Most Affordable Master's in Counseling Online Programs of 2024

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Updated January 24, 2024

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A master's in counseling online provides an affordable option for those who want to help people through challenges and difficulties.

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Are you ready to discover your college program?

Are you interested in earning a master’s in mental health counseling but worried about the time commitment and cost? Consider earning an online master’s in counseling.

Increasing awareness of mental health and wellness has spurred the demand for counselors with the skills to address a variety of issues, from addictions and substance use to family and marital conflicts.

Several schools offer affordable online master’s in counseling to meet the need for these trained professionals. Explore the advantages of earning an online degree, program length and cost, and what to expect once enrolled.

Featured Online Counseling Programs

Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.

Why Get an Online Master's in Counseling?

An online master's in counseling prepares you for various counseling roles while allowing you to maintain a healthy work-life balance. With this program, you will receive the same high-quality education as a traditional campus-based degree but with the added benefit of a flexible schedule.

  • Specialization and Expertise

    Just like traditional in-person programs, an online master’s in counseling includes clinical experience required for state licensure. Most programs offer specializations and focus areas reflecting your interests and enhancing your employment chances.
  • Growing Demand

    The demand for counselors is on the rise as more people seek treatment for mental health conditions. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects the employment of substance use, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors to grow by 18% between 2022 and 2032, much faster than the average growth for all occupations.
  • Learn On Your Own Time

    Earning a master’s degree in counseling online works may be ideal for independent learners. An online degree offers the convenience of studying at your own time and pace, making it a particularly good choice if you need to work while taking classes.

Affordable Master's in Counseling Rankings Summary

Rank School In-State Tuition Out-of-State Tuition Acceptance Rate
#1 Northwestern University
Evanston, IL
$56,067 $56,067 7%
#2 New York University
New York, NY
$35,982 $35,982 13%
#3 University of the Cumberlands
Williamsburg, KY
$4,282 $4,282 85%
#4 Wake Forest University
Winston-Salem, NC
$38,650 $38,650 25%
#5 National University
San Diego, CA
$15,480 $15,480 55%
#6 The Chicago School of Professional Psychology at Los Angeles
Los Angeles, CA
$22,554 $22,554 37%
#7 Prescott College
Prescott, AZ
$14,880 $14,880 99%
#8 Grace College and Theological Seminary
Winona Lake, IN
$8,054 $8,054 83%
#9 William Carey University
Hattiesburg, MS
$11,875 $11,875 57%
#10 Gallaudet University
Washington, DC
$18,180 $18,180 62%

Top Affordable Master's in Counseling Online Programs

Learn more about our program ranking methodology.

#1 Most Affordable Master’s in Counseling Online Programs of 2024

Northwestern University

  • Evanston, IL
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Programmatic Accreditation: Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP)

Cost per Quarter:

In-State | $21,550

Out-of-State | $21,550

Credits to Graduate: 60

With Northwestern's online master's in counseling degree, you can study at your own pace for 18-39 months in areas like child and adolescent development and treatment methods. Specialization courses address play therapy methods, trauma evaluation and treatment, and assessments. A licensed clinician will supervise you during 800 hours of practicum and internship experience. Northwestern ensures secure placement. The program also offers two Chicagoland immersion experiences.

You can choose to start pursuing your degree in Jan., April, June, or Sept.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$60,276
Out-of-state
$60,276
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$56,067
Out-of-state
$56,067
Retention Rate
99%
Acceptance Rate
7%
Students Enrolled
23,409
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
7% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#2 Most Affordable Master’s in Counseling Online Programs of 2024

New York University

  • New York, NY
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Programmatic Accreditation: Masters in Psychology and Counseling Accreditation Council (MPCAC)

Cost per Credit:

In-State | $2,101

Out-of-State | $2,101

Credits to Graduate: 60

NYU's online master's in mental health counseling offers electives that allow you to customize your degree. Through electives, the live online program lets you delve into niche areas of counseling, including trauma response, immigrant-origin youth, and substance-related disorders. Expect to spend 21-30 months completing the program's curriculum and in-person requirements.

Hands-on experiences come from a 100-hour practicum, 600-hour internship, and three days in New York City for immersions. NYU Steinhardt provides millions in scholarships to graduate students, along with assistantships, housing, and dining grants.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$53,770
Out-of-state
$53,770
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$35,982
Out-of-state
$35,982
Retention Rate
94%
Acceptance Rate
13%
Students Enrolled
58,226
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
45% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education

#3 Most Affordable Master’s in Counseling Online Programs of 2024

University of the Cumberlands

  • Williamsburg, KY
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Programmatic Accreditation: Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP)

Cost per Credit:

In-State | $449

Out-of-State | $449

Credits to Graduate: 60

Cumberlands' master's in clinical mental health counseling features a curriculum anchored in processes and techniques for marriage and family counseling and child and adolescent counseling. You can complete the program in less than two years by taking coursework over two eight-week terms each semester. Core courses establish the basics of psychological assessments, counseling theories, grief and crisis counseling, and addiction treatment. Through two internships and one practicum, you will accumulate 700 hours of counseling experience.

Save money on textbooks with free rentals from the One Price Promise program when studying online.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$9,875
Out-of-state
$9,875
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$4,282
Out-of-state
$4,282
Retention Rate
67%
Acceptance Rate
85%
Students Enrolled
19,272
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
95% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#4 Most Affordable Master’s in Counseling Online Programs of 2024

Wake Forest University

  • Winston-Salem, NC
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Programmatic Accreditation: Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP)

Cost per Credit:

In-State | $1,650

Out-of-State | $1,650

Credits to Graduate: 60

Wake Forest's master's in counseling degree, offered through its Department of Counseling since 2012, provides an affordable and accessible education for working adults.

Enrollees study counseling skills and techniques, group procedures, and clinical mental health specialty courses like addiction counseling and case formulation. Additionally, the specialty coursework includes a practicum and two internships. Each student receives access to around-the-clock tutoring and technical support. 

Wake Forest's 108 graduates in 2023 boasted a 91% pass rate on the National Counselor Exam. 

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$58,708
Out-of-state
$58,708
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$38,650
Out-of-state
$38,650
Retention Rate
94%
Acceptance Rate
25%
Students Enrolled
8,947
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
16% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#5 Most Affordable Master’s in Counseling Online Programs of 2024

National University

  • San Diego, CA
  • 4 years
  • Online

Cost per Credit:

In-State | $442

Out-of-State | $442

Credits to Graduate: 60

NU's master of arts in psychology counseling equips you for a career in marriage and family therapy or clinical counseling in California in as few as 20 months. With four-week courses and year-round enrollment, you can graduate faster than in a traditional program.

The program offers specialized tracks in marriage and family therapy or marriage and family therapy and licensed professional clinical counseling. No matter your focus, you'll learn about lifespan and sexual development, cultural and social justice, community mental health, and clinical assessments.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$13,320
Out-of-state
$13,320
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$15,480
Out-of-state
$15,480
Retention Rate
100%
Acceptance Rate
55%
Students Enrolled
17,135
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
80% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission

#6 Most Affordable Master’s in Counseling Online Programs of 2024

The Chicago School of Professional Psychology at Los Angeles

  • Los Angeles, CA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Programmatic Accreditation: Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP)

Average Annual Cost:

In-State | $1,368

Out-of-State | $1,368

Credits to Graduate: 60

The Chicago School's master of arts in clinical mental health counseling takes 3-4 years to complete. Electives in addictions and substance abuse, telebehavioral health, military psychological interventions, and gerontological counseling allow you to study areas of your interest. Two required residencies prepare you to complete 700 hours of practicum and internship experience. If you want to pursue licensure, the Chicago School offers an advanced internship to help you gain 900 clinical hours.

For admission, you generally need at least a 3.0 GPA from your undergraduate studies. 

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$11,328
Out-of-state
$11,328
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$22,554
Out-of-state
$22,554
Retention Rate
50%
Acceptance Rate
37%
Students Enrolled
3,260
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
91% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission

#7 Most Affordable Master’s in Counseling Online Programs of 2024

Prescott College

  • Prescott, AZ
  • 4 years
  • Online

Programmatic Accreditation: Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP)

Cost per Credit:

In-State | $830

Out-of-State | $830

Credits to Graduate: 60

Prescott College's master's in counseling degree provides multiple concentrations and certificates to align your studies with your career interests. Emphasis areas include somatic counseling; human sexuality counseling; social justice in counseling; and marriage, couple, and family counseling. 

The practicum requires 100 field hours and a 600-hour internship. After graduation, you can earn a post-graduate certificate in nature-based counseling, expressive art therapy, or adventure-based counseling. 

Prescott College does not charge an application fee or require the GRE or GMAT. 

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$32,976
Out-of-state
$32,976
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$14,880
Out-of-state
$14,880
Retention Rate
75%
Acceptance Rate
99%
Students Enrolled
1,047
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
77% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#8 Most Affordable Master’s in Counseling Online Programs of 2024

Grace College and Theological Seminary

  • Winona Lake, IN
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Programmatic Accreditation: Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP)

Cost per Credit:

In-State | $466

Out-of-State | $466

Credits to Graduate: 60

Delivering graduate counseling degrees since 1995, Grace's master's in clinical mental health counseling program offers a biblical worldview. Online classes focus on reflective and research writing with weekly modules in which you participate in group work, projects, and presentations. 

You can complete the program in 24-33 months, taking courses such as addictions counseling, marriage and family counseling, and gender and sexuality. The program requires a seven-day residency at the Winona Lake, Indiana campus. 

Admission requires a degree from an accredited college and a minimum 3.0 GPA. 

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$24,144
Out-of-state
$24,144
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$8,054
Out-of-state
$8,054
Retention Rate
75%
Acceptance Rate
83%
Students Enrolled
1,919
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
48% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#9 Most Affordable Master’s in Counseling Online Programs of 2024

William Carey University

  • Hattiesburg, MS
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Cost per Credit:

In-State | $460

Out-of-State | $460

Credits to Graduate: 60

William Carey University's master's in counselor education degree, which focuses on clinical mental health counseling, prepares you to pursue licensure as a professional counselor and take the national certified counselor exam. Required coursework provides a foundation in diagnosis, crisis counseling, and drug and alcohol counseling. You'll also complete a 100-hour practicum and 600-hour internship.

Getting admitted requires at least a bachelor's degree and a minimum of a 2.5 GPA. You'll also need to submit GRE or GMAT scores. 

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$13,500
Out-of-state
$13,500
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$11,875
Out-of-state
$11,875
Retention Rate
87%
Acceptance Rate
57%
Students Enrolled
5,738
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
50% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#10 Most Affordable Master’s in Counseling Online Programs of 2024

Gallaudet University

  • Washington, DC
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Programmatic Accreditation: Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP)

Cost per Credit:

In-State | $1,119

Out-of-State | $1,119

Credits to Graduate: 61

Gallaudet University's master's in clinical counseling underscores a multicultural practice working specifically with deaf and hard-of-hearing people. It takes about three years to complete the program.

You'll take online courses and complete a 600-hour in-person internship helping deaf individuals at a mental health facility. Courses cover the cycle of substance abuse, foundations in helping skills, crisis and trauma counseling, and principles of assessment.

To qualify for admission, you should hold at least a 3.0 GPA for undergraduate and graduate coursework. 

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$16,512
Out-of-state
$16,512
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$18,180
Out-of-state
$18,180
Retention Rate
80%
Acceptance Rate
62%
Students Enrolled
1,433
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
45% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education

What to Expect From an Online Master's in Counseling

While the titles of classes may vary, all online master's in counseling programs cover similar course content, including theory, research methods, ethics, and psychopathology. These classes help prepare students for counseling positions in various settings such as hospitals, community health centers, schools, and private practice.Most online master's degrees in counseling require 45-60 credits or two years of full-time study. It is important to note that all graduate counseling programs include an in-person internship or clinical experience. Additionally, some programs may require students to attend on-campus residencies for workshops or field training.Accreditation is an essential factor to consider when choosing an online program. Look for accreditation by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Programs (CACREP) or the Masters in Psychology and Counseling Accreditation Council (MPCAC). Accreditation ensures that your intended program meets high academic standards and adequately prepares you for professional practice.When selecting an online master's program, it is important to consider whether you want to pursue a master of arts (MA) or a master of science (MS) degree. An MA typically has a liberal arts foundation and accepts students with bachelor's degrees in the humanities without a science focus. Students with bachelor's degrees in psychology or other social or natural sciences typically enroll in MS programs. Both MA and MS in counseling programs help prepare students for clinical roles and licensure.

Online Master's in Counseling Specializations and Concentrations

Master’s students should consider specializing their studies, which can help streamline the transition into the workforce. Many master’s programs offer concentrations that develop core and professional skills.

Some concentrations for an online master's in counseling include:

Popular Counseling Graduate Courses

Graduate-level counseling courses often cover professional counseling ethics, social and cultural diversity issues, family counseling, and crisis, grief, and loss. Graduate core courses cover the primary skills needed for a counseling career.

Graduate counseling programs also include concentration-specific courses and electives that allow you to specialize even further.

How Much Does an Online Master's in Counseling Program Cost?

The average tuition for a graduate degree is $20,513 for the 2021-22 academic year, according to the National Center for Education Statistics. Factors affecting cost include the degree type, online vs. traditional format, and in-state vs. out-of-state tuition.

Master’s degrees take two years to complete, bringing the total cost to around $40,000 for tuition and fees. Additional expenses may include books, accommodation, and travel.

Consider the following options for funding your degree:

Careers and Salaries With a Master's Degree in Counseling

Earning a counseling degree opens the door to professional opportunities in many settings. Salaries depend on several factors, including the type of employer, geographic location, licensure, and certifications.

Data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) indicates significant salary variations by counseling specialty. For example, school and career counselors earn the highest median annual salaries of over $60,000, followed by marriage and family therapists and substance use, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors.

Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC or LPC)

Licensed mental health counselors help clients overcome mental, emotional, and behavioral conditions using clinical methods that include psychotherapy and behavior modification. They diagnose, assess, and prepare treatment plans and interventions.

Average Annual Salary: $49,710

Employment Growth: 18% (2022-2032)

Marriage and Family Therapist

Marriage and family therapists help clients discuss their emotions and experiences and cultivate healthy relationships. These professionals work with individuals and families as they also deal with separation and divorce.

Median Annual Salary: $56,570

Employment Growth: 15% (2022-2032)

Substance Use Counselor

Addiction and substance use counselors advise people who struggle with alcoholism, narcotic use, eating disorders, and other behavioral or mental health conditions. These professionals provide treatment and support to help their clients reach a level of recovery.

Median Annual Salary: $49,710

Employment Growth: 18% (2022-2032)

School or Career Counselor

School counselors help students develop the skills they need to succeed in school. Career counselors help people to develop the skills required to attain a certain occupation.

Median Annual Salary: $60,140

Employment Growth: 5% (2022-2032)

Common Questions About Affordable Online Master's in Counseling Programs

What are the admission requirements for an online master's in counseling?

Counseling programs require applicants to have a bachelor's degree, typically in psychology or a related field, with an overall 3.0 GPA. Expect to submit 2-3 letters of recommendation, a personal statement, and a resume. Work or volunteer experience in a helping profession may boost your chances of acceptance.

What are the technical requirements for enrolling in an online master's in counseling program?

Although specific technical requirements depend on the program, you should have access to a computer. Find out what operating systems and browsers your online program supports. You should install a word processing system such as Microsoft Word and ensure access to reliable internet service.

Is an online master's in counseling worth it?

Earning a master's degree in counseling online can lead to many rewarding careers improving other people's lives, but it requires a significant financial commitment.

Consider how your anticipated salary and career opportunities compare to what you will owe in student loans. Find out how to reduce overall costs through scholarships, loan forgiveness plans, or employer-sponsored tuition reimbursement.

Can you earn a master's in counseling in one year?

Students who enroll in accelerated online counseling programs can complete their master's in counseling degree in 12-18 months, significantly shorter than the typical two years. In addition to coursework, most programs require a minimum of 600 hours of supervised internships.

Note: The insights on this page — excluding school descriptions — were reviewed by an independent third party compensated for their time Best Counseling Degrees. Page last reviewed November 27, 2023.

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