Choosing an online counseling master's is not just about getting admitted: the degree must fit your schedule, budget, and intended state license. This guide is for Northeast residents and working professionals comparing those trade-offs. It accompanies the 2027 Easiest Online Master's in Counseling Degree Programs Ranking in the Northeast, created by the Research.com team of data scientists to help students make an informed choice about programs worth considering. You'll learn what "easiest" does - and does not - tell you, then how to check clinical training, costs, and career fit before applying.
Key findings about online Counseling degrees in Northeast
"Easiest" should mean easier to pursue for your circumstances, not easier to become licensed: confirm the degree's track and your intended state board's education rules before applying.
The U.S. median annual pay for substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors was $59,350 in May 2025; BLS projects 18% employment growth for 2025-2035. Neither figure predicts an individual graduate's earnings or job prospects.
Online coursework does not remove in-person clinical requirements. Compare placement support, travel obligations, total program cost, and whether a school can place you in the Northeast state where you plan to practice.
What can I expect from an online Counseling degree in Northeast?
An online counseling master's combines graduate coursework with supervised practice. "Online" usually describes how classes are delivered; it does not mean that counseling sessions, practicum, or internship can all be completed from home. Programs differ substantially in the profession they prepare students to enter: clinical mental health counseling, school counseling, and rehabilitation counseling are not interchangeable credentials.
The best fit depends on the work you want to do. A prospective therapist should investigate clinical mental health curricula and state counselor-license rules. Someone who wants to counsel pupils should compare school-counselor certification requirements instead. Rehabilitation programs may better suit applicants interested in disability, employment, and independent-living services. Compare those purposes alongside the best counseling programs, rather than choosing by rank alone.
Expect classes, skills practice, supervision, and a placement with an approved site. Before enrolling from New York in a program based in Pennsylvania or Massachusetts, ask whether the school can enroll you, arrange appropriate fieldwork near you, and document that its curriculum addresses New York's rules. State authorization to deliver education and eligibility for a professional license are separate questions.
Where can I work with an online Counseling degree in Northeast?
Depending on specialization and credentials, graduates may pursue roles in community mental health agencies, hospitals, substance-use treatment programs, schools, rehabilitation agencies, or private practices. A master's alone does not authorize independent clinical practice; the relevant state board determines when supervised work and a license are required.
Location affects the practical choice of program. A student planning to stay near New York City, Boston, or Philadelphia can ask schools about placements in their intended service area; someone in a less densely populated part of the region should ask how placements and required supervision are arranged locally. The useful question is not simply whether a school advertises "career support," but whether it can explain how students secure qualifying sites where they actually live.
The most useful starting point is the occupation you intend to enter, not a promised salary for a degree. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports a May 2025 national median annual wage of $59,350 for substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors. That is an occupational median across workers with different experience, employers, and credentials; it is not a Northeast starting salary.
BLS reports a May 2025 national median of $64,330 for educational, guidance, and career counselors and advisors and $46,850 for rehabilitation counselors. These are different occupational groups, so the figures help compare career directions rather than establish which master's has the highest return. For a personal estimate, compare wages for the occupation and state where you expect to work with your current earnings, likely borrowing, and the time you will spend meeting post-degree requirements.
The programs below stand out for different career directions and program designs, not for a shared definition of easy admission. The descriptions identify distinctions evident in the institutions' program information; applicants should confirm current credits, fieldwork, delivery, tuition, and license alignment with each department before making a final comparison.
University of Massachusetts Boston - Rehabilitation Counseling MS: Its rehabilitation focus makes it a more targeted option than a general clinical mental health degree for students interested in disability-related counseling and employment services. Ask how its fieldwork and curriculum align with the particular rehabilitation role you want. (University of Massachusetts Boston)
Sacred Heart University - Clinical Mental Health Counseling: Its online-program pathway is worth examining if remaining employed while preparing for clinical practice is essential. Compare its live-session schedule and local placement process with programs whose online delivery may include different campus obligations. (Sacred Heart University)
St. Bonaventure University - Clinical Mental Health Counseling: This track directs preparation toward mental health counseling rather than school certification. It suits applicants who want clinical work, provided its coursework and supervised training meet their intended state's rules. (St. Bonaventure University)
St. Bonaventure University - School Counseling: Its school-specific curriculum gives applicants a clearer route to investigate for work with pupils than the university's clinical mental health track. Check the education department's certification guidance for the state where you intend to work. (St. Bonaventure University)
University of New Haven - Clinical Mental Health Counseling: Connecticut-based applicants may find the program's location useful when investigating nearby field placements and state requirements. Verify which courses are offered online and whether any campus attendance is required before treating it as a fully remote option. (University of New Haven)
Geneva College - Counseling: Its counseling program offers Pennsylvania applicants another option to examine against their intended professional credential. Because "counseling" in a degree title does not identify every licensure outcome, request the precise track, delivery schedule, and state-eligibility disclosures. (Geneva College)
Slippery Rock University of Pennsylvania - Clinical Mental Health Counseling: This public-university clinical mental health option gives Pennsylvania residents a useful tuition comparison against private institutions. Confirm the current resident rate and all fieldwork fees before assuming it is the less expensive choice. (Slippery Rock University of Pennsylvania)
University of Scranton - Clinical Rehabilitation Counseling: Its clinical rehabilitation emphasis bridges counseling with disability-related practice, a narrower fit than a general mental health program. Ask which clinical and rehabilitation credentials its graduates commonly seek, because the requirements are not identical. (University of Scranton)
Messiah University - School Counseling MA: A dedicated school-counseling degree is the relevant starting point for applicants whose goal is school certification rather than independent therapy practice. Confirm placement arrangements and certification alignment in your intended state before enrolling. (Messiah University)
Neumann University - Clinical Mental Health Counseling: This Pennsylvania clinical mental health program merits comparison for applicants seeking that specific practice track. Ask for its current course-delivery pattern and documented licensure preparation, particularly if you will complete fieldwork outside Pennsylvania. (Neumann University)
Comparison takeaway: Start by separating school, rehabilitation, and clinical mental health pathways. Within the right pathway, request written confirmation of delivery format, placement support, total charges, and state-license preparation; program names alone cannot establish those details.
Many students should plan on roughly two to three years of master's study, with part-time schedules potentially taking longer. This is a planning range, not a uniform program promise. Course sequencing, the availability of supervised placements, and whether you can take summer classes may matter more than how quickly you can finish online lectures.
An accelerated timetable makes sense only if it leaves room for approved fieldwork and your other commitments. Compare published schedules with the fastest counseling programs, then ask each school for a term-by-term plan showing when practicum and internship begin. Finishing the degree and completing any subsequent supervised experience required for licensure are separate timelines.
The primary difference is where and how students attend classes - not whether they must demonstrate counseling skills or complete supervised practice. An online format may spare a working Northeast resident regular trips to campus, but scheduled video meetings, occasional residencies, and travel to a placement site can still constrain a workweek.
On-campus study may be preferable if you want frequent in-person skills practice or access to placement relationships near the university. Online study may be preferable if relocating or commuting would prevent enrollment, provided the school can support an approved placement where you live. Ask how supervisors are approved and how students receive feedback in both formats; an online label alone says little about training quality.
There is no single published Northeast-wide price that reliably represents these particular online counseling master's programs. A defensible comparison uses each school's current total estimated charges: required credits multiplied by the applicable tuition rate, plus mandatory fees, travel, materials, and any placement-related expenses. Check whether a public university charges different rates to residents and nonresidents, including online students.
The most affordable counseling programs are a useful shortlist, but the lowest advertised per-credit price may not produce the lowest bill. Request a written estimate for your intended pace and location, including any tuition increases the school can disclose. Treat foregone work hours during fieldwork as a separate opportunity cost, not as tuition.
Start with the FAFSA and the school's financial aid office. Eligible graduate students may have access to federal Direct Unsubsidized Loans; schools may also offer scholarships, assistantships, or payment plans. Federal aid eligibility depends on the student, institution, program, and enrollment status, so confirm that your specific online degree qualifies rather than assuming every graduate course does. (Federal Student Aid)
For a regional comparison, ask each school whether institutional awards can be used by out-of-state online students and whether assistantships require campus work. Employers in schools or health services may offer tuition assistance, but ask about continued-employment obligations before counting it as a reduction in cost. Borrow only after comparing the full program budget with plausible earnings in your intended occupation.
View the chart data as a table
Programs by specialization (Source: Research.com)
Category
Value
Clinical Mental Health Counseling
16
School Counseling
9
Marriage, Couple, and Family Counseling
2
Rehabilitation Counseling
1
Clinical Rehabilitation Counseling
1
Addiction Counseling
1
Applicants typically need a bachelor's degree and the materials specified by the department, which may include transcripts, recommendations, a statement of purpose, and an interview. Psychology coursework or relevant experience can strengthen an application, but do not assume either is universally mandatory. Requirements - and whether standardized tests are used - must be checked on each institution's current admissions page.
For a licensed career, admissions is only the first screen. CACREP accredits qualifying counseling programs, while institutional accreditation and federal aid eligibility are different matters. State boards set educational, examination, and supervised-experience rules; for example, applicants targeting New York should check the New York State Education Department, while those targeting Pennsylvania should check the Pennsylvania State Board of Social Workers, Marriage and Family Therapists and Professional Counselors. For school counseling, check the relevant state education agency instead. A program's willingness to admit you does not establish that its degree meets another state's credential requirements. (CACREP; New York State Education Department; Pennsylvania Department of State)
Clinical mental health curricula commonly address counseling theory, assessment, ethics, diagnosis, multicultural counseling, research, and supervised practice. School counseling adds work tied to pupils and school systems; rehabilitation study places greater emphasis on disability and related services. Course titles differ, so compare syllabi and clinical requirements rather than matching programs by a few similarly named classes. (CACREP)
If you may seek a license outside the school's home state, request a curriculum-to-requirements review from the program and check it against the destination board's rules. A seemingly minor missing course or unsuitable field placement can be more consequential than a difference in electives.
The most consequential choice is often the degree track: clinical mental health, school, or rehabilitation counseling. These pathways prepare students for different populations, workplaces, and credentialing authorities. Some programs also offer focused coursework in areas such as addiction or trauma, but an elective or concentration name does not create a separate professional license.
Choose the track by working backward from the role you want. If your goal is to provide therapy independently, a school-counseling credential is not a substitute for checking clinical counselor-license requirements. If your goal is a public-school role, ask the state education agency whether the program supports its certification route. (State licensing boards; state education agencies)
Choose the program that makes your intended credential feasible at a cost and pace you can sustain - not simply the one with the least complicated application. Use this sequence to turn a ranking shortlist into a decision.
Identify the destination credential and state. Ask the relevant board or education agency which degree content, accreditation, supervised experience, and examinations apply.
Confirm the actual format. Obtain the schedule for live classes, any campus visits, and in-person clinical work.
Test the placement plan. Ask whether the program has approved sites near you, who finds a supervisor, and what happens if a site falls through.
Compare complete costs and time. Request a term-by-term plan and written charges, including fees and expenses associated with fieldwork; ask whether graduate transfer credits are accepted and whether they satisfy required courses.
Examine outcomes carefully. Request program-level completion, examination, and employment information where available, including the reporting period and cohort size.
The most valuable counseling programs offer another comparison lens, but personal return depends on aid, debt, the probability of finishing, earnings before and after study, time away from paid work, and how long you expect to practice. A red flag is a school that cannot give a clear answer about placement or your intended state's eligibility requirements.
View the chart data as a table
Admissions GPA distribution across ranked programs (Source: Research.com)
Category
Value
2.75-2.79
2
2.80-2.84
0
2.85-2.89
0
2.90-2.94
0
2.95-2.99
28
A counseling master's can lead toward several occupations, but the degree track and subsequent credential determine which positions are realistic. The table pairs common directions with comparable national occupational wage measures, not salaries promised to new graduates. (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, May 2025 occupational wage data)
Career direction
Relevant preparation to investigate
U.S. median annual wage, May 2025
Mental health or substance-use counselor
Clinical mental health or addiction-focused preparation; applicable state credential
$59,350
School or career counselor
School-counseling preparation; applicable school certification for school roles
$64,330
Rehabilitation counselor
Rehabilitation-counseling preparation; employer and state credential requirements
$46,850
For someone changing careers, the key distinction is between getting a first supervised position and qualifying for independent practice. Ask prospective employers and your state board which credential is needed at each stage. A shorter certificate may help an already-qualified professional add skills, but it should not be treated as a replacement for a required counseling master's.
View the chart data as a table
Projected job growth 2025-2035 by counseling career path (U.S., BLS) (Source: BLS)
Category
Value
Mental Health Counselors
18
Marriage & Family Therapists
14
Postsecondary Teachers
7
Psychologists
6
School & Career Counselors
3
Rehabilitation Counselors
2
All occupations
3
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 18% employment growth from 2025 to 2035 for substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors, compared with 3% for educational, guidance, and career counselors and advisors. These national occupation projections describe different labor markets; neither guarantees openings in a particular Northeast city or for a newly licensed applicant. (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2025-2035 Employment Projections)
Use the projection that matches your intended job, then investigate employers and credential requirements in the state where you plan to remain. A working professional seeking clinical practice should weigh the time required for supervised experience after graduation. Someone committed to schools should focus instead on certification and local hiring calendars. That distinction matters more to a job search than a broad claim that "counseling is growing."
2027 Easiest Online Master's in Counseling Degree Programs Ranking in the Northeast
Education is a consequential investment, so Research.com evaluates counseling programs using multiple sources rather than treating a ranking label as a substitute for due diligence. Its counseling rankings consider graduate completion and employment or doctoral admission, applicable licensure-exam pass rates, CACREP accreditation, federal Title IV eligibility, and program cost. The Best ranking combines outcomes and accreditation before adding cost as a smaller component; other rankings order programs by their named dimension. The published methodology does not, by itself, establish that "easiest" means the highest admission rate or the least demanding route to licensure.
Research.com uses the following data sources to check institutional and program information. Readers can use the ranking to narrow a search, then verify current requirements directly with each school and licensing board.
IPEDS database - institutional reporting on enrollment, completions, and costs.
Research.com's methodology explains more about how its rankings are created. Because admission policies, online delivery, tuition, and licensure rules can change, the ranking is a starting point - not a promise of admission, affordability, or license eligibility.
# 1 position
University of Massachusetts-Boston
Master
Rehabilitation Counseling MS
Delivery mode: hybrid
66.60
/ 100
Final score
Specialization
Rehabilitation Counseling
Required credits
60 semester credits
Acceptance rate
60%
GPA range
2.75 - 4.00
Application deadline
Summer: February 1 priority, April 15 regular; Fall: June 15
Application process
direct
GRE
no
Prerequisites
Accredited bachelor's; minimum 2.75 GPA. Below 2.75 with disability-related experience may get provisional acceptance (B or better in first two courses). No specific background required; social sciences preferred. 4+1 applicants need 3.2.
Additional requirements
Graduate Admissions Portal application; three recommendations addressing suitability for counseling; statement of intent; faculty admissions committee phone interview. Application fee of $75, waived for eligible UMass Boston alumni and current students.
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).
University of Massachusetts-Boston earned a Research.com Admissions Accessibility Score of 66.6/100, supported by a minimum GPA of 2.75 and 60% acceptance rate. The program is CACREP-accredited, valid through 2032-03-31.
# 2 position
Sacred Heart University
Master
Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Delivery mode: hybrid
66.60
/ 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 Admissions Accessibility Score of 66.6/100, supported by a minimum GPA of 2.75 and 96% program completion rate. The program is CACREP-accredited, valid through 2032-03-31.
# 3 position
St Bonaventure University
Master
Master of Science in Education (MSED) in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Delivery mode: online
51.40
/ 100
Final score
Program length
2.5 years part-time (7 semesters)
Specialization
Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Required credits
60 semester credits
Acceptance rate
74%
GPA range
3.00 - 4.00
Program completion rate
61% (2024-25)
Employment or doctoral admission
93% (2024-25)
Application deadline
rolling
Application process
direct
GRE
no
Prerequisites
A bachelor's degree from an accredited institution with a minimum 3.0 GPA (will consider applicants with a 2.75 and above)
Additional requirements
Transcripts from all institutions attended; online application; personal statement; two professional letters of recommendation; 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).
St Bonaventure University earned a Research.com Admissions Accessibility Score of 51.4/100, supported by a minimum GPA of 3 and 74% acceptance rate. The program is CACREP-accredited, valid through 2032-10-31.
# 4 position
St Bonaventure University
Master
M.S. Ed. in School Counseling
Delivery mode: online
51.40
/ 100
Final score
Program length
2.5 years part-time (7 semesters)
Specialization
School Counseling
Required credits
60 semester credits
Acceptance rate
69%
GPA range
3.00 - 4.00
Program completion rate
61% (2024-25)
Employment or doctoral admission
100% (2024-25)
Licensure exam pass rate
100% (2024-25)
Application deadline
rolling
Application process
direct
GRE
no
Prerequisites
Bachelor's degree from an accredited institution with a minimum 3.0 GPA (2.75 and above considered)
Additional requirements
Transcripts from all institutions attended, online application, personal statement, two professional letters of recommendation, 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).
St Bonaventure University earned a Research.com Admissions Accessibility Score of 51.4/100, supported by a minimum GPA of 3 and 69% acceptance rate. The program is CACREP-accredited, valid through 2032-10-31.
# 5 position
University of New Haven
Master
M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling (Online)
Delivery mode: hybrid
51.40
/ 100
Final score
Program length
can be completed in just three years
Specialization
Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Required credits
60 semester credits
Acceptance rate
36.9%
GPA range
3.00 - 4.00
Program completion rate
54.3% (2024-25)
Employment or doctoral admission
66% (2024-25)
Application deadline
Fall: March 1 (priority); Spring: October 1 (priority)
Application process
direct
GRE
no
Prerequisites
Applicants must hold a bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited college or university (or the international equivalent).
Additional requirements
Online graduate application, $50 fee, official transcripts, two letters of recommendation, statement of purpose, professional resume/CV, and an admissions interview for academically qualified candidates.
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).
University of New Haven earned a Research.com Admissions Accessibility Score of 51.4/100, supported by a minimum GPA of 3 and 36.9% acceptance rate. The program is CACREP-accredited, valid through 2033-03-31.
# 6 position
Geneva College
Master
Master of Arts in Counseling
Delivery mode: hybrid
51.40
/ 100
Final score
Program length
two years for a full-time student
Specialization
Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Required credits
60 semester credits
GPA range
3.00 - 4.00
Program completion rate
50% (2023-24)
Employment or doctoral admission
100% (2023-24)
Licensure exam pass rate
76% (2023-24)
Application deadline
Spring 2027: Nov 30, 2026
Application process
direct
GRE
no
Prerequisites
Basic statistics competency
Additional requirements
Program requirement: one 5-day (one-week) residency in late August on the Beaver Falls, PA campus, year 1 (may postpone to year 2).
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).
Geneva College earned a Research.com Admissions Accessibility Score of 51.4/100, supported by a minimum GPA of 3 and 50% program completion rate. The program is CACREP-accredited, valid through 2033-04-30.
# 7 position
Slippery Rock University of Pennsylvania
Master
Clinical Mental Health Counseling, Master of Arts (MA)
Delivery mode: hybrid
51.40
/ 100
Final score
Program length
First Year Fall/Spring ... Third Year Fall/Spring (12-12-12-12-6/9-3/6 credits)
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
100% (2024-25)
Licensure exam pass rate
100% (2025)
Application deadline
rolling
Application process
direct
GRE
no
Prerequisites
Official transcripts; minimum 3.0 GPA for unconditional admission; personal statement of interest, experience and career goals; two recommendation forms from faculty or a supervisor; interview. No prerequisite courses beyond a bachelor's.
Additional requirements
Official transcripts, minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA for unconditional admission, personal statement, two recommendation forms from faculty or a recent employer/supervisor, online application and fee, and an 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).
Slippery Rock University of Pennsylvania earned a Research.com Admissions Accessibility Score of 51.4/100, supported by a minimum GPA of 3 and 90% program completion rate. The program is CACREP-accredited, valid through 2030-10-31.
# 8 position
University of Scranton
Master
Master of Science in Clinical Rehabilitation Counseling
Delivery mode: hybrid
51.40
/ 100
Final score
Program length
2.5 - 3 years
Specialization
Clinical Rehabilitation Counseling
Required credits
60 semester credits
GPA range
3.00 - 4.00
Program completion rate
81% (2021-22)
Employment or doctoral admission
83% (2021-22)
Licensure exam pass rate
86% (2021-22)
Application deadline
Priority: March 1; Regular: July 15 (for fall admission)
Application process
direct
GRE
no
Prerequisites
A bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited U.S. college or university (or international equivalent); undergraduate GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale (probationary acceptance possible below 3.0)
Additional requirements
Official transcripts from all previously attended institutions; two professional letters of recommendation; personal statement; resume; personal interview (group interview) with program faculty; no application fee
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).
University of Scranton earned a Research.com Admissions Accessibility Score of 51.4/100, supported by a minimum GPA of 3 and 81% program completion rate. The program is CACREP-accredited, valid through 2031-10-31.
# 9 position
Messiah University
Master
Master of Arts in Counseling – School Counseling
Delivery mode: online
51.40
/ 100
Final score
Program length
2-year completion
Specialization
School Counseling
Required credits
60 semester credits
GPA range
3.00 - 4.00
Program completion rate
81.6% (2024-25)
Employment or doctoral admission
100% (2024-25)
Application deadline
rolling
Application process
direct
GRE
no
Prerequisites
At least 6 credits in social, behavioral, applied, or life sciences courses with a grade of C or higher (e.g., psychology, human development and family science, sociology, anthropology, early childhood studies, social work).
Additional requirements
Messiah application; official transcripts; cumulative GPA 3.0 or higher (below 3.0 reviewed case by case); 300–500 word statement of purpose; contact for one reference; resume/CV; Zoom interview with faculty.
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).
Messiah University earned a Research.com Admissions Accessibility Score of 51.4/100, supported by a minimum GPA of 3 and 81.6% program completion rate. The program is CACREP-accredited, valid through 2028-10-31.
# 10 position
Neumann University
Master
Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Delivery mode: hybrid
51.40
/ 100
Final score
Program length
3 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
80% (2023-24)
Application deadline
rolling
Application process
direct
GRE
no
Prerequisites
Baccalaureate degree from a regionally accredited, degree-granting institution with a 3.00 GPA.
Additional requirements
Official transcripts from all institutions attended, graduate writing prompt, two (2) letters of recommendation, and graduate student application.
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).
Neumann University earned a Research.com Admissions Accessibility Score of 51.4/100, supported by a minimum GPA of 3 and 100% program completion rate. The program is CACREP-accredited, valid through 2033-10-31.
# 11 position
Waynesburg University
Master
Master of Arts in Counseling
Delivery mode: online
51.40
/ 100
Final score
Specialization
Clinical Mental Health Counseling
GPA range
3.00 - 4.00
Employment or doctoral admission
100% (2024-25)
Licensure exam pass rate
82% (2024-25)
Application process
direct
GRE
no
Prerequisites
Bachelor's degree from an accredited college
Additional requirements
Graduate and Professional Studies application; bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited college with a minimum 3.0 GPA; official transcripts from all undergraduate and graduate institutions; current resume; personal statement; writing sample;
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).
Waynesburg University earned a Research.com Admissions Accessibility Score of 51.4/100, with a minimum GPA of 3 among the verified supporting factors. The program is CACREP-accredited, valid through 2029-10-31.
# 12 position
Waynesburg University
Master
Master of Arts in Counseling
Delivery mode: online
51.40
/ 100
Final score
Specialization
Addiction Counseling
GPA range
3.00 - 4.00
Employment or doctoral admission
100% (2024-25)
Licensure exam pass rate
100% (2023-24)
Application process
direct
GRE
no
Prerequisites
Bachelor's degree from an accredited college
Additional requirements
Graduate and Professional Studies application; bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited college with a minimum 3.0 GPA; official transcripts from all undergraduate and graduate institutions; current resume; personal statement; writing sample;
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).
Waynesburg University earned a Research.com Admissions Accessibility Score of 51.4/100, with a minimum GPA of 3 among the verified supporting factors. The program is CACREP-accredited, valid through 2029-10-31.
# 13 position
Geneva College
Master
M.A. in Counseling - Marriage, Couple, and Family Counseling
Delivery mode: hybrid
51.40
/ 100
Final score
Program length
two years for a full-time student
Specialization
Marriage, Couple, and Family Counseling
Required credits
60 semester credits
GPA range
3.00 - 4.00
Application process
direct
GRE
no
Prerequisites
Bachelor's degree with GPA of 3.0+ expected (provisional admission possible below 3.0); basic statistics competency via CNS 504, an approved statistics course (B- or better within 5 years), or 80%+ on a statistics exam.
Additional requirements
Official transcripts from all colleges/universities attended, a typed academic essay describing career goals and reasons for applying, three professional recommendations, and a resume
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).
Geneva College earned a Research.com Admissions Accessibility Score of 51.4/100, with a minimum GPA of 3 among the verified supporting factors. The program is CACREP-accredited, valid through 2033-04-30.
# 14 position
Husson University
Master
Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Delivery mode: hybrid
43.90
/ 100
Final score
Program length
Time to Completion: 3 years
Specialization
Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Required credits
63 semester credits
Acceptance rate
80%
GPA range
3.00 - 4.00
Program completion rate
56% (2024-25)
Employment or doctoral admission
100% (2021-22)
Licensure exam pass rate
100% (2024-25)
Application process
direct
GRE
Conditional: GRE (300 V+Q) or MAT (402) may be required if undergraduate or graduate GPA is below 3.0 (alternative evidence of continued learning accepted for applicants out of school 5+ years)
Prerequisites
Baccalaureate or advanced degree with minimum 3.0 GPA; if GPA below 3.0, a minimum 402 on the MAT or 300 (V+Q) on the GRE General Test may be required (or alternative evidence of academic/professional readiness for applicants out of school 5+ years).
Additional requirements
Graduate application, transcripts, resume, essay on reasons for choosing the program, one letter of recommendation on academic preparation, two additional references, possible individual/group interviews.
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).
Husson University earned a Research.com Admissions Accessibility Score of 43.9/100, supported by a minimum GPA of 3 and 80% acceptance rate. The program is CACREP-accredited, valid through 2031-10-31.
# 15 position
Husson University
Master
Master of Science in School Counseling
Delivery mode: hybrid
43.90
/ 100
Final score
Program length
Time to Completion: 3 years
Specialization
School Counseling
Required credits
60 semester credits
Acceptance rate
71.43%
GPA range
3.00 - 4.00
Program completion rate
67% (2024-25)
Application deadline
July 31 (for Fall admission)
Application process
direct
GRE
Conditional: GRE (300 V+Q) or MAT (402) may be required if undergraduate/graduate GPA is below 3.0 (coursework/job-training evidence accepted instead if studies were 5+ years ago)
Prerequisites
Baccalaureate or advanced degree with minimum 3.0 GPA; if below 3.0, may require MAT score of 402+ or GRE (V+Q) 300+, or alternative evidence of continued success in learning through coursework/job training.
Additional requirements
Completed graduate application and fees including transcripts, resume, and an essay detailing reasons for choosing the program; one letter of recommendation; two additional references; possible individual/group interview.
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).
Husson University earned a Research.com Admissions Accessibility Score of 43.9/100, supported by a minimum GPA of 3 and 71.4% acceptance rate. The program is CACREP-accredited, valid through 2031-10-31.
# 16 position
Western Connecticut State University
Master
M.S. in Counselor Education
Delivery mode: hybrid
43.90
/ 100
Final score
Program length
three-year hybrid program
Specialization
School Counseling
Required credits
60 semester credits
Acceptance rate
70%
GPA range
3.00 - 4.00
Program completion rate
80% (2024-25)
Employment or doctoral admission
80% (2023-24)
Application deadline
January 10
Application process
direct
Prerequisites
Bachelor's degree (or international equivalent) including general-education distribution in English, mathematics, science, social and behavioral sciences, foreign language, and fine arts
Additional requirements
Transcripts from all colleges/universities attended, minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA (or alternate assessment), two-page double-spaced essay on reasons for enrolling and suitability for online learning
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).
Western Connecticut State University earned a Research.com Admissions Accessibility Score of 43.9/100, supported by a minimum GPA of 3 and 70% acceptance rate. The program is CACREP-accredited, valid through 2027-03-31.
# 17 position
Southern Connecticut State University
Master
M.S. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Delivery mode: hybrid
43.90
/ 100
Final score
Specialization
Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Required credits
60 semester credits
Acceptance rate
16%
GPA range
3.00 - 4.00
Program completion rate
80% (2024-25)
Employment or doctoral admission
100% (2024-25)
Licensure exam pass rate
92% (2024-25)
Application deadline
Fall: January 15
Application process
direct
Prerequisites
Coursework in Introduction to Psychology and Abnormal or Clinical Psychology is required. A psychology major is not required. Relevant mental health or human services experience is encouraged but not required.
Additional requirements
Two recommendation letters: one academic and one professional or field-based; personal essay. Selected applicants participate in small-group interviews via Zoom.
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).
Southern Connecticut State University earned a Research.com Admissions Accessibility Score of 43.9/100, supported by a minimum GPA of 3 and 16% acceptance rate. The program is CACREP-accredited, valid through 2028-03-31.
# 18 position
Messiah University
Master
M.A. in Counseling – Marriage, Couple and Family Counseling
Delivery mode: online
43.90
/ 100
Final score
Program length
2-year completion
Specialization
Marriage, Couple, and Family Counseling
Required credits
60 semester credits
GPA range
3.00 - 4.00
Program completion rate
72.6% (2024-25)
Employment or doctoral admission
100% (2024-25)
Licensure exam pass rate
100% (2024-25)
Application deadline
rolling
Application process
direct
Prerequisites
At least 6 credits in social, behavioral, applied, or life sciences courses (e.g., psychology, sociology, social work) with a grade of C or higher
Additional requirements
Messiah application; official transcripts; cumulative GPA 3.0 or higher (below 3.0 reviewed case by case); 300–500 word statement of purpose; one reference contact; resume/CV; interview with faculty via Zoom
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).
Messiah University earned a Research.com Admissions Accessibility Score of 43.9/100, supported by a minimum GPA of 3 and 72.6% program completion rate. The program is CACREP-accredited, valid through 2028-10-31.
# 19 position
Messiah University
Master
M.A. in Counseling – Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Delivery mode: online
43.90
/ 100
Final score
Program length
2-year completion
Specialization
Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Required credits
60 semester credits
GPA range
3.00 - 4.00
Program completion rate
70.3% (2024-25)
Employment or doctoral admission
100% (2024-25)
Licensure exam pass rate
90% (2024-25)
Application process
direct
Prerequisites
At least 6 credits in social, behavioral, applied, or life sciences courses (e.g., psychology, sociology, social work) with a grade of C or higher
Additional requirements
Application; official transcripts; cumulative GPA 3.0 or higher; 300–500 word statement of purpose; one reference; resume/CV; interview via Zoom
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).
Messiah University earned a Research.com Admissions Accessibility Score of 43.9/100, supported by a minimum GPA of 3 and 70.3% program completion rate. The program is CACREP-accredited, valid through 2028-10-31.
# 20 position
Geneva College
Master
M.A. in Counseling – School Counseling
Delivery mode: hybrid
43.90
/ 100
Final score
Program length
two years for a full-time student
Specialization
School Counseling
Required credits
60 semester credits
GPA range
3.00 - 4.00
Program completion rate
0% (2023-24)
Employment or doctoral admission
100% (2023-24)
Licensure exam pass rate
0% (2023-24)
Application deadline
rolling
Application process
direct
Prerequisites
Bachelor's degree with GPA of 3.0+ (provisional admission possible below 3.0); basic statistics competency for CNS 505/512 via CNS 504, prior statistics course (B- or better within 5 years), or 80%+ exam score.
Additional requirements
Official transcripts from all colleges/universities attended, a typed academic essay on career goals and reasons for applying to a Christian faith-based counseling program, three professional recommendations, and a resume
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).
Geneva College earned a Research.com Admissions Accessibility Score of 43.9/100, supported by a minimum GPA of 3 and 0% program completion rate. The program is CACREP-accredited, valid through 2033-04-30.
Frequently asked questions about online Counseling degree in Northeast
Does "easiest" mean I will be admitted?
No. A ranking cannot predict an individual admission decision. Check the program's current prerequisites and ask how it evaluates applicants with your academic and work background.
Can I become licensed after completing an online program in another state?
Possibly, but not automatically. Check your intended state board's education rules and the program's state-eligibility disclosures before enrolling; graduation, supervised experience, and licensing are separate steps.
Can I complete clinical training entirely online?
Do not assume so. Ask where practicum and internship take place, whether in-person client work is required, and who approves and supervises your placement.
Is a clinical mental health degree the same as a school counseling degree?
No. They target different work and credentials. Choose according to whether you intend to pursue clinical counselor licensure, school certification, or another defined role.
Is an online counseling master's worth the cost?
It can be if it supports the credential and work you want at a manageable total cost. Compare borrowing, aid, time away from paid work, completion prospects, and likely earnings in your intended role rather than relying on a ranking or national salary alone.
See What Experts Have To Say About Studying Counseling
