There are twelve public and private higher education institutions in Florida that offer masters programs in school counseling. There are numerous options located throughout the state, with some programs offered entirely online. Florida is home to a robust state school system with locations across the sunshine state, including Florida Atlantic University and Florida A&M. Private schools include Nova Southeastern University and Barry University. Most programs are CACREP-accredited and very few require applicants to submit their GRE scores. There are also many programs offered by public universities which means lower tuition costs. Keep reading to learn more about what Florida has to offer for prospective masters of school counseling students.
Florida School Counseling Programs Quick Facts
- Number of School Counseling Programs in Florida: 12
- CACREP-Accredited School Counseling Programs: 10
- Hybrid or Online School Counseling Programs in Florida: 4
- Tuition Cost Range: $14,188.44 – $101,920
- Average Cost of Tuition: $37,364
University of South Florida
- Tampa, FL
- 55 hours
- In-Person
Program:
Master of Arts
City: Tampa, FL
Modality: In-Person
Length: 55 credit hours
Tuition: $7,840 per semester assuming 18 credit hours. $23,955 estimated total program cost
Program Overview:
This program is not only accredited by CACREP, but also by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP), formerly known as NCATE. One unique course offering from the Master of Arts in Counselor Education at the University of South Florida program is “Online Services in Counseling and Helping Professions.”
Why We Like This Program:
- Students from diverse backgrounds are encouraged to apply as there are no prerequisite courses or undergraduate majors.
- This program is conducted in a cohort model so that students progress through their coursework with the same group of peers.
Additional Considerations:
- It is unclear if this program can be completed on a part-time basis.
Barry University
- Miami Shores, FL
- 60 hours
- Online + Hybrid
Program:
Master of Science
City: Miami Shores, FL
Modality: Online or Hybrid Model
Length: 60 credit hours
Tuition: $850 per credit hour, $51,000 estimated total program cost
Program Overview:
This program stands out for its flexibility; students can take classes completely online or through a hybrid model at either the Miami campus or the Bahamas campus. Additionally, Barry University’s Master of Science in Counseling program is CACREP-accredited and has no GRE requirement.
Why We Like This Program:
- Barry University is home to the CARE center which provides services to the local community and learning opportunities for students.
- There are three start dates available throughout the year.
- This program has a diverse faculty and an emphasis on social justice.
Additional Considerations:
- This program is designed to be completed in 2.5 years.
- At $850 per credit hour, this program has higher tuition than many others in Florida.
Florida A&M
- Tallahassee, FL
- 60 hours
- In-Person
Program:
Master of Science
City: Tallahassee, FL
Modality: In-person
Length: 60 credit hours
Tuition: $3,651 per semester assuming 9 credit hours, $24,340.20 total program cost
Program Overview:
Florida A&M is the #1 Public Historically Black College or University (HBCU) according to US News & World Report, making it an excellent choice for the right student. Its Master of Science in Counselor Education programs are all CACREP-accredited. There is also the option to add a thesis track to this program for 6 additional credits.
Why We Like This Program:
- There is the option to add a thesis track to this program for 6 additional credits.
- Students take classes on reading and ESOL students, which are valuable for school counselors.
Additional Considerations:
- It’s unclear if this program can be taken on a part-time basis.
Online School Counseling Masters Programs in Florida
There are two fully online school counseling masters degree programs in Florida. One is offered by a public university and the other by a private university. Keep reading to find out which online program is the best fit for you.
Florida State University
- Tallahassee, FL
- 60 hours
- Online
Program:
Dual Degree Master of Science & Education Specialist
City: Tallahassee, FL
Modality: Online
Length: 60 credit hours
Tuition: $444.26 per credit hour, $26,655.60 estimated total program cost
Program Overview:
The 100% online dual-degree program at Florida State University is CACREP-accredited. It’s designed to be completed in about three years on a part-time schedule to accommodate working students. GRE scores are usually required, however, this requirement has been waived for all graduate programs at Florida State University through the Fall of 2026.
Why We Like This Program:
- This dual-degree program is an excellent value at 60 credits and $444.26 per credit hour, especially since specialist degrees often result in higher pay.
- This program has a diverse student body.
Additional Considerations:
- All students must begin the program in the fall semester. The application deadline is March 1st.
Nova Southeastern University
- Fort Lauderdale, FL
- 48 hours
- Online
Program:
Master of Science
City: Fort Lauderdale, FL
Modality: Online
Length: 48 credit hours
Tuition: $925 per credit, $44,400 estimated total program cost
Program Overview:
Nova Southeastern University offers a comparably short master’s program in school counseling. The program is aligned with standards set forth by the American School Counseling Association (ASCA) and the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP).
Why We Like This Program:
- Nova Southeastern also offers a certificate-only option for those who are not seeking a master’s degree.
- All online students attend a three-day in-person residency.
Additional Considerations:
- This program is only accepting applicants from Florida who are seeking school counseling certification in Florida.
- All school counseling programs start in the fall semester.
CACREP Accredited School Counseling Programs in Florida
Ten of the school counseling masters programs in Florida are CACREP-accredited. This criteria helps to ensure that students receive a high-quality education. In addition to the programs listed below, these programs are also CACREP-accredited; Palm Beach Atlantic University, Florida International University, Florida State University, University of South Florida, Florida Gulf Coast University, Florida A&M, Barry University, and Florida Atlantic University.
University of Florida
- Gainesville, Florida
- 72 hours
- In-Person
Program:
Dual Degree Master of Education and Education Specialist
City: Gainesville, Florida
Modality: In-Person
Length: 72 credit hours
Tuition: $12,740 per semester, $101,920 estimated total program cost
Program Overview:
This program is the #1 Education Counseling Graduate School program in the country according to US News & World Report. The CACREP-accredited dual-degree track prepares students for certification in k-12 school settings in Florida. Having both the MEd and EdS degrees makes graduates competitive candidates for jobs and often results in higher salaries.
Why We Like This Program:
- The University of Florida has been repeatedly recognized for excellence, especially in its education programs.
- Students from the counselor education program recently participated in Gator Connect, a grant-funded program to improve mental health in schools.
- Students can attend this program on either a full-time or part-time basis.
Additional Considerations:
- This program is designed to be completed in 2.5 years.
- Students start their coursework in the fall semester. The application deadline is November 15th.
University of Central Florida
- Orlando, FL
- 60 hours
- In-Person
Program:
Master of Arts
City: Orlando, FL
Modality: In-Person
Length: 60 credit hours
Tuition: $369.65 per credit hour, $22,179 estimated total program cost
Program Overview:
Ranked #11 for Education Counseling Graduate Schools by US News & World Report, this CACREP-accredited Master of Arts in Counselor Education is an excellent choice for those in the Orlando area. One unique feature of this program is that students can choose to complete their practicum in the UCF Community Counseling and Research Center as opposed to a school setting.
Why We Like This Program:
- In addition to the MA program, the University of Central Florida offers a Master of Education in school counseling for certified educators to become school counselors.
- Students may choose to complete a thesis for six credits or take six credits worth of elective credits.
Additional Considerations:
- Students begin their coursework in the fall semester. The application deadline is February 1st.
- This program is competitive.
No GRE Required School Counseling Programs in Florida
Good news for anyone who hates taking tests! There are a total of eight school counseling masters programs in Florida that do not require GRE scores. In addition to the programs listed below, these programs also do not require the GRE; Florida Gulf Coast University, Barry University, University of South Florida, University of Florida, and Florida A&M University.
University of North Florida
- Jacksonville, FL
- 60 hours
- In-Person
Program:
Master of Education
City: Jacksonville, FL
Modality: In-person
Length: 60 credit hours
Tuition: $493.53 per credit hour, $29,611.80 estimated total program cost
Program Overview:
The Master of Education in Counselor Education with a concentration in School Counseling at the University of North Florida is built on a cohort model. This means that the same small group of students will take courses and progress through the program together. A cohort model offers benefits for networking and moral support while in graduate school.
Why We Like This Program:
- This program is CACREP-accredited.
- There are no GRE scores required for admission to this program.
Additional Considerations:
- It’s unclear if this program can be completed on a part-time basis.
Palm Beach Atlantic University
- West Palm Beach, FL & Orlando, FL
- 72 hours
- In-Person
Program:
Master of Science
City: West Palm Beach, FL & Orlando, FL
Modality: In-Person
Length: 72 credit hours
Tuition: $650 per credit hour, $46,800 estimated total program cost
Program Overview:
Palm Beach Atlantic University is a private Christian school with locations in both West Palm Beach and Orlando. The Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling has a concentration aimed at prospective school counselors. This program is also CACREP-accredited.
Why We Like This Program:
- Students have the option to also pursue another specialization in either play therapy, marriage and family studies, or crisis and trauma counseling.
- There is a certification-only option for those who already hold a master’s degree.
Additional considerations:
- This program is among the most expensive school counseling masters degree programs in Florida.
Florida International University
- Miami, FL
- 60 hours
- Online + In-Person + Hybrid
Program:
Master of Science
City: Miami, FL
Modality: Hybrid In-Person and Online
Length: 60 credit hours
Tuition: $4,101 per semester, $41,010 estimated total program cost
Program Overview:
This CACREP-accredited program is offered via a hybrid schedule, typically with three classes per semester. One or two of these classes are conducted online while the remaining class(es) is held in person. The curriculum focuses on diversity, with courses on sexuality and cross-cultural counseling.
Why We Like This Program:
- The Project Pathway scholarship covers up to 9 credits per semester in order to increase the number of school counselors in the Miami-Dade school district.
- The GRE is not required.
Additional Considerations:
- This program is designed to be completed within three years.
- Applicants must pass the Florida Teacher Certification General Knowledge exam.
Florida’s Most Affordable School Counseling Programs
For the most budget-conscious students, there are several affordable graduate school options in Florida. Since many schools that offer masters degrees in school counseling are public institutions, tuition is comparably lower to private schools. Students can also look into grants and scholarships to help fund their education.
Florida Gulf Coast University
- Fort Myers, FL
- 38 hours
- In-Person
Program:
Master of Arts
City: Fort Myers, FL
Modality: In-Person
Length: 38 credit hours
Tuition: $373.38 per credit hour, $14,188.44 total program cost
Program Overview:
The Master of Arts in School Counseling curriculum at Florida Gulf Coast University is recognized by the American School Counselor Association (ASCA). The coursework is catered to school counselors, with classes such as “School Counseling College and Career Development” and “Group Work for School Counselors.”
Why We Like This Program:
- Students in this program are provided with mentorship
- This program is CACREP-accredited.
- Even with low tuition, Florida Gulf Coast University offers scholarships for school counseling masters’ students.
Additional Considerations:
- This program is designed to be completed in two years.
- Students who are not certified teachers will have additional coursework.
Florida Atlantic University
- Boca Raton, FL
- 60 hours
- In-Person
Program:
Master of Education
City: Boca Raton, FL
Modality: In-Person
Length: 60 credit hours
Tuition: $371.82 per credit hour, $22,309.20 total program cost
Program Overview:
Florida Atlantic University is a public university with multiple campuses throughout South Florida. The Master of Education in School Counseling program is CACREP-accredited through 2032. While this program does require applicants to submit GRE scores, there is no required minimum score for acceptance into the program.
Why We Like This Program:
- This plan of study allows for students to take two electives
- FAU’s school counseling alumni boast a 100% rehire rate after graduation
- Up to 18 credits may be transferred from another program
Additional Considerations:
- Students who are not certified teachers will have additional coursework.
School Counseling in Florida
The Sunshine State is one of the fastest-growing states in the country and has the highest net migration of any state. With such a population boom, it makes sense that five of the ten largest school districts in the United States are located in Florida.
The Sunshine State is one of the fastest-growing states in the country and has the highest net migration of any state. With such a population boom, it makes sense that five of the ten largest school districts in the United States are located in Florida.
Florida is a diverse border state. In some school districts, such as Miami-Dade, there are large immigrant populations. Fluency in a second language is especially valuable, particularly if that language is Spanish, Portuguese, or Haitian Creole.
In the wake of the tragedy at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, FL, many school districts across the state have invested heavily in more school counselors and additional mental health support services for students. Combined with the increase in population, there is often a high demand for school counselors.
School Counselor Certification in Florida
Candidates for certification will need a master’s degree, ideally in school counseling (although there is an alternate path for those with a different master’s degree). They must have a minimum of 600 hours of a supervised internship. School counselors in Florida are automatically certified to work with all age groups, pre-k to 12. More information can be found here.
FAQs
How much does a school counselor make in Florida?
School counselors in Florida are usually paid on the same pay scale as teachers. Florida ranks last at 50th in the nation for teacher pay (and subsequently, school counselor pay). The average salary is approximately $53,000 but varies slightly between school districts.
How long does it take to become a school counselor in Florida?
Graduate school counseling programs are typically completed within 2 to 3 years. Students who do not already possess a valid Florida teacher certificate may have to complete some additional coursework depending on their program requirements.
What is the best school counseling masters program in Florida?
Florida has several excellent options for school counseling masters programs. University of Florida is ranked #1 by US News & World Report for Education Counseling and offers a dual-degree program. Florida State University’s dual-degree program is more flexible as it’s entirely online. Florida A&M University and the University of Central Florida are also highly ranked. For those who prioritize low costs, Florida Gulf Coast University is the most affordable option.
