A counseling master's degree can open a path to licensed practice, but the lowest tuition does not necessarily mean the lowest total cost - or a degree that fits your intended license. This guide is for Ohio students comparing clinical mental health, school, and related counseling programs. It explains costs, training requirements, career prospects, and the questions to ask before applying. The Research.com team of data scientists created the 2027 Most Affordable Counseling Degree Programs Ranking in Ohio to help students make an informed choice about which programs are worth considering.
Key findings about Counseling degrees in Ohio
For clinical mental health counseling, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports a $59,350 national median annual wage in May 2025 and projects 18% employment growth for the related occupation from 2025 to 2035. Neither figure predicts an individual Ohio graduate's earnings.
Students seeking Ohio professional counselor licensure should verify that a master's curriculum meets Ohio's education requirements before comparing prices; a school-counseling degree leads toward a different state credential (Ohio CSWMFT Board; Ohio Department of Education and Workforce).
The cheapest published tuition may not be the cheapest path. Compare required credits, fees, placement travel, aid, and time away from work; new federal Graduate PLUS borrowing is generally unavailable beginning July 1, 2026, subject to limited continuing-student provisions (Federal Student Aid).
What can I expect from a Counseling degree in Ohio?
A counseling degree combines human-development and clinical coursework with supervised practice. For a reader aiming to provide mental health counseling independently, the relevant comparison is usually between master's programs designed for Ohio's professional counselor licensure pathway - not between every degree with "counseling" in its name. School counseling instead prepares students for a school-based credential overseen by the Ohio Department of Education and Workforce (Ohio CSWMFT Board; Ohio Department of Education and Workforce).
The credential goal changes which programs belong on your shortlist. This comparison separates common paths before you look at tuition:
Program path
Primary goal
Key check before applying
Clinical mental health counseling master's
Professional counseling practice in settings such as clinics or community agencies
Confirm Ohio counselor-licensure curriculum alignment and supervised-placement support.
School counseling master's
School-based counseling
Confirm preparation for Ohio's school-counselor credential, not just a general counseling degree.
Marriage and family therapy or rehabilitation counseling master's
Practice focused on families or disability and rehabilitation services
Check the relevant credential and occupation rather than assuming counselor requirements are interchangeable.
A master's degree makes sense if the work you want requires it and you can accommodate supervised training. If you want to test the field first, or cannot yet take on placement hours, a related entry-level human-services role may be a lower-risk next step. A short certificate is not a substitute for the qualifying degree required for professional counselor licensure (Ohio CSWMFT Board).
Where can I work with a Counseling degree in Ohio?
Clinical mental health counseling graduates may pursue roles in community behavioral health agencies, health systems, private practices, or substance-use treatment organizations, subject to the license and supervision required for each position. School counseling graduates generally look to public or private schools. Rehabilitation counselors may work with disability-service organizations, vocational rehabilitation programs, or health providers (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics).
Location affects the practicality of training as well as employment. A program near Columbus, Cleveland, Dayton, or another metro area may offer access to different potential placement settings than one farther from those centers, but an available site is not a promised placement. Ask each program where its recent students completed fieldwork, whether sites near your home are approved, and whether you must find a supervisor yourself.
Pay depends on the occupation, license, employer, and experience - not simply the degree title. The national figures below are May 2025 occupational medians published by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, with growth projections for 2025-2035. They are benchmarks for comparing paths, not Ohio starting salaries.
Counseling path
U.S. median annual wage, May 2025
Projected U.S. 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%
The differences matter when choosing a specialization, but they do not show what a new graduate will earn. Compare local job postings by required credential and level of supervision, then weigh likely pay against borrowing, your current earnings, and the time needed to complete training (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics).
These Ohio options differ most clearly in their stated degree and career focus. Use those distinctions to build a shortlist, then confirm current credits, accreditation status, fieldwork arrangements, outcomes, and total charges directly with each program; the features below are not a substitute for a verified price comparison.
Ohio State University: Its MA in Educational Studies identifies clinical mental health counseling as the focus. That makes it a more direct starting point for a prospective professional counselor than an education degree whose counseling track is unclear; verify how its curriculum maps to Ohio licensure (Ohio State University).
Youngstown State University: Its graduate counseling offering is an MSEd. Students comparing it with MA or MS options should look past the degree letters and request the requirements for their intended counseling track and credential (Youngstown State University).
Ohio University: Its counselor-education master's information addresses master's program pathways rather than presenting counseling as a single undifferentiated option. It is useful for applicants deciding which professional setting they want before committing to a curriculum (Ohio University).
University of Akron: Its named master's offering centers on clinical mental health counseling. Applicants aiming at that practice area can compare its licensure preparation and placement expectations directly with other clinical programs, rather than with school-counseling degrees (University of Akron).
Bowling Green State University: Its graduate offering explicitly addresses mental health and school counseling. That side-by-side focus helps undecided applicants investigate two distinct credential routes, but they should confirm which route their application and coursework actually cover (Bowling Green State University).
Cleveland State University: Its featured master's program is specifically school counseling. It belongs on a shortlist for school-based careers; someone seeking independent clinical practice should not assume the school credential meets professional counselor requirements (Cleveland State University).
Ashland University: Its clinical mental health counseling MA is offered through Ashland Theological Seminary. Applicants interested in that academic setting should examine the required curriculum and placement policies against their professional goals, rather than choosing on institutional identity alone (Ashland University).
Heidelberg University: Its offering is an MA in Counseling. Because the broad degree name alone does not establish a licensure route, ask for the current course sequence and written explanation of the credential it is designed to support (Heidelberg University).
Wright State University: Its MEd is specifically in school counseling. It is a clearer comparison for future school counselors than a clinical mental health program; confirm Ohio credential alignment and where school placements can be completed (Wright State University).
If affordability is your first filter, compare the ranking with the best counseling programs for a different view of outcomes and program quality. A school appearing attractive on one measure may not be the best fit for your license or budget.
Full-time counseling master's study commonly takes about two to three years; part-time enrollment may take longer. The calendar depends on the program's credit requirements, when courses are offered, and whether you can complete supervised fieldwork on schedule. CACREP's counseling standards include substantial practicum and internship training, so an accelerated course schedule does not necessarily accelerate placement completion (Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs).
Ask for a term-by-term plan for your intended track, including when fieldwork begins and whether summer enrollment is necessary. Working adults should also ask whether placements require daytime hours; a faster advertised timeline has little value if it assumes availability you do not have.
Online delivery can reduce commuting and make coursework accessible outside a campus city. It does not remove supervised practice or automatically make an out-of-state program suitable for Ohio licensure. Campus study can simplify access to faculty and local placement contacts, but it may increase travel or require a move. Neither format is inherently better for every student (Ohio CSWMFT Board; Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs).
For an online program, get written answers to two questions before paying a deposit: Does its curriculum meet the education requirements for the Ohio credential you want, and will the school approve and support a placement where you live? Compare those answers with the schedule and travel costs of a campus program. Do not mistake "online classes" for "no in-person commitments."
There is no single Ohio-wide average that accurately prices every counseling master's track. Published tuition may be quoted per credit, per term, or as an annual estimate, and an institutional graduate average may not equal the charge for a particular program. Rather than treating a broad average as your bill, obtain each school's current program-specific tuition schedule and required credits (National Center for Education Statistics; institutions' published tuition schedules).
Calculate a comparable total attendance estimate: tuition for the full curriculum, mandatory fees, books, placement-related travel, and any added terms needed for part-time study. Apply residency pricing only if you qualify under the school's rules, then subtract grants or assistantship funding you can actually receive. This is especially important when comparing an Ohio public university with a private nonprofit institution: ownership alone does not determine net cost or return on investment.
Start with the Free Application for Federal Student Aid and ask each graduate program about assistantships, scholarships, and paid roles compatible with fieldwork. Eligible graduate students may use federal Direct Unsubsidized Loans, subject to federal limits and program eligibility. Do not assume an undergraduate Ohio grant will fund a graduate degree; verify the award's eligibility rules (Federal Student Aid; Ohio Department of Higher Education).
Graduate PLUS rules deserve particular attention for a 2027 applicant. New Graduate PLUS borrowing is generally unavailable beginning July 1, 2026. Limited continuing-student provisions may apply to students who were already enrolled and had borrowed for the same program before the change; a newly entering student should not build a financing plan around that exception. Ask the financial aid office to confirm your eligibility under current Federal Student Aid rules and show any gap after other aid.
Borrow only after comparing the full program cost with a realistic repayment budget. Also check whether an assistantship's working hours conflict with required practicum or internship hours.
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
A counseling master's generally requires a bachelor's degree and a graduate application; individual Ohio programs set their own rules for prerequisite courses, grades, references, essays, and interviews. An undergraduate psychology or education major may be helpful but should not be assumed mandatory without checking the program's admissions page (institutions' graduate admissions requirements).
Ask admissions to separate entry requirements from licensure requirements. Before accepting an offer, request the current curriculum, its intended Ohio credential, its accreditation status, and any placement eligibility requirements. If you have previous graduate credits, seek a written transfer-credit evaluation: accepting a course for credit does not necessarily mean it satisfies a required counseling competency (Ohio CSWMFT Board; Ohio Department of Education and Workforce).
Expect study in counseling theories, ethics, assessment, human development, multicultural counseling, research, and supervised practice. Clinical mental health tracks add coursework relevant to mental health assessment and treatment; school tracks address counseling within educational settings. Exact course titles and required experiences vary by program and credential (Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs; institutions' program curricula).
Read the required-course list, not only the catalog description. A course in counseling skills cannot by itself establish eligibility for a particular license. Ask the program to identify where its curriculum addresses the Ohio requirements for the credential you intend to pursue (Ohio CSWMFT Board; Ohio Department of Education and Workforce).
The most consequential choice is often clinical mental health versus school counseling: they lead toward different work settings and Ohio credential processes. Depending on the institution, students may also find preparation related to addiction, rehabilitation, or marriage and family work. A concentration name does not by itself establish eligibility for a separate professional license (Ohio CSWMFT Board; Ohio Department of Education and Workforce).
Choose the specialization by starting with the job description and required credential, then working backward to the degree. If your goal is substance-use treatment, for example, ask whether the program's courses and fieldwork align with the roles you want; do not assume every clinical track offers identical preparation.
The right investment is the program most likely to get you to your specific credential at a cost and pace you can sustain. A useful comparison gives licensure fit priority over a small tuition difference, while treating completion, debt, and lost working time as real financial factors.
Use this sequence to move from a ranking to an enrollment decision:
Name the Ohio credential and work setting you want; verify the education rules with the relevant state authority.
Ask each program for its current curriculum, programmatic accreditation status where applicable, supervised-placement process, and recent program-level outcomes.
Compare written full-program cost estimates after confirmed aid, including fees, travel, and any income you may forgo.
Test the timetable against your work and family commitments, then request written answers to unresolved licensure or transfer-credit questions.
For another comparison lens, review the most valuable counseling programs. Avoid the common mistake of treating any ranking - or the lowest tuition - as proof of personal return on investment. That calculation also depends on your current and potential earnings, borrowing, probability of finishing, repayment horizon, and the value of time spent in school.
View the chart data as a table
Programs by specialization (Source: Research.com)
Category
Value
Clinical Mental Health Counseling
10
School Counseling
8
Addiction Counseling
1
Clinical Rehabilitation Counseling
1
Counselor Education and Supervision
1
A clinical mental health graduate may pursue supervised counseling work and, after satisfying the applicable state requirements, seek the professional credential appropriate to their role. Ohio distinguishes counselor license levels; graduating does not itself grant independent-practice authority. School counseling follows a separate education-credential route. Marriage and family therapy and rehabilitation-related work also require attention to the particular position's credential rules (Ohio CSWMFT Board; Ohio Department of Education and Workforce).
For career planning, search Ohio postings for your desired job title and note the exact license or school credential, experience, and supervision each employer requires. That check can prevent an expensive mismatch between a degree's title and the jobs you intend to pursue. If applicant demand interests you, the most popular counseling programs offer another perspective, but popularity is not evidence of licensure fit or employment.
View the chart data as a table
Reported total program cost distribution across ranked programs (Source: Research.com)
Category
Value
$30,000–$34,999
4
$35,000–$39,999
3
$40,000–$44,999
6
$45,000–$49,999
5
$50,000–$54,999
0
$55,000–$59,999
3
National demand varies substantially by counseling occupation: the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 18% growth for the occupation associated with mental health and substance-use counseling from 2025 to 2035, compared with 3% for school counseling. Those are U.S. projections, not forecasts of Ohio openings; they suggest that specialization can matter as much as the general degree label when evaluating career prospects.
Ohio job searches should account for geography and credential level. Compare postings in the areas where you can live or commute, and separate roles open to supervised new professionals from those requiring independent licensure or experience. A promising national outlook cannot compensate for a program whose placement arrangements or credential pathway do not work where you plan to practice.
2027 Most Affordable Counseling Degree Programs Ranking in Ohio
Investing in a counseling degree is a consequential decision. To make its rankings credible and useful, the Research.com team evaluates graduate outcomes, applicable licensure exam results, accreditation, federal aid eligibility, and program cost. The Most Affordable ranking orders programs by cost; it should be read alongside the program's fit for your intended credential and the expenses you would actually pay.
The rankings draw on these data sources:
IPEDS database - institutional information, including enrollment and costs.
Research.com's Best counseling ranking first combines program completion (40%), employment or doctoral admission (20%), applicable licensure exam pass rates (20%), CACREP accreditation (16%), and institutional Title IV eligibility (4%); inapplicable criteria are renormalized. Cost then contributes about 7% of its final score. The same approach applies to online and campus programs, while rankings named for another dimension order programs by that dimension. See Research.com's methodology for more detail. Rankings narrow a shortlist; they cannot establish your aid award, placement availability, or individual licensure eligibility.
# 1 position
Ohio State University
Master
Master of Arts in Educational Studies – Counselor Education
Delivery mode: campus
89.80
/ 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
December 1
Application process
direct
GRE
no
Prerequisites
Bachelor's degree
Accreditation
Accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP), with institutional accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
Ohio State University earned a Research.com Affordability Score of 89.8/100, supported by $30,250 total cost (tuition and fees, estimated) and 60 semester credits. The program is CACREP-accredited, valid through 2033-10-31.
# 2 position
Youngstown State University
Master
M.S.Ed. in Counseling – Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Delivery mode: campus
88.00
/ 100
Final score
Specialization
Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Required credits
60 semester credits
GPA range
2.70 - 4.00
Program completion rate
97% (2022-23)
Employment or doctoral admission
100% (2022-23)
Licensure exam pass rate
87% (2022-23)
Application deadline
Fall: June 15th; Spring: October 15th; Summer: March 15th
Application process
direct
GRE
Conditional: GRE or MAT score required for review if GPA is slightly below the 2.7 minimum
Prerequisites
No specific undergraduate major or coursework required. Admission requires an undergraduate GPA above 2.7 (GRE/MAT may substitute if slightly below), a letter of intent, resume, three references, official transcripts, and an interview.
Additional requirements
GPA above 2.70 (or GRE/MAT if slightly below), letter of intent (~4 pages), name and contact information of references, required interview with Counseling Admissions Committee, official transcripts of all undergraduate/graduate work.
Accreditation
Accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP), with institutional accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
Youngstown State University earned a Research.com Affordability Score of 88.0/100, supported by $32,733 total cost (tuition and fees, estimated) and 60 semester credits. The program is CACREP-accredited, valid through 2031-10-31.
# 3 position
Youngstown State University
Master
M.S.Ed. in Counseling – Addiction Counseling
Delivery mode: campus
86.60
/ 100
Final score
Specialization
Addiction Counseling
Required credits
63 semester credits
GPA range
2.70 - 4.00
Program completion rate
100% (2022-23)
Employment or doctoral admission
100% (2022-23)
Licensure exam pass rate
100% (2022-23)
Application deadline
Fall: June 15; Spring: October 15; Summer: March 15
Application process
direct
GRE
Conditional: GRE or MAT score required for review if GPA is slightly below the 2.7 minimum
Prerequisites
Applicants may come from a variety of undergraduate majors (psychology, social work, education, communication, sociology, religion, philosophy, business, general studies, etc.); no specific prerequisite coursework required.
Additional requirements
Undergraduate/graduate GPA above 2.7 (applicants slightly below may include a GRE or MAT score to have their application reviewed), letter of intent (~4 pages), name/contact info of references, official transcripts, and a required Counseling Admissions…
Accreditation
Accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP), with institutional accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
Youngstown State University earned a Research.com Affordability Score of 86.6/100, supported by $34,608 total cost (tuition and fees, estimated) and 63 semester credits. The program is CACREP-accredited, valid through 2031-10-31.
# 4 position
Ohio University-Main Campus
Master
M.Ed. degree in Counselor Education
Delivery mode: campus
86.50
/ 100
Final score
Specialization
Clinical Rehabilitation Counseling
Required credits
60 semester credits
GPA range
2.90 - 4.00
Application deadline
Fall: Jan 15 (priority; later applications considered if seats remain)
GRE
Conditional: GRE (Verbal and Quantitative) required if bachelor's GPA is below 2.9
Prerequisites
Bachelor's degree (GPA 2.9 or higher; GRE V/Q scores if below 2.9)
Accreditation
Accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP), with institutional accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
Ohio University-Main Campus earned a Research.com Affordability Score of 86.5/100, supported by $34,764 total cost (tuition and fees, estimated) and 60 semester credits. The program is CACREP-accredited, valid through 2032-10-31.
# 5 position
University of Akron Main Campus
Master
Clinical Mental Health Counseling, MA
Delivery mode: campus
85.60
/ 100
Final score
Specialization
Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Required credits
60 semester credits
GPA range
2.50 - 4.00
Program completion rate
90% (2025-26)
Employment or doctoral admission
90% (2025-26)
Licensure exam pass rate
90% (2025-26)
Application deadline
rolling
Application process
direct
GRE
no
Prerequisites
Bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited institution
Additional requirements
School of Graduate Studies Application; official transcripts; three letters of recommendation; School of Counseling Application Supplement Form; interview required for applicants who meet admission criteria
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 Akron Main Campus earned a Research.com Affordability Score of 85.6/100, supported by $36,000 total cost (tuition and fees) and 60 semester credits. The program is CACREP-accredited, valid through 2033-03-31.
# 6 position
Bowling Green State University-Main Campus
Master
M.Ed. in School Counseling
Delivery mode: campus
84.60
/ 100
Final score
Specialization
School Counseling
Required credits
60 semester credits
Acceptance rate
75%
GPA range
3.00 - 4.00
Program completion rate
80% (2024-25)
Employment or doctoral admission
100% (2024-25)
Licensure exam pass rate
100% (2024-25)
Application deadline
Fall: Dec 1 (priority), Feb 15
Class size
15
Prerequisites
No prerequisite courses required; all undergraduate degrees are eligible
Accreditation
Accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP), with institutional accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
Bowling Green State University-Main Campus earned a Research.com Affordability Score of 84.6/100, supported by $37,358 total cost (tuition and fees, estimated) and 60 semester credits. The program is CACREP-accredited, valid through 2027-03-31.
# 7 position
Cleveland State University
Master
M.Ed. in School Counseling
Delivery mode: campus
83.10
/ 100
Final score
Specialization
School Counseling
Required credits
60 semester credits
GPA range
2.75 - 4.00
Application deadline
Fall: Apr 1; Spring: Oct 1 (previous year); Summer: Feb 1 (rolling/first-come-first-served review)
Application process
direct
GRE
no
Additional requirements
Graduate application; $40 fee; official transcripts; two recommendation letters; minimum GPA 2.75; GRE not required. Rolling review.
Accreditation
Accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP), with institutional accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
Cleveland State University earned a Research.com Affordability Score of 83.1/100, supported by $39,556 total cost (tuition and fees, estimated) and 60 semester credits. The program is CACREP-accredited, valid through 2028-03-31.
# 8 position
Ashland University
Master
Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Delivery mode: campus
81.60
/ 100
Final score
Program length
4 semesters
Specialization
Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Required credits
64 semester credits
GPA range
2.75 - 4.00
Program completion rate
80% (2024-25)
Licensure exam pass rate
89.6% (2024-25)
Application deadline
rolling
Application process
direct
GRE
no
Prerequisites
Baccalaureate degree from an accredited institution with a minimum GPA of 2.75 and a substantial liberal arts foundation; CMHC applicants also complete a personality inventory and a personal interview with the program director.
Additional requirements
Online application, essay responses, two recommendation letters (one pastor/spiritual mentor, one professional), official transcripts, interview if requested; CMHC applicants also complete a personality inventory and follow-up interview.
Accreditation
Accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP), with institutional accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
Ashland University earned a Research.com Affordability Score of 81.6/100, supported by $41,600 total cost (tuition and fees) and 64 semester credits. The program is CACREP-accredited, valid through 2030-03-31.
# 9 position
Heidelberg University
Master
Master of Arts in Counseling
Delivery mode: hybrid
80.60
/ 100
Final score
Program length
approximately 2 calendar years
Specialization
Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Required credits
60 semester credits
GPA range
3.00 - 4.00
Application deadline
rolling
Application process
direct
GRE
no
Prerequisites
Minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale.
Additional requirements
Graduate application, transcripts, two recommendation letters, a 2–3-page personal statement of professional goals, and Ohio BCI and FBI background checks. Admission is conditional; a faculty interview after nine credits is required.
Accreditation
Accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP), with institutional accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
Heidelberg University earned a Research.com Affordability Score of 80.6/100, supported by $42,900 total cost (tuition and fees, estimated) and 60 semester credits. The program is CACREP-accredited, valid through 2028-03-31.
# 10 position
Wright State University-Main Campus
Master
Master of Education in School Counseling
Delivery mode: hybrid
80.20
/ 100
Final score
Program length
2.5- 3.5 years
Specialization
School Counseling
Required credits
60 semester credits
GPA range
3.00 - 4.00
Program completion rate
67% (2024-25)
Employment or doctoral admission
100% (2024-25)
Licensure exam pass rate
90% (2024-25)
Application deadline
Fall: December 1; Spring: August 1
Application process
direct (Wright State Graduate School application)
GRE
no
Prerequisites
Minimum 3.0 GPA (conditional admission possible with department approval); three letters of recommendation; statement of educational and professional goals; required group interview. GRE temporarily waived.
Additional requirements
Graduate School application; minimum 3.0 GPA; three letters of recommendation; statement of educational and professional goals; required 3-hour 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).
Wright State University-Main Campus earned a Research.com Affordability Score of 80.2/100, supported by $43,477 total cost (tuition and fees, estimated) and 60 semester credits. The program is CACREP-accredited, valid through 2027-10-31.
# 11 position
Wright State University-Main Campus
Master
Master of Science in Counseling, Clinical Mental Health Concentration
Delivery mode: hybrid
80.20
/ 100
Final score
Program length
2.5- 3.5 years
Specialization
Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Required credits
60 semester credits
GPA range
3.00 - 4.00
Program completion rate
56% (2024-25)
Employment or doctoral admission
100% (2024-25)
Licensure exam pass rate
90% (2024-25)
Application deadline
Fall: December 1; Spring: August 1
Application process
direct
GRE
no
Additional requirements
Graduate School application; 3.0 GPA (conditional below with approval); three recommendation letters; goals statement; required 3-hour group interview; GRE not required (petition if below GPA minimum without GRE).
Accreditation
Accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP), with institutional accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
Wright State University-Main Campus earned a Research.com Affordability Score of 80.2/100, supported by $43,477 total cost (tuition and fees, estimated) and 60 semester credits. The program is CACREP-accredited, valid through 2027-10-31.
# 12 position
Xavier University
Master
School Counseling, M.A.
Delivery mode: campus
79.20
/ 100
Final score
Program length
2 years of full-time study
Specialization
School 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)
Application deadline
Spring: Oct 1; Summer: Feb 1; Fall: Feb 1
Application process
direct
GRE
optional
Prerequisites
Bachelor's degree from any subject area; no specific undergraduate major required.
Additional requirements
Online application; official transcripts; resume; 500-word statement of purpose; two letters of reference; 3.0 GPA expected; MAT/GRE optional; on-campus interview for selected applicants.
Accreditation
Accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP), with institutional accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
Xavier University earned a Research.com Affordability Score of 79.2/100, supported by $44,831 total cost (tuition and fees, estimated) and 60 semester credits. The program is CACREP-accredited, valid through 2031-03-31.
# 13 position
Xavier University
Master
Clinical Mental Health Counseling, M.A.
Delivery mode: campus
79.20
/ 100
Final score
Program length
2 years full-time
Specialization
Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Required credits
60 semester credits
GPA range
3.00 - 4.00
Program completion rate
90% (2022-23)
Employment or doctoral admission
100% (2022-23)
Licensure exam pass rate
81% (2022-23)
Application deadline
Fall: February 1; Spring: October 1; Summer: February 1
Application process
direct
GRE
optional
Prerequisites
Bachelor's degree and solid academic background; applicants from any field are encouraged. Recommended undergraduate GPA of 3.0; applicants below 3.0 may submit MAT or GRE scores to strengthen their application.
Additional requirements
Online application; official transcripts; resume; 500-word statement of purpose; two letters of reference; 3.0 GPA expected; MAT/GRE optional; on-campus interview for selected applicants.
Accreditation
Accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP), with institutional accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
Xavier University earned a Research.com Affordability Score of 79.2/100, supported by $44,866 total cost (tuition and fees, estimated) and 60 semester credits. The program is CACREP-accredited, valid through 2031-03-31.
# 14 position
University of Dayton
Master
Clinical Mental Health Counseling (MSE)
Delivery mode: campus
77.30
/ 100
Final score
Program length
2.5 or 3.5 years
Specialization
Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Required credits
60 semester credits
GPA range
2.75 - 4.00
Program completion rate
85% (2023-24)
Employment or doctoral admission
100% (2023-24)
Licensure exam pass rate
96% (2023-24)
Application deadline
Summer enrollment: Nov 10; Fall enrollment (early admission): Jan 10; Fall enrollment (late admission): Rolling
Application process
direct
GRE
Conditional: GRE or MAT required if undergraduate GPA is below 2.75
Prerequisites
Undergraduate cumulative GPA of 2.75 or higher on a 4.0 scale; applicants below 2.75 may be admitted with a qualifying GRE (verbal 149+ and analytical writing 4.0+) or MAT score (raw 40+ or scaled 396+).
Additional requirements
Online application; official transcripts from all previously attended institutions; three letters of recommendation; personal statement regarding career goals; GRE or MAT scores if undergraduate GPA is below 2.75; possible faculty 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 Dayton earned a Research.com Affordability Score of 77.3/100, supported by $47,525 total cost (tuition and fees, estimated) and 60 semester credits. The program is CACREP-accredited, valid through 2027-03-31.
# 15 position
University of Dayton
Master
Master of Science in Education (MSE) in School Counseling
Delivery mode: campus
77.30
/ 100
Final score
Program length
2 Years Fall Start (sample plan)
Specialization
School Counseling
Required credits
60 semester credits
GPA range
2.75 - 4.00
Program completion rate
84% (2023-24)
Employment or doctoral admission
100% (2023-24)
Licensure exam pass rate
79% (2023-24)
Application deadline
Summer (early admission): Nov. 10; Summer (late admission): Jan. 10; Fall (early admission): Jan. 10; Fall (late admission): Rolling
Application process
direct
GRE
Conditional: GRE or MAT required if undergraduate GPA is below 2.75
Prerequisites
Undergraduate degree with a 2.75+ GPA; applicants below 2.75 may qualify with MAT (raw 40+/scaled 396+) or GRE (verbal 149+, writing 4.0+) scores. PK-12 school experience strongly encouraged but not required.
Additional requirements
Online application; official transcripts from all previously attended institutions; three letters of recommendation from professors or employers; a personal statement; GRE or MAT scores required only if undergraduate GPA is below 2.75.
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 Dayton earned a Research.com Affordability Score of 77.3/100, supported by $47,525 total cost (tuition and fees, estimated) and 60 semester credits. The program is CACREP-accredited, valid through 2027-03-31.
# 16 position
Franciscan University of Steubenville
Master
Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Delivery mode: campus
76.90
/ 100
Final score
Specialization
Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Required credits
60 semester credits
Program completion rate
82% (2025-26)
Employment or doctoral admission
86% (2023-25)
Licensure exam pass rate
96% (2025)
Application deadline
Rolling, September–April, for Fall start
Application process
direct
GRE
no
Prerequisites
Bachelor's degree (BA or BS) from a regionally accredited university or college
Additional requirements
Online application; official college/university transcripts; a résumé; three professional recommendations rating dispositional fit; English proficiency test results (international applicants); virtual interview with admissions committee
Accreditation
Accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP), with institutional accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
Franciscan University of Steubenville earned a Research.com Affordability Score of 76.9/100, supported by $48,000 total tuition and 60 semester credits. The program is CACREP-accredited, valid through 2030-10-31.
# 17 position
Capital University
Master
Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Delivery mode: hybrid
76.50
/ 100
Final score
Program length
two years (full-time)
Specialization
Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Required credits
64 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
96.4% (2024-25)
Application deadline
Priority Deadline: December 1; Final Deadline: March 15
Class size
31
Application process
direct
Prerequisites
Bachelor's degree or recognized equivalent from an accredited institution, with a satisfactory GPA, usually a minimum of 3.0 (B); applicants below 3.0 are reviewed individually and, if admitted, placed on a probationary period.
Additional requirements
Online application; statement of intent; three professional references; resume or CV; official transcripts from all institutions; signed Statement of Assurance of Good Moral Character; in-person interview if invited. Fall admission only.
Accreditation
Accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP), with institutional accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
Capital University earned a Research.com Affordability Score of 76.5/100, supported by $48,640 total cost (tuition and fees, estimated) and 64 semester credits. The program is CACREP-accredited, valid through 2031-10-31.
# 18 position
Capital University
Master
Master of Arts in Education in School Counseling
Delivery mode: hybrid
76.50
/ 100
Final score
Program length
two years (full-time)
Specialization
School Counseling
Required credits
64 semester credits
GPA range
3.00 - 4.00
Program completion rate
75% (2024-25)
Employment or doctoral admission
100% (2024-25)
Licensure exam pass rate
100% (2024-25)
Application deadline
Priority: December 1; Final: March 15
Class size
4
Application process
direct
GRE
no
Prerequisites
Bachelor's degree or recognized equivalent from an accredited institution; no specific undergraduate major or coursework required.
Additional requirements
Writing sample/statement of intent, three letters of professional reference, current resume/CV, official transcripts from all institutions attended, and an admissions interview.
Accreditation
Accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP), with institutional accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
Capital University earned a Research.com Affordability Score of 76.5/100, supported by $48,640 total cost (tuition and fees, estimated) and 64 semester credits. The program is CACREP-accredited, valid through 2031-10-31.
# 19 position
John Carroll University
Master
M.Ed. in School Counseling
Delivery mode: hybrid
71.50
/ 100
Final score
Program length
as few as 2.5 years
Specialization
School Counseling
Required credits
60 semester credits
GPA range
3.00 - 4.00
Employment or doctoral admission
100% (2024-25)
Application deadline
Rolling; for best consideration - Fall: Aug 1; Spring: Dec 1; Summer: Apr 1
Application process
direct
GRE
no
Prerequisites
An undergraduate degree in a recognized area from an accredited institution; undergraduate cumulative GPA of at least 3.0
Additional requirements
Official transcripts from all colleges/universities attended; Resume/CV; Two letters of recommendation; Statement of Purpose (400-600 words); Faculty Interview
Accreditation
Accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP), with institutional accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
John Carroll University earned a Research.com Affordability Score of 71.5/100, supported by $55,500 total tuition (estimated) and 60 semester credits. The program is CACREP-accredited, valid through 2029-10-31.
# 20 position
Ohio State University
Doctor
Counselor Education, Doctor of Philosophy in Educational Studies
Delivery mode: campus
70.10
/ 100
Final score
Specialization
Counselor Education and Supervision
Required credits
61 semester credits
GPA range
3.30 - 4.00
Program completion rate
100% (2024-25)
Employment or doctoral admission
100% (2024-25)
Application deadline
December 1
Application process
direct
GRE
no
Prerequisites
Master's degree in Counselor Education; minimum 3.3 GPA; GRE not required
Additional requirements
Special Statement of Intent (five questions on preparation, alignment, advocacy/leadership/scholarship, social justice, professional goals); recommenders; application checklist materials
Accreditation
Accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP), with institutional accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
Ohio State University earned a Research.com Affordability Score of 70.1/100, supported by $57,427 total cost (tuition and fees, estimated) and 61 semester credits. The program is CACREP-accredited, valid through 2033-10-31.
Frequently asked questions about Counseling degree in Ohio
What is the cheapest counseling degree in Ohio?
That depends on your residency, required credits, aid, fees, and placement expenses. Use the affordability ranking to shortlist programs, then request a full-program net-cost estimate for your specific track.
Do I need a master's degree to become a licensed professional counselor in Ohio?
Ohio's professional counselor pathway has graduate education requirements, along with other state requirements. Confirm the current rules and your intended program's alignment with the Ohio CSWMFT Board before enrolling.
Is CACREP accreditation required for every Ohio counseling career?
No single accreditation question covers every career path. Check the applicable Ohio credential rules and the program's current accreditation status; institutional accreditation, programmatic accreditation, and state licensure are different things.
Can I complete an Ohio counseling degree entirely online?
Coursework may be online, but counseling programs still involve supervised practical training. Confirm where you can complete fieldwork and whether the curriculum fits your intended Ohio credential.
Is a counseling master's worth the cost?
It may be if it qualifies you for the work you want and its total cost and completion timeline fit your finances. Compare likely job requirements and pay with confirmed aid, borrowing, and income you may give up while studying; no degree guarantees a job or salary.
See What Experts Have To Say About Studying Counseling
University of Akron Main Campus - Clinical Mental Health Counseling, MA Official program page (curriculum, tuition, admissions). https://www.uakron.edu/soc/masters/cmhc/
