Counselors assist clients to overcome and cope with mental health, behavioral, social, and emotional issues. They work with all kinds of patients, including couples and families, individuals, those suffering with substance abuse, and young people in schools.
In Illinois, counselors earn an annual mean wage between $41,430-$69,900, depending on the specific counseling field in which they practice. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that counselors working as marriage and family therapists tend to earn more than those practicing general counseling.
To obtain counseling licensure in the state, applicants must earn a master's or doctoral degree in counseling from an accredited program and pass a national certification exam. Applicants must submit proof of graduation from an accredited program to qualify for the certification exam.
This guide provides rankings of the best accredited Illinois counseling degrees for learners interested in practicing as licensed counselors in the state.
Featured Online Programs
Figuring out where to apply? These top, accredited schools offer a variety of online degrees. Consider one of these accredited programs, and discover their value today.
Career Outlook for Counselors in Illinois
Counselors in Illinois work in a variety of specialized fields and positions, including rehabilitation, substance abuse, marriage and family therapy, school and career counseling, and mental health counseling. Each type of counselor may work in different industries and work environments, with different earning potentials. Counselors frequently work with local and state governments, individual and family services centers, schools, and health practitioners.
Depending on where they work, counselors may provide services to patients and clients of all demographics, including children, adolescents, and adults. Job duties, patient populations, and services vary based on each counselor's specialization and workplace.
The BLS projects 13.1% employment growth for substance abuse and behavioral disorder counselors in Illinois and 6.6% for rehabilitation counselors by 2026. Illinois ranks in the top five highest paying states for general counselors. The Chicago metro area also boasts one of the highest employment rates for counselors in the country.
Counseling Degree Programs in Illinois
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Bradley UniversityLocation
Peoria, IL
Department of Leadership in Education, Human Services, and Counseling
Positioned in the historic West Bluff residential neighborhood on an 85-acre campus in the heart of the largest metropolitan area in downstate Illinois in Peoria, Bradley University is a comprehensive private institution offering a world-class education to more than 5,700 students in over 100 academic programs. With 96 percent of students having at least one experiential learning experience in their career-related field, Bradley is currently ranked as the 5th best college and 7th best value school in the Midwest by the U.S. News and World Report. The Department of Leadership in Education, Human Services, and Counseling offers graduate education to prepare administrators and counselors for practice in schools or non-profit work.
Master of Arts (M.A.) in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
With an emphasis placed on human development, the M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling program aims to prepare professional counselors to work in diverse populations of clients in a variety of mental health settings to promote growth. Through a seamless blend of cognitive and experiential learning, the curriculum includes 60 credit hours, including 9 credits in specialty area coursework on clinical counseling and a thesis. Adhering to the ethical standards of the American Counseling Association, the program also offers graduate students a chance to gain practical experience with licensed faculty at the on-campus Counseling Research and Training Clinic to provide services to populations throughout the six-county area.
Master of Arts (M.A.) in School Counseling
Following the human development counseling model for preparing counselors who have the ability to recognize the profound interactive effect of people and human systems, the M.A. in School Counseling program is intended for counselors who wish to practice their skills in public or private school settings with children K-12. Ensuring that all graduates are eligible to sit for the National Counselor Examination for Licensure and Certification (NCE), the program involves 61 credit hours covering topics in human growth, research methodology, interpersonal behavior, counseling ethics, organizational leadership, psycho-diagnosis, crisis intervention, individual appraisal, family counseling, practicum, and two field internships relevant to the specialty.
Accreditations
- Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP)
- National Council for Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP)
- Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools (NCA)
Contact Information
Westlake Hall Room 330A
1501 W. Bradley Avenue
Peoria, IL 61625
(309) 677-3193
[email protected] -
Chicago State UniversityLocation
Chicago, IL
Department of Psychology
Governed by a Board of Trustees appointed by the Governor of Illinois, Chicago State University is a comprehensive public state institution that was founded in 1867 to provide quality learning experiences to minority students who were otherwise denied access to economic and social educational benefits. Not only has Chicago State been ranked first for awarding degrees to African Americans and fourth for awarding degrees to Latino students in Illinois, but it also is ranked 18th in the nation for granting degrees to minority students in all fields. The CSU Department of Psychology is committed to producing highly qualified graduates who are equipped with the skills to serve the complex counseling demands in urban school and community settings with a specific emphasis on diverse youth and their families.
Master of Arts (M.A.) in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Intended for individuals with an interest in pursuing professional careers in community agencies such as mental health clinics, substance abuse treatment centers, and non-educational settings, the accredited M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling program focuses on producing developmental practitioners and consultants with strong preparation in clinical intervention. Through a curriculum consisting of 60 required credit hours, students engage in coursework on topics of lifespan development, group counseling, multicultural issues, assessment and diagnosis, treatment interventions for youth, family systems counseling, counseling ethics, research, and psychopathology. In addition, students must complete a total of 100 hours of practicum and 900 hours of internship in an approved clinical field placement.
Master of Arts (M.A.) in School Counseling
Based on the Developmental Counseling Model, the Master of Arts in School Counseling program aims to prepare graduate students to serve the mental health needs of the entire school community in diverse urban settings. Requiring students to complete a total of 51 semester credits, 100 hours of practicum, and 600 hours of internship experience in an urban school environment, the program qualifies graduates to sit for examinations for the State of Illinois School Service Personnel Certificate with an endorsement in guidance. If interested, students in this program also have the option to complete a few extra courses to gain a Bilingual specialization focused on Hispanic/Latino socio-cultural backgrounds.
Accreditations
- Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP)
- Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools (NCA)
Contact Information
Harold Washington Hall Room 311
9501 South King Drive
Chicago, IL 60628
(773) 995-2359
[email protected] -
Concordia University - ChicagoLocation
River Forest, IL
College of Graduate and Innovative Programs
As a private comprehensive university of the Lutheran Church centered in the Gospel of Jesus Christ and based in a strong liberal arts foundation, Concordia University – Chicago is located in the suburban village of River Forest just 10 miles west of the metropolitan hub of Chicago. Serving more than 5,000 undergraduate and graduate students in its four distinctive colleges, CU Chicago is ranked as the 83rd best university in the Midwest by the U.S. News and World Report. The College of Graduate and Innovative Programs has been specifically structured to meet the unique needs of graduate level students with nationally respected and accredited advance degree programs in flexible scheduling formats.
Master of Arts (M.A.) in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Built on the goal of preparing qualified candidates with the professional knowledge, skills, and practices necessary to address the wide range of complex concerns relevant to the field of mental health services, the M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling program emphasizes Christian beliefs in the development of techniques to effectively serve individuals, groups, and families. In addition to completing 54 semester credits, students are required to participate in two clinical internship experiences to provide real-world professional learning in approved settings throughout Chicago. For the culminating capstone project, students can choose between completing a Master's thesis or an independent research paper with an oral defense.
Accreditations
- Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP)
- Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools (NCA)
Contact Information
7400 Augusta Street
River Forest, IL 60305
(708) 209-3223
[email protected] -
Eastern Illinois UniversityLocation
Charleston, IL
Department of Counseling and Student Development
Situated in the city of Charleston around 180 miles south of Chicago and 140 miles northeast of St. Louis, Eastern Illinois University is a comprehensive public institution that is known for offering undergraduate and graduate students superior and accessible education. According to the U.S. News and World Report, EIU is currently ranked as the 36th best college and 7th top public school in the Midwest. The National Science Foundation has also named Eastern Illinois University within the top five percent nationally for preparing students for doctoral programs. Through state-of-the-art technology and research-based training practices, the EIU Department of Counseling and Student Development is one of the premier facilities educating master's level professional counselors in the state of Illinois.
Master of Science (M.S.) in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Leading to licensure as a Professional Counselor (LPC) and Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) in the state of Illinois, the Master of Science with a concentration in Clinical Mental Health Counseling program prepares individuals to develop professional knowledge and skills for leadership in community settings. Designed for students who wish to assume roles in mental health agencies, healthcare facilities, employee assistance programs, or human service agencies, the program requires students to complete 60 credit hours over the course of four semesters on a full-time basis. Students in the program are actively engaged in curriculum covering specialized topics in play therapy, cross-cultural counseling, family dynamics, clinical diagnosis, research methods, professional orientation, human development, and practicum.
Master of Science (M.S.) in School Counseling
The M.S. in School Counseling program aims to foster academic preparation and professional dispositions necessary to succeed in counseling roles in public or private K-12 school settings. Consisting of 60 credit hours, the coursework covers topics in group counseling, school counseling, individual appraisal, play therapy, emerging issues in school environments, human development, school management, collaboration, career counseling, and curriculum development. Beginning in the second semester of coursework, students are required to actively participate in practicum and internship placements to transition into their professional identities within an approved school or other educational setting. Students also take the National Counseling Examination (NCE) within their final year of study, enabling students to graduate as a licensed professional counselor with jobs waiting upon completion.
Accreditations
- Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP)
- Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools (NCA)
Contact Information
600 Lincoln Avenue
Charleston, IL 61920
(217) 581-2400
[email protected] -
Governor's State UniversityLocation
University Park, IL
College of Education
Known for having the greatest affordability with the lowest undergraduate and graduate tuition rates in northern Illinois, Governor's State University is a comprehensive public upper-division institution that specializes in offering degree programs to working adult learners. First founded in 1969 on a 750-acre wooded campus with several lakes and natural trails in the suburban environment just 35 miles south of Chicago, GSU has a very diverse student body with over 38 percent representing minority groups, nearly double the national college average. With more than 75 degree programs to choose from, affordable tuition, class schedule flexibility, and campus accessibility, Governor's State is one of the best higher educational choices in the region. Within the College of Education, the Department of Counseling is fully accredited to prepare students for the role of counselors who are emotionally mature, intellectually sound, and professionally competent in their services.
Master of Arts (M.A.) in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Focused on helping people addresses personal, social, familial, and behavioral issues that interfere with their abilities to lead healthy, productive lives, the Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling degree is a 60-credit hour program in just five semesters with a required 600-hour internship experience. Along with the core counseling courses, the program track includes specialized coursework appropriate to prepare students to work in community agencies and clinical experiences in various mental health service settings. Students are actively engaged in specialized courses covering subjects in community counseling, vocational counseling, individual appraisal, crisis intervention, psycho-pharmacology, substance abuse, family dynamics, group counseling, lifespan development, and socio-cultural foundations. During the internship, students are eligible to take the National Counselor Examination (NCE) to become a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) even before graduation.
Master of Arts (M.A.) in Marriage and Family Counseling
Intended to prepare professional counselors with personal and professional integrity through the integration of theory, research, cross-cultural studies, social justice, and advocacy, the accredited Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Counseling focuses on the family systems theories and therapeutic techniques to address a wide variety of common relationship issues. With the goal of producing highly qualified professionals who will effectively assess and treat mental and emotional disorders within the family system, the program consists of specialized coursework, practicum, internship, supervision, and opportunities for professional experiences. After completing 60 semester credits and a 600-hour internship, graduates are eligible to become a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Illinois.
Master of Arts (M.A.) in School Counseling
With the mission of promoting excellence in professional school counseling as an integral component in the development of all K-12 students, the M.A. in School Counseling program prepares graduate students to become responsive professional counselors to assist students in maximizing their educational, vocational, social, and personal growth. Meeting all academic specifications for Illinois licensure as a Professional Counselor (LPC), the curriculum consists of 57 semester hours covering topics in assessment, ethical standards, lifespan developmental issues, counseling theories, family systems, cultural foundations, career development, human relations skills, group dynamics, treatment planning, parent education, school staff development, and learning theories. The program also requires students to complete a total of 600 hours to practice applying the foundational knowledge in a supervised school environment.
Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) in Counselor Education and Supervision
The doctoral program in Counselor Education and Supervision is intended for students who hold a Master's degree from a CACREP-accredited counseling program to attain advanced level competence in counseling, teaching, supervision, research, advocacy, and leadership. Designed for completion in eight semesters with six hours per semester, the cohort program requires students to complete 48 credit hours of coursework, a doctoral written and oral comprehensive examination, 800 hours of counseling internships in an approved setting, and a capstone project for completion. Based on a practitioner-scholar model with an emphasis on individual, couple, family, group, community, educational, and societal systems, the program produces highly knowledgeable, skilled, dedicated, and ethical professionals for expert service.
Accreditations
- Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP)
- Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools (NCA)
Contact Information
1 University Parkway
University Park, IL 60484
(708) 534-5000
[email protected] -
National Louis UniversityLocation
Chicago, IL
Department of Counseling and Human Services
Characterized by academic excellence, service, and scholarship, National Louis University is a private non-profit institution based in the heart of downtown Chicago. Occupying the second through sixth floors of the historic Peoples Gas Building on Michigan Avenue, NLU has played a prominent role in stressing the importance of academic and professional training in education. The Department of Counseling and Human Services is dedicated to developing professional skills in a learning environment that values imaginative solutions to complex human problems.
Master of Science (M.S.) in Community Counseling
Designed to provide a foundation for those who desire to contribute to the needs of their local and global communities, the Master of Science in Community Counseling program has been centered on the many facets of being a professional counselor in a diverse setting, such as advocating for clients and adhering to ethical or legal guidelines. With classes conveniently being held on just one day or evening each week to accommodate working or family commitments, the program fulfills all of the educational requirements necessary for becoming a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) working in community agency settings.
Master of Science (M.S.) in School Counseling
Ideal for students who wish to work in a K-12 school environment and pursue a Professional Educator License (PEL) endorsed for school support personnel and school counselor, the Master of Science in School Counseling program is focused on preparing counselors with a breadth of different counseling theories and skills. Focused on increasing understanding on children and adolescents from a developmental perspective with consideration for context, culture, and diversity, the program involves 100 hours of practicum and 600 hours of internship opportunities.
Accreditations
- Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP)
- Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association (NCA)
Contact Information
122 South Michigan Ave.
Chicago, IL 60603
(312) 261-3135
[email protected] -
Northeastern Illinois UniversityLocation
Chicago, IL
Department of Counselor Education
Situated in a quiet residential community ten miles northwest of downtown Chicago, Northeastern Illinois University is a comprehensive public institution that serves more than 11,000 students. Ranked among the most affordable among Illinois public universities, NEIU is known for hosting a Tuition Guarantee Program that offers incoming students the same tuition rate for up to six years. Within the College of Education, the Department of Counselor Education is nationally recognized for excellence with its CACREP-accredited programs representing the 71st best graduate counseling programs in the nation by the U.S. News and World Report.
Master of Arts (M.A.) in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Structured as a 60-credit hour program to fulfill the educational requirements as a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC), the accredited Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling program is ideal for students who are interested in gaining employment within mental health agencies, substance abuse centers, hospitals, counseling clinics, crisis centers, court services, and rehabilitation facilities. Along with 700 hours of documented field-related experience with at least 280 hours of direct face-to-face counseling, students are actively engaged on coursework in developmental counseling, individual and group counseling skills, career development, and family systems.
Master of Arts (M.A.) in Family Counseling
Offered to students who enjoy working with couples, families, and children in diverse populations, the Master of Arts in Family Counseling program prepares counselors with the knowledge and skills needed to become Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFT) and/or Licensed Clinical Professional Counselors (LCPC). While gaining a solid foundation in the theories of counseling related to family systems, case conceptualization, treatment planning, crisis and trauma, chemical dependency, marriage counseling, child and youth, and counseling couples, all students are required to complete a minimum of 700 hours of field practicum and a comprehensive departmental proficiency exam.
Master of Arts (M.A.) in School Counseling
Fulfilling the educational requirements for the Illinois Professional Educator License (PEL) with an endorsement as a school counselor, the Master of Arts in School Counseling program is focused on helping young people, their families, and professional educators within the context of the K-12 school environment. While licensed teachers can complete the program within 48 credits, students without a teacher license who are career changers without a background in education must complete 57 credits. Regardless of previous experience though, all students must actively participate in at least 700 hours of documented field related experience.
Accreditations
- Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP)
- Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association (NCA)
Contact Information
5550 North St. Louis Avenue
Chicago, IL 60625
(773) 442-5550
[email protected] -
Northern Illinois UniversityLocation
DeKalb, IL
Department of Counseling, Adult, and Higher Education
As a comprehensive public institution with more than 17,000 students calling its vast 800-acre campus home, Northern Illinois University is located about 65 miles west of downtown Chicago in the suburban city of DeKalb. Recognized among the most elite institutions in the nation by the U.S. News and World Report, NIU is currently ranked as the 177th best college and 98th top public school in the United States. The Department of Counseling, Adult, and Higher Education is committed to promoting high standards of professional education in the preparation of professionals in the human services fields.
Master of Science in Education (MS.Ed.) in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Designed for students seeking professional counseling positions in agencies that help clients resolve psychological disorders or developmental problems through crisis intervention, remediation, or primary prevention interventions, the Master of Science in Education in Clinical Mental Health Counseling program requires 60 semester hours along with 100 clock hours of practicum and 600 clock hours of internship. Throughout the program, the counselors are exposed to a variety of educational hands-on experiences that ensure students develop an appreciation for the diversity of clientele, services, and clinical mental health programs for work as a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC).
Master of Science in Education (MS.Ed.) in School Counseling
With classes offered at the DeKalb, Rockford, Naperville, and Hoffman Estates campuses during night hours to service the working population, the Master of Science in Education in School Counseling program consists of experiences that prepare students to become counselors in a public or private K-12 school setting. Upon completion of the required 60 semester hours and 700 clock hours of practical experience in a school environment, graduates from the program are eligible for applying for the Type 73 Certificate in School Counseling from the Illinois State Board of Education to work in any school in the state.
Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) in Counselor Education and Supervision
Focused on preparing culturally competent counselor educators and supervisors who develop an expertise in the core competencies from the CACREP in teaching, research, leadership and advocacy, advanced counseling, and supervision, the Doctor of Education program offers advanced professional preparation for those intending to become university professors in counseling or advanced-level clinical supervisors. Requiring a minimum of 30 semester hours from the master's degree and 75 additional advanced semester hours, including internship and dissertation requirements, the program aims to develop critical thinking through personal and professional growth experiences that promote awareness of self and others.
Accreditations
- Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP)
- Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association (NCA)
Contact Information
Gabriel Hall Room 200
1425 West Lincoln Highway
DeKalb, IL 60115
(815) 753-1448
[email protected] -
Roosevelt UniversityLocation
Chicago, IL
College of Education
Home to the sixth largest academic complex in the world in downtown Chicago and another nearby in the suburb of Schaumburg, Roosevelt University is a coeducational private institution named in honor of Franklin and Eleanor Roosevelt. With more than 4,500 students enjoying the stunning views of Lake Michigan and top-notch academic facilities, RU is ranked as the 77th best college in the Midwest by the U.S. News and World Report. The College of Education is also nationally recognized for being the 170th best education school with the 42nd best online graduate education programs in the United States.
Master of Arts (M.A.) in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Founded on a dedication for social justice with others, the Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling program focuses on personal development, the ability to communicate effectively, commitment, and excellent academic preparation to make a difference in the lives of others as holistic practitioners. Throughout the 60-credit program that prepares students for work as professional clinical counselors in community and mental health agencies, students receive regularly scheduled individual academic advising, supervised experiences in community agencies, and an integrated theoretical orientation to meet all licensing requirements.
Master of Arts (M.A.) in School Counseling
As a 51-credit graduate degree leading to an Illinois Type 73 School Service Personnel certificate endorsed for school counselors, the Master of Arts in School Counseling program prepares professionals to lead proactively in K-12 schools and advocate for both students and families. With a mission of producing school counselors who are active problem solvers and decision makers to develop comprehensive counseling programs to address the needs of diverse students, the program is open to students with or without teaching certification. The main aim of the degree is to vigorously prepare students to empower children to reach their educational, social, personal, and career potential for excellence.
Accreditations
- Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP)
- Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association (NCA)
Contact Information
430 South Michigan Avenue
Chicago, IL 60605
(312) 341-3500
[email protected] -
Southern Illinois UniversityLocation
Carbondale, IL
Department of Counselor Education
With the heart of a small college and all the brains of an elite research university, Southern Illinois University is a comprehensive public institution located in the rural setting of Carbondale. Currently recognized within the top four percent of higher education institutions by the National Science Foundation, SIU is currently ranked as the 177th best college, 98th top public school, and 46th best college for veterans in the United States by the U.S. News and World Report. Within the 81st best education school, the Department of Counselor Education is committed to preparing professional counselors to provide high quality individual, group, and family counseling in a variety of mental health and community settings.
Master of Science in Education (MS.Ed.) in Community Counseling
With the mission of preparing ethically responsible counselors who are critically reflective about their profession and recognize the need for professional development throughout their career, the Master of Science in Education in Community Counseling program is particularly sensitive to the needs of diverse populations in the communities throughout the Chicago metropolitan area. Designed to prepare graduates to be dynamic, clinically, and culturally competent counselors capable of engaging in both individual and group counseling, the program involves 700 hours of supervised field experiences.
Master of Science in Education (MS.Ed.) in Marital, Couple, and Family Counseling
The Master of Science in Education degree with a concentration in Marital, Couple, and Family Counseling is structured to prepare professional counselors to work clinically with couples and families in a variety of diverse settings. Focused on systems thinking, counseling theory, interpersonal relationships, knowledge acquisition, and competent skill application, the program involves the unique opportunity to participate in live supervision experiences while completing a year-long two-semester practicum at the university's Clinical Center.
Master of Science in Education (MS.Ed.) in School Counseling
Designed to produce culturally sensitive school counselors to work as educational leaders that advocate for student growth and development as well as systemic change, the Master of Science in Education in School Counseling prepares school counselors for Illinois licensure to work in public or private schools from kindergarten to high school levels. Offered on both a full-time or part-time basis for students with or without a teaching degree, the program works collaboratively with surrounding schools for an understanding of the diverse needs of rural academic settings.
Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Counselor Education and Supervision
Based on a developmental and holistic focus in a wellness approach to counseling for psychological well-being, the doctoral in Counselor Education and Supervision program is committed to preparing flexible, culturally competent, ethical, clinically skilled, dynamic, and knowledgeable professionals. Ideal for students who wish to fulfill positions as counselor educators in university settings, counselor supervisors in community settings, and/or directors of mental health agency settings, the program exposes students immediately to supervised teaching experience.
Accreditations
- Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP)
- National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE)
- Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association (NCA)
Contact Information
Wham Hall Room 222G
425 Clocktower Drive
Carbondale, IL 62901
(618) 453-2311
[email protected] -
University of Illinois - SpringfieldLocation
Springfield, IL
Department of Human Development Counseling
Located in the center of the state capital about 90 miles northeast of St. Louis with extraordinary opportunities to study in a living laboratory, the University of Illinois at Springfield is a comprehensive public institution that offers an innovative liberal arts and sciences education. Known for being a national leader in the delivery of high-quality online education, the U.S. News and World Report currently ranks UIS as the 28th best college and 4th top public school in the Midwest. Among the 54th best online graduate education programs, the Department of Human Development Counseling strives to prepare highly competent professional counselors.
Master of Arts (M.A.) in Community Counseling
Designed to prepare students to provide counseling and consulting services in a wide variety of environments, including mental health centers, correctional facilities, social welfare services, rehabilitation clinics, and human relations agencies, the Master of Arts in Community Counseling program requires a total of 50 semester hours for completion. Throughout the program, students are fully engaged in an intensive curriculum covering fundamental issues in counseling, ethics, counseling theories, group counseling, psychotherapy, multicultural diversity, career development, alcoholism and substance abuse, family therapy, psychopathology, research methods, and appraisal techniques.
Master of Arts (M.A.) in School Counseling
With the goal of providing the counseling and child/adolescent development theories necessary for culturally and ethnically sensitive practice in K-12 school environments, the Master of Arts in School Counseling program prepares students to provide counseling and consulting services within elementary and secondary schools. Requiring students to complete at least 50 semester hours, a Master's project, comprehensive examination, practicum, and internship experience in an approved public or private school, the program prepares students without teaching credentials to receive Type 73 certification with endorsement as a school counselor.
Accreditations
- Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP)
- Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association (NCA)
Contact Information
Brookens Library Room 332
One University Plaza
Springfield, IL 62703
(217) 206-6504
[email protected] -
Western Illinois UniversityLocation
Macomb, IL
Department of Counselor Education
As the public institution choice for the Quad Cities area, Western Illinois University is a comprehensive public institution that provides student-centered programs in the rural setting of Moline. According to the U.S. News and World Report survey, WIU is currently ranked as the 48th best college and 13th top public school in the Midwest. The Department of Counselor Education has the mission of preparing socially responsible students to lead in the global society with diversity of values and ideas.
Master of Science in Education (MS.Ed.) in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
With a commitment to diversity to contribute to an increased sensitivity on the part of other individuals, groups, or institutions to the barriers to opportunity imposed by racial or ethnic discrimination, the Master of Science in Education (MS.Ed.) in Clinical Mental Health Counseling program prepares students to work as licensed professional counselors in a variety of clinical mental health settings. Ideal for those who want to work in mental health centers, rehabilitation facilities, hospitals, private practices, and employee assistance programs, the program focuses on advocating equal rights for all individuals.
Master of Science in Education (MS.Ed.) in School Counseling
Approved by the American School Counseling Association (ASCA), the Master of Science in Education in School Counseling program prepares students for work as elementary and/or secondary school counselors in public and private school. Focused on fostering a strong desire to children work through academic, social, and personal challenges, the program includes all of the essential knowledge and skills that are necessary to receive licensure as a Licensed Professional Counselor with an endorsement in School Counseling in the state of Illinois.
Accreditations
- Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP)
- Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association (NCA)
Contact Information
3561 60th Street
Moline, IL 61265
(309) 762-1876
[email protected]
Overall, it is essential for aspiring professional counselors in Illinois to attend a program that has been fully accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP) for the highest standards of excellence. These are the second half (H-Z) of accredited counseling degree programs in Illinois for preparing counselors for work in a wide range of specialty areas.
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