Choosing an Illinois counseling master's means choosing a career pathway, not just a school: clinical practice and school counseling lead to different credentials, placements, and costs. This guide helps prospective students and career changers compare those trade-offs, from program format to Illinois licensure. It also features the 2027 Most Popular Master's in Counseling Degree Programs Ranking in Illinois, created by the Research.com team of data scientists to help students make an informed choice about which programs are worth considering.
Key findings about Counseling degrees in Illinois
Start with the intended credential: an Illinois clinical counseling pathway and a school counselor pathway have different education and approval requirements (Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation; Illinois State Board of Education).
The national median annual wage was $59,350 for substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors in May 2025; projected employment growth for 2025-2035 is 18%. These are occupational figures, not expected pay or placement rates for a particular degree (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics).
Compare the full cost of required credits and fieldwork, not tuition alone. A lower-priced program may be a poor fit if its coursework or placement arrangements do not support your intended Illinois credential.
What can I expect from a Counseling degree in Illinois?
A counseling master's combines human development, assessment, ethics, counseling methods, and supervised practice. The consequential choice is the track: clinical mental health counseling generally prepares students for professional counseling roles, while school counseling focuses on student development and services in schools. A broad program title does not establish that either credential's requirements are met.
For prospective Illinois clinical counselors, distinguish the degree from the license. The Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR) administers professional counselor licensing, including the Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) pathways. The Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE) governs the school counselor endorsement on the Professional Educator License. Coursework, supervised experience, examinations, and approvals must be checked against the particular credential; graduation alone is not licensure (IDFPR; ISBE).
This degree is most useful if you want sustained, supervised work with clients or students and can accommodate field placements. If your goal is a psychology license, social work license, or a nonclinical student-support job, compare those distinct educational routes before committing to a counseling curriculum.
Where can I work with a Counseling degree in Illinois?
Clinical counseling graduates may pursue roles in community mental health agencies, hospitals, outpatient practices, substance-use treatment, or college counseling services, depending on the role's credential requirements. School counseling graduates generally target elementary or secondary schools and other education settings; Illinois public-school positions require the appropriate state educator credential (IDFPR; ISBE).
Location affects the practical value of a program. A Chicago-area student can compare placements across a large metropolitan employer base, while a student elsewhere in Illinois may place greater weight on a university's established local school or agency relationships. Ask where recent students actually completed fieldwork and whether those sites are accessible from where you plan to live and work. A placement network is more useful than a convenient campus if its sites do not match your intended population or setting.
Pay depends on the occupation, employer, experience, and credential - not the degree title alone. These latest national figures use May 2025 median wages and 2025-2035 employment projections; they are benchmarks for comparing career directions, not Illinois salary estimates or promises to graduates (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook and Employment Projections).
Career direction
National median annual wage, May 2025
Projected U.S. job growth, 2025-2035
Mental health and addiction counseling
$59,350
18%
School counseling
$64,330
3%
Rehabilitation counseling
$46,850
2%
The different wage and growth profiles make specialization a financial decision as well as a professional one. For a realistic Illinois estimate, compare current local postings for the credential and experience level you expect to hold after graduation; do not substitute a national occupational median for an entry-level offer.
The programs below are worth comparing for different reasons. Their strongest distinctions are often the intended credential, delivery model, or curriculum emphasis - not a claim that one school is universally better. Confirm current credit requirements, placement policies, accreditation, and prices directly before applying; the best counseling programs comparison offers another lens beyond popularity.
Northwestern University, Counseling: Its counseling program offers an online study option with supervised training components. It merits a closer look from working applicants who need remote coursework but can arrange the required in-person clinical experience; confirm placement support where you live (Northwestern University, Counseling).
Lewis University, Clinical Mental Health Counseling: This is a defined clinical mental health counseling MA rather than a general counseling degree. That focus helps applicants seeking clinical practice compare its prescribed courses and fieldwork directly against Illinois licensing rules (Lewis University graduate catalog; IDFPR).
Northwestern University, The Graduate School counseling listing: The Graduate School's program listing provides an academic-program route for checking degree and admissions information alongside the counseling program's delivery details. Applicants weighing Northwestern against other schools should reconcile both descriptions before assuming that formats or requirements are interchangeable (Northwestern University, The Graduate School).
The Chicago School at Chicago, Clinical Mental Health Counseling: Its Chicago-based MA places clinical mental health training in a city with varied potential practice settings. Applicants interested in urban placements should ask which field sites are available to their cohort rather than assuming access to a particular employer (The Chicago School).
National Louis University, MS in Counseling: The Illinois-focused counseling program is a useful comparison for applicants deciding among professional counseling directions. Verify which concentration and courses correspond to your intended credential before comparing its cost with a differently titled MA (National Louis University).
Northeastern Illinois University, Clinical Mental Health Counseling: NEIU offers a clinical mental health counseling MA within a public university in Chicago. For applicants comparing public and private options, its distinct advantage to investigate is the combination of the clinical track and their applicable tuition rate - not an assumption that public tuition is always cheaper (Northeastern Illinois University catalog).
Eastern Illinois University, School Counseling: Its school counseling program targets the education pathway rather than clinical practice. It is the more relevant comparison for someone planning to work with students in schools and needing to verify alignment with ISBE credential requirements (Eastern Illinois University; ISBE).
University of Illinois Springfield, Human Development Counseling: The MA identifies clinical mental health counseling as a concentration within human development counseling. Applicants should compare the concentration's actual course sequence with standalone clinical degrees, especially if scheduling or required electives could affect time to completion (University of Illinois Springfield).
Chicago State University, Clinical Mental Health Counseling: This clinical mental health option offers another public-university choice in Chicago. Its practical value depends on the applicant's tuition eligibility, commute, and access to suitable supervised sites; compare those specifics with NEIU rather than treating the two as interchangeable (Chicago State University).
Roosevelt University, School Counseling: Roosevelt's MA explicitly targets school counseling, making it a direct alternative to Eastern Illinois for aspiring school counselors. Compare their placement geography and educator-credential preparation before deciding whether Chicago-area access or another location better fits your plans (Roosevelt University; ISBE).
Plan on roughly two to three years of full-time study for many counseling master's pathways, with part-time study often taking longer. The actual calendar depends on required credits, course sequencing, and when practicum or internship sites can take students; ask each school for a term-by-term plan rather than relying on its shortest advertised completion time (institutional program catalogs).
For clinical practice, finishing the degree is not necessarily the end of the timeline. Illinois's LCPC pathway includes post-degree supervised experience and other licensing requirements. Someone changing careers should budget for that transition period when comparing a clinical counseling degree with a school counseling or nonlicensed role (IDFPR).
Online counseling programs can reduce commuting and make coursework easier to fit around employment. They do not eliminate supervised fieldwork, and a program's online availability does not establish that it meets Illinois licensing or school-credential rules. Campus programs may simplify access to local faculty and placement networks, but their fixed meeting times can raise the opportunity cost for a working student (IDFPR; ISBE; institutional program descriptions).
If you expect to practice in Illinois, ask an online program where Illinois residents complete practica and internships, who approves supervisors, whether any campus visits are mandatory, and which state's credential requirements the curriculum is designed to meet. Choose the format that makes the entire degree feasible - not just its classroom portion.
There is no single statewide master's-in-counseling price that reliably describes the programs above. Published graduate tuition averages can mix unrelated fields and omit fees or required clinical expenses; IPEDS institutional figures likewise are not a program-specific total (National Center for Education Statistics, IPEDS). For a decision you can use, request each school's current total cost for your track and enrollment status.
Compare tuition for all required credits, mandatory fees, materials, travel to field sites, and any lost earnings from reducing work hours. Public-university resident and nonresident rates can differ, while private nonprofit institutions set their own prices and aid. An accelerated schedule can reduce living-cost exposure but make it harder to maintain employment. The most affordable counseling programs are a useful starting point only after you check the net price and placement costs you would personally face.
Start with a FAFSA and each program's graduate funding office. Depending on eligibility and availability, options may include federal Direct Unsubsidized Loans, institutional scholarships, assistantships, employer tuition benefits, and funding tied to service commitments. Undergraduate-focused grants should not be assumed available to master's students (Federal Student Aid; institutional financial-aid offices).
Federal graduate borrowing rules have changed, so do not build a budget around Graduate PLUS without checking eligibility. Under the current transition rules, access is generally limited to certain continuing graduate borrowers who meet the applicable prior-enrollment and borrowing conditions; new graduate borrowers should ask their aid office which federal loans remain available to them (Federal Student Aid). Compare aid offers by net cost and debt, and check any service award's employment obligations before accepting it.
View the chart data as a table
Median wage by counseling career path (U.S., BLS May 2025) (Source: BLS)
Category
Value
Psychologists
99,110
Postsecondary Teachers
85,330
Marriage & Family Therapists
66,940
School & Career Counselors
64,330
Mental Health Counselors
59,350
Rehabilitation Counselors
46,850
Applicants generally need a bachelor's degree, transcripts, a statement of purpose, and references; individual schools may also require prerequisite coursework, an interview, or experience with people in helping settings. A psychology major is not universally required. Check the current admissions page for each program rather than assuming that requirements transfer between clinical and school tracks (institutional admissions offices).
If you have prior graduate credits, request a written transfer-credit evaluation before accepting admission. A school may limit how many credits count toward its degree, and accepting a course for academic credit does not necessarily establish that Illinois will accept it for a particular credential (institutional catalogs; IDFPR; ISBE).
Expect training in counseling theories, ethics, assessment, human development, group counseling, and supervised practice. Clinical tracks commonly emphasize diagnosis and treatment planning; school tracks place more emphasis on student services and the educational setting. The precise titles and required sequence vary by institution (institutional counseling program catalogs).
Read the full course map, not just the list of attractive electives. In Illinois, an omitted required subject or an internship that cannot be arranged in the right setting may be more consequential than a specialization you hoped to explore (IDFPR; ISBE).
Common directions include clinical mental health, school, addiction, rehabilitation, and marriage or family-focused counseling. Availability differs by school, and a concentration name should not be treated as proof of eligibility for a distinct professional license (institutional program catalogs; IDFPR; ISBE).
Choose by intended workplace and credential first. For example, an aspiring Illinois school counselor should prioritize an appropriate school counseling pathway over a clinical degree with a youth-focused elective. Someone drawn to addiction services should check whether a clinical curriculum, relevant placements, and any separate employer-required credential fit that goal. Specialization is valuable when it changes your preparation in ways a future role actually requires.
Start with the job you want, then work backward through its Illinois credential requirements. Accreditation deserves a separate check: verify the institution's recognized accreditation and the specific program's current CACREP status if that recognition matters to your plans. Institutional accreditation and CACREP programmatic accreditation are different, and neither replaces review of state requirements (U.S. Department of Education; Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs; IDFPR; ISBE).
Before enrolling, get clear answers to these decision-changing questions:
Which Illinois license or educator credential is this exact track designed to support, and what requirements remain after graduation?
Where do students secure supervised placements, and who is responsible if a proposed site falls through?
What is my total estimated cost after aid, including required credits, fees, travel, and any reduction in working hours?
What are the current program's completion and relevant exam outcomes, and what reporting period do those figures cover?
A common mistake is choosing by ranking position or advertised tuition alone. Weigh completion probability, debt, lost earnings during study, expected earnings relative to your current work, and the time needed to reach the credential. Compare the most valuable counseling programs with that personal calculation; institution type by itself does not determine return on investment.
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
A clinical mental health graduate might begin in a supervised counseling role and pursue the additional experience and requirements for independent clinical practice. A school counseling graduate may pursue appropriately credentialed school positions. Rehabilitation and addiction-related roles offer other directions, but employers and applicable credentials can differ (IDFPR; ISBE; U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics).
Think of the master's as preparation for a pathway, not a uniform job title. If you want independent therapy practice, compare the steps beyond graduation. If you want to serve students in Illinois public schools, compare school-specific preparation. If your priority is a faster move into a nonlicensed helping role, investigate whether that role requires a counseling master's at all before taking on graduate debt.
View the chart data as a table
Graduates (2024-25) distribution across ranked programs (Source: Research.com)
Category
Value
0-49
23
50-99
2
100-149
0
150-199
0
200-249
0
250-299
1
The national outlook is strongest among the career directions compared here for substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors: the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 18% employment growth for 2025-2035. That suggests a growing occupation nationally, but it does not measure openings near a particular Illinois campus or guarantee employment for a new graduate.
For a local test of demand, review Illinois postings in the community and setting where you hope to work. Separate positions open to supervised entry-level counselors from those requiring an LCPC, and check whether school vacancies require an ISBE credential. This distinction can prevent a misleading comparison between the jobs available immediately after the degree and those available later in a counseling career (IDFPR; ISBE).
2027 Most Popular Master's in Counseling Degree Programs Ranking in Illinois
Investing in graduate education is a consequential decision. Research.com's team examines multiple sources and checks program information to make its rankings more credible and useful for comparing options. Popularity can help identify programs to investigate, but it should not be mistaken for a measure of licensure eligibility, affordability, or graduate outcomes.
Research.com's counseling ranking framework considers program completion, employment or doctoral admission, applicable licensure-exam results, CACREP accreditation, federal Title IV eligibility, and cost. Its Best ranking weights graduate outcomes and accreditation most heavily, then factors in cost; other rankings order programs by the dimension named. Readers can learn more about the approach on the Research.com methodology page.
The team used the following data sources to develop and check the rankings:
IPEDS database: institutional enrollment, completions, and other reported education data.
Peterson's database: program and institution information used in comparisons.
Use the ranking as a shortlist, then verify the current curriculum, accreditation status, total price, and Illinois credential pathway with each program. Those details can change after the underlying data's reference period.
# 1 position
Northwestern University
Master
Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Delivery mode: hybrid
78.30
/ 100
Final score
Program length
18 months (Accelerated Track, 6 quarters); traditional track ~30 months
Specialization
Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Required credits
24 courses (equivalent to a 60-credit-hour program)
Program completion rate
86% (2024-25)
Employment or doctoral admission
80% (2024-25)
Licensure exam pass rate
98% (2024-25)
Application process
direct
Additional requirements
Applicants must be U.S. citizens, permanent residents or DACA recipients living in the United States and hold a bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited institution; a degree in psychology or human services is preferred but not required.
Accreditation
Accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP), with institutional accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
Northwestern University earned a Research.com Student Interest Score of 78.3/100, supported by 277 graduates (2024-25) and 86% program completion rate. The program is CACREP-accredited, valid through 2031-03-31.
# 2 position
Lewis University
Master
Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Delivery mode: hybrid
58.90
/ 100
Final score
Specialization
Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Required credits
60 semester credits
Acceptance rate
87%
GPA range
3.00 - 4.00
Program completion rate
97% (2024-25)
Employment or doctoral admission
92% - 95% (2024-25)
Application process
direct
GRE
no
Prerequisites
At least 15 semester hours of undergraduate psychology coursework, including a course in statistics or research methods; baccalaureate degree from a regionally-accredited institution.
Additional requirements
Application with personal statement of professional goals; two recommendation letters from professors, employers or supervisors (one from an instructor preferred); official transcripts; TOEFL/IELTS or similar for non-native English speakers.
Accreditation
Accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP), with institutional accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
Lewis University earned a Research.com Student Interest Score of 58.9/100, supported by 68 graduates (2024-25) and 97% program completion rate. The program is CACREP-accredited, valid through 2030-03-31.
# 3 position
Northwestern University
Master
Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Delivery mode: campus
50.60
/ 100
Final score
Program length
21 months (full-time)
Specialization
Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Required credits
24 courses (equivalent to a 60-credit-hour program)
Program completion rate
95% (2024-25)
Employment or doctoral admission
90% (2024-25)
Licensure exam pass rate
100% (2024-25)
Application process
direct
GRE
no
Additional requirements
TGS application + $95 fee; MAC program application (Standard/Two-Plus); unofficial transcripts; CV/resume; two recommendations; 250-word personal statement; 1,000-word academic statement; TOEFL/IELTS for international students; Zoom group interview; $38 background check; fall entry; no GRE.
Accreditation
Accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP), with institutional accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
Northwestern University earned a Research.com Student Interest Score of 50.6/100, supported by 37 graduates (2024-25) and 95% program completion rate. The program is CACREP-accredited, valid through 2031-03-31.
# 4 position
The Chicago School at Chicago
Master
M.A. Clinical Mental Health Counseling, Chicago Campus
Delivery mode: campus
49.90
/ 100
Final score
Program length
2 years full-time
Specialization
Clinical Mental Health Counseling
GPA range
3.00 - 4.00
Application deadline
rolling
Application process
direct
GRE
no
Prerequisites
Bachelor’s degree from an institutionally accredited university; GPA of 3.0 or higher.
Additional requirements
Application, $50 application fee, and official transcripts from all schools where a degree was earned. Transcripts from all schools where credit was received are recommended.
Accreditation
Accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP), with institutional accreditation from the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC).
The Chicago School at Chicago earned a Research.com Student Interest Score of 49.9/100, with 35 graduates (2023-24) among the verified supporting factors. The program is CACREP-accredited, valid through 2028-03-31.
# 5 position
National Louis University
Master
M.S. in Counseling: Illinois
Delivery mode: campus
49.50
/ 100
Final score
Specialization
Clinical Mental Health Counseling
GPA range
3.00 - 4.00
Employment or doctoral admission
86% (2025)
Licensure exam pass rate
84% (2025)
Application deadline
rolling
Accreditation
Accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP), with institutional accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
National Louis University earned a Research.com Student Interest Score of 49.5/100, supported by 34 graduates (2024-25) and 84% licensure exam pass rate. The program is CACREP-accredited, valid through 2028-03-31.
# 6 position
Northeastern Illinois University
Master
Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Delivery mode: campus
46.90
/ 100
Final score
Program length
2 calendar years
Specialization
Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Required credits
60 semester credits
GPA range
2.75 - 4.00
Licensure exam pass rate
95% (2024-25)
Application deadline
Fall: Feb 1
Application process
direct
GRE
no
Additional requirements
Application form, application fee, official transcripts from all colleges/universities attended, two professional recommenders, current resume, signed informed consent, and an essay (500-700 words)
Accreditation
Accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP), with institutional accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
Northeastern Illinois University earned a Research.com Student Interest Score of 46.9/100, supported by 28 graduates (2023-24) and 95% licensure exam pass rate. The program is CACREP-accredited, valid through 2033-03-31.
# 7 position
Eastern Illinois University
Master
M.S. in Counseling – School Counseling
Delivery mode: campus
39.40
/ 100
Final score
Specialization
School Counseling
Required credits
60 semester credits
Program completion rate
100% (2023-24)
Employment or doctoral admission
100% (2023-24)
Licensure exam pass rate
100% (2023-24)
Application deadline
Third Monday of February
Application process
direct
Prerequisites
Practicum (CHE 5630) requires CHE 5500 Research Methods, CHE 5510 Professional Orientation, CHE 5520 Theories of Counseling, CHE 5530 Basic Counseling Skills, plus a background check; second Internship requires a passing Content Area Test.
Additional requirements
Two departmental recommendation forms; Pre-Admission/Orientation Interview. School Counseling also requires a criminal background check and passing TAP score before Practicum, plus liability insurance.
Accreditation
Accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP), with institutional accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
Eastern Illinois University earned a Research.com Student Interest Score of 39.4/100, supported by 16 graduates (2023-24) and 100% program completion rate. The program is CACREP-accredited, valid through 2030-10-31.
# 8 position
University of Illinois Springfield
Master
Human Development Counseling, MA with Clinical Mental Health Counseling Concentration
Delivery mode: campus
39.40
/ 100
Final score
Program length
3 years
Specialization
Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Required credits
61 semester credits
GPA range
2.75 - 4.00
Program completion rate
63% (2024-25)
Licensure exam pass rate
88% (2024-25)
Application deadline
rolling
Application process
direct
GRE
no
Prerequisites
Prerequisite coursework: N/A. Undergraduate degree with a minimum GPA of 3.00 over the last 60 credit hours or cumulative undergraduate GPA of 2.75.
Additional requirements
Graduate application ($60 fee); official transcripts; three recommendation forms; group interview; GPA 3.00 last 60 hours or 2.75 cumulative; fall admission only, January 31 priority deadline.
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 Illinois Springfield earned a Research.com Student Interest Score of 39.4/100, supported by 16 graduates (2024-25) and 63% program completion rate. The program is CACREP-accredited, valid through 2034-04-30.
# 9 position
Chicago State University
Master
M.A. in Community Counseling
Delivery mode: campus
32.10
/ 100
Final score
Specialization
Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Required credits
60 semester credits
GPA range
2.75 - 4.00
Program completion rate
93% (2024-25)
Employment or doctoral admission
100% (2024-25)
Licensure exam pass rate
40% (2024-25)
Application deadline
Priority: March 1 (Fall); Final: July 15
Application process
direct
GRE
no
Prerequisites
Six credit hours of prerequisite courses, including developmental psychology and psychological statistics (B or better in at least one). Conditional admission possible until prerequisites are met.
Accreditation
Accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP), with institutional accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
Chicago State University earned a Research.com Student Interest Score of 32.1/100, supported by 9 graduates (2024-25) and 93% program completion rate. The program is CACREP-accredited, valid through 2027-10-31.
# 10 position
Roosevelt University
Master
Master's in School Counseling, MA
Delivery mode: campus
30.60
/ 100
Final score
Program length
3 years full-time
Specialization
School Counseling
GPA range
3.00 - 4.00
Program completion rate
100% (2023-24)
Employment or doctoral admission
100% (2023-24)
Licensure exam pass rate
100% (2023-24)
Application process
direct
GRE
no
Prerequisites
Minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0, at least 120 undergraduate credit hours, a personal statement of goals, and a passing ACT or SAT score meeting the state's criterion; invitation-only interview required. Counseling major not required.
Additional requirements
Online Application; $40 Application Fee; 3.0 GPA; official transcripts from all previously attended colleges/universities; English Language Proficiency (international applicants); admission interview (by invitation only)
Accreditation
Accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP), with institutional accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
Roosevelt University earned a Research.com Student Interest Score of 30.6/100, supported by 8 graduates and 100% program completion rate. The program is CACREP-accredited, valid through 2030-10-31.
# 11 position
Northeastern Illinois University
Master
Couple and Family Counseling, M.A.
Delivery mode: campus
30.60
/ 100
Final score
Program length
3 years
Specialization
Marriage, Couple, and Family Counseling
Required credits
60 semester credits
GPA range
2.75 - 4.00
Licensure exam pass rate
67% (2024-25)
Application deadline
February 1 for Fall
Application process
direct
Additional requirements
Application form, official transcripts from all colleges attended, current resume, Statement of Goals and Objectives essay addressing fit for the specialization, and attendance at a Pre-Admission Workshop (PAW).
Accreditation
Accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP), with institutional accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
Northeastern Illinois University earned a Research.com Student Interest Score of 30.6/100, supported by 8 graduates (2024-25) and 67% licensure exam pass rate. The program is CACREP-accredited, valid through 2033-03-31.
# 12 position
University of Illinois Springfield
Master
Human Development Counseling, MA with Marriage, Couple, and Family Counseling Concentration
Delivery mode: campus
27.10
/ 100
Final score
Program length
3 years
Specialization
Marriage, Couple, and Family Counseling
Required credits
61 semester credits
GPA range
2.75 - 4.00
Program completion rate
64% (2024-25)
Application deadline
rolling
Application process
direct
GRE
no
Prerequisites
No prerequisite courses. Phase 1: three recommendation forms; Phase 2: group interview; full admission needs a 3.00 GPA in last 60 credits or 2.75 cumulative. Fall admission only; Phase 1 due January 31 (late by June 15).
Additional requirements
Complete online application, submit official transcripts, submit a required statement/writing sample (250-650 words), and pay the non-refundable application fee ($60 domestic / $75 graduate per apply page)
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 Illinois Springfield earned a Research.com Student Interest Score of 27.1/100, supported by 6 graduates (2024-25) and 64% program completion rate. The program is CACREP-accredited, valid through 2034-04-30.
# 13 position
University of Illinois Springfield
Master
Human Development Counseling, M.A. with School Counseling Concentration
Delivery mode: campus
22.40
/ 100
Final score
Program length
3 years
Specialization
School Counseling
Required credits
61 semester credits
GPA range
2.75 - 4.00
Program completion rate
62% (2024-25)
Licensure exam pass rate
100% (2024-25)
Application deadline
rolling
Application process
direct
Prerequisites
No prerequisite coursework. Three recommendation forms; group interview; minimum 3.00 GPA for last 60 undergraduate credits or 2.75 cumulative. Priority deadline January 31 (late materials by June 15).
Additional requirements
Official transcripts, statement of academic and career goals, letters of recommendation, standardized test scores if applicable, application fee
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 Illinois Springfield earned a Research.com Student Interest Score of 22.4/100, supported by 4 graduates (2024-25) and 62% program completion rate. The program is CACREP-accredited, valid through 2034-04-30.
# 14 position
Northern Illinois University
Master
Master of Science in Rehabilitation Counseling
Delivery mode: hybrid
22.40
/ 100
Final score
Specialization
Rehabilitation Counseling
Required credits
60 semester credits
GPA range
2.75 - 4.00
Program completion rate
100% (2025-26)
Employment or doctoral admission
100% (2025-26)
Application deadline
Fall/Summer: Feb 1; Spring: Sep 1
Application process
direct
GRE
no
Prerequisites
Baccalaureate or higher degree from an accredited U.S. college or university or equivalent degree from a recognized foreign institution
Additional requirements
Graduate School application; unofficial transcripts from all undergraduate/graduate institutions (official required after admittance); personal goals statement; two letters of recommendation; pre-admission interview for qualified applicants
Accreditation
Accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP), with institutional accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
Northern Illinois University earned a Research.com Student Interest Score of 22.4/100, supported by 4 graduates (2025-26) and 100% program completion rate. The program is CACREP-accredited, valid through 2031-03-31.
# 15 position
Chicago State University
Master
M.A. in School Counseling
Delivery mode: campus
19.30
/ 100
Final score
Specialization
School Counseling
Required credits
60 semester credits
GPA range
2.75 - 4.00
Program completion rate
96% (2024-25)
Application deadline
Fall: March 1 (priority); July 15 (final, applications after this date considered for following Spring)
Application process
direct
Prerequisites
Six credit hours of prerequisites including developmental psychology and psychological statistics; minimum 2.75 GPA (last 60 hours); essay and faculty interview; School Counseling requires an Illinois PEL or ED 5820.
Accreditation
Accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP), with institutional accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
Chicago State University earned a Research.com Student Interest Score of 19.3/100, supported by 3 graduates (2024-25) and 96% program completion rate. The program is CACREP-accredited, valid through 2027-10-31.
# 16 position
Governors State University
Master
M.A. in Counseling – School Counseling Specialty
Delivery mode: campus
19.30
/ 100
Final score
Program length
most expedited path approximately two and a half years
Specialization
School Counseling
Required credits
60 semester credits
GPA range
2.50 - 4.00
Application deadline
Fall: Feb 15; Spring: Aug 15
Application process
direct
GRE
Conditional: GRE verbal 155+ required if cumulative undergraduate GPA is 2.5-2.74 and last-60-hour GPA is below 3.0, unless COUN 6600, COUN 6630 and ENGL 1010 are completed with B- or better
Prerequisites
Bachelor's degree; GPA of 2.75+ cumulative or 3.0 in last 60 hours. With GPA 2.5-2.74, score at least 155 on verbal GRE (or 1050 before Aug 2011) or take COUN 6600, COUN 6630, and ENGL 1010 (or equivalent) with B- or better.
Additional requirements
Official transcript(s) from all previous college work, Statement of Character, Three Personal References, GRE if applicable
Accreditation
Accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP), with institutional accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
Governors State University earned a Research.com Student Interest Score of 19.3/100, with 3 graduates (AY2022-2023) among the verified supporting factors. The program is CACREP-accredited, valid through 2031-03-31.
# 17 position
DePaul University
Master
School Counseling Specialty Area, Counseling (MA or MEd)
Delivery mode: campus
63.20
/ 100
Final score
Program length
3 years
Specialization
School Counseling
Required credits
90 quarter credits
Application deadline
Fall: Feb 15 (priority); Jun 15 (final)
Application process
direct
Prerequisites
Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university
Accreditation
Accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP), with institutional accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
DePaul University earned a Research.com Student Interest Score of 63.2/100. The program is CACREP-accredited, valid through 2027-03-31.
# 18 position
Adler University
Master
Master of Arts in Counseling: Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Delivery mode: campus
46.40
/ 100
Final score
Program length
2 years full-time
Specialization
Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Required credits
62 semester credits
GPA range
3.00 - 4.00
Application process
direct
Prerequisites
Bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited or equivalent international institution; recommended GPA of 3.0 or higher (undergraduate and graduate coursework), with exceptions considered case-by-case.
Additional requirements
Application fee; completed online application; resume/CV; official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions; Statement of Intent; letters of recommendation/references; personal interview as final step (for approved applicants).
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 46.4/100. The program is CACREP-accredited, valid through 2031-10-31.
# 19 position
Adler University
Master
Master of Arts in Counseling: Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Delivery mode: hybrid
46.40
/ 100
Final score
Program length
2 Year Course Sequence (online); 2-year program, full-time study
Specialization
Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Required credits
62 semester credits
GPA range
3.00 - 4.00
Application process
direct
Prerequisites
Bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited or equivalent international institution; recommended GPA of 3.0 or higher (undergraduate and graduate coursework), with exceptions considered case-by-case.
Additional requirements
Application fee; completed online application; resume/CV; official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions; Statement of Intent; letters of recommendation/references; personal interview as final step (for approved applicants).
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 46.4/100. The program is CACREP-accredited, valid through 2031-10-31.
# 20 position
Roosevelt University
Master
M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Delivery mode: campus
45.40
/ 100
Final score
Program length
3 years full-time
Specialization
Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Required credits
61 semester credits
GPA range
3.00 - 4.00
Application deadline
March 1 (priority consideration / graduate assistantship deadline; fall admission only)
Application process
direct
GRE
no
Prerequisites
Bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited institution; minimum 3.0 GPA on undergraduate coursework; minimum of 120 undergraduate credit hours; undergraduate major in counseling not required.
Additional requirements
Personal statement outlining goals and aspirations; interview by invitation only, required prior to admission; official transcripts; online application.
Accreditation
Accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP), with institutional accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
Roosevelt University earned a Research.com Student Interest Score of 45.4/100. The program is CACREP-accredited, valid through 2030-10-31.
Frequently asked questions about Counseling degree in Illinois
Does an Illinois counseling master's automatically qualify me for a license?
No. The applicable degree, coursework, supervised experience, and examination or other credential steps depend on whether you seek an Illinois professional counselor license or a school counselor credential. Confirm the exact pathway with IDFPR or ISBE (IDFPR; ISBE).
Is CACREP accreditation required for every counseling job?
No single programmatic-accreditation rule covers every counseling job. Check the current requirements for your intended Illinois credential and prospective employers, and verify any program's CACREP status directly (CACREP; IDFPR; ISBE).
Can I earn the degree online while living in Illinois?
Potentially. Check Illinois credential alignment, mandatory in-person sessions, and where you can complete supervised fieldwork before enrolling (IDFPR; ISBE; institutional program descriptions).
Is a clinical mental health degree better than a school counseling degree?
Neither is better for everyone. Choose clinical mental health preparation for a compatible clinical counseling goal; choose school counseling preparation if your goal is an Illinois school counselor credential (IDFPR; ISBE).
Is a counseling master's worth the cost?
It can be if it supports the credential and work you actually want at a manageable net cost. Compare the full price, likely debt, time away from work, and steps after graduation against realistic local job options - not a national median salary alone.
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