aptitude tests or collaborate with relevant stakeholders, including parents, teachers, and other team members. This role typically requires a master's degree and an unencumbered state license.

Career Counselors

Career counselors primarily work with adolescents and young adults to make career or academic decisions that help students reach their career goals. Typical duties include small group or individual counseling, mock interviews, and classroom instruction. These professionals may also administer aptitude tests, advise clients on how to address conflict, or build professional networks.

Career counselors often work in high schools, colleges, or universities. However, placement firms or alternative schools also hire career counselors. This role requires a master's degree and an unencumbered license. Practitioners need to earn continuing education credits periodically to keep their licenses.

School Counseling Professional Organizations

The counseling field demands ongoing research to solve modern problems. School counselors benefit from memberships in professional organizations, which provide active global networks and access to cutting-edge research and practices. Additionally, professional organizations allow graduates to collaborate with seasoned practitioners and receive mentorship.

ASCA outlines ethical standards for school counselors. Membership allows access to cutting-edge resources and statistical data, professional development opportunities, and annual conferences. Professional members also have voting power. However, students earning a master's or doctorate may apply as nonvoting members. ACA advocates for culturally diverse and ethical practices that improve counseling services. It also provides information regarding policy changes and government affairs. Members can access online publications, career advancement resources, continuing education credits, and job opportunities. ACAC advocates for equal access to mental health services for children. It also provides resources for professional counselors working with youth and helps develop innovative prevention and intervention methods. Membership perks include networking opportunities and research grants.

Master's in School Counseling FAQs

Do You Need a Master's for School Counseling?

Both K-12 and postsecondary schools typically require school counselors to hold an unencumbered state license, which requires applicants to earn a master's degree.

How Long Is a Master's in School Counseling?

Students can earn an online master's in school counseling in two years with full-time attendance. Part-time students should anticipate earning their degrees in four years.

Where do school counselors make the most?

School counselors make the most in California, with an average annual salary of $85,820, followed by Washington ($81,280), Massachusetts ($79,670), New Jersey ($79,030) and Maryland ($76,250), according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). School counselors make the most in elementary and secondary schools ($74,910), junior colleges ($67,420), and at colleges, universities, and professional schools ($58,390).

What are the admission requirements for online master's in school counseling programs?

Typical admission requirements for the best online master's in school counseling programs include a bachelor's degree with a 3.0 or higher GPA and an application with an essay or statement of purpose. While most programs do not have specific requirements for your type of undergraduate major, coursework or a major in a related field, such as psychology or child development, show interest and commitment to your career choice.

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