In the United States, there are many online master’s in school counseling programs to choose from. An online master’s degree offers greater flexibility and access to higher education for students who don’t want to or can’t relocate to advance their careers. An online master’s program is a commitment, often of two to three years of study, so finding the right program is essential.
This article provides information about 25 high-quality online master’s degree programs. You can read more about master’s in school counseling programs state-by-state, but start here to learn about what to look for in an online master’s program in school counseling.
Quick Facts:
- Length of online school counseling master’s programs: 22 months to 3 years
- Credit hours required: 48 to 64
- Tuition range: Estimated total tuition ranges from $10,905 to $102,000, depending on the cost per credit hour
- Students complete a combination of coursework and practicum experiences.
- State-level programs provide training for state requirements, which may be reciprocal in other states.
Key Features of Top-Ranked Online School Counselor Master’s Programs
Strong school counseling master’s programs are:
- Certified by CACREP (Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs),
- Provide robust practicum and clinical experiences, and
- taught by tenured faculty who are leaders in the field, and who engage in ongoing research.
Top-rated school counselor programs also include a variety of coursework and field experiences so that counselors are well prepared to make a difference immediately after graduation.
CACREP Accreditation
When a program earns CACREP accreditation, it indicates that its coursework and field experiences have been evaluated and aligned with rigorous standards. Accreditation is ongoing and must be renewed, so CACREP-accredited programs have committed to ongoing reflection and revision to maintain high standards.
Strong Faculty
Faculty who engage in ongoing research and community work can develop school counselors with depth of knowledge and a wide range of skills. Faculty engaged in the counseling profession can also bring contemporary insights and information into their courses.
High Exam Pass Rates
One indicator of a program’s quality is the pass rate on national school counselor exams, including the Praxis II, the National Counselor Exam, and any state school counseling exams. Top-ranked programs produce students who are well prepared to pass the exam the first time.
Practical and Clinical Experiences
Master’s programs in school counseling include a variety of practical experiences, such as practicum, clinicals, and opportunities to work directly with students. Strong programs offer a variety of experiences and integrate them into the curriculum in ways that build students’ skills and knowledge.
Research and Presentation Opportunities
During a master’s degree, students may have the opportunity to work directly with faculty. Even in online programs, the opportunity to help conduct research, write articles, or present can be incorporated. This is particularly important for candidates who are interested in pursuing doctoral studies in counseling.
Flexibility and Accessibility
Online coursework allows counselors to advance their careers without disrupting their daily lives or incurring the added cost of moving. Synchronous courses are often scheduled after work or on weekends to increase accessibility.
Top 25 School Counseling Master’s Programs
The demand for school counselors is growing. As the field grows, prospective counselors face the challenge of identifying the right program for them. Focusing on CACREP-accredited online programs with strong faculty and good reputations can help narrow down the options. Below is a list of the top 25 online master’s in school counseling programs.
Note: Each university is set up to align with its state requirements, so even if you are taking courses online, you will want to consider universities in your state or out-of-state programs that provide reciprocity with your state.
Butler University
- Indianapolis, IN
- 2.5-3 years
- Online
Program:
Master of Science in School Counseling
City: Indianapolis, IN
Length: 60 credit hours, 2.5 to 3 years
Modality: Online
Why This Program Is In Our Top 25:
Butler University is our top online program because of its rigorous coursework and hands-on experiences. Students can earn dual licensure as a clinical mental health counselor and school counselor. (Obtaining dual licensure increases the credit hours to 66.) Students take courses aligned with national standards; six credits offer the opportunity to study abroad or dive into an area of interest. Students can transfer up to 12 credit hours. Students also complete internships and practicum, and the program has a field placement support coordinator to help place students. Online course experiences are synchronous and immersive. Students get to know each other through group projects and collaborative meetings.
Program Highlights:
- Rigorous curriculum provided by expert faculty.
- Immersive, holistic online experience.
- Students can pursue a dual license in clinical mental health counseling.
Estimated total tuition: $42,000 ($700 per credit hour, not including fees)
GRE Requirement: None
North Carolina State University
- Raleigh, NC
- 2 years
- Online
Program:
Master of Arts in School Counseling
City: Raleigh, NC
Length: 2 years, 64 credit hours
Modality: Online
Why This Program Is In Our Top 25:
NC State is a top online program for school counseling because students can complete online courses in 2 years (part-time, 3 years) while gaining hands-on school counseling experience. (The practical experiences must be a location within North Carolina.) Students complete a 100-hour practicum and a 600-hour internship, which provides extensive school experience. Courses are supported 1:1 with iPad minis for each student. In coursework, students develop multicultural competence and advocacy. Students take one course each summer and two courses each fall and spring. They progress through the program as a cohort, which builds relationships and collaboration.
Program Highlights:
- The program can be completed in as little as two years.
- Students receive an iPad mini to use throughout their coursework.
- Students complete requirements for the NC School Counseling license and Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate.
Estimated Total Tuition: $36,373.12 ($568.33 per credit hour, for in-state students, not including fees)
GRE Requirement: None
Bradley University
- Peoria, IL
- 3 years
- Online
Program:
Master of Arts in School Counseling
City: Peoria, IL
Length: 60 credit hours, 3 years
Modality: Online
Why This Program Is In Our Top 25:
The Bradley University program is on our list because of the choices students have regarding their experience and learning. Students can choose from two tracks: clinical mental health counseling or school counseling. Students learn how counseling affects brain functioning through the neurocounseling approach. Students select clinical experiences and a site supervisor.
Program Highlights:
- Students choose their own supervisor.
- The program offers a flexible schedule, allowing students to work while earning their degree.
Estimated Total Tuition: $68,100 ( $1,135 per credit hour, not including fees)
GRE Requirement: None
Central Michigan University
- Mount Pleasant, MI
- 60 credits
- Online
Program:
Master of Arts in School Counseling
City: Mount Pleasant, MI
Length: 60 credit hours
Modality: Online
Why this Program is in Our Top 25:
The CMU program is on our list because of its high retention rate (93%), exam pass rate (93%), and employment rate after graduation (100%). Students in the program learn how to create and implement comprehensive school counseling programs. In addition to coursework, students attend conferences, workshops, and seminars to learn the latest research and trends in counseling. Students complete a 600-hour internship in a school that closely aligns with coursework.
Program Highlights:
- Online students can start the program in the fall or spring.
- Students have access to conferences, workshops, and seminars on recent research and findings in the field.
- Students can earn a master’s in school counseling even without a teaching credential.
- 100% of students are employed after graduation.
Estimated Total Tuition: $49,749 ($829 per credit hour, not including fees)
GRE Requirement: None
University of Denver
- Denver, CO
- 22 months
- Online
Program:
Master of Arts in School Counseling
City: Denver, CO
Length: 22 months; 90 quarter credit hours or 24 courses
Modality: Online
Why This Program Is In Our Top 25:
The University of Denver program is on our list because it is accelerated–students can complete coursework in 22 months, or part-time. The DU program takes a holistic approach, focusing on meeting students’ diverse needs. Throughout the online program, students engage in self-reflection and become more aware of their own experiences, strengths, and opportunities for growth. In addition to coursework, students complete 700 hours of direct and indirect counseling experience.
Program Highlights:
- Full-time students can complete the program in 22 months.
- The program is rooted in reflection and self-development.
- Students take classes using live-stream technology.
Estimated Total Tuition: $51,090 per year (three full-time semesters)
GRE Requirement: None
Walden University
- Minneapolis, MN
- 33 months
- Online
Program:
Master of Arts in School Counseling
City: Minneapolis, MN
Length: 33 months (90 credits)
Modality: Online
Why this Program is in Our Top 25:
The Walden University program is on our list because of its flexibility. Students can start the program as courses begin, rather than waiting for the start of a semester. Coursework focuses on addressing the challenges that P-12 students encounter as they develop. Students receive personalized attention and guidance. Online courses incorporate emerging technologies to support learning.
Program Highlights:
- Applicants complete a streamlined admissions process.
- Flexible start dates.
- Students use emerging technology to engage in online learning.
Estimated Total Tuition: $48,150 ($535 per credit hour, not including fees)
GRE Requirement: None
University of Louisiana
- Monroe, LA
- 60 credits
- Online
Program:
Master of Arts in School Counseling
City: Monroe, LA
Length: 60 credit hours
Modality: Online
Why this Program is in Our Top 25:
The UL program made our list for its focus on providing students with the latest information and innovations in school counseling. Students learn the latest treatment approaches and models to support students in today’s P-12 schools. Clinical and practicum experiences are designed to help students in developing skills to work with students from multicultural backgrounds. Students are also trained as research practitioners, with the skills and tools to interpret and apply research.
Program Highlights:
- Students have ample supervised work experiences.
- Students are trained in the most current models.
- Research training is incorporated into the program.
Estimated Total Tuition: $28,714.80 ($478.58 per credit hour, not including fees)
GRE Requirement: GRE scores required for admission
Ohio University
- Athens, OH
- 60 credits
- Online
Program:
Master of Arts in School Counseling
City: Athens, OH
Length: 60 credit hours
Modality: Online
Why this Program is in Our Top 25:
The OU program was added to our list because of its focus on meeting the needs of working professionals. Students complete coursework and engage in practical experiences with faculty guidance. Students can start in the summer, and most students finish in 6 to 7 semesters. Courses are asynchronous, allowing for more flexibility in completing coursework.
Program Highlights:
- In addition to core coursework and internships, students take four elective courses.
- The program was designed for professionals who are looking to advance their careers.
- Students can start during the summer semester.
Estimated Total Tuition: $30,900 ($515 per credit hour, not including fees)
GRE Requirement: None
Grand Canyon University
- Phoenix, AZ
- 2 years
- Online
Program:
Master of Education in School Counseling
City: Phoenix, AZ
Length: 2 years (60 credit hours)
Modality: Online
Why this Program is in Our Top 25:
The GCU program is on our list for its affordability and flexibility. The M.Ed. in school counseling provides instruction in how to meet the needs of students in P-12 settings. Grand Canyon University has a long history of online learning. Online courses meet weekly.
Program Highlights:
- Grand Canyon University has a long history of developing online learning.
- The program is one of the most affordable.
Estimated Total Tuition: $16,500 per year
GRE Requirement: GRE scores are required for admission, with a minimum score of 300
Augusta University
- Augusta, GA
- 60 credits
- Online
Program:
Master’s in Education, School Counseling
City: Augusta, GA
Length: 60 credit hours
Modality: Online
Why This Program Is In Our Top 25:
The Augusta University M.Ed. provides students with the coursework and field experiences to become a licensed school counselor. Courses are offered in the evenings to accommodate working schedules.
Program Highlights:
- Coursework focuses on inclusive practices in schools.
- Schedule accommodates working professionals.
Estimated Total Tuition: $40,016
GRE Requirement: GRE scores are required for admission
Capella University
- Minneapolis, MN
- 90 quarter hours
- Online
Program:
Master of Science in School Counseling
City: Minneapolis, MN
Length: 90 quarter hours
Modality: Online
Why This Program Is In Our Top 25:
The M.S. in school counseling at Capella is certified both through CACREP and CAEP (Council for Accreditation of Educator Preparation). Students take 13 core courses, four specialization courses, and complete two internships, one practicum, and two residencies. The university provides support from academic coaches and internship coordinators. Students learn to act ethically, apply multicultural and social justice competencies, integrate theory and research to practice, and communicate effectively.
Program Highlights:
- Rigorous and relevant curriculum.
- The university provides individualized student support.
- Courses are available 24/7.
- Students showcase skills through assignments, not tests.
Estimated Total Tuition: $46,080
GRE Requirement: None
College of William and Mary
- Williamsburg, VA
- 3 years
- Online
Program:
Master of Education with a concentration in School Counseling
City: Williamsburg, VA
Length: 3 years
Modality: Online
Why This Program Is In Our Top 25:
The College of William and Mary has a strong reputation; it is ranked #23 in public schools with small class sizes (14 students). In the online M.Ed. progra,m students take coursework in school counseling through their dynamic learning management system. The focus is on developing social justice-minded, culturally responsive counselors. In addition to coursework, students complete a practicum and internship.
Program Highlights:
- Students take courses through a dynamic learning system.
- Students focus on social justice and cultural responsiveness.
- The average graduate class size is 14.
Estimated Total Tuition: $10,905 per year, in-state tuition
GRE Requirement: None
Eastern Carolina University
- Greenville, NC
- 60 credits
- Online
Program:
Master of Science in Counselor Education, School Counseling Concentration
City: Greenville, NC
Length: 60 credit hours
Modality: Online
Why This Program Is In Our Top 25:
The M.S. program provides students with flexibility to pursue their career interests. Students work with faculty who represent a variety of diverse perspectives, backgrounds, and research interests. The overarching goal of the ECU program is to promote human development and learning by preparing culturally competent professionals who can work with diverse populations. Students complete coursework online, though residencies are in person.
Program Highlights:
- The program supports students in developing their own personal styles and approaches to counseling.
- The program provides flexibility and personalization.
Estimated Total Tuition: $24,183, in-state tuition, not including fees
GRE Requirement: None
Emporia University
- Emporia, KS
- 60 credits
- Online
Program:
Master of Science, School Counseling
City: Emporia, KS
Length: 60 credit hours
Modality: Online
Why This Program Is In Our Top 25:
The M.S. program at Emporia State University is designed for students who work full-time. No teaching license is required to apply. Emporia has a long history of providing school counseling instruction; the program has trained counselors since 1947. Students learn from faculty who have extensive experience in counseling, including art therapy, rehabilitation, and mental health counseling.
Program Highlights:
- No teaching license is required.
- One of the most affordable programs.
- Emporia University has a long history of teaching and developing school counselors.
Estimated Total Tuition: $21,300 ($355 per credit hour, in-state tuition)
GRE Requirement: None
Florida State University
- Tallahassee, FL
- 60 credits
- Online
Program:
Master of Science in School Counseling
City: Tallahassee, FL
Length: 60 credit hours
Modality: Online
Why this Program is in Our Top 25:
The FSU school counseling program trains counselors who can serve students’ diverse needs and who can create, implement, and evaluate school-level school counseling programs. Students gain experience using data and working with community stakeholders. Upon graduation, students earn a master’s and specialist degree.
Program Highlights:
- Students learn how to collect and apply data analysis within counseling work.
- Students can earn a master’s and specialist degree.
Estimated Total Tuition: $28,759.20 ($479.32 per credit hour, in-state tuition)
GRE Requirement: None
Indiana University
- Indianapolis, IN
- 60 credits
- Online
Program:
Master of Science in Education, School Counseling
City: Indianapolis, IN
Length: 60 credit hours
Modality: Online
Why this Program is in Our Top 25:
The M.S. Ed at Indiana University takes an urban approach, focusing on outreach and counseling in urban schools. Students take online synchronous and asynchronous courses and complete two residencies each year. The short, in-person residencies build community and connect students as cohorts and with practitioners.
Program Highlights:
- The program focuses on working with students in urban school settings.
- Students complete short in-person residencies that closely align with coursework.
Estimated Total Tuition: $11,090 per year, for in-state students
GRE Requirement: None
Marshall University
- Huntington, WV
- 60 credits
- Online
Program:
Master of Arts in Counseling
City: Huntington, WV
Length: 60 credit hours
Modality: Online
Why This Program Is In Our Top 25:
The Marshall University M.A. program provides a mix of synchronous and asynchronous learning as students complete the requirements and move through the program. Students can move through the program at their own pace, some completing it in as little as 18 months.
Program Highlights:
- Students can complete the coursework at an accelerated pace if they choose.
- Marshall University has trained counselors since 1961.
- Courses are provided in a mix of synchronous and asynchronous modalities.
Estimated Total Tuition: $32,085 ($534.75 per credit hour, in-state tuition)
GRE Requirement: GRE scores are required for admission, with a minimum score of 286
Western New Mexico University
- Silver City, NM
- 60 credits
- Online
Program:
Master of Arts in Counseling, School Counseling concentration
City: Silver City, NM
Length: 60 credit hours
Modality: Online
Why This Program Is In Our Top 25:
The WNMU counseling master’s program can be completed in three years. Students take core coursework and four courses that are focused on school counseling. In addition to the New Mexico requirements, the program also prepares students to meet the National Board for Certified Counselors requirements for students who want to become rehabilitation counselors.
Program Highlights:
- Students are prepared to meetthe National Board for Certified Counselors requirements.
- The program focuses on developing skills that counselors need in multicultural settings.
Estimated Total Tuition: $20,637.60 ($343.96 per credit hour, in-state tuition, not including fees)
GRE Requirement: None
Wake Forest University
- Winston-Salem, NC
- 3 years
- Online
Program:
Master of School Counseling
City: Winston-Salem, NC
Length: 60 credit hours, 3 years
Modality: Online
Why this Program is in Our Top 25:
The online master’s in school counseling through Wake Forest University includes online 24/7 technical support and tutoring. The university has a network of university partners which students complete internships. Students learn from faculty who are recognized in the field. And, more than 90% of students pass the National Counselor Exam.
Program Highlights:
- Students have access to tutoring and online support.
- The program has a national exam pass rate of 90%
Estimated Total Tuition: $102,000 ($1,700 per credit hour, not including fees)
GRE Requirement: None
University of Alaska-Fairbanks
- Fairbanks, AK
- 60 credits
- Online
Program:
Master of Education, School Counseling
City: Fairbanks, AK
Length: 60 credit hours
Modality: Online
Why This Program Is In Our Top 25:
The UAF M.Ed. in school counseling provides online synchronous and asynchronous courses. Students complete coursework and a research-intensive project. Students have the opportunity to engage in service learning and perform and present research alongside faculty. The program is committed to training counselors who can support the needs of Alaska’s unique communities.
Program Highlights:
- The program focuses on developing students’ research skills.
- Students engage in multiple service learning and practicum experiences.
- Students learn how to meet the specific needs of Alaska’s indigenous students.
Estimated Total Tuition: $14,460 ($241 per credit hour, in-state students, not including fees)
GRE Requirement: None
Walsh University
- Canton, OH
- 60 credits
- Online
Program:
Master’s in School Counseling
City: Canton, OH
Length: 60 credit hours
Modality: Online
Why This Program Is In Our Top 25:
Students who complete the WU school counseling program spend 10 to 15 hours on coursework each week. Students take courses online and complete a practicum. The university provides each student with an advisor to support their educational progression.
Program Highlights:
- Courses are delivered 100% online; no on-campus experiences required.
- Five start times throughout the year.
- Walsh University is a Catholic university focused on service.
Estimated Total Tuition: $46,500 ($775 per credit hour, not including fees)
GRE Requirement: GRE is not required for students who have a GPA of 2.75 or higher
University of Holy Cross
- New Orleans, LA
- 60 credits
- Online
Program:
Master’s in School Counseling
City: New Orleans, LA
Length: 60 credit hours
Modality: Online
Why This Program Is In Our Top 25:
The UHC master’s program provides a balance of instruction, research, and public service. Students develop intellectually, spiritually, and culturally. Students have two or three online courses per week and can progress through the program at their own pace. In addition to online classes, students complete two on-campus residencies (starting fall 2026) and 700 hours of internship and practicum experience. The Law and Ethics in Counseling conference in New Orleans is an opportunity for UHC to present its work and research.
Program Highlights:
- Online coursework with two on-campus residencies
- Coursework is asynchronous, and accommodations are made for students who cannot attend synchronous sessions.
- Students complete a practicum via tele-health through the Thomas E. Chambers Counseling and Training Cente,r as well as additional practical experiences of their choosing.
Estimated Total Tuition: $45,600 ($760 per credit hour, not including fees)
GRE Requirement: None
St. Bonaventure University
- St. Bonaventure, NY
- 60 credits
- Online
Program:
Master of Science in Education in School Counseling
City: St. Bonaventure, NY
Length: 60 credit hours
Modality: Online
Why this Program is in Our Top 25:
The SBU program is ideal for students who are already working in counseling and who want to complete their licensure. Students take courses and apply what they learn during internships. The program boasts a 100% pass rate on the certification exam and a 100% employment rate. Upon graduation, students can elect to add an advanced certificate in clinical mental health counseling.
Program Highlights:
- The program has a 100% pass rate on the certification exam.
- Students can complete an additional certificate in clinical mental health counseling.
- Students can startin the spring, fall, or summer.
Estimated Total Tuition: $49,500 ($825 per credit hour, not including fees)
GRE Requirement: None
Auburn University
- Auburn, AL
- 60 credits
- Online
Program:
Master of Education, School Counseling
City: Auburn, AL
Length: 60 credit hours
Modality: Online
Why this Program is in Our Top 25:
In the Auburn University program, students complete coursework, practicum, and internships. Students are prepared to work with students in K-12 school settings.
Program Highlights:
- Students can complete the program full-time or part-time.
- Students take specialized courses in crisis counseling, child and adolescent counseling, and others.
Estimated Total Tuition: $38,400 ($640 per credit hour, not including fees)
GRE Requirement: None
Husson University
- Bangor, ME
- 60 credits
- Online
Program:
Master of Science in School Counseling
City: Bangor, ME
Length: 60 credit hours
Modality: Online
Why this Program is in Our Top 25:
The HU M.S. program provides coursework and internship experiences required to earn a master’s in school counseling. Students take courses in the afternoons and evenings.
Program Highlights:
- Students can complete the program full-time or part-time.
- All faculty are counselors who are currently engaged in school counseling.
- 91-100% of graduates have progressed to doctoral work or employment.
Estimated Total Tuition: $46,200 ($770 per credit hour, not including fees)
GRE Requirement: GRE is required if the applicant’s GPA is less than 3.0
Choosing the Right School Counseling Master’s Program for You
When you are researching master’s of school counseling programs, consider:
- Curriculum: Does the program offer coursework that aligns with your interests, such as working in diverse school environments, supporting students who have experienced trauma, or developing research skills?
- Fieldwork: Which fieldwork opportunities are available? And, who oversees the fieldwork? How is fieldwork incorporated into the overall experience?
- Reputation: Does the program have a strong reputation? What do alumni have to say about their experience? Are graduates employed, and what do employers have to say about graduates?
- Affordability: How affordable is the tuition, and what scholarships or assistantships are available?
- Accessibility: When are courses held? Are they delivered at a time that you can attend them? What is the workload per week? Can you manage the workload at this point in your life and career?
- Support: How does the program support students and graduates? What supports do you need, and does the university provide these supports?
Why choose a CACREP-accredited Master’s in School Counseling?
If you choose a CACREP-accredited master’s in school counseling, you can be assured that the program provides a high-quality, standardized education that meets national standards. This standardization offers a direct path to national certification. In addition, doctoral programs or employers may require or favor graduation from a CACREP-accredited program.
The benefits of a CACREP-accredited master’s program include:
- Quality education: Programs that have obtained CACREP accreditation have undergone an evaluation to ensure they meet rigorous standards.
- Clear path to licensure: Many states align their licensure requirements with CACREP standards.
- Professional credibility: CACREP-accredited programs often provide strong preparation, and employers may look for graduates from CACREP-accredited programs. Some employers specify their preference to hire CACREP-accredited graduates.
- Increased portability: Since CACREP is a national organization, if you want to transfer your license from one state to another, a CACREP program may be more widely recognized across states.
Next Steps
If you are interested in pursuing an online master’s in school counseling, research the requirements for certification in your state. Then, find an online program in your state or one that offers reciprocity that aligns with your goals, schedule, and requirements. Many programs offer information sessions or the option to talk with an admissions counselor before you apply. Consider the opportunities that each program offers, financial aid or assistantships offered, and how each program aligns with your ultimate career goals.
FAQs
Can I still be a school counselor if I do not complete a CACREP-accredited program?
There are master’s in school counseling programs that are not CACREP accredited; however, depending on your career goals, attending a CACREP-accredited program will provide confidence that your degree offers the requirements and knowledge needed to pass certification exams. Furthermore, if you plan on pursuing doctoral work in counseling, doctoral programs may require graduation from a CACREP-accredited program.
Are CACREP Accredited Online School Counseling programs the same as on campus programs?
Online programs are required to meet the same requirements and standards as on campus programs. The distinction comes in the amount of interaction with peers and faculty, and opportunities, like working in a university-based counseling center or engaging in research with faculty.
Do CACREP accredited programs cost more?
The cost to attend a CACREP accredited program is comparable to non-CACREP accredited programs. Cost to complete a master’s in school counseling depends on the university tuition and fees, which vary from program to program.