Best Online Master's in Counseling
Updated June 2, 2023
Reviewed by
Our Integrity Network
TheBestSchools.org is committed to delivering content that is objective and actionable. To that end, we have built a network of industry professionals across higher education to review our content and ensure we are providing the most helpful information to our readers.
Drawing on their firsthand industry expertise, our Integrity Network members serve as an additional step in our editing process, helping us confirm our content is accurate and up to date. These contributors:
- Suggest changes to inaccurate or misleading information.
- Provide specific, corrective feedback.
- Identify critical information that writers may have missed.
Integrity Network members typically work full time in their industry profession and review content for TheBestSchools.org as a side project. All Integrity Network members are paid members of the Red Ventures Education Integrity Network.
Online master's in counseling programs are convenient for working students who want to expand their career and income potential.
A master's degree in counseling can lead to employment as a mental health counselor, school or career counselor, Christian counselor, marriage and family therapist, or an addiction counselor.
Students will learn counseling theories, evidence-based research, and strategies for diagnosing, treating, and preventing mental health disorders.
The benefits of an online master's in counseling course may include lower costs, more personalized learning, flexible scheduling, and overall convenience.
Dive into this guide to discover how to become a licensed or certified counselor, learn about salary expectations for various careers, and get access to a list of the top online master's in counseling programs.
Questions About Earning a Master's in Counseling
With a master's in counseling, graduates can work in clinics, hospitals, or private practice. Counselors can also work with specialty populations, including children or adults; address issues related to substance use or rehabilitation; or work within healthcare or educational organizations.
No, a master of psychology is not the same as a master's degree in counseling. The primary difference between psychology and counseling are the models they operate from.
A master's in counseling operates from a wellness or strength-based model. Master's in counseling degree programs focus on learning about therapeutic methods, such as psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and other modalities, to support clients in a clinical or school environment.
In master's level counseling programs, the primary focus is on helping clients learn tools for healthy communication, employ positive coping strategies, and deal with trauma. A master's in psychology operates from a medical or symptom-based model.
Although both degrees can prepare students to work in clinical mental health, master's in psychology programs take a more scientific/research approach to the field.
The decision to pursue a master's in social work or counseling depends on the type of careers graduates wish to pursue. While there is crossover between professional outcomes, those enrolled in a master of social work or counseling receive training in different models of care. Another important consideration is that social workers may accept Medicare reimbursement while counselors can not.
Those interested in pursuing master's degrees in counseling first need undergraduate degrees in psychology, sociology, social work, or another related field.
The best degree for counseling at the graduate level depends on individual career goals. Degree specialty options include substance use counseling, marriage and family counseling, and rehabilitation therapy.
The job growth outlook for licensed/certified counselors is good. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the need for mental health professionals, such as counselors, is expected to grow faster than the average job growth rate from 2021-2031 as more people seek counseling services.
Substance use, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors have a 22% projected job growth rate, while the BLS gives marriage and family therapists (MFTs) an anticipated job growth rate of 14%.
According to the BLS, in May 2021, the median annual wage for substance use, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors was $48,520. This includes graduates of both undergraduate and graduate-level education.
Graduate-level counseling education can lead to independent licensure, which in turn can mean opening a private practice and increasing income beyond what bachelor degree-holders earn.
According to Payscale, the average salary for licensed professional counselors is $50,310 as of October 2022.
A MA is a humanities-based program that often focuses on theoretical knowledge. A master of science (MS) in counseling is a research-based postgraduate degree, offering an evidence-based, hands-on approach to a counseling degree.
An MS is ideal for students with a general bachelor's degree, such as English, and a master of arts (MA) in counseling, while an MS is best suited for those with a bachelor's degree in psychology.
Ultimately, overall program structure that meets board requirements and a student's needs should be the deciding factor.
Featured Online Counseling Programs
Choosing an Online Master's in Counseling Program
There are many options for online counseling degree programs. Below are some guidelines and essential factors to consider.
When choosing an online master's program, initial considerations include:
- Make sure the prospective program is accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP).
- Research online master's in counseling programs and list of 3 - 5 possible options.
- Familiarize yourself with the prerequisites for each prospective program to ensure you meet the requirements.
- Select between a master of arts (MA) in counseling, a master of science (MS) in counseling, or a master of education (MEd) in counseling, depending on your experience and career goals.
- If you plan to specialize, be sure the program you select offers the specialization/licensure/certification concentration you plan to pursue.
- Evaluate the program's mandatory field experience (e.g., does the institution help set up supervised field experience, number of required hours, and where pre-set field experience is to take place).
- Find out if your work experience is applicable for field experience hours.
- Check out the admission requirements (e.g., GPA, required degree, and required GRE or GMAT test scores).
- Check the program delivery mode (e.g., 100% online or hybrid)
- Compare tuition rates; distance learners should find out if there are additional fees for in-person residency weekends and if out-of-state tuition applies.
Best Online Master's in Counseling Programs
The school and/or program descriptions below were drafted using natural language generation technology and have been edited for clarity and accuracy. The data is primarily sourced from government databases such as IPEDS – see sources section for more details.
These rankings include
#1 Best Online Master’s in Counseling
Southern New Hampshire University
Manchester, NH - 4 years
- Online + Campus
From its campus in Manchester, Southern New Hampshire University hosts a top-ranked master of arts in clinical mental health counseling. The curriculum prepares counselors to work with clients on various behavioral and emotional issues. Enrollees explore counseling research and methodologies, assessment techniques, and treatment interventions.
Participants complete any in-person internship or practicum experience at approved sites in their local community. Those without a counseling background may need to complete prerequisite courses to enroll.
The MA in clinical mental health counseling helps graduates increase their salary potential and take on more professional responsibilities. A master's degree can also lead to new career paths. Students who attend on campus can access the library and gym, as well as other amenities and facilities. The program hosts networking events and other professional development activities to help graduate students expand their professional connections.
Southern New Hampshire University at a Glance:
Type of school: Private not-for-profit, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 94%
Total Online Master's Programs: 29
Program name: MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Graduate Tuition In State: $18,810
#2 Best Online Master’s in Counseling
Keiser University-Ft Lauderdale
Fort Lauderdale, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
The master of science in clinical mental health counseling at Keiser University-Fort Lauderdale offers a flexible online format. The degree prepares enrollees for professional counseling practice.
The master's curriculum emphasizes counseling theories and best practices to help clients deal with a range of issues. Participants attend live classes and engage in role-playing exercises, discussions, and other immersive interactions. Learners can individualize the program by selecting elective courses in areas of interest. Students have access to support services, such as individualized academic advisement and one-on-one tutoring.
Online enrollees complete internship or practicum requirements in their local community to gain professional experience. Applicants with prior experience in counseling or a related field often meet the admission requirements.
Keiser University-Fort Lauderdale at a Glance:
Type of school: Private not-for-profit, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 97%
Total Online Master's Programs: 21
Program name: MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Graduate Tuition In State: $27,162
#3 Best Online Master’s in Counseling
Grand Canyon University
Phoenix, AZ - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Based in Phoenix, Arizona, Grand Canyon University hosts a top-rated online master of science in clinical mental health counseling. An advanced counseling degree is a stepping stone to state licensure and leadership roles. The curriculum explores evidence-based theories and how to diagnose and treat a variety of disorders. Participants also learn about research methods and the legal and ethical standards established for clinical mental health counselors.
Learners can take specialized courses to stand out in a competitive job market. Online enrollees complement the classroom experience with internship and practicum opportunities in their local area. Applicants without a counseling background may need to complete prerequisite courses to enroll. Graduate students expand their professional connections by attending virtual networking events.
Grand Canyon University at a Glance:
Type of school: Private for-profit, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 81%
Total Online Master's Programs: 45
Program name: MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Graduate Tuition In State: $10,528
#4 Best Online Master’s in Counseling
Catawba College
Salisbury, NC - 4 years
- Online + Campus
From its campus in Salisbury, North Carolina, Catawba College offers an online master of health science in clinical mental health counseling that prepares enrollees to sit for the national counselor exam. The master's curriculum teaches counseling skills and techniques for work with individuals, groups, and couples.
In addition to didactic coursework, participants complete practical training, such as a supervised internship in their local community. Graduate students can also grow their professional connections through virtual networking events. Students study in small classes that promote personalized learning, and complete the program in two years.
Catawba College at a Glance:
Type of school: Private not-for-profit, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 52%
Total Online Master's Programs: 2
Program name: Master of Health Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Graduate Tuition In State: $3,594
#5 Best Online Master’s in Counseling
Lincoln Memorial University
Harrogate, TN - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Students seeking a master's in counseling that focuses on professional practice in educational environments should consider Lincoln Memorial University's M.Ed. in professional counseling. The degree, delivered in a flexible online format, offers two concentrations.
All students complete a curriculum core that teaches counseling skills, theories, and interventions. Learners prepare for focused career paths by choosing the preK-12 school counseling or mental health counseling concentration.
Online enrollees complete an internship that develops specialized skills in their concentration. The program encourages graduate students to attend networking events to expand their professional connections.
Lincoln Memorial University at a Glance:
Type of school: Private not-for-profit, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 69%
Total Online Master's Programs: 15
Program name: M.Ed. in Professional Counseling
Graduate Tuition In State: $20,705
#6 Best Online Master’s in Counseling
Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center
Lubbock, TX - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Based in Lubbock, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center hosts a top-rated master of science in clinical mental health counseling that prepares enrollees for both traditional clinical counseling and telehealth practice. In addition to field-specific skills, this degree also prepares graduates for leadership responsibilities.
The master's curriculum examines counseling theories, assessments, evidence-based interventions, and case management techniques. Enrollees learn how to apply their skills in individual and group settings. Online enrollees complete internship and practicum requirements at approved sites in their local area. Internships and other networking events also help graduate students expand their professional network.
Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center at a Glance:
Type of school: Public, 4-year or above
Total Online Master's Programs: 9
Program name: MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Graduate Tuition In State: $6,360
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $16,176
#7 Best Online Master’s in Counseling
University of Phoenix-Arizona
Phoenix, AZ - 4 years
- Online + Campus
The University of Phoenix-Arizona develops a catalog of high-quality online programs. The online master of science in counseling/clinical mental health counseling trains counselors to treat people with a variety of mental health disorders.
The master's curriculum emphasizes topics, such as psychotherapy, clinical assessments, and research development. All enrollees study ethical practice in professional counseling. Learners choose electives or a specialization to stand out in a competitive job market.
Online enrollees work with the program to find internship opportunities in their local area. Graduate students also build professional connections by attending networking events.
University of Phoenix-Arizona at a Glance:
Type of school: Private for-profit, 4-year or above
Total Online Master's Programs: 27
Program name: MS in Counseling/Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Graduate Tuition In State: $17,096
#8 Best Online Master’s in Counseling
Grace College and Theological Seminary
Winona Lake, IN - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Grace College and Theological Seminary offers a Christian counseling degree online. Students complete the master of clinical mental health counseling with limited residency requirements on campus in Winona Lake, Indiana.
The master's curriculum explores counseling techniques and best practices from a Christian perspective. While on campus, students receive additional counselor preparation and training facilitated by online and residential faculty.
Online enrollees build hands-on experience when they complete internship and practicum requirements in their local area. Graduate students also participate in networking events to expand their professional connections.
Grace College and Theological Seminary at a Glance:
Type of school: Private not-for-profit, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 75%
Total Online Master's Programs: 14
Program name: Master of Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Graduate Tuition In State: $7,872
#9 Best Online Master’s in Counseling
Bradley University
Peoria, IL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Graduate students can earn a counseling degree online in an accelerated timeframe at Bradley University, located in Peoria, Illinois. The nine-month master of arts in counseling - clinical mental health counseling builds specialized skills for advanced practice, preparing graduates for leadership positions with increased salary potential.
The MA program teaches a variety of skills, including the diagnosis and treatment of mental disorders, counseling techniques, and crisis intervention counseling. Learners individualize the curriculum by selecting electives or a speciality area.
Practicum and internship opportunities enhance professional competencies and provide real-world experience. Online enrollees complete these experiential learning opportunities at approved locations in their local area. Enrollees study in small online classes that promote personalized learning.
Bradley University at a Glance:
Type of school: Private not-for-profit, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 73%
Total Online Master's Programs: 4
Program name: MA in Counseling - Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Graduate Tuition In State: $16,740
#10 Best Online Master’s in Counseling
Capella University
Minneapolis, MN - 4 years
- Online
Located in Minneapolis, Capella University is a private online college with a comprehensive catalog that includes a top-ranked counseling program. The MS in clinical mental health counseling offers the best of both worlds with online and in-person learning experiences. The degree helps prepare enrollees for professional state licensure.
The master's curriculum blends theory and practice to develop highly skilled counseling practitioners. Students complete core and specialization courses and enhance their learning with two residencies. Participants further enhance their knowledge and expertise with internship opportunities at approved sites in their local communities.
Graduate students expand their professional network through the internship experience and online events.
Capella University at a Glance:
Type of school: Private for-profit, 4-year or above
Total Online Master's Programs: 78
Program name: MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Graduate Tuition In State: $14,767
#11 Best Online Master’s in Counseling
Walden University
Minneapolis, MN - 4 years
- Online
Walden University, located in Minneapolis, specializes in rigorous and affordable online programs. The master of science in clinical mental health counseling helps prepare enrollees for professional practice in various settings.
The master's curriculum teaches students how to develop therapeutic relationships with various client populations in clinical settings. Participants learn about theoretical concepts and their applications, assessment techniques, and evidence-based treatment plans. Learners can opt for a specialization that addreses their career objectives.
Field experience involves practicum hours and an internship at approved locations in students' local area. The program encourages graduate students to attend online and in-person events and other activities that build professional networks.
Walden University at a Glance:
Type of school: Private for-profit, 4-year or above
Total Online Master's Programs: 38
Program name: MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Graduate Tuition In State: $10,272
#12 Best Online Master’s in Counseling
Medaille College
Buffalo, NY - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Located in Buffalo, New York, Medaille College offers a versatile master of arts in clinical mental health counseling that students can complete online or on campus. The program uses a rigorous curriculum to prepare graduates for advanced roles in the field, and may provide the education and training required for state licensure.
The master's curriculum examines advanced theories and practices in counseling. Learners focus their training by choosing electives based on their interests and career goals. Online enrollees complete internship programs in their local area to gain hands-on experience.
The common facilities and services offered at most universities, such as the library or gym, are accessible to students on campus. Applicants who majored in counseling or a related field typically meet the admission requirements.
Medaille College at a Glance:
Type of school: Private not-for-profit, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 72%
Total Online Master's Programs: 5
Program name: MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Graduate Tuition In State: $21,621
#13 Best Online Master’s in Counseling
Northwest University-College of Adult and Professional Studies
Kirkland, WA - 4 years
- Online
Located in Kirkland, Washington, Northwest University-College of Adult and Professional Studies offers a master of arts in clinical mental health counseling that students can complete online with limited residency requirements. The MA emphasizes clinical expertise, preparing graduates for increased responsibilities and a higher earning potential. A master's degree can help candidates advance in their current career or pursue a new career path entirely.
The master's curriculum emphasizes theory and practice in counseling, while integrating a Christian worldview. Students explore best-practice interventions and ethical considerations in clinical practice.
Online enrollees coordinate with the program to complete internships at approved sites in their local area. Campus students have access to the library and gymnasium, as well as other equipment and facilities available at most institutions.
Northwest University-College of Adult and Professional Studies at a Glance:
Type of school: Private not-for-profit, 4-year or above
Total Online Master's Programs: 6
Program name: MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Graduate Tuition In State: $15,622
#14 Best Online Master’s in Counseling
Malone University
Canton, OH - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Students looking for a counseling master's program that integrates faith and prioritizes flexibility should explore Malone University's master's in clinical mental health counseling. The Ohio-based school delivers the program with a choice of synchronous or asynchronous online learning.
The master's curriculum explores advanced theories, best-practice interventions, and research methodologies. Learners choose electives or a specialization for focused career training. Internships and other practicum experiences allow participants to practice their training in professional contexts in their local area.
Students studying on campus can access the library and gym, as well as other amenities and facilities available at most institutions. Applicants without a background in counseling may need to complete prerequisite courses before enrolling in the master's program.
Malone University at a Glance:
Type of school: Private not-for-profit, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 74%
Total Online Master's Programs: 4
Program name: Master's degree - Mental Health Counseling/Counselor.
Graduate Tuition In State: $11,250
#15 Best Online Master’s in Counseling
Alliance University
New York, NY - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Located in New York, New York, Alliance University enrolls students in its top-ranked master of arts in mental health counseling. The master's degree, available both online and on campus, prepares clinicians skilled in providing services to people from a variety of backgrounds.
The curriculum integrates counseling principles and best practices with a Christian worldview. Students explore the ethics and values essential for clinicians to provide effective professional counseling. Learners can customize the degree with elective credit that addresses their career goals.
Online enrollees participate in internship programs at approved locations in their home community. Students studying on campus have access to a variety of amenities, such as the library and fitness center. Graduate students expand their professional network through internships and online events.
Alliance University at a Glance:
Type of school: Private not-for-profit, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 97%
Total Online Master's Programs: 10
Program name: MA in Mental Health Counseling
Graduate Tuition In State: $13,300
#16 Best Online Master’s in Counseling
University of Western States
Portland, OR - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Based in Portland, Oregon, the University of Western States administers a top-rated online master of science in clinical mental health counseling that may meet the requirements for state professional licensure. Enrollees learn how to assess, diagnose, and plan treatment interventions for a variety of clients. The degree also provides the training necessary for leadership roles or to forge new career paths.
The master's curriculum emphasizes evidence-based counseling best practices. Learners can individualize the program to explore specialized areas of interest. Online enrollees work with the school to arrange professional internships at sites in their local community. On-campus learners can access amenities and facilities available at most institutions. Graduate students can explore a variety of ways to build their community and enhance professional networks.
University of Western States at a Glance:
Type of school: Private not-for-profit, 4-year or above
Total Online Master's Programs: 4
Program name: MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Graduate Tuition In State: $9,450
#17 Best Online Master’s in Counseling
Lamar University
Beaumont, TX - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Students interested in pursuing a career in school or career counseling can acquire the requisite training at Lamar University, located in Beaumont, Texas. The M.Ed. in counseling and development is delivered online and offers tracks in professional school counseling and marriage, couple, and family counseling.
Students study counseling theory and practice applicable to their specialization. The degree requires residency and internship requirements that provide face-to-face interactions with faculty, peers, and clients. Students complete the internship in their community to accomodate their schedules.
The program features five-week courses that can help students accelerate degree completion. Students who attend classes on campus can access the library and gym, as well as other amenities and facilities available at most institutions.
Lamar University at a Glance:
Type of school: Public, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 83%
Total Online Master's Programs: 15
Program name: Master of Education in Counseling and Development
Graduate Tuition In State: $6,397
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $13,759
#18 Best Online Master’s in Counseling
Houston Baptist University
Houston, TX - 4 years
- Online + Campus
At Houston Baptist University, students have access to a comprehensive catalog of rigorous academic programs shaped by a Christian worldview. The master of arts in clinical mental health counseling blends on-campus and online learning.
The degree builds specialized skills for advanced clinical practice, leadership roles, and state licensure preparation. With a master's degree, candidates also pursue new career opportunities in other helping professions or fields.
The master's curriculum emphasizes counseling skills and techniques for different poulations, such as those with substance abuse issues. The degree also focuses on research design and program evaluation. Both practicum and internship requirements provide hands-on experience in clinical settings, and enrollees work with the program to identify sites in their local area. A licensed practitioner oversees the program's experiential learning requirements.
The common facilities and services offered at most universities, such as the library or gym, are accessible to students on campus.
Houston Baptist University at a Glance:
Type of school: Private not-for-profit, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 72%
Total Online Master's Programs: 15
Program name: MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Graduate Tuition In State: $10,350
#19 Best Online Master’s in Counseling
North Carolina Central University
Durham, NC - 4 years
- Online + Campus
From its campus in Durham, North Carolina, North Carolina Central University hosts a top-ranked master of arts in clinical mental health counseling. The program uses a rigorous curriculum to prepare graduates for advanced roles in the field.
The master's curriculum explores counseling research and methodologies to prepare for the job market. Enrollees need a background in counseling before applying to the program.
Online learners complete internship programs in their local area to gain hands-on experience. Campus students have access to the library and gymnasium, as well as other equipment and facilities available at most institutions. Students can expand their professional connections through internships and networking events.
North Carolina Central University at a Glance:
Type of school: Public, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 87%
Total Online Master's Programs: 13
Program name: Clinical Mental Health Counseling, MA
Graduate Tuition In State: $4,740
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $17,694
#20 Best Online Master’s in Counseling
Bellevue University
Bellevue, NE - 4 years
- Online + Campus
From its campus in Bellevue, Nebraska, Bellevue University offers an online clinical mental health counseling degree that prepares learners to take on more professional responsibilities.
The master's curriculum examines theoretical and practical perspectives on counseling, and students can tailor their course of study by selecting electives and concentrations. Applicants should have a background in counseling or a related field.
Online enrollees participate in internship programs at approved locations in their local area. Common facilities and services offered at most universities, such as the library or gymnasium, are accessible to students living on campus. The program hosts networking events and other professional development activities to help graduate students expand their professional connections.
Bellevue University at a Glance:
Type of school: Private not-for-profit, 4-year or above
Total Online Master's Programs: 27
Program name: Clinical Mental Health Counseling Degree
Graduate Tuition In State: $10,710
What Else Can I Expect From an Online Master of Counseling Program?
While online master's degrees in counseling programs often build from the same pool of required coursework, other curricular specifics — such as advanced classes and capstone requirements — depend on the faculty and departmental focus.
Most online counseling master's programs also prepare students for professional examinations and state licensing requirements. Check that a program provides the support you need to achieve your goals.
How to Become a Counselor
Steps to becoming a counselor include:
- Earn a bachelor’s degree at an accredited college or university.
- Complete the necessary prerequisite training required by the master’s program (i.e., some programs require related on-the-job experience,but most programs do not have this requirement).
- Complete an accredited graduate degree (e.g., master’s in counseling), including a minimum of 100 practicum hours and an additional 600 hours for internships)
- Finish required post-graduate supervised field experience after obtaining a Professional Counselor Training license (e.g., 2,000 to 4,000 supervised post-degree hours). Note a temporary license validity may vary per state.
- Apply for and pass the exam for a licensed professional counselor (LPC) credential in your state of residence. Learn more about state licensing requirements and acronyms on the American Counseling Association website.
- Apply for and pass the National Certified Counselor (NCC) board certification, which also offers three specialty certifications.
- Maintain your Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) license.
How Long is a Master's in Counseling Program?
The length of a master's in counseling program can differ depending on various factors (e.g., which degree you have when you begin the program, whether you attend full-time or part-time, and more).
On average, full-time students can complete the program in four semesters, which translates to approximately two years. Part-time students can finish the program in three or more years.
How Much Do Counselors Make?
According to the BLS, the average annual salary expectation for counselors is $56,410. The salary differs depending on what type of degree you pursue.
According to Payscale, if you have a BA in counseling, the average yearly salary is $51,000; comparatively, graduates of a master of science (MS) mental health counseling degree earn an average of $53,000 annually.
| Degree | Annual Average Salary |
|---|---|
| Bachelor of Arts (BA), Counseling Degree | $51,000 |
| Master of Education (MEd), Counseling Degree | $58,000 |
| Master of Arts (MA), Counseling Degree | $56,000 |
| Master of Science (MS), Mental Health Counseling Degree | $53,000 |
| Master of Arts (MA), Mental Health Counseling Degree | $51,000 |
Source: Payscale
Before applying for an online master's in counseling degree, students must choose a specialization.
Addiction Counseling
An addiction counselor commonly works on a 1:1 basis with clients with substance use disorders, and their family members. They facilitate educational groups to teach clients tools for coping with stress or other addiction-related symptoms.
Addiction counselors also facilitate group therapy, which helps participants support each other during their recovery from drug, alcohol, gambling, or other addictions. Many programs employ 12-step or non-12-step recovery programs, such as SMART Recovery and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). Addiction counselors help clients arrange for things like sober housing, ongoing 12-step or other peer support groups, and aftercare programs after discharge.
Addiction counseling does not require a master's degree.
Christian Counseling
Christian counseling integrates traditional therapy modes (e.g., talk therapy) with Christian beliefs. Christian counseling can incorporate other specializations. For example, Christian counselors may specialize in marriage and family, alcohol and drug, or mental health counseling.
Marriage and Family
Marriage and family counselors focus on conflict resolution for couples (whether married or not) and the family unit, which could include the extended family or the nuclear family. Anyone can receive marriage and family counseling, regardless of whether they have a mental health diagnosis.
Mental Health Counseling
Mental health counselors, also called clinical mental health counselors, work with people with mental health diagnoses that align with the diagnostic and statistic manual of mental disorders (DSM-5).
Examples include major depressive disorder, anxiety disorder, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and others. Mental health counselors often work closely with psychiatrists legally authorized to prescribe medications and monitor a client's medical status on these “psychotropic” meds.
Rehabilitation
Rehabilitation counselors teach life skills to clients of any age with disabilities or diseases like multiple sclerosis, autism, or spina bifida. Some clients in need of rehab suffer from terminal disorders such as cancer; others may need support while recovering from debilitating injuries like severe car accidents. Rehabilitation counselors help their clients improve the quality of their daily lives and accept or cope with their physical or mental limitations.
School Counseling
School counselors, once referred to as guidance counselors, work with kids from Pre-K through 12th grade. School counselors see kids with issues that impact their social interactions or academic achievement during school.
They often see bullied students or those who experience neglect, abuse, parental divorce, or other problems. School counselors are licensed to help kids undergoing Individual Education Program (IEP) programs.
Online Master's in Counseling Careers
The counseling field encompasses many professions, and workers can find employment in hospitals as clinical counselors or at colleges and universities as career counselors.
They can also develop their own independent practice. By enrolling in an online counseling master's program and obtaining the necessary postgraduate experience and licensure, students can build a career that is both lucrative and meaningful.
The average salary for counselors depends on the type of degree. Licensure or certification/specialization further impacts earnings.
| Occupation | Average Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| Genetic Counselors | $86,640 |
| Educational, Guidance, and Career Counselors and Advisors | $63,090 |
| Marriage and Family Therapists | $59,660 |
| Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors | $53,490 |
| Counselors, All Other | $49,730 |
| Rehabilitation Counselors | $44,740 |
Source: BLS
Advanced research methodology
This is a foundational course available in most master's in counseling online programs. It teaches students how to conduct research according to the standards of the field, including how to write a proposal, develop variables, handle human subjects, and apply for funding.
Professional ethics and law
This class helps students understand federal and state laws, along with mandatory field-specific regulations. Course content may also include a historical look at famous cases that shaped the field.
Child abuse and neglect
In this course, students learn to identify signs of maltreatment, provide counseling and support to children, and follow through by accessing community resources to ensure that either the family dynamic changes or that a child moves to a safe environment. These skills prepare students for careers as family therapists, child advocates, and school counselors.
Human development
Another common topic — particularly for programs based in clinical counseling — this course guides students through the stages of human development, including psychological, cognitive, and biological theories of growth. Students may analyze case studies and begin to develop their own styles of counseling.
Group counseling
This course trains students to become effective group facilitators, covering the purpose and types of group sessions. Students also learn techniques related to engaging group members and evaluating success.
Certifications and Licenses a Master’s in Counseling Prepares For
Accreditation for Online Master's in Counseling Degrees
Colleges and universities in the U.S. must be accredited to confer valid degrees recognized by most professional bodies and employers. Organizations who have received authority from the U.S. Department of Higher Education and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) grant accreditation. Accreditation determines a school's eligibility for federal funding and the quality of its programs, respectively.
Additionally, an online master's degree program in counseling may hold accreditation from a field-specific institution, such as the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Programs or the Master of Psychology and Counseling Accreditation Council.
Featured Image Credit: SDI Productions | E+ | Getty Images
Popular with our students.
Highly informative resources to keep your education journey on track.
Take the next step toward your future with online learning.
Discover schools with the programs and courses you’re interested in, and start learning today.
