The best online master’s in school counseling programs prepare you to obtain licensure and pass your state's exam so you can start working with students.
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School counselors offer academic, behavioral, and emotional support to students from kindergarten through grade 12. Earning a master's in school counseling online provides a flexible and convenient pathway to a graduate degree and state licensure and certification.
Our guide ranks programs based on academic quality, curriculum offerings, and affordability to help you find the best school to fit your needs. Learn about career prospects and what to expect in an online master's in school counseling.
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Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
Best Online Master's in School Counseling Programs
These rankings include
BestCollegeReviews.org is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.
from our partners. We use publicly available provisional datasets from Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS) to inform the data for these schools. All data is current as of the date this article was published. Program-specific information may vary.
#1 Best Online Master’s in School Counseling 2023
Grand Canyon University
Phoenix, AZ
4 years
Online + Campus
Students looking for a cost-effective degree in school counseling can consider Grand Canyon University's online master's in school counseling. Located in Phoenix, Arizona, the private, for-profit institution boasts 50 master's programs and offers 45 programs online. The M.Ed. in school counseling is an attractive option for learners who want to study school counseling without compromising their schedule.
The school counseling program offers a rigorous curriculum, preparing students for careers in the field through advanced coursework, which can be modified in consultation with academic advisors.
The institution reports that 81% of all applicants are accepted each year. Once enrolled, online students join a supportive learning community that connects them with colleagues, faculty, and institutional resources. Graduate studies can prove costly, and students should prepare to pay about $536 per credit. Enrollees should discuss their eligibility for internal and external funding with the financial aid office.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$16,424
Out-of-state
$16,424
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$10,528
Out-of-state
$10,528
Retention Rate
74%
Admission Rate
81%
Students Enrolled
103,427
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
92%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#2 Best Online Master’s in School Counseling 2023
Liberty University
Lynchburg, VA
4 years
Online + Campus
Liberty University is a private, nonprofit institution, offering numerous master's programs from its main campus in Lynchburg, Virginia. The institution delivers 71 master's programs and makes 68 programs available online.
The college's online school counseling master's degree is a flexible option for learners from all walks of life.
As part of the M.Ed. program, students complete foundational coursework and advanced school counseling classes. These courses can be customized in consultation with faculty advisors.
The program also connects students with interpersonal guidance, such as career mentorship, academic advising, and experiential learning opportunities. The cost of the graduate degree can be offset by the variety of funding options available to students. Learners can inquire about scholarships, fellowships, and federal financial aid programs through the college’s financial aid office.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$14,791
Out-of-state
$14,791
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$7,935
Out-of-state
$7,935
Retention Rate
81%
Admission Rate
50%
Students Enrolled
93,349
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
93%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#3 Best Online Master’s in School Counseling 2023
New York University
New York, NY
4 years
Online + Campus
Looking for an education that won't disrupt your schedule? An online master's degree might be right for you. Students hoping to advance in the school counseling field often find New York University's online master of arts in school counseling to be a wise choice.
The college supports 47,026 online students and delivers 29 master's programs. School counseling students benefit from access to a supportive online learning community, with opportunities to collaborate with colleagues and faculty. Students interested in experiential learning can pursue internships.
Master of arts and counseling enrollees complete foundational and advanced coursework, equipping them with the knowledge needed to succeed in the field. Learners can modify their studies in consultation with their academic advisor.
As is standard for graduate study, learners typically need a bachelor's degree prior to enrolling. Graduate students pay about $1,867 per credit. Students seeking to defray the costs of education can learn about scholarships, fellowships, and other funding opportunities through the financial aid office.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$52,204
Out-of-state
$52,204
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$34,704
Out-of-state
$34,704
Retention Rate
90%
Admission Rate
21%
Students Enrolled
52,775
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
89%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
#4 Best Online Master’s in School Counseling 2023
University of the Cumberlands
Williamsburg, KY
4 years
Online
Students who want to receive a first-class education in school counseling without compromising their schedule often find the University of the Cumberlands's master of arts in education to be an attractive choice. The private, nonprofit school educates students across 26 master's programs. The institution offers in-person studies on its main campus in Williamsburg, Kentucky, and online enrollment options.
The online M.A.Ed. program offers students a premier education, preparing them for the school counseling field. Upon enrollment, students join the robust online learning community and connect with institutional resources and guidance throughout their graduate program. Students can collaborate one-on-one with faculty members, and work with their academic advisor to ensure courses meet their needs. Learners can also work with their academic advisor to choose full- or part-time study based on their needs.
Depending on their eligibility, students can access external and internal funding opportunities through the institution. Interested learners should speak with the financial aid office to determine if they are among the 99% of attendees to be awarded aid.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$9,875
Out-of-state
$9,875
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$4,282
Out-of-state
$4,282
Retention Rate
66%
Admission Rate
81%
Students Enrolled
19,110
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
99%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#5 Best Online Master’s in School Counseling 2023
University of Southern California
Los Angeles, CA
4 years
Online + Campus
Students hoping to balance graduate education with their busy schedule may find the University of Southern California's online M.Ed. in school counseling to be an attractive option. Many of the college's impressive master's programs allow for remote study, including the school counseling degree.
Upon enrolling, students connect with a strong online community of 41,112 students with many locations, backgrounds, and employment statuses. Enrollees can collaborate with faculty members on research, customize program coursework to suit their career goals, and pursue internships and other experiential learning opportunities. The institution boasts a 9-to-1 student-to-teacher ratio.
Online school counseling students can expect to pay $1,948 per course credit. The institution provides numerous internal and external funding opportunities to make education more affordable. Students can speak with the financial aid office to discuss further funding opportunities.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$59,260
Out-of-state
$59,260
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$47,880
Out-of-state
$47,880
Retention Rate
91%
Admission Rate
16%
Students Enrolled
46,287
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
89%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission
#6 Best Online Master’s in School Counseling 2023
North Carolina State University at Raleigh
Raleigh, NC
4 years
Online + Campus
North Carolina State University at Raleigh's online master's-level offerings can be attractive options for learners from all walks of life. Students can choose from 39 online programs. The online modality of the M.Ed. in counselor education often proves flexible for busy students, working professionals, and remote learners.
The counselor education program prepares students for the school counseling field through rigorous academic studies. Degree-seekers participate in foundational courses and, in consultation with their academic advisor, select advanced courses in school counseling.
Students should be aware that 46% of all applicants are admitted, according to the institution. The online M.Ed. program provides a supportive community for remote learners, connecting students with institutional resources and enabling collaboration with faculty. Students can meet with the financial aid office to discuss funding opportunities to reduce their educational expenses.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$6,535
Out-of-state
$26,654
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$9,095
Out-of-state
$26,421
Retention Rate
94%
Admission Rate
46%
Students Enrolled
36,042
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
91%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#7 Best Online Master’s in School Counseling 2023
North American University
Stafford, TX
4 years
Online + Campus
North American University, a private, nonprofit institution located in Stafford, Texas, provides flexible online master's programs across five subject areas. The school boasts competitive online education tracks, such as the M.Ed. in school counseling program.
Students with an interest in school counseling benefit from the rigorous M.Ed. program curriculum. As part of the school counseling program, students pursue foundational classes and complete advanced coursework in school counseling later in the program. Enrollees can choose electives and modify their coursework in consultation with their academic advisor to ensure that their education best meets their career goals.
The online school counseling program connects learners with a robust online community, providing support for the duration of their studies. Students can enhance their educational experience through faculty collaboration, research, internships, and other experiential learning opportunities.
Prospective students should consult with the financial aid office to explore funding opportunities and determine their eligibility. Working professionals may qualify for employer-sponsored tuition remission. As a whole, 96% of all students at the institution receive some form of financial aid.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$9,450
Out-of-state
$12,225
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$9,900
Out-of-state
$17,900
Retention Rate
90%
Admission Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
785
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
100%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges
#8 Best Online Master’s in School Counseling 2023
Southeastern Oklahoma State University
Durant, OK
4 years
Online + Campus
Looking for a premier graduate education in school counseling? Consider Southeastern Oklahoma State University's online master of education in school counseling. The institution offers 14 master's programs for students and provides 12 of these programs online.
After enrolling, school counseling students connect with colleagues, faculty, and other members of the online academic community. Learners join their peers in online classrooms, collaborating with faculty members on research and experiential learning opportunities. Degree-seekers also receive guidance from academic and career advisors throughout their program. Students can choose between full- and part-time enrollment, depending on their preferred pace.
Graduate students pay an average of $278 per course credit. However, the institution connects learners with numerous internal and external funding opportunities, such as scholarships and fellowships. Students can consult with the financial aid office to explore funding opportunities. About 94% of attendees receive some form of aid.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$6,240
Out-of-state
$14,880
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$4,716
Out-of-state
$10,872
Retention Rate
61%
Admission Rate
79%
Students Enrolled
5,607
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
91%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#9 Best Online Master’s in School Counseling 2023
University of Missouri-Columbia
Columbia, MO
4 years
Online + Campus
The University of Missouri-Columbia boasts 78 master's programs. Online study is also available to students through 25 programs. The M.Ed. in educational, school, and counseling psychology program stands out as a competitive option for students interested in school counseling careers.
The rigorous school counseling curriculum prepares students for successful careers in the field. After enrolling, students participate in core courses and take advanced school counseling classes. Learners can choose classes that suit their schedule and pertain to career interests and goals.
Students can connect with institutional resources, career mentorship, and experiential learning opportunities throughout their program. The college connects learners with internal and external funding opportunities, such as federal financial aid, scholarships, and fellowships.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$9,330
Out-of-state
$27,612
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$9,478
Out-of-state
$25,946
Retention Rate
89%
Admission Rate
82%
Students Enrolled
31,089
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
87%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#10 Best Online Master’s in School Counseling 2023
Capella University
Minneapolis, MN
4 years
Online
Learners from all walks of life find Capella University's online master of science in school counseling to be an attractive choice. The private, for-profit institution's school counseling program is an ideal choice for individuals seeking flexible study.
Students benefit from rigorous coursework and supportive academic structures, helping prepare them for the demands of the field. Capella offers three specializations within its Master’s in School Counseling program: Addiction Treatment and Recovery, Child and Adolescent Counseling, and General School Counseling. Enrollees take foundational and advanced coursework and can modify the curriculum to suit their career goals. Upon enrolling, students join the online academic community, benefiting from peer and institutional connections. Online students gain access to institutional resources, such as academic advising and career services, and may have opportunities to participate in faculty collaboration. Students can enhance their educational experience through research, internships, and other experiential learning opportunities.
The cost of education can vary, and students can meet with the financial aid office to discuss internal and external funding opportunities. Eligible students can benefit from scholarships, fellowships, and federal financial aid. Some learners qualify for employer-sponsored tuition remission. According to the school, 100% of students receive some form of aid to apply toward educational expenses.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$14,148
Out-of-state
$14,148
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$14,767
Out-of-state
$14,767
Retention Rate
45%
Admission Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
38,930
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
Not provided
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#11 Best Online Master’s in School Counseling 2023
East Carolina University
Greenville, NC
4 years
Online + Campus
East Carolina University, a public, four-year institution, is located in Greenville, North Carolina. The university facilitates 71 master's programs, offering 41 remote degrees.
Learners interested in school counseling careers can pursue an online MS in counselor education that connects enrollees to institutional resources. Enrollees take advanced school counseling coursework that complements their career trajectory.
Through faculty and institutional connections, students often secure internships in the school counseling field and gain further preparation for careers. Those currently employed in school counseling-related fields can pursue the master's degree without disrupting their work schedule.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$4,452
Out-of-state
$20,729
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$4,749
Out-of-state
$17,898
Retention Rate
83%
Admission Rate
88%
Students Enrolled
28,798
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
93%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#12 Best Online Master’s in School Counseling 2023
Northern Arizona University
Flagstaff, AZ
4 years
Online + Campus
Searching for an affordable online master's program? Consider Northern Arizona University, a public, four-year school with a main campus in Flagstaff. The university supports 63 master's programs and delivers 24 online programs for remote learners. Of these online programs, the M.Ed. in school counseling is a flexible choice for professionals seeking to advance in the field.
Students in the school counseling program complete rigorous coursework that prepares them for careers. This curriculum comprises foundational and advanced courses, which can be modified in consultation with faculty advisors.
Interested students should note that 82% of degree-seekers receive admittance every year. The program's online community is a supportive place for students to engage with colleagues and faculty, and remote learners can access institutional resources, such as career services. Students can meet with the financial aid office to discuss funding opportunities to reduce their educational expenses.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$10,243
Out-of-state
$16,248
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$10,309
Out-of-state
$18,630
Retention Rate
76%
Admission Rate
82%
Students Enrolled
29,566
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
59%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#13 Best Online Master’s in School Counseling 2023
North Carolina Central University
Durham, NC
4 years
Online + Campus
North Carolina Central University, a public, four-year institution located in Durham, provides flexible online master's programs across 13 subject areas. The master of arts in school counseling is an ideal choice for individuals seeking flexible study to prepare for careers in the field.
Students interested in school counseling benefit from the program's rigorous course curriculum and supportive resources. Enrollees complete foundational courses, as well as advanced classes. Enrollees can choose electives and modify their coursework in consultation with their academic advisor to ensure their education best meets their career goals.
Though online, the school counseling program fosters a robust community, connecting enrollees with institutional resources geared toward student success. Enrollees can collaborate with faculty on research projects, pursue internships, and explore other experiential learning opportunities in preparation for a career in school counseling.
When preparing for the costs of a graduate degree, students should meet with the financial aid office to discuss expenses and funding options. Many students qualify for internal scholarships and fellowships or external financial aid. Working professionals can discuss the possibility of sponsored study with their employers. Of all students, 96% receive some form of aid to apply toward educational expenses.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$3,728
Out-of-state
$16,435
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$4,740
Out-of-state
$17,694
Retention Rate
78%
Admission Rate
87%
Students Enrolled
8,078
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
54%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#14 Best Online Master’s in School Counseling 2023
University of Mississippi
University, MS
4 years
Online + Campus
The University of Mississippi, a public, four-year institution, offers an impressive selection of master's degree programs. The school connects 10,688 students from around the globe to its virtual campus. Of its 54 master's programs, 11 are available online, including the M.Ed. in counselor education.
Upon enrollment, students gain access to a supportive online learning community and institutional resources geared toward student success. Enrollees interested in experiential learning can discuss research and internship opportunities with their faculty advisor. Students in the online school counseling program complete core courses, as well as specialized school counseling classes.
The financial aid office can connect students with numerous internal and external funding opportunities. According to the institution, 87% of all attendees are awarded some form of financial aid.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$8,718
Out-of-state
$24,990
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$8,718
Out-of-state
$24,989
Retention Rate
86%
Admission Rate
88%
Students Enrolled
21,014
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
51%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#15 Best Online Master’s in School Counseling 2023
University of the Southwest
Hobbs, NM
4 years
Online
For students seeking a flexible, accessible degree in school counseling, the online MSE program at the University of the Southwest is an attractive choice. The master of science in education program is one of 22 online master's programs offered by the college.
The school provides students with a robust online community, proving supportive for busy students and working professionals. Once enrolled, students can benefit from institutional resources, faculty advising, and experiential learning opportunities. The student-to-teacher ratio for the school is 17-to-1.
The average cost per credit is $663 for graduate students. The institution connects enrollees with numerous internal and external funding opportunities to make education more affordable. Eligible learners can discuss funding options with the financial aid office.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$16,000
Out-of-state
$16,000
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$22,500
Out-of-state
$22,500
Retention Rate
74%
Admission Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
904
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
100%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#16 Best Online Master’s in School Counseling 2023
Southern Arkansas University
Magnolia, AR
4 years
Online + Campus
Looking for a degree that offers flexibility? Consider an online master's degree from Southern Arkansas University. Students interested in a career in school counseling often find the M.Ed. in school counseling to be an attractive option, accommodating busy schedules.
The college provides 13 online degree options, reaching 3,798 remote students. Enrollees benefit from a supportive online learning community that connects them to peers and faculty through a virtual learning environment. Students work with their faculty advisor to explore experiential learning opportunities, such as internships, research projects, and other collaborative work.
Each student completes foundational classes and focused coursework to gain competency in topics specific to the school counseling field. In consultation with their academic advisor, students can modify their course schedule and pursue elective options.
Those interested in the school counseling program must have earned a bachelor's degree prior to enrollment. Students seeking to defray the costs of education can learn about scholarships, fellowships, and other funding opportunities through the financial aid office.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$6,420
Out-of-state
$11,460
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$5,112
Out-of-state
$8,028
Retention Rate
72%
Admission Rate
69%
Students Enrolled
4,432
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
86%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#17 Best Online Master’s in School Counseling 2023
University of Louisiana at Monroe
Monroe, LA
4 years
Online + Campus
Hoping to learn without sacrificing your schedule? Consider a flexible online degree from the University of Louisiana at Monroe. The institution's online master's program in school counseling is an attractive option for learners seeking accommodating study.
The public, four-year college enrolls 6,263 remote students across 20 master's degree programs. The school counseling degree connects students with premier educators, competitive funding opportunities, and a supportive online learning community. Students work with their faculty advisor to pursue research and experiential learning opportunities, such as internships. Degree-seekers complete foundational courses and advanced classes throughout their program, preparing them for a career in school counseling. Students can work with academic advisors to discuss elective options, modify their course schedule, and ensure their program path meets their career goals.
Prospective students must have a bachelor's degree upon enrollment. Students seeking to defray the costs of education can learn about scholarships, fellowships, and other funding opportunities through the financial aid office.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$5,788
Out-of-state
$17,888
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$6,490
Out-of-state
$18,590
Retention Rate
74%
Admission Rate
78%
Students Enrolled
8,888
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
70%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#18 Best Online Master’s in School Counseling 2023
Angelo State University
San Angelo, TX
4 years
Online + Campus
Students looking to pursue studies in school counseling without overwhelming their schedule can consider Angelo State University's online master's program in school counseling. The institution provides 13 master's programs in an online modality, including the professional school counseling program.
The college provides students with a robust online community, proving supportive for busy students and working professionals. Learners are paired with a faculty advisor, who can guide them in finding research opportunities, internships, and other learning experiences relevant to the school counseling field. The college prioritizes institutional connections, boasting a 21-to-1 student-to-teacher ratio.
The school offers several funding options for students, including scholarships and fellowships. Students interested in funding opportunities should consult with the financial aid office. According to the institution, 92% of students receive some form of aid, reducing tuition-related expenses and fees to $12,420, on average.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$4,412
Out-of-state
$14,228
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$4,119
Out-of-state
$11,481
Retention Rate
71%
Admission Rate
78%
Students Enrolled
10,775
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
55%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#19 Best Online Master’s in School Counseling 2023
Campbellsville University
Campbellsville, KY
4 years
Online + Campus
Headquartered in Kentucky, Campbellsville University offers 27 master's programs, 26 of which are available online. Students interested in careers in school counseling can benefit from the institution's online master of arts in education in school counseling.
Through a rigorous curriculum, the program prepares students for the demands of the school counseling field. Students complete focused coursework, exploring foundational concepts and advanced studies in topics relevant to the field. In collaboration with faculty advisors, students can modify their course schedule to suit their career goals.
The school counseling program connects students with a variety of institutional resources, including academic advising, career mentorship, and experiential learning opportunities. Though education can be costly, the school helps enrollees secure financial aid. Interested students can speak with the college's financial aid office to learn about available funding options.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$24,900
Out-of-state
$24,900
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$8,473
Out-of-state
$8,473
Retention Rate
64%
Admission Rate
78%
Students Enrolled
12,771
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
72%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#20 Best Online Master’s in School Counseling 2023
Arkansas State University
Jonesboro, AR
4 years
Online + Campus
Arkansas State University, a public, four-year institution in Jonesboro, provides premier graduate programs to learners from all walks of life. The university offers 56 master's programs and delivers in-person and online enrollment options.
The master of science in education in school counseling boasts a rigorous curriculum and a supportive learning community. Students can connect with faculty members to pursue school counseling-specific research and access experiential learning opportunities, such as internships. Working professionals and other busy students benefit from the flexibility of the school counseling program, and learners can pursue full- or part-time enrollment.
Online students in the school counseling program can expect to pay about $301 per credit. Though education can be costly, the institution connects students with internal and external funding opportunities, such as scholarships and fellowships. Interested students should speak with the financial aid office to determine whether they are among the 98% of attendees to be awarded aid.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$5,232
Out-of-state
$10,800
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$4,986
Out-of-state
$9,972
Retention Rate
79%
Admission Rate
67%
Students Enrolled
13,106
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
75%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
Why Get an Online Master's in School Counseling Degree?
The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects demand for school counselors to increase as more schools recognize the need to provide students with academic, psychological, and career support.
Most states require a master's degree, licensure, and certification to qualify for school counseling jobs.
An online master's in school counseling prepares you for employment in a variety of settings, including primary, secondary, and post-secondary education.
Earning a master's in school counseling online makes it easier to earn a graduate degree while maintaining work and family responsibilities.
Online programs may save you more money than traditional campus-based programs.
How Much Does a Master's in School Counseling Cost?
The average tuition for a master's degree was $19,750 for the 2020-21 academic year, according to the National Center for Education Statistics. Attending a public school in your home state costs significantly less than a private institution. Full-time graduate students at public postsecondary institutions paid an average tuition of $12,394 compared to $26,621 at private schools.
Some online programs may offer less expensive tuition than their on-campus counterparts by charging in-state rates regardless of your location. Earning a master's in school counseling online may also save you money on transportation and housing.
What Can You Do With a Master's in School Counseling?
School counselors can pursue many career opportunities in educational institutions and youth organizations. Salaries vary depending on the employment setting, job responsibilities, and years of experience.
How to Become a School Counselor: 5 Steps
While each state and employer sets their own requirements, becoming a school counselor includes obtaining an undergraduate and graduate degree and passing the state-required licensure exam.
1
Earn Your Bachelor's
The first step toward earning any graduate degree is to get a bachelor's, which typically takes four years. Most master's in school counseling admit applicants with undergraduate degrees in counseling or a related field such as psychology, sociology, or education. Graduate programs may recommend undergraduate prerequisite courses in statistics, research methods, and developmental psychology.
2
Complete a Master's Program
After completing your bachelor's, you should apply to a master's in school counseling program at an accredited college or university. A master's consists of approximately 60 credits over 2-3 years, including coursework, research, and clinical experiences. Earning a master's in school counseling that meets standards set by the American School Counselor Association helps prepare you to take your state licensure exam.
3
Fulfill Practicum & Internship Requirements
During your master's program, you complete a clinical practicum or internship designed to give you direct experience in school counseling. The number of required hours is usually determined by the state in which you plan to practice. Once you complete a practicum or internship, you may pursue state licensure.
4
Obtain Certification
In addition to state licensure, school counselors may apply for certification demonstrating their knowledge and commitment to the field. Obtaining school counselor certification can also boost career opportunities and advancement. The American School Counselor Association and the National Board for Certified Counselors offer certifications for school counselors.
5
Pass Your State's Exam
To practice as a school counselor, you must pass your state's licensure exam for school counselors. While specific requirements vary by state, school counselor licensure generally requires at least a master's degree in counseling from an accredited university, fingerprint and criminal background checks, and payment of applicable registration fees.
Frequently Asked Questions About Master's in School Counseling
How long does it take to become a school counselor?
It takes about six years of schooling to become a school counselor. After completing your bachelor's degree, you can finish graduate school in two years.
Are school counselors in demand?
School counselors are in demand. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects school counseling jobs to increase by 10% from 2021-31, which is faster than average.
Is a master's in school counseling worth it?
Earning a master's in school counseling requires time, commitment, and financial investment. Working as a school counselor can be physically and emotionally demanding but rewarding as you help students overcome challenges. Like any career, make sure this profession suits your interests and career goals.
How much do school counselors make?
School counselors earned a median annual salary of $60,510 in 2021, reports the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Salaries can increase as school counselors gain seniority, with the top 10% making more than $98,000. Pay varies by setting, with school counselors earning the most ($63,460) in elementary and secondary schools.