Choosing a counseling degree starts with a career question: Do you want to become a licensed mental health counselor, a school counselor, or another kind of practitioner? The answer changes which programs, credentials, and costs are worth considering. This guide accompanies the 2027 Best Counseling Degree Programs Ranking in the USA, 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, licensure fit, price, and career prospects before applying.
Key findings about Counseling degrees in America
Match the credential to the job: Clinical mental health counseling, school counseling, and marriage and family therapy can lead to different state credentials; a counseling degree is not a universal license.
Account for supervised training: CACREP's counseling standards specify at least 100 hours of practicum and 600 hours of internship for covered entry-level programs. Confirm how a school arranges placements where you plan to live (CACREP).
Compare debt with the relevant occupation: The U.S. median annual wage for substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors was $59,350 in May 2025, with employment projected to grow 18% from 2025 to 2035. Neither figure predicts an individual graduate's earnings or job prospects (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics).
What can I expect from a Counseling degree in America?
"Counseling degree" can describe an undergraduate introduction to helping professions, a practice-oriented master's degree, or doctoral preparation for research and supervision. If your goal is independent clinical practice, compare master's programs against the education rules of the state where you intend to seek licensure; a bachelor's degree alone generally is not the qualifying clinical credential (state licensing boards).
A counseling master's combines assessment, ethics, human development, counseling methods, and supervised client work. School counseling prepares students for school-based roles, while clinical mental health programs focus on mental health assessment and treatment. Marriage, couple, and family training places greater emphasis on relationships and family systems. The distinction matters because changing tracks later may require additional coursework or supervised experience.
Expect preparation for a profession with substantial face-to-face responsibility, not just a collection of online courses. People who want direct client work and can accommodate placements and post-degree supervision may find the investment worthwhile. Those primarily interested in research, prescribing medication, or entering the workforce without graduate study should compare other education paths before committing.
Where can I work with a Counseling degree in America?
Work settings depend on specialization and credential. Clinical mental health and addiction counselors may work in outpatient practices, community agencies, hospitals, or treatment programs; school counselors work in educational settings; rehabilitation counselors support people navigating disability, employment, and independent-living goals (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics). Some roles require a state license or school credential, while employers may set additional requirements.
Where you plan to practice should influence where - and what - you study. Counseling licensure is issued by states, and school counselor certification is governed separately by state education authorities. Before accepting an offer, ask the relevant board whether the degree, coursework, supervised placements, and eventual examination satisfy its rules. An out-of-state or online program can be a good fit, but its location alone does not establish eligibility in your home state (state licensing boards and state education agencies).
The most useful salary comparison is the occupation you intend to enter, not a single figure for everyone with a counseling degree. The table gives U.S. occupational medians for May 2025 and employment projections for 2025-2035; these are national labor-market figures, not starting salaries or graduate outcomes (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook and Employment Projections).
Career direction
Median annual wage, May 2025
Projected employment growth, 2025-2035
Clinical mental health or addiction counseling
$59,350
18%
School counseling
$64,330
3%
Marriage, couple, and family counseling
$66,940
14%
Rehabilitation counseling
$46,850
2%
For an investment decision, compare expected pay in your intended state and setting with your current earnings, total borrowing, and the time needed to qualify for practice. A national median includes experienced workers; it should not be treated as the salary you will receive upon graduation.
The programs below illustrate why a shared "counseling" label is not enough for a useful comparison. Their published program descriptions point to different degree structures, practice goals, and credential pathways. Confirm current requirements directly with each school before applying; these highlights are not a substitute for the ranking or a determination of licensure eligibility.
Texas State University - M.A. in professional counseling, clinical mental health, thesis option: The explicitly identified thesis route adds a research-oriented choice within clinical mental health preparation. It is particularly relevant if you want to investigate a counseling question in depth or may pursue doctoral study; ask how the thesis affects your completion plan (Texas State University graduate catalog).
University of Montana - mental health counseling: Montana presents this pathway through its counselor education department rather than as a general psychology degree. That distinction matters if your goal is counselor training: compare its required courses and fieldwork with the licensing board's rules in the state where you will practice (University of Montana).
Southeastern Louisiana University - M.S. in counseling, clinical mental health concentration: Clinical mental health is identified as a concentration within the counseling degree. This is worth examining if you want that practice focus while comparing the concentration's exact course sequence, placement arrangements, and credential alignment with stand-alone clinical mental health degrees (Southeastern Louisiana University).
University of South Alabama - mental health counseling: The program is housed in the College of Education and Professional Studies. Prospective clinicians should use its published curriculum and placement information - not the college name - to judge fit for their intended license and preferred client population (University of South Alabama).
Virginia Commonwealth University - M. Ed. in counseling, school counseling concentration: This is the clearest school-focused alternative among these examples to the clinical mental health pathways. Choose it for the school counselor goal, and check the relevant state education agency's credential rules rather than assuming it prepares graduates for independent clinical practice (Virginia Commonwealth University).
California State University, Sacramento - M.S. in counseling, marriage, couple, and family counseling: The named pathway centers relational and family counseling rather than school counseling. It merits close comparison for applicants targeting family-focused practice, especially because the intended California credential determines which coursework and experience rules matter (California State University, Sacramento catalog; California Board of Behavioral Sciences).
University of Texas at San Antonio - master's in clinical mental health counseling: UTSA identifies clinical mental health counseling as the degree's direct focus, rather than a school or family counseling pathway. Texas applicants should compare its published curriculum with Texas behavioral-health board requirements and ask where supervised placements can be completed (UTSA; Texas Behavioral Health Executive Council).
Utah Valley University - clinical mental health counseling: UVU presents a dedicated clinical mental health counseling program. It is a practical option to investigate if that is your intended profession and you need to verify how its training and placements fit Utah licensure - or another state's rules if you plan to move (Utah Valley University; Utah Division of Professional Licensing).
California State University, Sacramento - M.S. in counseling, school counseling with embedded PPS credential: The embedded Pupil Personnel Services credential is a consequential difference from a school counseling degree that does not explicitly identify that pathway. California school-focused applicants should confirm current credential and fieldwork conditions with the university and state credentialing authority (California State University, Sacramento catalog; California Commission on Teacher Credentialing).
West Virginia University - M.S. in counseling: WVU makes program accreditation information available through its counseling program materials. Use that disclosure to verify the accreditation status of the specific track and relevant dates; institution-level accreditation alone does not answer a program-level question (West Virginia University).
A full-time counseling master's commonly takes about two to three years; part-time enrollment can take longer. The decisive scheduling constraint is often supervised fieldwork rather than classroom credits. Under CACREP's standards for covered entry-level programs, practicum includes at least 100 hours and internship at least 600 hours, so ask when each begins and whether placements can fit around paid work (CACREP).
An accelerated schedule can reduce time away from full-time earnings, but only if you can secure placements and handle the course load. If you need steady employment, compare part-time plans by calendar time to completion, not just advertised credits. Ask whether courses run every term and whether delayed fieldwork could extend graduation.
Online delivery can reduce commuting or relocation, but it does not remove supervised practice requirements. On-campus study may simplify access to local faculty and placement relationships; online study may give working adults more choice in where to live. In either format, the right question is whether the program can support an approved practicum and internship where you will actually complete them.
Ask an online program who secures sites, whether it approves placements outside its home state, and whether any in-person attendance is required. Then check the intended licensing board's education rules yourself. Research.com applies the same ranking method to online and on-campus programs, but a similar score does not mean the formats carry identical travel, placement, or scheduling costs.
There is no single national price that reliably represents a licensure-oriented counseling degree: published charges vary by institution, residency, credit load, and program length. Institutional tuition averages can also mix programs with very different requirements. For this decision, calculate a program-specific total instead of applying an undergraduate or institution-wide average to a graduate counseling program (National Center for Education Statistics, IPEDS).
Request the current per-credit tuition, mandatory fees, expected credits, and any separate fieldwork, background-check, travel, or on-campus attendance costs. At a public university, verify whether your residency qualifies you for in-state pricing; at a private nonprofit university, compare the actual aid offer rather than assuming its published price is what you will pay. The most affordable counseling programs can help create a shortlist, but compare their complete costs and licensure fit before choosing.
Graduate counseling students may be considered for institutional scholarships, assistantships, employer tuition support, and federal student loans if they meet the applicable eligibility rules. Complete the FAFSA and ask each financial aid office for a written estimate covering the full program - not just its first term. Federal aid eligibility and annual loan limits depend on the student and program, while institutional awards may have separate conditions (Federal Student Aid; individual institutions).
Compare offers by subtracting grants and other nonrepayable support from the full cost, then consider how much you would need to borrow. Ask whether an assistantship requires hours that could conflict with clinical placement. A lower advertised tuition bill is not necessarily the better financial choice if it comes with less aid or a longer period of reduced earnings. The most valuable counseling programs provide another comparison lens, not a personalized return-on-investment calculation.
View the chart data as a table
Best score distribution across ranked programs (Source: Research.com)
Category
Value
65–69
3
70–74
4
75–79
11
80–84
41
85–89
190
90–94
464
95–99
45
For a master's program, expect to need a completed bachelor's degree and program-specific application materials. Schools may request transcripts, recommendations, a statement of purpose, an interview, or prerequisite coursework; requirements differ, so the current admissions page controls. A psychology major is not necessarily required, but applicants without relevant preparation should check whether they must complete foundational courses first (individual university admissions requirements).
Before paying an application fee, verify that the program admits students pursuing your intended specialization and that its placements are feasible in your location. If you have graduate credits, obtain a written transfer-credit evaluation: acceptance of a course by the university does not necessarily mean it replaces a required counseling or clinical-training course.
Common graduate subjects include counseling theories, interviewing and helping skills, human development, assessment, group counseling, research, ethics, and multicultural counseling. Clinical pathways also address mental health diagnosis and treatment; school pathways add school systems and student-development concerns; family-focused pathways emphasize relational work. Practicum and internship put those subjects into supervised use (CACREP standards; individual program catalogs).
Read a proposed study plan term by term. Two programs may share a specialization name but differ in elective space, when fieldwork begins, or whether a thesis is available. If a state board specifies particular content, compare actual course descriptions - not just course titles - with its requirements before enrolling.
Common options include clinical mental health, school, addiction, rehabilitation, and marriage, couple, and family counseling. The appropriate choice follows the population and workplace you want: a school-focused credential is not interchangeable with a clinical license, and a family-focused program should be evaluated against the rules for the credential you seek (state licensing boards; state education agencies).
Also distinguish a formal concentration from an elective theme. A few addiction courses, for example, do not necessarily establish eligibility for an addiction credential. Ask the program to identify its intended credential, publish the complete course and fieldwork requirements, and explain where graduates typically apply for authorization to practice.
The best program for you is one you can complete at a manageable cost and use toward your intended credential. Rankings can identify candidates; the final decision requires a closer check. Use this sequence before accepting an offer:
Choose the end role and state: Identify the license or school credential you want, then read that state authority's education and supervised-experience rules.
Check the exact program: Verify its current accreditation status, curriculum, fieldwork requirements, and written guidance on eligibility in your intended state.
Test placement feasibility: Ask who finds and approves sites, where you may complete hours, and how fieldwork fits your work schedule.
Compare complete financial offers: Include fees, aid, borrowing, program duration, and earnings you may give up while studying.
Ask for relevant outcomes: Request recent, clearly defined program completion, examination, and employment information where available; check the period and population behind each figure.
Two common mistakes are assuming every accredited institution offers a program that meets your state's rules, and choosing solely on tuition or rank. To assess potential return, consider completion probability, total debt, baseline and plausible post-degree earnings, opportunity cost, and how long you expect to work in the field. If you are still exploring the range of options, the most popular counseling programs offer a separate starting point - not evidence that a program fits your goals.
View the chart data as a table
Programs by degree level (Source: Research.com)
Category
Value
Master
683
Doctorate
75
A bachelor's degree can support applications to some human-services roles, but it should not be confused with the graduate education commonly required for licensed counseling practice. A relevant master's can be a step toward clinical mental health counseling, addiction counseling, school counseling, rehabilitation counseling, or family-focused practice, depending on the program and state requirements (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics; state licensing boards).
The path after graduation may include a state examination and additional supervised experience before independent practice. Later, experienced practitioners may move toward supervision, program administration, or doctoral study; those goals can make a thesis or research-oriented option more attractive. If you want to prescribe medication, compare professions with prescribing authority rather than assuming a counseling degree provides it.
View the chart data as a table
Median wage by U.S. state - Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors (BLS OEWS, May 2025) (Source: BLS)
State
Value
AK
80,770
AL
47,310
AR
51,580
AZ
65,300
CA
59,250
CO
62,390
CT
63,590
DC
60,450
DE
56,020
FL
56,790
GA
58,960
HI
60,090
IA
60,880
ID
63,360
IL
60,730
IN
53,760
KS
59,470
KY
54,190
LA
37,910
MA
59,890
MD
59,530
ME
59,970
MI
61,690
MN
58,780
MO
56,910
MS
46,990
MT
59,000
NC
55,490
ND
68,630
NE
63,770
NH
54,840
NJ
62,820
NM
74,100
NV
57,210
NY
59,450
OH
58,360
OK
59,350
OR
74,590
PA
52,010
PR
46,790
RI
65,120
SC
52,370
SD
53,650
TN
49,580
TX
62,630
UT
63,890
VA
59,880
VT
61,810
WA
68,910
WI
62,220
WV
49,430
WY
62,980
National demand differs substantially by occupation. Employment for substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors is projected to grow 18% from 2025 to 2035, compared with 3% for school and career counselors over that projection period (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Employment Projections). For someone deciding between those paths, that supports investigating clinical opportunities - but it does not establish how many jobs will be available in a particular city or school district.
Evaluate the market where you intend to work: compare local employers, required credentials, placement partnerships, and openings in your preferred setting. Online access expands where you can study, not where you are automatically authorized to practice. The strongest career plan connects a feasible program and supervised training to the rules and employers of your target state.
2027 Best Counseling Degree Programs Ranking in the USA
Education is a significant investment, and a ranking is useful only if readers can understand what it measures. Research.com evaluates counseling programs using graduate outcomes, accreditation, licensure-exam results where applicable, and cost. Its team checks multiple education data sources to support credible, accurate comparisons; a ranking should still be used alongside your own review of current program and state-board requirements.
For the Best ranking, a graduate-outcomes-and-accreditation score combines program completion (40%), employment or doctoral admission (20%), licensure-exam pass rate where applicable (20%), CACREP programmatic accreditation (16%), and federal Title IV institutional eligibility (4%). Shares are renormalized when a criterion does not apply. Program cost contributes a smaller component - about 7% of the final score. The method applies to online and on-campus programs; rankings labeled by another dimension order programs by that dimension.
The ranking draws on the following sources, which help readers assess both outcomes and institutional information:
IPEDS database - institutional reporting on enrollment, awards, and finances.
These measures can narrow a long list, but they cannot establish that every program meets your intended state's licensing rules or fits your budget. For further details on the approach, see Research.com's methodology.
# 1 position
Texas State University
Master
M.A. Major in Professional Counseling
Delivery mode: campus
97.37
/ 100
Final score
Specialization
Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Required credits
66 semester credits
GPA range
3.00 - 4.00
Program completion rate
100% (2024-25)
Employment or doctoral admission
100% (2024-25)
Application process
direct
GRE
yes
Prerequisites
Baccalaureate degree from a regionally accredited university or qualifying international equivalent; minimum 3.0 overall GPA or 3.0 in the last 60 undergraduate hours plus completed graduate coursework.
Additional requirements
Online application, official transcripts, official general GRE scores (waivers may be available with a master's or doctorate), informed consent form, resume/CV and statement of purpose; English proficiency scores unless exempt.
Accreditation
Accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP), with institutional accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).
Texas State University earned a Research.com Counseling Program Score of 97.37/100, supported by 100% program completion rate and 100% employment or doctoral admission rate. The program is CACREP-accredited, valid through 2032-10-31.
# 2 position
The University of Montana
Master
Clinical Mental Health Counseling MA
Delivery mode: campus
96.82
/ 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 Counseling Program Score of 96.82/100, supported by 100% licensure exam pass rate and 100% program completion rate. The program is CACREP-accredited, valid through 2031-03-31.
# 3 position
Southeastern Louisiana University
Master
Counseling, MS – Clinical Mental Health Counseling Concentration
Delivery mode: campus
96.49
/ 100
Final score
Program length
2.5 to 3 years (full-time)
Specialization
Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Required credits
60 semester credits
GPA range
2.80 - 4.00
Program completion rate
100% (2024-25)
Employment or doctoral admission
100% (2024-25)
Licensure exam pass rate
100% (2024-25)
Application deadline
Summer/Fall: April 1; Spring: November 1
Application process
direct
GRE
Conditional: GRE required if GPA (cumulative or last 60 hours) is below 3.0
Prerequisites
Nine hours of undergraduate or graduate study in behavioral studies (e.g. psychology, sociology, social work)
Additional requirements
Graduate school application; undergraduate GPA of 2.8 or last 60 hours; GRE if GPA below 3.0; completed application portfolio to the Counseling Program Admissions committee
Accreditation
Accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP), with institutional accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).
Southeastern Louisiana University earned a Research.com Counseling Program Score of 96.49/100, supported by 100% licensure exam pass rate and 100% program completion rate. The program is CACREP-accredited, valid through 2030-10-31.
# 4 position
University of South Alabama
Master
Clinical Mental Health Counseling M.S.
Delivery mode: campus
96.34
/ 100
Final score
Program length
2 years (Year 1 and Year 2 curriculum sequence)
Specialization
Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Required credits
60 semester credits
Acceptance rate
30%
GPA range
2.50 - 4.00
Program completion rate
98.5% (2024-25)
Employment or doctoral admission
100% (2024-25)
Licensure exam pass rate
100% (2024-25)
Application deadline
March 15
Application process
WebAdmit
GRE
Conditional: GRE or MAT (50th percentile) required if GPA is below 2.5 overall and on the last 60 semester hours
Prerequisites
A bachelor's degree from an accredited institution of higher education.
Additional requirements
Official transcripts; statement of purpose (2-4 pages, typed double-spaced) on career goals; three letters of recommendation; professional curriculum vitae or resume; required personal interview with program faculty.
Accreditation
Accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP), with institutional accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).
University of South Alabama earned a Research.com Counseling Program Score of 96.34/100, supported by 100% licensure exam pass rate and 98.5% program completion rate. The program is CACREP-accredited, valid through 2031-03-31.
# 5 position
Virginia Commonwealth University
Master
M.Ed. in Counseling
Delivery mode: campus
96.29
/ 100
Final score
Program length
2 years full-time; 3 years part-time
Specialization
School Counseling
Required credits
60 semester credits
GPA range
3.00 - 4.00
Program completion rate
100% (2024-25)
GRE
optional
Accreditation
Accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP), with institutional accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).
Virginia Commonwealth University earned a Research.com Counseling Program Score of 96.29/100, with 100% program completion rate among the verified supporting factors. The program is CACREP-accredited, valid through 2034-04-30.
# 6 position
California State University-Sacramento
Master
MS in Counseling (Marriage, Couple, and Family Counseling)
Delivery mode: campus
96.27
/ 100
Final score
Program length
3 years (full-time)
Specialization
Marriage, Couple, and Family Counseling
Required credits
60 semester units
GPA range
3.00 - 4.00
Program completion rate
100% (2024-25)
Employment or doctoral admission
100% (2023-24)
Class size
24
Application process
direct
Prerequisites
Baccalaureate degree; good academic standing; GPA of at least 3.0 in last 60 semester units
Additional requirements
University application and program supplemental application, official transcripts, departmental application materials, in-person admission evaluation (Interview Day)
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).
California State University-Sacramento earned a Research.com Counseling Program Score of 96.27/100, supported by 100% program completion rate and 100% employment or doctoral admission rate. The program is CACREP-accredited, valid through 2029-03-31.
# 7 position
The University of Texas at San Antonio
Master
Master of Science (MS) in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Delivery mode: campus
96.27
/ 100
Final score
Program length
2.5-3.5 years (full-time)
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
88% (2024-25)
Application deadline
Spring 2027: October 1; Fall 2027: March 1; Spring 2028: October 1. All deadlines at 5:00 PM U.S. Central Time; summer admission unavailable.
Class size
146
Application process
direct
GRE
no
Prerequisites
Bachelor's degree from an accredited U.S. institution or equivalent foreign training; adequate preparatory coursework (no specific courses listed). Minimum 3.0 GPA; the department may consider the last 60 semester credit hours.
Additional requirements
Graduate application and fee, transcripts, three recommendation/rating forms, and narrative statement (2027-28: a video of up to five minutes). English proficiency where applicable: TOEFL iBT 100, IELTS 7, or Duolingo 130.
Accreditation
Accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP), with institutional accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).
The University of Texas at San Antonio earned a Research.com Counseling Program Score of 96.27/100, supported by 100% program completion rate and 88% employment or doctoral admission rate. The program is CACREP-accredited, valid through 2033-10-31.
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 Counseling Program Score of 96.0/100, supported by 100% licensure exam pass rate and 96% program completion rate. The program is CACREP-accredited, valid through 2034-04-30.
# 9 position
California State University-Sacramento
Master
MS in Counseling (School Counseling with Embedded PPS Credential)
Delivery mode: campus
96.00
/ 100
Final score
Program length
3 years full-time
Specialization
School Counseling
Required credits
60 semester units
GPA range
3.00 - 4.00
Program completion rate
100% (2024-25)
Employment or doctoral admission
100% (2023-24)
Application process
direct
Prerequisites
Baccalaureate degree; good academic standing at the last college attended; GPA of at least 3.0 in the last 60 semester (or 90 quarter) units; basic skills requirement (CTC-approved method) completed before receiving the PPS credential.
Additional requirements
University application, departmental application materials, official transcripts from all colleges/universities attended (other than Sac State), paper screening followed by an In-Person Admission Evaluation.
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).
California State University-Sacramento earned a Research.com Counseling Program Score of 96.0/100, supported by 100% program completion rate and 100% employment or doctoral admission rate. The program is CACREP-accredited, valid through 2029-03-31.
# 10 position
West Virginia University
Master
M.S. in Counseling – School Counseling
Delivery mode: campus
95.98
/ 100
Final score
Program length
2 years (full-time), typically with practicum in fall of year 2 and internship in spring of year 2
Specialization
School Counseling
Required credits
60 semester credits
GPA range
2.80 - 4.00
Program completion rate
100% (2024-25)
Licensure exam pass rate
100% (2025)
Application deadline
Fall: January 25
Application process
direct
Prerequisites
Bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited institution with coursework in appropriate areas; minimum GPA 2.8 (2.5-2.79 provisional admission in special circumstances).
Accreditation
Accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP), with institutional accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
West Virginia University earned a Research.com Counseling Program Score of 95.98/100, supported by 100% licensure exam pass rate and 100% program completion rate. The program is CACREP-accredited, valid through 2033-10-31.
# 11 position
University of Arkansas
Master
M.S. in Counseling – Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Delivery mode: campus
95.88
/ 100
Final score
Specialization
Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Required credits
60 semester credits
GPA range
3.00 - 4.00
Program completion rate
99% (2024-25)
Employment or doctoral admission
100% (2024-25)
Licensure exam pass rate
100% (2024-25)
Application deadline
Fall: Jan 15; Spring: Sept 15
Application process
direct
GRE
no
Prerequisites
Minimum 3.00 GPA on all undergraduate and any graduate coursework; program application, three letters of professional recommendation, a writing sample, and a statement of professional goals; GRE not required; top applicants interviewed.
Additional requirements
Admission Checklist; Writing Sample and Statement of Purpose; Graduate School Application; Letters of Recommendation; On-campus interview
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 Arkansas earned a Research.com Counseling Program Score of 95.88/100, supported by 100% licensure exam pass rate and 99% program completion rate. The program is CACREP-accredited, valid through 2029-03-31.
# 12 position
Purdue University Northwest
Master
M.S.Ed. in Mental Health Counseling
Delivery mode: campus
95.83
/ 100
Final score
Program length
8 semesters
Specialization
Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Required credits
60 semester credits
GPA range
3.00 - 4.00
Program completion rate
100% (2022-23)
Employment or doctoral admission
100% (2022-23)
Licensure exam pass rate
100% (2022-23)
Application deadline
March 1
Application process
direct
Additional requirements
Interview with program faculty for qualified applicants; graduate application including transcripts and required admission documents per Purdue Graduate Studies process.
Accreditation
Accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP), with institutional accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
Purdue University Northwest earned a Research.com Counseling Program Score of 95.83/100, supported by 100% licensure exam pass rate and 100% program completion rate. The program is CACREP-accredited, valid through 2029-03-31.
# 13 position
Wayne State University
Master
Counseling (M.A.)
Delivery mode: campus
95.66
/ 100
Final score
Specialization
Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Required credits
60
GPA range
2.75 - 4.00
Program completion rate
100%
Employment or doctoral admission
100% (2025)
Licensure exam pass rate
100%
Application deadline
Fall: March 1; Winter: August 1; Spring/Summer: November 1
Application process
direct
Prerequisites
Undergraduate GPA of 2.75 or above; admission to the Graduate School.
Additional requirements
Admission interview; autobiographical statement.
Accreditation
Accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP), with institutional accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
Wayne State University earned a Research.com Counseling Program Score of 95.66/100, supported by 100% licensure exam pass rate and 100% program completion rate. The program is CACREP-accredited, valid through 2032-10-31.
# 14 position
Bluefield University
Master
Master of Arts in Counseling
Delivery mode: hybrid
95.62
/ 100
Final score
Program length
Time to Complete: 2 years
Specialization
Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Required credits
60 semester credits
Acceptance rate
42%
GPA range
3.00 - 4.00
Program completion rate
100% (2023-24)
Employment or doctoral admission
100% (2023-24)
Class size
14
Application process
direct
Prerequisites
Bachelor's degree from an accredited institution
Additional requirements
Online application; official transcripts; personal statement; graduate reference forms/three recommendations; current resume/CV; eligibility for readmission at last institution; personal and group interview
Accreditation
Accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP), with institutional accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).
Bluefield University earned a Research.com Counseling Program Score of 95.62/100, supported by 100% program completion rate and 100% employment or doctoral admission rate. The program is CACREP-accredited, valid through 2032-03-31.
# 15 position
California State University-Sacramento
Master
MS in Counseling (Career Counseling)
Delivery mode: campus
95.58
/ 100
Final score
Program length
3 years full-time
Specialization
Career Counseling
Required credits
60 semester units
GPA range
3.00 - 4.00
Program completion rate
100% (2024-25)
Employment or doctoral admission
99% (2023-24)
Application process
direct
Prerequisites
Baccalaureate degree; good academic standing at the last college attended; minimum GPA of 3.0 (on a 4.0 scale) in the last 60 semester (or 90 quarter) units.
Additional requirements
University application, Departmental application materials, official transcripts from all colleges/universities attended (sent to Office of Graduate Studies), and an In-Person Admission Evaluation for applicants selected after paper screening.
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).
California State University-Sacramento earned a Research.com Counseling Program Score of 95.58/100, supported by 100% program completion rate and 99% employment or doctoral admission rate. The program is CACREP-accredited, valid through 2029-03-31.
# 16 position
Lipscomb University
Master
Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Delivery mode: campus
95.57
/ 100
Final score
Program length
7 semesters
Specialization
Clinical Mental Health Counseling
GPA range
3.00 - 4.00
Program completion rate
95.4%
Employment or doctoral admission
100%
Licensure exam pass rate
100%
Application deadline
Fall 2027: Mar 4, 2027
Application process
direct
GRE
no
Prerequisites
Bachelor's degree (any major) with a 3.0 GPA; if GPA is below 3.0, applicant may submit an explanation, GRE scores, or transcripts of a completed master's degree
Additional requirements
Official transcripts from every post-secondary institution attended (unofficial accepted for initial review), resume, and Bachelor's degree with 3.0 GPA (if below 3.0, submit one of: a short explanation of the GPA, GRE scores, or transcripts of a…
Accreditation
Accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP), with institutional accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).
Lipscomb University earned a Research.com Counseling Program Score of 95.57/100, supported by 100% licensure exam pass rate and 95.4% program completion rate. The program is CACREP-accredited, valid through 2031-03-31.
# 17 position
Minnesota State University-Mankato
Master
Counseling and Student Personnel (MS) - Mental Health Counseling
Delivery mode: campus
95.55
/ 100
Final score
Program length
2 years
Specialization
Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Required credits
60 semester credits
GPA range
2.75 - 4.00
Program completion rate
100% (2024-25)
Employment or doctoral admission
100% (2024-25)
Application deadline
Rolling admissions for Summer/Fall start, with priority given to applications received by January 15
Application process
direct
GRE
no
Prerequisites
Abnormal Psychology or its equivalent, completed prior to or during the first year of admission
Additional requirements
Bachelor's degree from an accredited university (2.75+ GPA competitive); three letters of recommendation (one from an instructor or academic advisor); personal statement answering prompt questions; resume
Accreditation
Accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP), with institutional accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
Minnesota State University-Mankato earned a Research.com Counseling Program Score of 95.55/100, supported by 100% program completion rate and 100% employment or doctoral admission rate. The program is CACREP-accredited, valid through 2033-10-31.
# 18 position
SUNY Brockport
Master
Master of Science in Education in School Counseling
Delivery mode: campus
95.55
/ 100
Final score
Specialization
School 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)
Application deadline
Fall: April 15; Spring: November 15; Summer: April 15
Application process
direct
GRE
no
Prerequisites
Bachelor's degree required, with an expected minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale.
Additional requirements
Online graduate application with written objective, all undergraduate/graduate transcripts, contact info for three recommendations (employer, professor, character reference), and a group interview.
Accreditation
Accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP), with institutional accreditation from the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE).
SUNY Brockport earned a Research.com Counseling Program Score of 95.55/100, supported by 100% program completion rate and 100% employment or doctoral admission rate. The program is CACREP-accredited, valid through 2033-03-31.
# 19 position
Sacred Heart University
Master
Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Delivery mode: hybrid
95.50
/ 100
Final score
Program length
A full-time student will finish the program in two years
Specialization
Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Required credits
60 semester credits
GPA range
2.75 - 4.00
Program completion rate
96% (2024-25)
Employment or doctoral admission
100% (2024-25)
Licensure exam pass rate
100% (2024-25)
Application deadline
Spring 2027: 12/07/26
Application process
direct
GRE
no
Prerequisites
Successful completion of a baccalaureate degree
Additional requirements
Online application, official transcripts (GPA 2.75+), two professional recommendation letters, state acknowledgement form, personal statement, online-readiness assessment, video interview, and two 1-week in-person residencies.
Accreditation
Accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP), with institutional accreditation from the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE).
Sacred Heart University earned a Research.com Counseling Program Score of 95.5/100, supported by 100% licensure exam pass rate and 96% program completion rate. The program is CACREP-accredited, valid through 2032-03-31.
# 20 position
University of Wisconsin-Stout
Master
M.S. Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Delivery mode: campus
95.48
/ 100
Final score
Program length
Typically 2 years (about 80% of students); completion deadline: 7 years
Specialization
Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Required credits
60 semester credits
Acceptance rate
24.71%
Program completion rate
100% (2026)
Employment or doctoral admission
100% (2024-25)
Application deadline
Feb 1 (Summer/Fall admission); Oct 1 (Spring admission)
Application process
direct
GRE
no
Additional requirements
Application materials reviewed on GPA, coursework and transcripts, and experience working with others (paid or volunteer); applicants invited to interview must participate in a required on-campus group interview.
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 Wisconsin-Stout earned a Research.com Counseling Program Score of 95.48/100, supported by 100% program completion rate and 100% employment or doctoral admission rate. The program is CACREP-accredited, valid through 2030-03-31.
Frequently asked questions about Counseling degree in America
Do I need a master's degree to become a counselor?
For many licensed clinical counseling roles, a relevant master's is an education requirement. Requirements depend on the occupation and state; check the licensing board for the credential you want (state licensing boards; U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics).
Does CACREP accreditation automatically qualify me for licensure?
No. Programmatic accreditation is one factor to verify, but states can also require specified coursework, supervised experience, and examinations. Confirm the exact program and intended state's rules (CACREP; state licensing boards).
Can I complete a counseling degree entirely online?
Some coursework may be online, but counseling programs also require supervised practical training. Check placement locations, site-approval rules, and any required campus visits before applying (CACREP; individual programs).
How long does a counseling master's usually take?
Full-time study commonly takes about two to three years; part-time schedules may take longer. Ask for a term-by-term plan that includes practicum and internship.
Is a counseling degree worth the cost?
It may be if the program fits your intended credential and the total cost is reasonable relative to your likely career options. Compare actual aid, expected debt, time away from work, and state-specific job prospects rather than relying on a national salary median.
Can I use a degree from one state to practice in another?
Possibly, but do not assume automatic eligibility. Have the board in your intended state review its education, examination, and supervised-experience requirements before you commit to a program (state licensing boards).
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