There are 40 public and private institutions in Texas offering masters degrees in school counseling. If you are interested in becoming a school counselor, Texas colleges and universities have you covered. From private Christian schools, like Southwestern Adventist University and East Texas Baptist University, to massive state schools like Texas Tech and Texas A&M, there is something for everyone in the Lone Star State.
Though some of the school counseling masters programs still require two years of teaching experience to apply, there are many options from which to choose, including fully online, hybrid, and CACREP-accredited programs. More than ever, it is easier to join this growing and influential profession. Read below to find the best school counseling masters program for you.
The Texas Education Agency defines school counselors as collaborators with families, educators, and the community to ensure student needs are addressed. Through the implementation of a comprehensive curriculum, providing responsive services, and individual student planning, counselors provide valuable support to their school communities. Texas is home to 40 school counseling masters degree programs, and the following are a sample of the diverse array of options available.
Texas School Counseling Programs Quick Facts
- Number of School Counseling Programs in Texas: 40
- CACREP-Accredited School Counseling Programs: 12
- Hybrid or Online School Counseling Programs in Texas: 23
- Tuition Cost Range: $7,056 – $79,560
- Average Cost of Tuition: $24,359
Dallas Baptist University
- Dallas
- 48 hours
- In-Person
City: Dallas
Modality: In person
Degree: Master of Education
Length: 48 hours
Tuition: $12,429 per semester, $49,716 estimated total program cost
Program Overview:
Located in the bustling city of Dallas, this in-person program provides thorough instruction in the delivery and implementation of a comprehensive school counseling program. Taught through the Christian lens of servant-leadership, graduates quickly find employment in the public and private schools of the Dallas-Fort Worth area.
Why We Like This Program:
- This program does not require a thesis. However, students do complete a “defense of degree” capstone project.
- Students in this program have consistently high exam pass rates.
Additional Considerations:
- Applicants are required to submit a statement of moral character that shows that they are compatible with Dallas Baptist University’s values. It’s unclear if this is religious or not.
- This program is not CACREP-accredited.
Lubbock Christian University
- Lubbock
- 60 hours
- Hybrid
City: Lubbock
Modality: Hybrid
Degree: Master of Science
Length: 60 credit hours
Tuition: $6,840 per semester, $27,360 estimated total program cost
Program Overview:
Featuring a curriculum that covers counseling theory and skills, support for multicultural populations, classroom guidance delivery, ethics, and current research and practices, Lubbock Christian University’s school counseling masters program is a comprehensive option for prospective students. Furthermore, the program has a 100% pass rate on the state certification exam for school counselors.
Why We Like These Programs:
- This program has a 100% pass rate on the state certification exam for school counselors.
- Lubbock Christian University is a good option for those seeking a faith-based education.
Additional Considerations:
- This program is not CACREP-accredited.
Nelson University
- Waxahachie
- 48 hours
- Online
City: Waxahachie
Modality: Online
Degree: Master of Education
Length: 48 credit hours
Tuition: $14,005 per semester, $56,020 estimated total program cost
Program Overview:
Nelson University is a private, Christian institution located in Waxahachie, just south of Dallas. Designed to be flexible for working individuals, this online program focuses on supporting diverse student populations through all developmental phases and can be completed in three years.
Why We Like This Program:
- Career services, networking events, and faculty mentorship are available to assist with job placement.
- This program emphasizes cultural competency in order to serve diverse student populations.
Additional Considerations:
- Standardized test scores and a statement of faith are required as part of the application materials for this program.
Southwestern Adventist University
- Keene
- 60 hours
- In-Person
City: Keene
Modality: In person
Degree: Master of Arts
Length: 60 credit hours
Tuition: $9,270 per semester, $37,080 estimated total program cost
Program Overview:
Southern Adventist University’s school counseling masters program emphasizes the mental and behavioral health aspects of the school-age population. By combining instruction in school-wide programming and individual and small group counseling, this in-person program trains its students to apply theory and research into practice.
Why We Like This Program:
- Southwestern Adventist University is ranked #17 (out of 104) in US News & World Report’s “Best Regional Colleges West” list.
- This program is structured to accommodate working students.
Additional Considerations:
- This program requires GRE scores to be submitted.
Texas A&M University Central
- Killeen
- 60 hours
- In-Person
City: Killeen
Modality: In person
Degree: Master of Science
Length: 60 credit hours
Tuition: In-state $3,018 per semester; $12,072 estimated total program cost
Program Overview:
Located in Killeen, Texas A&M University Central’s in-person program trains school counselors to be skilled at providing support to diverse populations. Along with theory and practice, this masters program is committed to graduating counselors with a strong sense of professional identity.
Why We Like This Program:
- This program prepares students to become Licensed Professional Counselors (LPCs) with additional coursework to become school counselors. This opens up numerous career possibilities beyond school counseling.
- This program is CACREP-accredited.
Additional Considerations:
- Students can begin this program in the fall, spring, or summer semester. The application deadlines are July 1st, November 1st, and April 1st, respectively.
Texas Southern University
- Houston
- 60 hours
- Online + In-Person
City: Houston
Modality: Online and In-person available
Degree: Master of Education
Length: 60 credit hours
Tuition: In-state $1,781 per semester; $7,124 estimated total program cost
Program Overview:
Texas Southern University is the nation’s 9th-largest HBCU. Located in Houston, the university is both flexible and affordable, as it offers enrollment in either an in-person or online school counseling masters program. Applicants must provide a teaching record to be accepted into either program.
Why We Like This Program:
- At under $2,000 per semester, Texas Southern is remarkably affordable.
- This program offers a valuable perspective, with a courses such as “History of Black Education in America.”
Additional Considerations:
- Applicants must provide a teaching record to be accepted into either program.
Texas Tech University
- Lubbock
- 48 hours
- In-Person
City: Lubbock
Modality: In person
Degree: Master of Education
Length: 48 credit hours
Tuition: In-state $2,826 per semester; $11,304 estimated total program cost
Program Overview:
The 10th largest city in Texas, Lubbock is the birthplace of rock-and-roll pioneer Buddy Holly and the home of Texas Tech University. TTU’s school counseling masters program prepares students to work in public and private settings and its curriculum emphasizes the implementation of the American School Counseling Association’s national model.
Why We Like This Program:
- The GRE score requirement is temporarily suspended, but prospective students should check with the office of admissions for the most updated information.
- This program is CACREP-accredited.
Additional Considerations:
- Two years of prior teaching experience are required to enroll in the program.
Texas Wesleyan University
- Fort Worth
- 60 hours
- Online
City: Fort Worth
Modality: Online
Degree: Master of Arts
Length: 60 credit hours
Tuition: $8,460 per semester, $33,840 estimated total program cost
Program Overview:
Texas Wesleyan’s school counseling masters program is attractive to individuals seeking a flexible schedule. Counseling theories, crisis intervention, advocacy for diverse populations, and building a comprehensive school counseling program are among the knowledge and skills presented through hybrid delivery.
Why We Like This Program:
- Classes are held on weeknights and weekends to accommodate working students.
- This program offers study abroad options.
Additional Considerations:
- GRE scores are required for admission to this program.
University of Houston
- Houston
- 60 hours
- In-Person
City: Houston
Modality: In person
Degree: Master of Education
Length: 60 credit hours
Tuition: In-state $4,401 per semester; $17,604 estimated total program cost
Program Overview:
The University of Houston’s masters program integrates practical skill application with theory and research. Graduates are prepared to support diverse populations in the greater Houston area and beyond.
Why We Like This Program:
- This program is designed to be completed in two years.
- Students may qualify for the Graduate Tuition Fellowship to help offset costs.
Additional Considerations:
- The program application requires two years of teaching experience.
University of Houston Clear Lake
- Houston
- 60 hours
- In-Person
City: Houston
Modality: In person
Degree: Master of Science
Length: 60 credit hours
Tuition: In-state $1,764 per semester; $7,056 estimated total program cost
Program Overview:
Located between Houston and Clear Lake, this in-person school counseling masters program encourages the development of practical counseling skills along with professional identity. The curriculum centers on building the academic, social, and career development of students through the delivery of a comprehensive school counseling program.
Why We Like This Program:
- Graduates of this program will be able to use this degree to work towards becoming a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC).
- The GRE is not required for applicants with an undergraduate degree of 3.0 or higher.
Additional Considerations:
- This program is not CACREP-accredited.
Online School Counseling Masters Programs in Texas
Online masters degree programs are an attractive and flexible option for individuals hoping to advance their education or move into another career. With technology and learning platforms evolving and increasingly accessible, a masters degree is within your reach. The following are among the 15 Texas colleges and universities that offer online school counseling masters programs.
Angelo State University
- San Angelo
- 48 hours
- Online
City: San Angelo
Modality: Online
Degree: Master of Education
Length: 48 credit hours
Tuition: In-state $7,508 per semester; $30,032 estimated total program cost.
Program Overview:
With a curriculum aligned to the Texas Model for Comprehensive School Counseling Program, San Angelo’s fully online masters program prepares future practitioners by building knowledge and skills to support diverse school settings. The program boasts a nearly 100% pass rate on Texas’s school counseling certification exam.
Why We Like This Program:
- Graduates of this program will be eligible to become a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with just six additional courses.
- The GRE is not required.
Additional Considerations:
- This program is not CACREP-accredited.
Houston Christian University
- Houston
- 48 hours
- Online
City: Houston
Modality: Online
Degree: Master of Education
Length: 48 credit hours
Tuition: $5,880 per semester, $23,520 estimated total program cost
Program Overview:
Houston Christian University’s school counseling masters program allows prospective students to choose between two delivery methods–in-person or online. The program teaches future school counselors to serve and support students through all levels of development. Two years of teaching experience are a prerequisite for the application.
Why We Like This Program:
- Students in this program can be eligible to become a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) for 12 additional credits.
- Students can complete this program on a full-time or part-time basis.
Additional Considerations:
- Two years of teaching experience are a prerequisite for the application.
Lamar University
- Beaumont
- 60 hours
- Online
City: Beaumont
Modality: Online
Degree: Master of Education
Length: 60 credit hours
Tuition: $21,604 estimated total program cost
Program Overview:
Lamar University’s online school counseling masters program combines traditional school counseling preparation with research and clinical training. The program places emphasis on identifying appropriate interventions for students diagnosed with or at risk for behavioral disorders, teaching future practitioners to coordinate collaboration among schools, community providers, and families.
Why We Like This Program:
- No teaching experience required.
- There are multiple start dates available throughout the year.
Additional Considerations:
- This program includes an in-person residency.
Midwestern State University
- Wichita Falls
- 63 hours
- Online
City: Wichita Falls
Modality: Online
Degree: Master of Arts
Length: 63 credit hours
Tuition: In-state $4,034 per semester; $20,170 estimated total program cost
Program Overview:
Midwestern State University’s school counseling masters program prepares its graduates with the education, skills, and experience to serve public schools. Two years of classroom teaching are required for application to this fully online program.
Why We Like This Program:
- This program is CACREP-accredited.
- Students will be required to attend two in-person residencies.
Additional Considerations:
- Two years of classroom teaching are required for application to this fully online program.
Our Lady of the Lake University
- San Antonio
- 60 hours
- Online
City: San Antonio
Modality: Online
Degree: Master of Arts
Length: 60 credit hours
Tuition: $991 per credit hour, $59,460 estimated total program cost
Program Overview:
A private, Catholic institution located in San Antonio, Our Lady of the Lake University’s school counseling masters program is structured around the American School Counseling Association’s national model. With a focus on academic, emotional, and career development, program management, and crisis intervention, graduates are equipped to support student success.
Why We Like This Program:
- This program is designed to be completed in 40 months.
Additional Considerations:
- Applicants are required to submit scores from either the GRE or the Miller Analogies Test for admission to this online program.
- There is very limited information on the program website about this program. Prospective students should contact the school directly for more information.
Sul Ross State University
- Alpine
- 48 hours
- Online
City: Alpine
Modality: Online
Degree: Master of Education
Length: 48 credit hours
Tuition: In-state $1,523 per semester; $6,092 estimated total program cost
Program Overview:
Located in the heart of West Texas, Sul Ross University is a designated Hispanic Serving Institution (HSI) with an affordable, comprehensive online school counseling masters program. Two years of classroom experience are required for application, and graduates leave prepared to serve school systems, communities, and diverse student populations.
Why We Like This Program:
- At under $2,000 per semester, Sul Ross State University has a very low cost for graduate tuition.
- Students can enroll in this program during any term.
Additional Considerations:
- While the Clinical Mental Health program is CACREP-accredited, the School Counseling program is not.
Texas A&M International University
- Laredo
- 48 hours
- Online
City: Laredo
Modality: Online
Degree: Master of Science
Length: 48 credit hours
Tuition: In-state $3,303 per semester; $13,212 estimated total program cost
Program Overview:
Texas A&M International University’s online school counseling masters program provides students with the tools needed to become effective practitioners. The curriculum spotlights counseling multicultural and diverse populations, identifying appropriate interventions, facilitating student growth, and implementing a school counseling program.
Why We Like This Program:
- This program can be completed in as little as 16 months.
- There are six start dates available to enroll in this program.
Additional Considerations:
- Two years of teaching experience are a prerequisite for admission into the program.
Texas A&M University College Station
- College Station
- 48 hours
- Online
City: College Station
Modality: Online
Degree: Master of Education
Length: 48 credit hours
Tuition: $30,000 estimated total program cost
Program Overview:
The flagship institution of the Texas A&M University system, the College Station campus is home to an online MEd program preparing future school counselors. Through synchronous and asynchronous learning, students can earn a masters degree in Psychology with an emphasis on School Counseling and are eligible to sit for the state certification exam upon graduation.
Why We Like This Program:
- This program accepts students from out-of-state and has no residency requirements.
- Teaching experience is not required.
Additional Considerations:
- This program is not CACREP-accredited.
Texas A&M University Kingsville
- Kingsville
- 60 hours
- Online
City: Kingsville
Modality: Online
Degree: Master of Science
Length: 60 credit hours
Tuition: In-state $6,157 per semester, $30,785 estimated total program cost
Program Overview:
Texas A&M University Kingsville, located southeast of San Antonio, provides students with the necessary competencies to be successful as school counselors in a variety of settings. Multicultural competence, experiential skills, and professional practice are emphasized in this fully online program.
Why We Like This Program:
- This program is CACREP-accredited.
- The GRE is not required.
Additional Considerations:
- This program can be started in either the summer or fall semester.
Texas Christian University
- Fort Worth
- 48 hours
- Online
City: Fort Worth
Modality: Online
Degree: Master of Education
Length: 48 credit hours
Tuition: $19,890 per semester, $79,560 estimated total program cost
Program Overview:
Texas Christian University’s school counseling masters program prides itself on its rigorous curriculum and delivery. Using a solution-focused lens, TCU’s online program trains future school counselors to be collaborators, program managers, relationship-builders, and leaders.
Why We Like This Program:
- School counseling students qualify for the Pathways To Purpose Scholarship to offset up to $69,000 of tuition costs.
- Applicants can opt to submit GRE scores, but it is not required.
Additional Considerations:
- Transfer credits are not accepted.
University of Texas Tyler
- Tyler
- 48 hours
- Online
City: Tyler
Modality: Online
Degree: Master of Arts
Length: 48 credit hours
Tuition: $24,132 estimated total program cost
Program Overview:
With a 100% pass rate on the state certification exam, the University of Texas Tyler’s school counseling masters degree program equips graduates to be agents of change. This online program emphasizes the development of counseling skills and the ability to apply current research into practice.
Why We Like This Program:
- Texas full-time teachers are eligible for a first semester scholarship to pursue school counseling.
- Courses are both synchronous and asynchronous.
Additional Considerations:
- The GRE is required for admission to this program.
West Texas A&M University
- Amarillo
- 48 hours
- Online
City: Amarillo
Modality: Online
Degree: Master of Education
Length: 48 credit hours
Tuition: In-state $1,461 per semester; $8,766 estimated total program cost
Program Overview:
West Texas A&M University’s school counseling masters program prepares future practitioners to serve diverse and multicultural learners. Advocacy, supporting students overcoming individual and systemic barriers, and the implementation of a school-wide counseling program model are emphasized in this fully online program.
Why We Like This Program:
- For 60 credit hours, students can pursue school counseling and become a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC).
- The GRE is not required.
Additional Considerations:
- This program is designed to be completed in three to five years.
East Texas A&M University
- Commerce
- 48 hours
- Hybrid
City: Commerce
Modality: Hybrid
Degree: Master of Science
Length: 48 credit hours
Tuition: In-state $3,669 per semester; Out-of-state $7,341 per semester
Program Overview:
This hybrid program effectively equips its students to thrive in diverse school environments. Combining online coursework with in-person delivery at the Dallas, Mesquite, and McKinney campus sites, East Texas A&M’s school counseling masters graduates are prepared to take the TExES, the state’s school counseling certification exam.
Why We Like This Program:
- This program can be completed in three to five years.
- Students receive direct mentorship from their advisor.
Additional Considerations:
- This program will no longer be CACREP-accredited from Fall 2025 onward.
CACREP Accredited School Counseling Masters Programs in Texas
The Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs, or CACREP, ensures counseling preparation programs meet standards for quality. Graduating from a CACREP-accredited program can be an advantage, as employers look to hire school counselors who have succeeded in academically rigorous environments. Texas is home to 12 CACREP-accredited school counseling masters degree programs.
Sam Houston State University
- Huntsville
- 60 hours
- In-Person
City: Huntsville
Modality: In person
Degree: Master of Education
Length: 60 credit hours
Tuition: $4,476 per semester, $17,904 estimated total cost
Program Overview:
Located in Huntsville, Sam Houston State University’s school counseling masters program is driven by outcomes. Graduates prepare to serve K-12 students by applying theory to practice, communicating effectively, and developing a strong professional identity. Two years of teaching experience are required for admission into the program.
Why We Like This Program:
- Students in this program are eligible to become Licensed Professional Counselors (LPCs).
- The GRE is not required.
Additional Considerations:
- The application deadline is May 1st for a fall semester start.
Southern Methodist University
- Dallas
- 63 hours
- In-Person
City: Dallas
Modality: In person
Degree: Master of Science
Length: 63 credit hours
Tuition: $6,750 per semester, $33,750 estimated total program cost
Program Overview:
SMU’s in-person program equips its students with the critical thinking skills and professional competencies to be successful in school settings. With its emphasis on supporting and empowering multicultural populations, the program has an 86% completion rate and 87% post-graduation employment rate.
Why We Like This Program:
- The coursework in this program is LGBTQ friendly, even offering a counseling track in LGBTQ Affirmative Therapy.
- Southern Methodist University’s counseling program is ranked top 5 in the nation by Best Value Schools.
Additional Consideration:
- Applicants to this program should have an undergraduate degree in psychology, sociology, social work, ministry work, or education.
Texas A&M University Corpus Christi
- Corpus Christi
- 60 hours
- In-Person
City: Corpus Christi
Modality: In person
Degree: Master of Science
Length: 60 hours
Tuition: In-state $4,986 per semester; $19,944 estimated total program cost
Program Overview:
Texas A&M Corpus Christi’s school counseling masters program provides a comprehensive curriculum and experiential training for future practitioners. Coursework on human development, program implementation, and counseling skills prepares students to make impactful and positive change in their communities.
Why We Like This Program:
- The program boasts a 100% pass rate for the state credentialing exam and a 100% post-graduation employment rate.
- Students will also be eligible to become Licensed Professional Counselors (LPCs).
Additional Considerations:
- Students may start this program in the fall, spring, or summer semesters. The application deadlines are June 1st, November 1st, and March 1st, respectively.
Texas A&M San Antonio
- San Antonio
- 60 hours
- In-Person
City: San Antonio
Modality: In person
Degree: Master of Arts
Length: 60 credit hours
Tuition: In-state $3,323 per semester; $16,615 estimated total program cost
Program Overview:
With a 12:1 student-to-teacher ratio, Texas A&M San Antonio provides an inclusive education for aspiring school counselors. Building upon a strong counseling theoretical foundation the program develops students’ practical and professional skills with the goal for graduates to serve all populations and ages.
Why We Like This Program:
- The program has a 100% credentialing exam pass rate.
- Students of all backgrounds are encouraged to apply as there are no prerequisites or teaching experience required.
Additional Considerations:
- School counseling students in this program are not eligible to become Licensed Professional Counselors (LPCs).
Texas State University
- San Marcos
- 60 hours
- In-Person
City: San Marcos
Modality: In person
Degree: Master of Arts
Length: 60 credit hours
Tuition: $2,316 per semester, $11,580 estimated total program cost
Program Overview:
Located in the Texas Hill Country, Texas State University’s school counseling masters program offers a foundational counseling curriculum along with courses in play therapy and psychopathology. The in-person delivery allows for experiential learning and collaboration, building highly skilled and knowledgeable school counselors.
Why We Like This Program:
- Students in the school counseling program will be eligible to become Licensed Professional Counselors (LPCs).
- This program is designed to be completed in 2.5 to 3 years on a full-time schedule.
Additional Considerations:
- Competitive GRE scores are required for admission to this program.
Texas Women’s University
- Denton
- 50 hours
- Online
City: Denton
Modality: Online
Degree: Master of Education
Length: 50 credit hours
Tuition: $5,184 per semester, $20,736 estimated total program cost
Program Overview:
Texas Women’s University’s online school counseling masters program boasts small class sizes, collaborative coursework, and training in critical research analysis and crisis intervention. The program also has 100% completion and post-graduation employment rates.
Additional Considerations:
- This program is currently not accepting new students.
University of Houston Victoria
- Victoria
- 60 hours
- Online
City: Victoria
Modality: Online
Degree: Master of Science
Length: 60 credit hours
Tuition: In-state $3,510 per semester; $17,550 estimated total program cost
Program Overview:
This highly regarded program offers students a foundational curriculum in counseling and human development, along with practical coursework in program development, collaborating in a school environment, and ethics. The University of Houston Victoria’s online school counseling program has 100% completion and credentialing exam pass rates and a 100% post-graduation employment rate.
Why We Like This Program:
- Students in the school counseling program will be eligible to become Licensed Professional Counselors (LPCs).
- The program is recognized for its innovative pathway and pipeline programs for underrepresented populations and veterans seeking degrees in counseling.
Additional Considerations:
- This program requires applicants to submit their GRE scores.
University of North Texas Denton
- Denton
- 60 hours
- In-Person
City: Denton
Modality: In person
Degree: Master of Science
Length: 60 credit hours
Tuition: In-state $4,620 per semester; $23,100 estimated total program cost
Program Overview:
With an esteemed faculty and a reputation among the best in national educator preparation, future school counselors may be interested in the University of North Texas Denton. This in-person program builds professional and marketable skills for graduates to succeed in school settings: advocacy, leadership, program implementation, and data analysis.
Why We Like This Program:
- Interesting research topics in this department include suicide prevention, mental health services for low-income clients, counseling and play therapy in schools, near-death experiences and spiritual transformation.
- GRE scores are not required.
Additional Considerations:
- Two years of teaching experience are required for admission into the program.
University of North Texas Dallas
- Dallas
- 60 hours
- Hybrid
City: Dallas
Modality: Hybrid
Degree: Master of Science
Length: 60 credit hours
Tuition: In-state $2,801 per semester; $14,005 estimated total program cost
Program Overview:
UNT Dallas’ hybrid school counseling masters program trains future practitioners to be advocates for students’ academic, emotional, and social development. Through the lens of educational equity, the program’s graduates are prepared to be change agents in their school communities.
Why We Like This Program:
- From 2020-2024, 100% of students in this program have passed the School Counselor Exam.
- GRE scores are not required for admission to this program.
Additional Considerations:
- Students can begin this program in either the fall or spring semester. The application deadlines are April 1st and October 1st, respectively.
University of Texas Rio Grande Valley
- Edinburg
- 60 hours
- In-Person
City: Edinburg
Modality: In person
Degree: Master of Education
Length: 60 credit hours
Tuition: In-state $4,335 per semester; $21,675 estimated total program cost
Program Overview:
Among the competencies built into UTRGV’s school counseling masters program are leadership, advocacy, professional counseling skills, program development, and providing direct and indirect services to students. The program boasts 100% credentialing exam pass rates and 100% post-graduation employment.
Why We Like This Program:
- The program boasts 100% credentialing exam pass rates and 100% post-graduation employment.
- UTRGV offers a $1,000 scholarship for graduate students.
Additional Considerations:
- School counseling students in this program are not eligible to become Licensed Professional Counselors (LPCs).
University of Texas San Antonio
- San Antonio
- 60 hours
- In-Person
City: San Antonio
Modality: In person
Degree: Master of Education
Length: 60 credit hours
Tuition: $9,906 per semester, $39,624 estimated total program cost
Program Overview:
The University of Texas San Antonio trains future school counselors to organize and assess comprehensive programs for students in K-12 schools. 100% of students earn their masters degree within 5 years of enrolling, and the program has a 100% post-graduation employment rate.
Why We Like This Program:
- Most classes are offered from 6:00 PM – 8:45 PM to accommodate working students.
- GRE scores are not required for admission to this program.
Additional Considerations:
- Two years of teaching are required to apply.
No GRE Required School Counseling Masters Programs in Texas
The GRE, or the Graduate Record Examination, was a mainstay in graduate program admissions. Since COVID-19, the accessibility and equity of this assessment have been scrutinized, leading many programs to drop this requirement from their admissions process. Though nine school counseling masters programs in Texas require submission of the GRE (Dallas Baptist University, Our Lady of the Lake University, Texas State University, Texas Southern University, Texas Tech University, University of Houston Clear Lake, Texas Wesleyan University, and University of Texas Tyler), 32 programs do not. The schools below are among those that do not require a GRE for application into their school counseling masters programs.
Amberton University
- Garland
- 48 hours
- Hybrid
City: Garland
Modality: Hybrid
Degree: Master of Arts
Length: 48 credit hours
Tuition: $2,925 per semester, $14,625 estimated total program cost
Program Overview:
Amberton University’s hybrid school counseling masters program encourages prospective counselors to employ a data-driven approach in supporting students’ academic, emotional, and career development. This hybrid program blends online learning with on-ground delivery at the Garland campus, and graduates are eligible to sit for the Texas school counselor certification exam.
Why We Like This Program:
- Amberton University’s motto is “a university dedicated to working adults.”
- Applicants do not need teaching experience or a specific undergraduate degree to be admitted to this program.
Additional Considerations:
- School counseling students in this program are not eligible to become Licensed Professional Counselors (LPCs).
East Texas Baptist University
- Marshall
- 48 hours
- Hybrid
City: Marshall
Modality: Hybrid
Degree: Master of Education
Length: 48 credit hours
Tuition: $3,735 per semester, $18,675 estimated total program cost
Program Overview:
East Texas Baptist University’s school counseling masters program integrates foundational counseling practices with faith-based principles. In this hybrid program, learners explore human and career development, research and program evaluation, and legal and ethical issues in school counseling.
Why We Like This Program:
- GRE scores are not required for admission to this program.
- Students who already have a master’s degree can opt for a certification-only option for 12 to 15 credits.
Additional Considerations:
- The application for this program requires a color photo of the applicant with a lot of specifications, which is not typical for a graduate program.
Prairie View A&M University
- Prairie View
- 48 hours
- In-Person
City: Prairie View
Modality: In person
Degree: Master of Arts
Length: 48 credit hours
Tuition: In-state $3,996 per semester; $19,980 estimated total program cost
Program Overview:
The largest HBCU in Texas, Prairie View A&M University, trains future school counselors by building on the foundation of prior teaching experience. The program requires two years of classroom teaching to enroll, and students are trained in counseling skills, program development, and data analysis.
Why We Like This Program:
- This program is not CACREP-accredited but bases its curriculum on CACREP standards.
Additional Considerations:
- The program requires two years of classroom teaching to enroll.
University of Texas El Paso
- El Paso
- 60 hours
- In-Person
City: El Paso
Modality: In person
Degree: Master of Education
Length: 60 credit hours
Tuition: In-state $3,450 per semester; $17,250 estimated total program cost
Program Overview:
The University of Texas El Paso’s school counseling masters program goal is to train future school counselors to be proficient communicators, collaborators, and advocates. Designed primarily for individuals planning to serve in public schools, the empowerment of diverse communities and multicultural counseling competencies are highlighted throughout this in-person degree program.
Why We Like This Program:
- This program can be completed on a full-time or part-time schedule.
- Students can begin this program in either the fall or spring semester.
Additional Considerations:
- The program requires two years of classroom teaching to enroll.
University of Texas Permian Basin
- Odessa
- 60 hours
- In-Person
City: Odessa
Modality: In person
Degree: Master of Arts
Length: 60 credit hours
Tuition: In-state $2,466 per semester; $12,330 estimated total program cost
Program Overview:
Located in West Texas, the University of Texas Permian Basin’s school counseling masters program builds counseling skills, competency in research and data analysis, program implementation, and emphasizes service to diverse student populations.
Why We Like This Program:
- The in-person program has a 100% post-graduation job placement rate.
- This program is currently undergoing the CACREP-accreditation process.
Additional Considerations:
- The program requires two years of classroom teaching to enroll.
Wayland Baptist University
- Plainview
- 48 hours
- Hybrid
City: Plainview
Modality: Hybrid
Degree: Master of Arts
Length: 48 credit hours
Tuition: $7,542 per semester, $30,168 estimated total program cost
Program Overview:
Located north of Lubbock, Wayland Baptist University’s School is ideal for students seeking flexibility while earning their masters degree in school counseling. The hybrid program admits applicants with two years of classroom teaching experience and prepares students to take the state school counseling certification exam.
Why We Like This Program:
- Wayland Baptist University is a Hispanic Serving Institution.
- Wayland Baptist University is recognized for serving military members and their families.
Additional Considerations:
- The program requires two years of classroom teaching to enroll.
Texas’s Most Affordable School Counseling Masters Programs
Texas has a wide range of affordable school counseling masters degree programs. Of the state’s 40 options, West Texas A&M University’s online MEd program is the most affordable for both Texas residents and out-of-state students.
Accelerated Texas School Counseling Masters Programs
Though there are no designated accelerated school counseling masters programs in Texas, 19 of the 40 programs require 48 credit hours to complete.
- Amberton University
- Angelo State University
- Dallas Baptist University
- East Texas A&M University
- East Texas Baptist University
- Houston Christian University
- Nelson University
- Prairie View A&M University
- Sul Ross State University
- Texas A&M International University
- Texas A&M University College Station
- Texas A&M University Kingsville
- Texas Christian University
- Texas Tech University
- Texas Wesleyan University
- University of Houston Clear Lake
- University of Texas Tyler
- Wayland Baptist University
School Counseling In Texas
At over 268,000 square miles, the saying “Everything is Bigger in Texas” certainly rings true. The Lone Star State is the second-largest state in the country and one of the most populous. Of the 31 million people who call Texas home, over 5.5 million of those residents are PK-12 students.
Spanning Texas’s vast landscape are over 9,000 public schools in 1,207 school districts. With an additional 1,200 private schools, the state has taken steps to ensure students can access academic, social-emotional, and career exploration support. Until recently, school counseling certification in Texas required two years of classroom teaching experience, completion of a school counseling Educator Preparation Program, and passing the certification exam. In 2023, the two-year teaching requirement was eliminated, paving the way for more individuals to pursue a career in school counseling.
School Counselor Certification In Texas
The Texas Educational Authority (TEA) is in charge of school counseling certification. Candidates for certification must possess a master’s degree in school counseling and an additional school counseling preparatory program (EPP). The EPP covers Texas-specific standards. School counselors must also pass the necessary exam, School Counselor: Early Childhood Grade 12 exam (TExES #252). More information about school counselor certification in Texas can be found here.
FAQs
How Much Does a School Counselor Make in Texas?
Multiple factors, such as school district, prior experience, and cost of living, can determine a school counselor’s salary. In Texas, the average salary of a school counselor is $54,526.
How Long Does It Take to Become a School Counselor in Texas?
Texas school counseling masters programs require between 48 to 63 hours to complete, including didactic coursework and clinical fieldwork. The length of time to complete a program varies depending on the number of credit hours taken per semester. A future school counselor enrolled full-time in a masters program can reasonably expect to earn their degree in 2 and a half to 3 years.
What Is The Best School Counseling Program in Texas?
The University of Houston Victoria stands out among Texas’s 40 diverse school counseling masters degree programs. The online, CACREP-accredited program’s degree completion rate, pass rate on the state school counseling certification exam, and post-graduation employment rate are at 100%. The program has also gained recognition for its pipeline and pathway programs for underrepresented minorities and veterans interested in pursuing counseling degrees.
