A counseling doctorate can open a path toward teaching, supervision, research, or advanced clinical leadership - but the right program depends on the job you want and the license you may need. This guide explains how to compare U.S. doctoral options, costs, timelines, and career outcomes. It also accompanies the 2027 Most Popular Doctorate in Counseling Degree Programs Ranking in the USA, created by the Research.com team of data scientists to help students make an informed choice about which counseling programs are worth considering.
Key findings about Counseling degrees in America
A counseling doctorate generally makes the strongest case for people pursuing counselor education, supervision, research, or leadership - not for someone who only needs a qualifying master's degree for clinical licensure.
The U.S. median annual wage for the BLS occupation encompassing mental health and addiction counselors was $59,350 in May 2025; projected employment growth is 18% for 2025-2035. Neither figure is a doctoral-graduate earnings estimate.
Compare each program's accreditation, state-specific licensure fit, required clinical or teaching work, funding, and time away from paid work before treating popularity as a reason to enroll.
What can I expect from a Counseling degree in America?
Most counseling doctorates are PhDs in counselor education and supervision: they prepare experienced counselors to teach, supervise trainees, conduct research, and lead programs. A doctorate specifically in mental health counseling may put more emphasis on clinical research. An EdD may be oriented toward applied educational leadership, while a PsyD in counseling psychology follows a different professional and accreditation pathway. Degree titles are not interchangeable for licensing purposes.
Expect advanced research methods, a dissertation or comparable doctoral research requirement, and work connected to teaching, supervision, or clinical practice. If your sole goal is to begin seeing clients as a licensed professional counselor, compare qualifying master's programs first. A doctorate can be valuable later, but it does not normally replace a state board's master's-level coursework, supervised experience, or examination requirements.
Where can I work with a Counseling degree in America?
Possible settings include university counseling departments, community mental health agencies, hospitals, school systems, private practices, government services, and counselor-training organizations. The doctorate's added value is often greatest in faculty, clinical-supervision, research, or service-director roles rather than in an entry-level counseling position.
Location changes the calculation. A prospective faculty member may need to move for an opening, whereas a practicing counselor must check the rules of the state where clients receive services - including when care is delivered remotely. State counseling boards, rather than a university's national recruiting area, determine whether education and supervised experience meet their requirements.
The BLS reports a $59,350 median annual wage in May 2025 for the U.S. occupation covering substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors. For school and career counselors and advisors, the corresponding median was $64,330 (BLS, Occupational Outlook Handbook). These are occupational medians across workers with varied education and experience - not starting salaries or estimates of a doctorate's wage premium.
A doctorate is more likely to change earning opportunities if it enables a move into faculty work, supervision, or leadership. Compare likely pay in the job you actually want against what you already earn, and ask programs for doctoral-alumni outcomes by occupation. A higher occupational median elsewhere does not establish that the degree caused higher pay.
These programs serve different doctoral goals. The distinctions below come from their published program descriptions and catalogs; prospective students should confirm current requirements directly with each department before applying.
Liberty University: Its counselor education and supervision PhD is offered online, making delivery format a central consideration for counselors who need to remain employed. Ask how required in-person activities, supervision, and research advising fit your schedule (Liberty University).
Pace University: Its degree is explicitly a PhD in mental health counseling, rather than a program titled counselor education and supervision. That distinction is worth exploring if your research interests center on mental health counseling itself (Pace University graduate catalog).
Oregon State University: The university identifies counselor education as an option within its counseling PhD. Applicants can compare that option's curriculum with the university's master's-level counseling offerings without assuming that admission to one includes the other (Oregon State University catalog).
Lindsey Wilson University: Its dedicated Doctor of Philosophy program is an option to investigate for applicants seeking doctoral study in a counseling-focused academic setting. Confirm the current curriculum, delivery requirements, and faculty research match before drawing conclusions from the degree title (Lindsey Wilson University).
Duquesne University: Counselor education is presented within its graduate education offerings in the 2026-2027 catalog. This gives applicants a current catalog against which to verify required courses and compare the program's educational emphasis with clinically titled doctorates (Duquesne University graduate catalog).
University of North Texas: Its PhD explicitly combines counselor education and supervision. Counselors aiming to train or supervise future practitioners should compare its faculty interests and supervision requirements with programs focused more narrowly on clinical counseling (University of North Texas).
East Texas A&M University: Its counselor education and supervision PhD provides another Texas-based route into doctoral training. Applicants intending to keep a Texas practice should confirm how its required activities fit their existing license and work arrangements (East Texas A&M University).
The University of Tennessee-Knoxville: Its counselor education PhD is presented through the university's online counselor education program. Working counselors should verify any campus attendance and fieldwork expectations rather than assuming "online" means no travel (University of Tennessee-Knoxville).
Ohio University: Its doctoral counseling offering gives explicit attention to counselor supervision. That emphasis merits a closer look for practitioners who want supervising trainees to become a substantial part of their careers (Ohio University).
Adams State University: Its graduate counselor education division offers a doctorate, giving applicants a program-specific place to examine doctoral expectations. Ask how advising, required meetings, and research milestones work if you plan to study while employed (Adams State University).
A program's format or title is only a starting point. Request a current degree plan, funding offer, completion information, and written guidance on any licensing implications before making a final comparison.
After a relevant master's degree, plan on roughly 3-5 years of full-time doctoral study; part-time enrollment or a lengthy dissertation can extend that timeline. This is a planning range, not a completion promise. Published minimums may describe coursework rather than the time graduates actually take to finish.
Ask each school for its required credits, course rotation, residency dates, dissertation milestones, maximum time to degree, and typical completion time for working students. An accelerated schedule is helpful only if its workload and lost earnings are manageable.
Online study can let an employed counselor remain near clients, family, and an existing professional network. Campus study may make regular face-to-face research collaboration and teaching assignments easier. Neither format, by itself, establishes stronger outcomes or eligibility for licensure.
Compare the actual schedule: synchronous class times, required campus visits, where practica or internships can occur, and how dissertation advising works. If you expect the degree to support a license in another state, obtain that board's guidance before choosing an online program; remote instruction does not waive state education or supervised-experience rules.
There is no single national price that usefully represents a counseling doctorate. Published tuition may be charged per credit, semester, or year, while required credits, dissertation enrollment, fees, travel, and funding differ substantially. NCES IPEDS reports institution-level charges, but those figures should not be mistaken for a quoted price for a particular doctoral program.
For a usable estimate, request the program's total required credits and current tuition schedule, then add mandatory fees, residency travel, and likely dissertation terms. Subtract funding you have actually been offered. Compare that net cost - and earnings you may give up - with the most affordable counseling programs; the lowest sticker tuition is not necessarily the lowest total cost.
Possible support includes university fellowships, teaching or research assistantships, employer tuition benefits, scholarships, and federal aid for eligible students at eligible institutions. Assistantships deserve particular attention because the offer may include a stipend, tuition support, work obligations, and renewal conditions. Federal Student Aid and each school's financial aid office determine eligibility and applicable loan options.
Ask for a written, year-by-year funding estimate that separates guaranteed awards from competitive ones. Confirm whether dissertation-stage enrollment retains funding and whether outside employment is restricted. Borrowing to replace income you could earn with an existing counseling credential calls for especially careful scrutiny.
View the chart data as a table
Graduates (2024-25) distribution across ranked programs (Source: Research.com)
Category
Value
0-4
35
5-9
28
10-14
1
15-19
1
20-24
1
Many counselor education doctorates expect a relevant master's degree and evidence of counseling preparation; individual programs may also require professional licensure, clinical experience, research interests, references, a statement of purpose, or an interview. A clinically titled PhD may set different entry requirements. Check the program's current admissions page rather than assuming every counseling doctorate accepts the same background.
Before applying, send admissions staff your transcripts and intended career goal. Ask whether missing master's coursework requires leveling courses, whether prior graduate credits can transfer, and whether transferred work reduces tuition and time to completion. Credit acceptance is a school decision and does not establish state licensure eligibility.
Common doctoral subjects include advanced counseling theory, counselor supervision, teaching in higher education, ethics, quantitative or qualitative research, and dissertation design. Programs may also require practicum, internship, or other structured professional work. Compare syllabi and required experiences, not just course titles: a supervision course alone may not provide the experience an employer or credentialing body expects.
Research fit matters particularly at this level. If you want to study addiction treatment, school counseling, or access to rural care, check whether a faculty member actively advises doctoral research in that area and whether the program's course rotation supports it.
Doctoral emphasis areas can include counselor education and supervision, clinical mental health counseling, school counseling, addiction counseling, rehabilitation counseling, or marriage and family counseling. Some are formal tracks; elsewhere, specialization comes chiefly through electives, research, or fieldwork. Ask which designation will appear on your transcript and what training it actually requires.
Choose the specialization for the role, not the label. An aspiring faculty member should prioritize teaching and research preparation; a clinician considering a new practice area must also check that area's state license requirements. A counseling doctorate does not automatically confer a separate marriage and family therapy, psychology, or school credential.
Start with the position you want after graduation. A popularity ranking can reveal programs worth investigating, while comparisons of best counseling programs can provide another lens. Neither substitutes for verifying that a program fits your license, research interests, finances, and ability to finish.
Use the following checks to turn a shortlist into a defensible decision:
Verify credentials: Check institutional accreditation, the program's current CACREP status if relevant to your goal, and your intended state board's education rules; these are distinct checks.
Request outcomes: Ask for program-specific completion, graduate placement, and applicable exam results, with their reporting periods and cohort sizes.
Calculate net investment: Include funding, debt, time to completion, forgone earnings, and likely post-degree work - not tuition alone.
Test the fit: Speak with a potential adviser about research support, teaching or supervision experience, and expectations for working students.
A warning sign is an assurance that "accredited" or "online" automatically means you can obtain any state license. Ask the school and the relevant board to identify the exact credential and jurisdiction before enrolling.
View the chart data as a table
Wage range - Mental Health Counselors (U.S., BLS May 2025) (Source: BLS)
Category
Value
10th percentile
38,940
Median
59,350
90th percentile
97,590
Graduates may seek faculty positions in counselor education, clinical-supervisor roles, program leadership, research positions, or advanced counseling practice where they hold the required license. These paths have different hiring criteria: a faculty search may emphasize publications and teaching, while a supervisor position may emphasize licensure and documented practice experience.
The degree is most plausibly worth the investment when it provides preparation required or strongly valued for your target role. If you plan to remain in the same clinical job, estimate the likely change in responsibilities and pay before taking on debt. The most valuable counseling programs offer an additional comparison, but personal return also depends on completion, aid, opportunity cost, baseline earnings, and how long you expect to use the credential.
View the chart data as a table
Median wage by U.S. state - Mental Health Counselors (BLS OEWS, May 2025) (Source: BLS)
State
Value
AK
80,770
AL
47,310
AR
51,580
AZ
65,300
CA
59,250
CO
62,390
CT
63,590
DC
60,450
DE
56,020
FL
56,790
GA
58,960
HI
60,090
IA
60,880
ID
63,360
IL
60,730
IN
53,760
KS
59,470
KY
54,190
LA
37,910
MA
59,890
MD
59,530
ME
59,970
MI
61,690
MN
58,780
MO
56,910
MS
46,990
MT
59,000
NC
55,490
ND
68,630
NE
63,770
NH
54,840
NJ
62,820
NM
74,100
NV
57,210
NY
59,450
OH
58,360
OK
59,350
OR
74,590
PA
52,010
PR
46,790
RI
65,120
SC
52,370
SD
53,650
TN
49,580
TX
62,630
UT
63,890
VA
59,880
VT
61,810
WA
68,910
WI
62,220
WV
49,430
WY
62,980
BLS projects 18% U.S. employment growth from 2025 to 2035 for substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors. That signals demand in a major counseling occupation, but it is not a forecast of doctoral faculty vacancies or a guarantee of work for individual graduates (BLS, Employment Projections).
For a prospective doctoral student, the better market test is role-specific: review faculty postings for research expectations, supervisor postings for license requirements, and local clinical postings for the credentials they request. Demand for counselors can coexist with competition for a small number of positions in a particular specialty or location.
2027 Most Popular Doctorate in Counseling Degree Programs Ranking in the USA
Investing in a doctorate is a consequential decision. Research.com developed its counseling rankings to help readers compare programs using consistent measures, while recognizing that a ranking cannot replace a check of program requirements, costs, and fit. The team draws on the following sources to assess the quality, credibility, and accuracy of its data:
The rankings consider graduate outcomes, applicable licensure-exam results, CACREP programmatic accreditation, federal Title IV eligibility, and cost. The Best ranking first weights completion at 40%, employment or doctoral admission at 20%, applicable licensure-exam pass rates at 20%, CACREP recognition at 16%, and Title IV eligibility at 4%; weights are adjusted when a measure does not apply. Cost accounts for 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. Popularity should therefore not be read as proof of clinical quality or personal fit. Readers can examine the full approach on Research.com's methodology page.
# 1 position
Liberty University
Doctor
PhD in Counselor Education and Supervision
Delivery mode: hybrid
44.80
/ 100
Final score
Specialization
Counselor Education and Supervision
Required credits
60 semester credits
Acceptance rate
79.35%
GPA range
3.25 - 4.00
Program completion rate
100% (2024-25)
Employment or doctoral admission
100% (2024-25)
Application deadline
Fall: April 30; Spring: September 30
Application process
direct
GRE
no
Prerequisites
Master's degree from an accredited institution meeting CACREP entry-level standards, minimum 3.25 GPA; applicants with a related master's (counseling, psychology, human services) may need M.A.-level prerequisite courses first.
Additional requirements
Official transcripts, two recommendations, 300-word letter of intent, vita (counseling license or 1+ year clinical experience), 3-5 page APA case vignette, possible interview, TOEFL if needed. Nine required intensive courses are held in Lynchburg, VA.
Accreditation
Accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP), with institutional accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).
Liberty University earned a Research.com Student Interest Score of 44.8/100, supported by 24 graduates (2024-25) and 100% program completion rate. The program is CACREP-accredited, valid through 2032-03-31.
# 2 position
Pace University
Doctor
Mental Health Counseling, PhD
Delivery mode: campus
41.00
/ 100
Final score
Specialization
Counselor Education and Supervision
Required credits
60 semester credits
GPA range
3.60 - 4.00
Program completion rate
61.36% (2024-25)
Employment or doctoral admission
100% (2024-25)
Application deadline
Fall: November 1 (then space available basis until January 15)
Application process
direct
GRE
no
Prerequisites
Master's in mental health counseling equivalent to Pace's 60-credit M.S.; graduate GPA 3.6+; NY MHC limited permit eligibility or MHC licensure. Those without graduate statistics in three years must complete a research/statistics course first.
Additional requirements
Letters of recommendation, personal statement, and official academic transcripts; applicants substantially meeting requirements are invited to an interview with the departmental admission screening committee.
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).
Pace University earned a Research.com Student Interest Score of 41.0/100, supported by 18 graduates (2024-2025) and 61.36% program completion rate. The program is CACREP-accredited, valid through 2027-10-31.
# 3 position
Oregon State University
Doctor
Ph.D. in Counseling – Counselor Education Option
Delivery mode: hybrid
34.60
/ 100
Final score
Specialization
Counselor Education and Supervision
Required credits
94 quarter credits (62.67 semester credits)
Acceptance rate
34%
GPA range
3.00 - 4.00
Program completion rate
79% (2023-24)
Employment or doctoral admission
100% (2023-24)
Application deadline
Jan 15
Prerequisites
Program requires 61 quarter credit hours beyond a CACREP-accredited master's degree, indicating an accredited master's degree (in counseling) is required prior to entry.
Accreditation
Accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP), with institutional accreditation from the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU).
Oregon State University earned a Research.com Student Interest Score of 34.6/100, supported by 11 graduates (2023-24) and 79% program completion rate. The program is CACREP-accredited, valid through 2032-10-31.
# 4 position
Lindsey Wilson University
Doctor
Doctor of Philosophy in Counselor Education & Supervision
Delivery mode: hybrid
32.10
/ 100
Final score
Program length
12 consecutive semesters (Year 1 Fall - Year 4 Summer)
Specialization
Counselor Education and Supervision
Required credits
69 semester credits
Acceptance rate
14.29%
Employment or doctoral admission
86% (2024-25)
GRE
no
Prerequisites
Master's degree in counseling or a related profession (CACREP graduates preferred; those with fewer than 48 graduate semester hours and/or from non-CACREP programs may need additional hours).
Accreditation
Accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP), with institutional accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).
Lindsey Wilson University earned a Research.com Student Interest Score of 32.1/100, with 9 graduates (2024-25) among the verified supporting factors. The program is CACREP-accredited, valid through 2029-03-31.
# 5 position
Duquesne University
Doctor
Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Counselor Education and Supervision
Delivery mode: campus
32.10
/ 100
Final score
Program length
Coursework in 2-2.5 years plus typically at least 1 year for dissertation
Specialization
Counselor Education and Supervision
Required credits
60 semester credits
GPA range
3.00 - 4.00
Program completion rate
64% (2024-25)
Employment or doctoral admission
100% (2024-25)
Prerequisites
Master's degree/prior counseling coursework implied; GPA of 3.0 for previous undergraduate and graduate degrees (though below 3.0 may be acceptable in exceptional cases); GPA of 3.25 or better for all relevant graduate work completed.
Additional requirements
At least 700 hours of graduate-level fieldwork; 3.0 GPA for previous undergraduate and graduate degrees; 3.25+ GPA for all relevant graduate work; two letters of recommendation (academic and/or professional); CV/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).
Duquesne University earned a Research.com Student Interest Score of 32.1/100, supported by 9 graduates (2024-25) and 64% program completion rate. The program is CACREP-accredited, valid through 2034-04-30.
# 6 position
University of North Texas
Doctor
Ph.D. in Counselor Education and Supervision
Delivery mode: campus
30.60
/ 100
Final score
Program length
3-4 years
Specialization
Counselor Education and Supervision
Required credits
72 semester credits
GPA range
3.50 - 4.00
Program completion rate
90.9% (2024-25)
Employment or doctoral admission
100% (2024-25)
Application deadline
Fall: Nov 15
GRE
yes
Prerequisites
Master's degree in a counseling-related field (expected to meet requirements of a CACREP-accredited master's degree in counseling; deficiency coursework / CACREP equivalency worksheet required if not CACREP-accredited)
Accreditation
Accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP), with institutional accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).
University of North Texas earned a Research.com Student Interest Score of 30.6/100, supported by 8 graduates (2024-25) and 90.9% program completion rate. The program is CACREP-accredited, valid through 2028-03-31.
# 7 position
East Texas A&M University
Doctor
Counselor Education and Supervision (PhD)
Delivery mode: hybrid
30.60
/ 100
Final score
Program length
4-to-7 years (part-time)
Specialization
Counselor Education and Supervision
GPA range
2.75 - 4.00
Employment or doctoral admission
100% (2024-25)
Application deadline
Spring: October 15; Summer: March 1; Fall: July 1
Application process
direct
GRE
yes
Prerequisites
Master's degree from a regionally accredited university; applicants must have completed coursework from a master's degree program accredited by CACREP.
Additional requirements
Graduate application (or ApplyTexas), official transcripts meeting GPA thresholds, personal statement on one's philosophy of therapeutic change, official GRE scores; international applicants also submit resume/CV and financial documents.
Accreditation
Accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP), with institutional accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).
East Texas A&M University earned a Research.com Student Interest Score of 30.6/100, with 8 graduates (2024-2025) among the verified supporting factors. The program is CACREP-accredited, valid through 2031-10-31.
# 8 position
The University of Tennessee-Knoxville
Doctor
PhD in Counselor Education
Delivery mode: campus
28.90
/ 100
Final score
Program length
3-4 years full-time
Specialization
Counselor Education and Supervision
Required credits
73 semester credits
GPA range
3.00 - 4.00
Program completion rate
100% (2024-25)
Employment or doctoral admission
100% (2024-25)
Application deadline
November 1 (Fall entry only)
Application process
direct
GRE
no
Prerequisites
Master's degree in counseling or a closely related profession, preferably from a CACREP-accredited program, prior to beginning the program
Additional requirements
Resume/CV, Letter of Introduction, Ethical Integration Statement, transcripts, three completed references (at least two by deadline); GRE not required; if invited, on-campus interview including a 2-3 page written response to a case study
Accreditation
Accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP), with institutional accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).
The University of Tennessee-Knoxville earned a Research.com Student Interest Score of 28.9/100, supported by 7 graduates (2024-25) and 100% program completion rate. The program is CACREP-accredited, valid through 2028-10-31.
# 9 position
Ohio University-Main Campus
Doctor
Ph.D. in Counselor Education and Supervision
Delivery mode: campus
28.90
/ 100
Final score
Program length
3-5 years full-time (normative time to completion)
Specialization
Counselor Education and Supervision
Required credits
60 semester credits
GPA range
3.40 - 4.00
Program completion rate
85% (2024-25)
Employment or doctoral admission
100% (2024-25)
Application deadline
January 15 (priority review; applications accepted beyond this date as space allows)
Application process
direct
Prerequisites
Master's degree in Counseling or closely related field with a 3.4 GPA; coursework in CACREP core areas and Clinical Mental Health Counseling requirements for Ohio LPC eligibility (requisite coursework required if not met).
Additional requirements
Transcripts, Résumé/CV, three letters of recommendation, Personal Statement (5-7 double-spaced pages), English Proficiency documentation for international applicants
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 Student Interest Score of 28.9/100, supported by 7 graduates (2024-25) and 85% program completion rate. The program is CACREP-accredited, valid through 2032-10-31.
# 10 position
Adams State University
Doctor
Ph.D. in Counselor Education & Supervision
Delivery mode: hybrid
28.90
/ 100
Final score
Program length
4 year, fixed 60 semester credit program
Specialization
Counselor Education and Supervision
Required credits
60 semester credits
GPA range
3.00 - 4.00
Program completion rate
95% (2024-25)
Employment or doctoral admission
87% (2024-25)
Application deadline
Fall 2027: November 1, 2026
Class size
12
Application process
direct
GRE
no
Prerequisites
Accredited master's in counseling or a closely related field with GPA 3.0+; coursework reviewed against CACREP standards, deficiencies completed before or during doctoral study. CACREP degree, two years' experience and licensure preferred.
Additional requirements
Online application; 3–4-page letter of intent answering six prompts; two reference request forms; current resume/CV; official transcripts from all prior institutions. Required in-person interview and orientation. No international admission.
Accreditation
Accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP), with institutional accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
Adams State University earned a Research.com Student Interest Score of 28.9/100, supported by 7 graduates (2024-25) and 95% program completion rate. The program is CACREP-accredited, valid through 2028-03-31.
# 11 position
Mercer University
Doctor
Ph.D. in Counselor Education and Supervision
Delivery mode: hybrid
28.90
/ 100
Final score
Program length
Typical completion: 3-5 years
Specialization
Counselor Education and Supervision
Required credits
60 semester credits
Acceptance rate
40%
GPA range
3.50 - 4.00
Program completion rate
67% (2023-24)
Employment or doctoral admission
100% (2023-24)
Application deadline
January 31 for August admission
Application process
direct
Prerequisites
Master's degree in counseling or a counseling discipline from a regionally accredited institution; minimum graduate GPA of 3.5. Graduates of CACREP-accredited programs receive preference.
Additional requirements
Application; official transcripts; relevant counseling certifications and licenses; autobiographical goal statement; writing sample on a counseling topic; three professional recommendations; résumé; interview; identity verification.
Accreditation
Accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP), with institutional accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).
Mercer University earned a Research.com Student Interest Score of 28.9/100, supported by 7 graduates (2023-24) and 67% program completion rate. The program is CACREP-accredited, valid through 2033-03-31.
# 12 position
Antioch University-Seattle
Doctor
PhD in Counselor Education & Supervision (Low-Residency)
Delivery mode: hybrid
28.90
/ 100
Final score
Program length
three-year semester-based program
Specialization
Counselor Education and Supervision
Required credits
63 semester credits
Acceptance rate
55%
Application deadline
Fall: May 1; late complete applications may be considered if space remains.
Application process
direct
Prerequisites
Master's degree in counseling or closely related field covering CACREP areas (gaps addressed in the doctoral plan); LMHC license-eligible; master's-level clinical competence and scholarly writing potential.
Additional requirements
Online application; official transcripts; resume/CV; essay answering three questions (1-2 double-spaced pages each). Two recommendation letters optional. Selected applicants may interview. International applicants have added requirements.
Accreditation
Accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP), with institutional accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
Antioch University-Seattle earned a Research.com Student Interest Score of 28.9/100, with 7 graduates (2024-25) among the verified supporting factors. The program is CACREP-accredited, valid through 2029-10-31.
# 13 position
Montclair State University
Doctor
Ph.D. in Counseling
Delivery mode: campus
28.90
/ 100
Final score
Program length
6-year timeframe allocated by the university
Specialization
Counselor Education and Supervision
Required credits
66
Program completion rate
60% (2024-25)
Employment or doctoral admission
100% (2024-25)
Application deadline
December 1st - Fall Admission Only
Application process
direct
GRE
no
Prerequisites
Master's degree in counseling required. Missing core courses (e.g., Counseling Theories, Techniques, Group, Career, Ethics, Research, Assessment, Diversity, Practicum/Internship) may need to be taken before doctoral core courses.
Additional requirements
Online application, transcripts, personal statement, three professional letters of recommendation (one from faculty, one from a supervisor), resume, and an on-campus interview day with a writing sample; GRE not required.
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).
Montclair State University earned a Research.com Student Interest Score of 28.9/100, supported by 7 graduates (2024-25) and 60% program completion rate. The program is CACREP-accredited, valid through 2033-10-31.
# 14 position
Adler University
Doctor
Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Counselor Education + Supervision
Delivery mode: campus
27.10
/ 100
Final score
Specialization
Counselor Education and Supervision
Required credits
60 semester credits
Acceptance rate
91.7%
GPA range
3.25 - 4.00
Program completion rate
100% (2022-23)
Employment or doctoral admission
100% (2022-23)
Application deadline
Spring 2027: Nov 2, 2026; Summer 2027: Mar 1, 2027; Fall 2027: Apr 1, 2027 (priority Feb 1, 2027)
Application process
direct
Prerequisites
Master's in counseling or a clinical/related field from an accredited institution, with counseling coursework and practicum (100 hours) and/or internship (600 hours). Non-CACREP graduates may need equivalency coursework.
Additional requirements
Application fee, completed online application, resume/CV, letters of recommendation/references, official transcripts, and a 2-3 page double-spaced Statement of Intent.
Accreditation
Accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP), with institutional accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
Adler University earned a Research.com Student Interest Score of 27.1/100, supported by 6 graduates (2022-2023) and 100% program completion rate. The program is CACREP-accredited, valid through 2031-10-31.
# 15 position
The University of Texas at San Antonio
Doctor
Ph.D. in Counselor Education and Supervision
Delivery mode: campus
27.10
/ 100
Final score
Program length
2-3 years full-time (estimated completion time)
Specialization
Counselor Education and Supervision
Required credits
69 semester credits
GPA range
3.00 - 4.00
Program completion rate
67% (2024-25)
Employment or doctoral admission
100% (2024-25)
Application deadline
Fall 2027: February 1 (priority/international)
Class size
15
Application process
UT San Antonio Graduate Application (Liaison/CAS)
GRE
no
Prerequisites
Master's Degree from an accredited college or university in the United States or proof of equivalent training at a foreign institution; adequate completed credit hours or foreign institution equivalent coursework as preparation for the program.
Additional requirements
Transcripts from all institutions attended, credential evaluation (if foreign credit), English language proficiency scores (if applicable), Purpose Statement, Resume, 2 letters of recommendation.
Accreditation
Accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP), with institutional accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).
The University of Texas at San Antonio earned a Research.com Student Interest Score of 27.1/100, supported by 6 graduates (2024-25) and 67% program completion rate. The program is CACREP-accredited, valid through 2033-10-31.
# 16 position
Virginia Commonwealth University
Doctor
Ph.D. in Education – Counselor Education and Supervision Concentration
Delivery mode: campus
27.10
/ 100
Final score
Program length
3 years (average, full-time)
Specialization
Counselor Education and Supervision
Required credits
60 semester credits
GPA range
3.40 - 4.00
Program completion rate
43% (2024-25)
Employment or doctoral admission
100% (2024-25)
Application deadline
Fall: December 1 (required interview in late January/early February)
Application process
direct
GRE
optional
Prerequisites
60 hours of CACREP-accredited master's counseling coursework (or curricular and clinical experiences equivalent to CACREP entry level standards), and a master's level statistics course (can be taken during the doctoral program, e.g. STAT 508)
Additional requirements
Online graduate application, transcripts, references (letters of recommendation including one from a professional colleague), statement of intent (~2 pages), writing sample (up to 20 pages), required interview
Accreditation
Accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP), with institutional accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).
Virginia Commonwealth University earned a Research.com Student Interest Score of 27.1/100, supported by 6 graduates (2024-25) and 43% program completion rate. The program is CACREP-accredited, valid through 2034-04-30.
# 17 position
George Washington University
Doctor
PhD in Counseling
Delivery mode: campus
27.10
/ 100
Final score
Program length
5.33 years (average)
Specialization
Counselor Education and Supervision
Required credits
60 semester credits
GPA range
3.50 - 4.00
Employment or doctoral admission
100% (2024-25)
Offers with funding
100
Application deadline
Priority: Nov 2, 2026; Program Deadline: Dec 1, 2026 (Fall 2027 entry)
Class size
9
Application process
direct
GRE
optional
Prerequisites
Master's degree required prior to matriculation; if the master's degree is not CACREP-accredited, significant master's-level coursework is added to the program plan.
Additional requirements
Online application form, resume, transcripts from all previously attended institutions, statement of purpose (500-750 words), 3 letters of recommendation; GRE optional. 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).
George Washington University earned a Research.com Student Interest Score of 27.1/100, with 6 graduates (2024-25) among the verified supporting factors. The program is CACREP-accredited, valid through 2030-10-31.
# 18 position
Kean University
Doctor
Ph.D. in Counseling and Supervision
Delivery mode: hybrid
27.10
/ 100
Final score
Program length
approximately four to five years
Specialization
Counselor Education and Supervision
Required credits
63 semester credits
GPA range
3.50 - 4.00
Program completion rate
50% (2024-25)
Application deadline
Fall: December 5
Application process
direct
GRE
optional
Prerequisites
Accredited master's in counseling, preferably CACREP; related degrees considered with experience and a prerequisite plan. Preparation in CACREP core areas and CMHC required. 1-2 years post-master's experience preferred; licensure before comps.
Additional requirements
Official transcripts, three recommendations, résumé/CV, personal statement, and counseling license documentation or licensure plan; GRE optional; English proficiency if applicable. Statement length details conflict; confirm with admissions.
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).
Kean University earned a Research.com Student Interest Score of 27.1/100, supported by 6 graduates and 50% program completion rate. The program is CACREP-accredited, valid through 2030-03-31.
# 19 position
Kent State University at Kent
Doctor
Ph.D. in Counselor Education and Supervision
Delivery mode: campus
24.90
/ 100
Final score
Program length
4-5 years full-time (expected time to completion)
Specialization
Counselor Education and Supervision
Required credits
81 semester credits
GPA range
3.50 - 4.00
Program completion rate
70% (2025-26)
Employment or doctoral admission
100% (2025-26)
Application deadline
Fall Semester (priority): February 1
Class size
5
Application process
direct
GRE
no
Prerequisites
A master's degree in counseling (preferably CACREP-accredited) is expected; applicants without one are directed to the Ed.S. program. Curricular experiences equivalent to CACREP entry-level standards must be completed before doctoral coursework.
Additional requirements
Transcripts, resume/CV, goal statement, supplemental form, legal and ethical issues form, preliminary written exam, two recommendation letters, individual and group interview, later writing sample; English scores for international applicants.
Accreditation
Accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP), with institutional accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
Kent State University at Kent earned a Research.com Student Interest Score of 24.9/100, supported by 5 graduates (2025-26) and 70% program completion rate. The program is CACREP-accredited, valid through 2030-03-31.
# 20 position
James Madison University
Doctor
Counseling and Supervision, Ph.D.
Delivery mode: hybrid
24.90
/ 100
Final score
Program length
designed to be completed in 3 years
Specialization
Counselor Education and Supervision
Required credits
60 semester credits
GPA range
3.50 - 4.00
Program completion rate
89% (2025-26)
Employment or doctoral admission
100% (2025-26)
Application deadline
January 5
Application process
direct
GRE
no
Prerequisites
Advanced degree (M.A., M.S. or Ed.S.) from an entry-level counseling program of at least 60 credits meeting counselor licensure coursework requirements. CACREP graduates receive preference.
Additional requirements
Official transcripts; counseling-focused resume; three recommendations (incl. academic and clinical supervisor); 10+ page APA writing sample; 2,000+ word personal statement. Top applicants interviewed in late January or early February.
Accreditation
Accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP), with institutional accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).
James Madison University earned a Research.com Student Interest Score of 24.9/100, supported by 5 graduates (2025-26) and 89% program completion rate. The program is CACREP-accredited, valid through 2028-03-31.
Frequently asked questions about Counseling degree in America
Do I need a doctorate to become a licensed counselor?
Usually, the first qualifying degree is a relevant master's degree. State boards also set supervised-experience and examination requirements. Check the board where you intend to practice before choosing a program.
Is a counseling PhD worth it for a working counselor?
It may be if you want to teach, supervise, conduct research, or lead a service. Compare the program's net cost and time commitment with the requirements and likely pay of that specific role.
Can I complete a counseling doctorate online?
Some programs offer online coursework, but may still require scheduled meetings, in-person activities, or local fieldwork. Request the full attendance and placement requirements in writing.
Does CACREP accreditation mean I will receive a license?
No. Programmatic accreditation and state licensure are separate. A board may also require particular coursework, supervised hours, and an examination.
Should I choose the most popular program?
Use popularity to build a shortlist, not to make the final choice. Prioritize verified program outcomes, adviser fit, licensing relevance, funding, and a realistic path to completion.
See What Experts Have To Say About Studying Counseling
