Choosing a counseling master's program in the West means looking beyond a school's name: the degree must fit your budget, schedule, and intended state of licensure. This guide accompanies the 2027 Most Popular Clinical Mental Health Counseling Degree Programs Ranking in the West, created by the Research.com team of data scientists to help students make an informed choice about programs worth considering. You'll learn how to compare training, clinical placements, costs, and career prospects - and identify the questions to settle before applying.
Key findings about Clinical Mental Health Counseling degrees in West
A licensure-oriented master's is the relevant path for aspiring clinical mental health counselors; before enrolling, verify that its coursework and placements satisfy the board in the state where you intend to practice.
The U.S. median annual wage for the relevant counseling occupation was $59,350 in May 2025, and employment is projected to grow 18% from 2025 to 2035 (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics). Neither figure predicts an individual graduate's earnings.
Compare total program cost and placement logistics, not tuition alone: an online program may save relocation costs but still require supervised, in-person clinical training near where you live.
What can I expect from a Clinical Mental Health Counseling degree in West?
A clinical mental health counseling degree is usually a master's program designed to prepare students for assessment, counseling, and supervised treatment of mental health concerns. It is an educational step toward professional counselor licensure - not a license itself. Students should expect counseling theory, diagnosis, ethics, research, and supervised work with clients, followed by any examinations and post-degree experience their intended state requires (state counseling licensing boards).
This path fits someone who wants to provide psychotherapy or related clinical services and can commit to supervised training. It is a less direct investment for someone whose goal is school counseling, social work, or independent practice without additional supervised experience: those goals involve different credentials and licensing rules. In the West, choosing a program also means choosing a likely licensing destination. California's Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor requirements, for example, should not be assumed to match Washington's Licensed Mental Health Counselor requirements (California Board of Behavioral Sciences; Washington State Department of Health).
Where can I work with a Clinical Mental Health Counseling degree in West?
Clinical mental health counselors work in outpatient clinics, community mental health organizations, hospitals, residential services, and private practices; the available role depends on the employer and the counselor's license or supervised status (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics). A new graduate may first work under supervision rather than independently.
Location changes the practical choice of program. Someone planning to work in a large metro area should ask schools about placements serving their intended population and whether commuting between classes, a job, and a clinical site is realistic. Someone aiming to practice in a rural Western community should investigate local supervision and placement availability before choosing a remote program. An online classroom cannot supply a nearby clinical supervisor by itself.
The national median annual wage for substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors was $59,350 in May 2025 (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook). This occupational figure is a useful benchmark, not a starting salary for master's graduates or a West-wide wage. Pay can change with licensing status, setting, experience, and local labor market; a private-practice billing rate is not the same as take-home income.
To judge whether the degree is worth its cost, compare likely earnings after graduation and licensure with your current earnings, then account for tuition, aid, borrowing, time away from paid work, and the chance of completing the program. If salary relative to education cost is your main concern, use the most valuable clinical mental health counseling programs as another comparison - but request program-level cost and outcome details before drawing a return-on-investment conclusion.
The programs below offer different starting points for comparison: degree design, delivery format, location, and potential clinical focus. Their descriptions identify useful distinctions, not verified head-to-head outcome or price advantages; ask each school for current completion, placement, and licensure-exam information. For a separate outcomes-oriented lens, see the best clinical mental health counseling programs.
Adams State University: Its Colorado clinical mental health counseling master's provides a public-university option outside a major coastal metro. Students interested in practicing in Colorado should compare its clinical-placement arrangements and resident versus nonresident price with their alternatives (Adams State University).
Palo Alto University: Its MA in Counseling makes the precise counseling pathway important to check when comparing programs. Applicants aiming for clinical mental health rather than another counseling credential should confirm the applicable curriculum and California licensure alignment (Palo Alto University).
University of Phoenix - Online: Its online clinical mental health counseling master's is a format-specific option for students who cannot attend regular campus classes. Verify where required clinical training can be completed and whether the curriculum meets the requirements of your intended licensing board (University of Phoenix).
Alliant University: Its clinical counseling master's offers a California-based program to examine alongside other California options. Request its current course-to-licensure documentation and placement policies rather than assuming that a program's location establishes eligibility in every state (Alliant University).
The Chicago School - Online: Its online MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling offers remote academic study. For a Western student, the deciding comparison is whether the school can support approved clinical training and licensure planning in the student's home state (The Chicago School).
Lewis & Clark College: Its mental health counseling master's sits within a counseling and psychology graduate department in Oregon. Applicants interested in the relationship between mental health and addiction counseling should compare its available degree pathways and required coursework with a general clinical counseling curriculum (Lewis & Clark College).
Seattle University, campus program: Its MAEd in Clinical Mental Health Counseling offers a campus-based option in Washington. Students who value regular in-person contact should weigh that structure against commuting and the schedule of supervised training (Seattle University).
Northern Arizona University: Its MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling is housed in educational psychology. That departmental setting is worth examining if you want to compare its training approach and Arizona placement arrangements with programs housed in dedicated counseling schools (Northern Arizona University).
Seattle University, online program: Its online MAEd provides a direct format comparison with the university's campus offering. Ask whether course sequencing, clinical-placement support, and any required visits differ before choosing based on delivery alone (Seattle University).
George Fox University: Its clinical counseling master's provides an Oregon-based alternative to Lewis & Clark. Compare the two programs' published curricula, placement processes, schedules, and full costs to determine which better fits your intended practice setting (George Fox University).
A full-time, licensure-oriented counseling master's commonly takes about 2 to 3 years; part-time study can take longer. The actual calendar depends on course sequencing, when practicum and internship are offered, and whether a student can secure an approved site. Graduation is also distinct from the additional supervised experience a state may require for independent licensure (program catalogs; state counseling licensing boards).
An accelerated schedule makes the most sense if you can accommodate clinical hours alongside classes. Working adults should ask for a term-by-term plan showing when daytime site work begins. A slower program can be financially preferable if it lets you retain employment, even if it delays entry into a licensed role.
The main difference is where academic instruction takes place, not whether clinical training is necessary. This comparison helps identify which format removes a genuine barrier - and which requirements remain regardless of format.
Decision factor
Online program
On-campus program
Classes
Remote instruction; scheduled sessions or visits may still apply.
Regular travel to a campus is generally required.
Clinical training
Typically completed at an approved site accessible to the student.
Also requires an approved site; campus proximity does not assure a placement.
Best fit
Students who need geographic flexibility and can arrange local clinical training.
Students who prefer in-person instruction and can manage travel and scheduling.
Before enrolling online from another state, obtain written confirmation about state authorization, placement support, and how the program's coursework maps to your intended license. Do not mistake "online" for self-paced or assume a school will find a nearby supervisor for you (institution program policies; state counseling licensing boards).
There is no single defensible "West average" for this degree: the region spans multiple states, and advertised tuition may represent a per-credit charge, annual charge, or entire program. A national graduate-tuition average would also obscure the cost of a specific licensure-oriented program. Use each institution's current tuition schedule and required curriculum to obtain a comparable total program estimate (NCES/IPEDS; institution tuition schedules).
Ask for tuition and mandatory fees through graduation, then add clinical-placement travel, insurance or screening requirements, books, and any required campus visits. Public-university residency rules can materially change the price; an online student should not assume that remote attendance confers in-state tuition. Compare that total with aid and lost earnings, not just the first term's bill. The most affordable clinical mental health counseling programs can help build a cost shortlist, but confirm the current rate for your residency and enrollment status.
Graduate students should begin with the FAFSA and each school's aid office. Potential funding includes federal Direct Unsubsidized Loans for eligible students, institutional scholarships or assistantships, and employer support; availability and award terms vary (Federal Student Aid; institution financial aid offices). State aid in one Western state should not be assumed to follow a student into another.
Graduate PLUS needs particular attention for 2027 entrants. Under federal changes effective for new graduate borrowing from July 1, 2026, it is generally unavailable to students beginning a new graduate program; limited transitional eligibility may apply to qualifying previously enrolled borrowers. Confirm your own status and current loan limits with Federal Student Aid and the school before counting on that financing (Federal Student Aid). Ask whether scholarships continue during internship terms, when paid work may become harder to schedule.
View the chart data as a table
Graduates (2024-25) distribution across ranked programs (Source: Research.com)
Category
Value
0–49
32
50–99
4
100–149
2
150–199
2
200–249
1
250–299
1
Programs generally require a bachelor's degree and an application documenting academic preparation and fit for clinical work. Schools may also request transcripts, recommendations, a statement of purpose, an interview, or prerequisite coursework; their official admissions pages determine the actual requirements (institution admissions offices). A psychology major is not universally required.
Admission is only the first gate. Before paying a deposit, ask whether the institution is appropriately accredited, whether the specific counseling program holds CACREP accreditation if that matters for your plans, and how its curriculum meets your target state's education rules. CACREP accreditation, institutional accreditation, graduation, an exam, supervised experience, and a state license are distinct matters (CACREP; U.S. Department of Education; state counseling licensing boards). Transfer credit is another program-specific rule: ask whether previously earned graduate courses would replace required counseling coursework or merely reduce elective credits.
Expect counseling skills and theories, human development, assessment, diagnosis, ethics, multicultural counseling, group work, research, and supervised practicum and internship. Exact titles and credit requirements differ by program and licensing state (CACREP; institution program catalogs; state counseling licensing boards). California-bound students, for example, need to check the California Board of Behavioral Sciences' LPCC education requirements against the actual transcript - not rely on a degree title alone.
When comparing catalogs, look at when clinical courses occur and whether electives support your intended clients or setting. A course list is less useful than a written plan showing that required courses will be available in the terms you need them.
Programs may offer focused coursework or training in areas such as addiction, trauma, child and adolescent counseling, or work with couples and families. An elective focus is not automatically a separate professional credential. If you want to provide school counseling or practice specifically as a marriage and family therapist, compare the relevant degree and licensing pathways rather than assuming a clinical mental health counseling concentration qualifies you (state licensing boards; institution program catalogs).
A specialization is most valuable when it changes the training you can actually obtain: relevant courses, supervised clients, and suitable placement sites. Ask whether the focus is formally noted on a transcript and whether taking it adds time or cost.
Start with the license and state where you intend to work, then compare programs that can credibly support that goal. A ranking can narrow the search, but popularity alone cannot establish licensure eligibility, affordable borrowing, or a workable clinical placement.
Use these checks before committing to a program:
Identify your intended state license and compare the board's current education requirements with the school's written curriculum and accreditation information.
Request recent program-level completion, placement, and applicable exam results, including their reporting periods and definitions.
Obtain a term-by-term schedule and ask who approves sites, how supervision is arranged, and what happens if a placement falls through.
Compare total net cost, likely borrowing, forgone earnings, and time to both graduation and licensure - not tuition or institution type alone.
Confirm whether online attendance, residency status, and any proposed transfer credits change your price or timeline.
A red flag is a school that cannot explain how its graduates pursue licensure in your intended state. Another is an attractive tuition quote that excludes required clinical terms or travel. Choose the program whose requirements and costs you can verify, not simply the one with the strongest-sounding description.
The typical progression is graduate clinical training, a supervised post-degree role where required, and then application for independent professional counselor licensure. Depending on state rules and employer needs, counselors may move among community agencies, outpatient treatment, integrated health settings, and private practice (state counseling licensing boards; U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics). Independent practice is a later possibility, not an automatic first job after graduation.
For someone changing careers, the key question is whether the intended daily work is clinical counseling. If your goal is prescribing medication, this degree does not provide that authority; if your goal is school-based counseling, a school counseling pathway may be more direct. Match the credential to the job before comparing schools.
View the chart data as a table
Wage range - Mental Health Counselors (U.S., BLS May 2025) (Source: BLS)
Category
Value
10th percentile
38,940
Median
59,350
90th percentile
97,590
U.S. employment for substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors is projected to grow 18% from 2025 to 2035 (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Employment Projections). That is a national occupational projection, not a forecast that every Western city - or every new graduate - will see the same opportunities.
For a useful local read, search openings in the state where you plan to hold a license and separate jobs accepting supervised graduates from those requiring independent licensure. Compare employers' language, client populations, schedules, and supervision arrangements. The strongest job market on paper will be of limited value if a program does not prepare you for that state's license or help you complete feasible clinical training there.
2027 Most Popular Clinical Mental Health Counseling Degree Programs Ranking in the West
Research.com created its counseling rankings to make a consequential education investment easier to evaluate. Its team checks multiple education datasets and distinguishes program outcomes, accreditation, licensure-exam results where applicable, and cost rather than treating a school's reputation as a substitute for evidence.
The ranking draws on the following data sources:
IPEDS database: institutional reporting on enrollment, completions, and other education measures.
Peterson's database: program and institution information used to supplement comparisons.
Research.com's Best counseling ranking first combines completion (40%), employment or doctoral admission (20%), applicable licensure-exam pass rates (20%), CACREP program accreditation (16%), and institutional Title IV eligibility (4%). Inapplicable criteria are reweighted; cost then contributes about 7% of the final score. The same approach applies to online and campus programs, while other rankings order programs by the dimension named in their titles. Read this Most Popular ranking as a starting point for a shortlist, not as proof that a program is the least expensive or best fit for your licensing state. Research.com explains its approach further on its methodology page.
# 1 position
Adams State University
Master
M.A. Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Delivery mode: hybrid
79.40
/ 100
Final score
Program length
Fall cohort: 5 semesters; Spring cohort: 7 semesters
Specialization
Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Required credits
60 semester credits
GPA range
2.75 - 4.00
Program completion rate
82% (2024-25)
Employment or doctoral admission
77% (2024-25)
Application deadline
rolling
Application process
direct
GRE
no
Prerequisites
Baccalaureate degree from a regionally accredited institution (or in final year of undergraduate study pending verification of degree receipt).
Additional requirements
Online application, $30 application fee, five short essay questions (200-300 words each), two online recommendation forms from professional (non-family) sources, official transcripts from all previously attended institutions.
Accreditation
Accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP), with institutional accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
Adams State University earned a Research.com Student Interest Score of 79.4/100, supported by 299 graduates (2024-25) and 82% program completion rate. The program is CACREP-accredited, valid through 2028-03-31.
# 2 position
Palo Alto University
Master
Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Delivery mode: hybrid
71.00
/ 100
Final score
Program length
9 consecutive quarters including summer (hybrid degree plan)
Specialization
Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Required credits
94.5 quarter units
GPA range
3.00 - 4.00
Program completion rate
93.2% (2024-25)
Employment or doctoral admission
73% (2023)
Licensure exam pass rate
78% (2024-25)
Application deadline
Spring 2027 priority: November 1, 2026; Fall 2027 priority: December 1, 2026; rolling review.
Application process
PsychologyCAS
GRE
no
Prerequisites
Bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited institution or international equivalent. No prerequisite coursework required. Related mental health work or volunteer experience is strongly recommended. Online applicants must reside in an authorized state.
Additional requirements
PsychologyCAS application, application fee, official transcripts, resume or CV, letters of recommendation, and personal statement. Selected applicants participate in a group interview.
Accreditation
Accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP), with institutional accreditation from the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC).
Palo Alto University earned a Research.com Student Interest Score of 71.0/100, supported by 163 graduates (2024-25) and 93.2% program completion rate. The program is CACREP-accredited, valid through 2033-10-31.
# 3 position
University of Phoenix - Online
Master
Master of Science in Counseling - Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Delivery mode: hybrid
70.30
/ 100
Final score
Specialization
Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Required credits
60 semester credits
GPA range
2.50 - 4.00
Program completion rate
34% (2024-25)
Employment or doctoral admission
80% (2024-25)
Licensure exam pass rate
70% (2024-25)
Application deadline
rolling
Application process
direct
GRE
no
Prerequisites
Bachelor's degree from an institutionally accredited institution (any field) with 2.5 GPA; successful completion of CCMH/502 Graduate Portfolio for admission
Additional requirements
Online application, official transcripts, required admission forms, criminal conviction acknowledgement form, CCMH/502 Graduate Portfolio and admissions committee approval; no essays, no application fee, no GRE
Accreditation
Accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP), with institutional accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
University of Phoenix - Online earned a Research.com Student Interest Score of 70.3/100, supported by 155 graduates (2024-25) and 34% program completion rate. The program is CACREP-accredited, valid through 2033-03-31.
# 4 position
Alliant University
Master
MA in Clinical Counseling
Delivery mode: hybrid
61.80
/ 100
Final score
Program length
takes a minimum of two years to complete
Specialization
Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Required credits
60 units
Acceptance rate
82.33%
Program completion rate
73.8% (2022-23)
Employment or doctoral admission
80% (2024-25)
Licensure exam pass rate
94% (2024-25)
Application deadline
rolling
Application process
direct
Accreditation
Accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP), with institutional accreditation from the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC).
Alliant University earned a Research.com Student Interest Score of 61.8/100, supported by 84 graduates (2025-26) and 73.8% program completion rate. The program is CACREP-accredited, valid through 2030-10-31.
# 5 position
The Chicago School - Online
Master
M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling (Online)
Delivery mode: hybrid
61.70
/ 100
Final score
Program length
Less than 4 years
Specialization
Clinical Mental Health Counseling
GPA range
3.00 - 4.00
Program completion rate
68% (2024-25)
Employment or doctoral admission
76.9% (2024-25)
Application process
direct
GRE
no
Prerequisites
GPA of 3.0 or higher.
Additional requirements
Application; $50 application fee; two-page essay on the program mission and fit. Program requirement: two required in-person three-day residencies, one in each of the first two years.
Accreditation
Accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP), with institutional accreditation from the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC).
The Chicago School - Online earned a Research.com Student Interest Score of 61.7/100, supported by 83 graduates (2024-25) and 68% program completion rate. The program is CACREP-accredited, valid through 2027-03-31.
# 6 position
Lewis & Clark College
Master
Master of Arts in Professional Mental Health Counseling
Delivery mode: campus
57.90
/ 100
Final score
Specialization
Clinical Mental Health Counseling
GPA range
3.00 - 4.00
Program completion rate
92%
Employment or doctoral admission
94% (2024-25)
Application process
direct
GRE
no
Prerequisites
Undergraduate degree. Recommended background in psychology and society/culture: psychology major plus a sociology, anthropology, women's or ethnic studies course; a social science major plus intro psychology; or faculty assessment.
Additional requirements
Online application; $50 fee; resume; official transcripts; three short essays (1,250 characters each); three recommendation letters; 3.0 GPA (explanatory statement if below); faculty interview by invitation. GRE not required.
Accreditation
Accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP), with institutional accreditation from the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU).
Lewis & Clark College earned a Research.com Student Interest Score of 57.9/100, supported by 63 graduates (2024-25) and 92% program completion rate. The program is CACREP-accredited, valid through 2027-03-31.
# 7 position
Seattle University
Master
Clinical Mental Health Counseling, MAEd
Delivery mode: campus
54.50
/ 100
Final score
Program length
3 years
Specialization
Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Required credits
90 quarter credits
GPA range
3.00 - 4.00
Application deadline
February 1 (priority, Fall admission)
Application process
direct
GRE
Conditional: GRE/GMAT required only if the bachelor's degree is non-graded
Prerequisites
Bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited institution; no specific prior coursework required.
Additional requirements
Letter of Intent (2-3 pages), one-to-two page résumé, two recommendation forms (from supervisors/instructors), official/unofficial transcripts, minimum 3.00 GPA; GRE/GMAT required only if bachelor's degree transcript is non-graded. No application fee.
Accreditation
Accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP), with institutional accreditation from the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU).
Seattle University earned a Research.com Student Interest Score of 54.5/100, with 49 graduates (2024-25) among the verified supporting factors. The program is CACREP-accredited, valid through 2027-10-31.
# 8 position
Northern Arizona University
Master
Clinical Mental Health Counseling, Master of Arts
Delivery mode: campus
54.20
/ 100
Final score
Program length
about 2 years (60 credit hours, most students full-time)
Specialization
Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Required credits
60 semester credits
GPA range
3.00 - 4.00
Program completion rate
92% (2024-25)
Employment or doctoral admission
100% (2024-25)
Licensure exam pass rate
93% (2024-25)
Application deadline
Flagstaff: January 10; North Valley (Phoenix): February 15; Tucson: February 15; Yuma: April 1
Application process
direct
GRE
Conditional: GRE General Test (verbal and quantitative) required if cumulative GPA is below 3.0
Prerequisites
Program Prerequisite course: EPS 525 Introduction to Statistics or successful completion of an upper-division undergraduate Statistics course within the past three years of admittance.
Additional requirements
Transcripts; undergraduate degree from a regionally accredited institution with a 3.0 GPA on a 4.0 scale (or equivalent); GRE General Test scores required only if cumulative GPA is below 3.0.
Accreditation
Accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP), with institutional accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
Northern Arizona University earned a Research.com Student Interest Score of 54.2/100, supported by 48 graduates (2024-25) and 92% program completion rate. The program is CACREP-accredited, valid through 2030-10-31.
# 9 position
Seattle University
Master
Clinical Mental Health Counseling, Online, MAEd
Delivery mode: hybrid
53.00
/ 100
Final score
Program length
3 years
Specialization
Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Required credits
90 quarter credits
GPA range
3.00 - 4.00
Application deadline
February 1 (priority, Fall admission)
Application process
direct
GRE
Conditional: GRE/GMAT required only if the bachelor's degree is non-graded
Prerequisites
Bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited institution; no specific prior coursework required.
Additional requirements
Letter of Intent (2-3 pages), one-to-two page résumé, two recommendation forms (from supervisors/instructors), official/unofficial transcripts, minimum 3.00 GPA; GRE/GMAT required only if bachelor's degree transcript is non-graded. No application fee.
Accreditation
Accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP), with institutional accreditation from the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU).
Seattle University earned a Research.com Student Interest Score of 53.0/100, with 44 graduates (2024-25) among the verified supporting factors. The program is CACREP-accredited, valid through 2027-10-31.
# 10 position
George Fox University
Master
Master's Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Delivery mode: hybrid
52.00
/ 100
Final score
Program length
3 Years Program length
Specialization
Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Required credits
60 semester credits
GPA range
3.00 - 4.00
Program completion rate
82% (2023-24)
Employment or doctoral admission
96% (2025-26)
Licensure exam pass rate
100% (2025-26)
Application deadline
Fall 2027: Mar 1, 2027
Application process
direct
GRE
no
Prerequisites
Bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited institution with 3.0+ GPA (any major); online application with two recommendations (one academic, one professional), a short essay, and a resume; no standardized tests required.
Additional requirements
Completed online application, two recommendations (one academic, one professional), a short essay, a professional resume, official transcripts, and participation in a group interview
Accreditation
Accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP), with institutional accreditation from the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU).
George Fox University earned a Research.com Student Interest Score of 52.0/100, supported by 41 graduates (2024-25) and 82% program completion rate. The program is CACREP-accredited, valid through 2029-10-31.
# 11 position
University of San Diego
Master
MA in Counseling, Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Delivery mode: campus
51.30
/ 100
Final score
Program length
Two-year full-time track or three-year extended track (60 semester-unit program)
Specialization
Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Required credits
60 semester credits
GPA range
3.00 - 4.00
Program completion rate
92.3% (2024-25)
Employment or doctoral admission
50% (2024-25)
Application process
direct
GRE
no
Prerequisites
Minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA; GRE not required (recommended only near the minimum GPA); statement of purpose; two letters of recommendation; interview for the most qualified applicants.
Additional requirements
Resume, Statement of Purpose, Two letters of recommendation, Interview (group or phone)
Accreditation
Accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP), with institutional accreditation from the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC).
University of San Diego earned a Research.com Student Interest Score of 51.3/100, supported by 39 graduates (2024-25) and 92.3% program completion rate. The program is CACREP-accredited, valid through 2034-04-30.
# 12 position
Saybrook University
Master
M.A. in Counseling: Clinical Mental Health Counseling Specialization
Delivery mode: hybrid
48.70
/ 100
Final score
Program length
three years with full-time study
Specialization
Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Required credits
60 semester credits
GPA range
3.00 - 4.00
Program completion rate
90% (2024-25)
Employment or doctoral admission
82% (2022-23)
Licensure exam pass rate
100% (2024-25)
Application deadline
Spring 2027: December 7, 2026; rolling for Summer/Fall semesters
Application process
direct
GRE
no
Prerequisites
Bachelor's degree from an accredited university with a 3.0 GPA or better
Additional requirements
Application for admissions; official transcript showing bachelor's degree with 3.0+ GPA; professional resume or CV; personal statement
Accreditation
Accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP), with institutional accreditation from the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC).
Saybrook University earned a Research.com Student Interest Score of 48.7/100, supported by 32 graduates (2024-25) and 90% program completion rate. The program is CACREP-accredited, valid through 2027-10-31.
# 13 position
The University of Montana
Master
Clinical Mental Health Counseling MA
Delivery mode: campus
47.30
/ 100
Final score
Specialization
Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Required credits
60 semester credits
GPA range
3.00 - 4.00
Program completion rate
100% (2024-25)
Employment or doctoral admission
100% (2024-25)
Licensure exam pass rate
100% (2024-25)
Application deadline
January 15, 2027
Application process
direct
GRE
optional
Prerequisites
No specific undergraduate degree required; recommended (not required) background includes developmental psychology, abnormal psychology or child/adolescent psychological disorders, and basic statistics/education measurement.
Additional requirements
Current resume (CV); 3 letters of recommendation; official transcripts from all higher-education institutions; personal statement; official GRE scores optional.
Accreditation
Accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP), with institutional accreditation from the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU).
The University of Montana earned a Research.com Student Interest Score of 47.3/100, supported by 29 graduates (2024-25) and 100% program completion rate. The program is CACREP-accredited, valid through 2031-03-31.
# 14 position
Northwest Nazarene University
Master
Counseling: Clinical Mental Health, Master of Science
Delivery mode: campus
47.30
/ 100
Final score
Program length
8 semesters (an average of 33 months)
Specialization
Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Required credits
60 semester credits
GPA range
3.00 - 4.00
Program completion rate
90% (2024-25)
Employment or doctoral admission
94% (2024-25)
Application process
direct
GRE
no
Prerequisites
Bachelor's degree with a cumulative GPA of 3.0 in the baccalaureate program (applicants below 3.0 must submit an explanatory letter for faculty review); English proficiency via TOEFL required if English is not the applicant's native language
Additional requirements
References, transcripts, program interview, resume, biographical background, writing samples, observation in group and mock counseling experiences, and a background check (at applicant's expense); TOEFL if English is not native language.
Accreditation
Accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP), with institutional accreditation from the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU).
Northwest Nazarene University earned a Research.com Student Interest Score of 47.3/100, supported by 29 graduates (2025-26) and 90% program completion rate. The program is CACREP-accredited, valid through 2033-10-31.
# 15 position
Idaho State University
Master
Master of Counseling (M.Coun.) - Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Delivery mode: campus
46.40
/ 100
Final score
Program length
Equivalent of at least 4 full semesters
Specialization
Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Required credits
60 semester credits
GPA range
3.00 - 4.00
Program completion rate
92% (2024-25)
Application deadline
January 15
Application process
direct
GRE
no
Prerequisites
Bachelor's degree from an accredited college/university (or foreign equivalent), completed before fall enrollment; minimum 3.0 GPA (calculated on last 60± undergraduate semester credits).
Additional requirements
ISU Graduate School online application; maximum two-page statement of purpose; contact emails for three letters of recommendation; official transcripts; on-campus interview with the Department of Counseling Admissions Committee.
Accreditation
Accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP), with institutional accreditation from the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU).
Idaho State University earned a Research.com Student Interest Score of 46.4/100, supported by 27 graduates (2024-25) and 92% program completion rate. The program is CACREP-accredited, valid through 2027-10-31.
Bachelor's degree in any discipline from a regionally/nationally accredited institution, provided student meets prerequisite coursework: Abnormal Psychology, Research Methods, Statistics.
Additional requirements
Graduate application; official transcripts; minimum 3.0 cumulative GPA; TOEFL 79 iBT / IELTS 6.0 for non-native English speakers; three academic/professional recommendation letters; personal interview for qualifying applicants.
Accreditation
Accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP), with institutional accreditation from the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU).
Utah Valley University earned a Research.com Student Interest Score of 45.9/100, supported by 26 graduates (2025-26) and 96% program completion rate. The program is CACREP-accredited, valid through 2034-04-30.
# 17 position
Eastern Washington University
Master
Counseling, Clinical Mental Health Counseling, Master of Science (MS)
Delivery mode: hybrid
44.20
/ 100
Final score
Program length
two years, including required summer coursework
Specialization
Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Required credits
93 quarter credits
GPA range
3.00 - 4.00
Program completion rate
96% (2025-26)
Employment or doctoral admission
74% (2025-26)
Licensure exam pass rate
100% (2024-25)
Application deadline
January 15
Class size
23
Application process
direct
Prerequisites
Bachelor's degree (typically psychology, education, or related field) with an inferential/undergraduate statistics course before fall start; minimum 3.0 GPA in the last 90 quarter or 60 semester credits.
Accreditation
Accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP), with institutional accreditation from the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU).
Eastern Washington University earned a Research.com Student Interest Score of 44.2/100, supported by 23 graduates (2026) and 96% program completion rate. The program is CACREP-accredited, valid through 2027-03-31.
# 18 position
Northwest University
Master
Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Delivery mode: campus
43.60
/ 100
Final score
Program length
2 years
Specialization
Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Required credits
60 semester credits
GPA range
3.00 - 4.00
Program completion rate
81.5% (2024-25)
Application deadline
Fall: January 31 (priority, interviews late Feb); April 1 (final, interviews May); rolling thereafter as space allows
Class size
27
Application process
direct
GRE
no
Prerequisites
Bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited institution; counseling, psychology, social science, or related major preferred but not required. Minimum 3.0 GPA in last degree; lower-GPA applicants may explain and enter on probation.
Additional requirements
Online application, resume or CV, and typed responses to interest-letter essay questions (about 250–300 words each). Applicants below the GPA minimum may explain their grades. Interviews are scheduled during admissions.
Accreditation
Accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP), with institutional accreditation from the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU).
Northwest University earned a Research.com Student Interest Score of 43.6/100, supported by 22 graduates (2024-25) and 81.5% program completion rate. The program is CACREP-accredited, valid through 2033-10-31.
# 19 position
University of Arizona
Master
Master of Arts in Counseling
Delivery mode: campus
43.00
/ 100
Final score
Specialization
Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Required credits
60 semester credits
GPA range
3.00 - 4.00
Program completion rate
98% (2023-24)
Employment or doctoral admission
100% (2023-24)
Licensure exam pass rate
96% (2023-24)
Application deadline
Fall: January 15
Application process
direct
GRE
no
Prerequisites
At least a 3.0 GPA on a 4.0 scale during the last 60 credit hours, or 12 credits of graduate coursework from a CACREP-accredited institution with at least a 3.0 GPA.
Additional requirements
Completed application, official undergraduate and graduate transcripts, and Graduate College application fee. Applicants select a specialization during application and must be accepted by the Graduate College and the DPS Department.
Accreditation
Accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP), with institutional accreditation from the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC).
University of Arizona earned a Research.com Student Interest Score of 43.0/100, supported by 21 graduates (2023-2024) and 98% program completion rate. The program is CACREP-accredited, valid through 2032-10-31.
# 20 position
Gonzaga University
Master
M.A. Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Delivery mode: campus
42.40
/ 100
Final score
Program length
2 years
Specialization
Clinical Mental Health Counseling
GPA range
3.00 - 4.00
Program completion rate
95%
Employment or doctoral admission
100%
Licensure exam pass rate
100% (2025-26)
Application deadline
Fall 2027: January 15, 2027
Application process
direct
GRE
no
Prerequisites
Bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited university.
Additional requirements
Online application; official transcripts; explanation if GPA is below 3.0; two professional recommendations; statement of purpose (max 1,000 words); résumé or CV; faculty interview if invited. Active-duty military need prior education approval.
Accreditation
Accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP), with institutional accreditation from the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU).
Gonzaga University earned a Research.com Student Interest Score of 42.4/100, supported by 20 graduates (2025-26) and 95% program completion rate. The program is CACREP-accredited, valid through 2030-03-31.
Frequently asked questions about Clinical Mental Health Counseling degree in West
Do I need a master's degree to become a clinical mental health counselor?
A relevant graduate degree is generally part of professional counselor licensure. Your state board determines acceptable education, examinations, and supervised experience; a degree by itself does not grant a license (state counseling licensing boards).
Can an online counseling degree qualify me for licensure?
Potentially, but delivery format is not the deciding test. Check the specific curriculum against your intended state's rules and confirm that you can complete approved, supervised clinical work there (state counseling licensing boards; institution program policies).
Is CACREP accreditation required?
Requirements differ by state and circumstance. Check your target licensing board's current rules and verify the accreditation status of the specific program; do not assume that institutional accreditation and CACREP program accreditation mean the same thing (CACREP; state counseling licensing boards).
How long until I can practice independently?
Plan for roughly 2 to 3 years of full-time master's study, followed by any state-required supervised experience, examination, and license approval. Ask the licensing board about the full sequence before treating a graduation date as your independent-practice date (institution program catalogs; state counseling licensing boards).
Is a clinical mental health counseling degree worth it?
It can be a sound investment if clinical practice is your goal, the program fits your licensing state, and its total cost is manageable against your expected career path. Compare debt, time to licensure, and likely employment options with what you would earn and do without the degree; the national occupational median is not a personal earnings guarantee.
