Do you want to help people address issues that are affecting their lives? Do you want a versatile degree that allows you to pursue various careers across many settings? If so, attending a counseling program and earning a counseling degree may offer an ideal pathway.
Explore the top counseling programs, typical counselor job duties, salary ranges, and licensing requirements with this in-depth guide.
Featured Online Counseling Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
Why Enroll in a Counseling Program?
Counseling is one of the key helping professions. Counselors assist people to identify and address problems that are affecting their lives. They work in many settings and specialties, such as family and marriage, health, substance misuse, and school and career counseling. An online bachelor's counseling program can prepare you to pursue work directly in the counseling field or continue into a master's degree.
Each state maintains specific regulations for counseling licenses and scope of practice, including who can carry the professional title of counselor. Check your state or the state where you would like to practice to make sure you understand the requirements.
Online Bachelor's in Counseling Programs
See Our Rankings Methodology
#1 The Best Counseling Programs
Johnson University
- Knoxville, TN
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Tennessee-based Johnson University educates degree-seekers online and at its Knoxville campus. With 21 distance programs, the private institution provides academic programs with in-person and convenient online formats. After completing the bachelor's in pastoral care and counseling from the school, graduates often enter rewarding careers.
Enrollees can pursue the online program to access flexible enrollment options that make earning a degree easier. The virtual classroom environment allows distance learners to complete course requirements from any location. Undergraduates typically require four years to earn the 120 credits required for the bachelor's degree.
Learners with financial need can submit the FAFSA to qualify for federal grants and loans. Financial aid counselors help students locate and apply for scholarships, grants, and loans. To fund their education, 97% of the school's undergraduates receive financial aid.
Percent Online Enrollment
48%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#2 The Best Counseling Programs
The King's University
- Southlake, TX
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
With a main campus in Southlake, Texas, The King's University provides 18 program options for students to pursue. Learners can study in person or in a distance learning format. To prepare for careers, undergraduate students can pursue the school's online bachelor of biblical counseling.
Enrollees pursuing the online degree benefit from scheduling flexibility. Students gain transferable critical thinking and communication skills, which apply to careers in a variety of fields. Degree-seekers apply knowledge gained from coursework, including specialized electives, to complete hands-on experiences such as internships. Undergraduates consult with faculty mentors and academic advisors to select classes aligning with their interests and career goals.
Online learners at the institution pay affordable tuition rates. Students can consult with financial aid counselors to explore funding options, such as scholarships and grants.
The King's University Numbers:
Number of Online Students: 373
Percent of Students Admitted: 74%
Total Bachelor's Programs: 7
Transfer Credits Accepted: No
Percent Online Enrollment
61%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Transnational Association of Christian Colleges and Schools
#3 The Best Counseling Programs
University of Cincinnati-Main Campus
- Cincinnati, OH
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
To graduate with the bachelor of science in substance abuse counseling, learners complete general education coursework, along with core and upper-division major classes. Specialized electives and hands-on experiential learning opportunities prepare degree-seekers for positions in counseling. Undergraduates and alumni can receive online advising from faculty advisors and career counselors.
To graduate with the bachelor's degree, learners complete general education coursework, along with core and upper-division major classes. Specialized electives and hands-on experiential learning opportunities prepare degree-seekers for positions in Counseling. Undergraduates and alumni can receive online advising from faculty advisors and career counselors.
The accredited institution meets federal requirements to distribute aid programs like the Pell Grant. For details about application deadlines and requirements, prospective applicants can contact an admissions advisor.
University of Cincinnati-Main Campus Numbers:
Total Bachelor's Programs: 113
Online Bachelor's Programs: 11
Number of Online Students: 19,270
Applicants Admitted: 77%
Graduation Rate: 71%
Average Cost Per Credit: $732
Accepts Transfer Credits: Yes
Percent Online Enrollment
49%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#4 The Best Counseling Programs
Toccoa Falls College
- Toccoa Falls, GA
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
The programs at Toccoa Falls College help professionals advance their careers and pursue new opportunities. This bachelor's in counseling psychology prepares graduates for career advancement or for further schooling. The school enrolls 1,189 students in its online programs.
Online learning often appeals to students with children or other responsibilities. A bachelor's degree can qualify graduates for advanced career opportunities. Students without transfer credits typically need about four years to graduate.
Toccoa Falls College Facts:
Percent of Students Who Graduate: 46%
Students Awarded Financial Aid: 82%
Students Awarded Loans: 37%
Average Price Per Credit: Unavailable
Average Net Price: Unavailable
Allows Transfer Credits: No
Toccoa Falls College has received accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges, an independent accrediting agency.
Out-of-state
Not provided
Percent Online Enrollment
65%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#5 The Best Counseling Programs
Hobe Sound Bible College
- Hobe Sound, FL
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Hobe Sound Bible College is a private institution based in Hobe Sound, Florida. Learners can study in person or in a distance learning format. Degree-seekers can choose from the school's 25 program options, with 18 programs available online. One option includes a bachelor of arts in counseling.
The school confers the counseling degree to individuals who complete all requirements, including earning at least 120 credits. Students pursuing the online degree complete core courses, general education requirements, and upper-division classes. Learners consult with faculty mentors to select classes aligning with their interests and career goals. Internship opportunities allow enrollees to gain professional experience, which they can add to their resume.
The institution holds accreditation, which means enrollees can qualify for federal financial aid programs, such as the Pell Grant. The school reports that 79% of its student body receives financial aid to fund their education. Admissions advisors help individuals understand the application requirements for their prospective program.
Admission Rate
Not provided
Percent Online Enrollment
65%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Association for Bibical Higher Educaiton
#6 The Best Counseling Programs
Washburn University
- Topeka, KS
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Online learners can enroll in the convenient bachelor of applied science in family and human services - addiction counseling program at Washburn University. The online program's flexible scheduling options can make it easier for busy students to complete degree requirements. Graduates of the online bachelor's program can qualify for entry-level careers in the field.
Degree-seekers gain foundational knowledge during core classes and complete advanced coursework to develop specialized skills. In addition to core courses, learners select elective classes based on their interests and take general education courses. Graduates can apply the critical thinking and analytical skills gained during general education coursework to careers in a variety of fields. Learners consult with faculty mentors to select classes aligning with their interests and career goals.
The public institution offers 28 online programs, along with in-person programs at its campus in Topeka, Kansas. The school's academic offerings include nine online bachelor's programs. The institution holds accreditation, which means students with financial need to qualify for federal grants and loans.
Admission Rate
Not provided
Percent Online Enrollment
38%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#7 The Best Counseling Programs
Clarks Summit University
- South Abington Township, PA
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
A private institution, Clarks Summit University educates students from its South Abington Township, Pennsylvania, campus. The institution's academic programs feature online and in-person learning formats. Of the school's 40 programs, degree-seekers can pursue 11 in an online format. The online bachelor of science in counseling features a curriculum designed to prepare enrollees for diverse careers.
Degree-seekers pursuing the online bachelor's degree earn at least 120 credits to graduate. The curriculum includes general education courses, core classes within the major, and electives. The program features electives, allowing learners to tailor the curriculum to their professional goals. Internship opportunities allow students to gain professional experience, which they can add to their resume.
At the accredited institution, enrollees who demonstrate financial need can qualify for federal aid, such as the Pell Grant. The school reports that 100% of undergraduates fund their education through financial aid. For details about application deadlines and requirements, prospective applicants can contact an admissions advisor.
Percent Online Enrollment
64%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
#8 The Best Counseling Programs
Oral Roberts University
- Tulsa, OK
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Located in Oklahoma, Oral Roberts University is one of the best schools for online degrees. Bachelor's programs at this school expose students to both liberal arts and skills training. The school enrolls 622 students in its online programs.
Most undergraduate students complete the bachelor of arts in Christian caregiving and counseling in about four years. The program's flexible learning format is ideal for working professionals. Learners may pursue bachelor's studies to qualify for career advancement.
Oral Roberts University at a Glance:
Price Per Credit: Unavailable
Undergrad Tuition: $28,998 per year
Average Price With Aid: Not Known
Student Admission Rate: 68%
Percentage of Students Awarded Financial Aid: 99%
The school holds accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission, a regional accrediting body.
Percent Online Enrollment
15%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#9 The Best Counseling Programs
Crown College
- Saint Bonifacius, MN
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Crown College's online bachelor of science in alcohol and drug counseling is ideal for students interested in counseling careers. The online counseling program features flexible enrollment options that benefit working professionals.
Enrollees can attend classes at Crown College's campus in Saint Bonifacius, Minnesota. Students in any part of the country can enroll in the school's 29 online programs. The institution also offers 10 bachelor's programs for online degree-seekers.
The online counseling degree features core courses, general education requirements, and upper-division classes. Graduation requirements for the bachelor's program include required coursework and at least 120 credits. Enrollees complete core and specialized coursework meeting high academic standards.
Learners in any field can access support services such as tutoring, academic advising, and career counseling. Undergraduates and alumni can explore their professional options with the help of faculty advisors and career counselors. Financial aid counseling can help students explore options for reducing out-of-pocket expenses, including work-study programs, scholarships, and grants.
Percent Online Enrollment
68%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#10 The Best Counseling Programs
Ohio Christian University
- Circleville, OH
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Ohio Christian University is a Circleville-based private institution. In addition to in-person programs, the school educates students through 18 online programs. The online bachelor's in substance abuse counseling features a curriculum designed to prepare learners for careers.
Degree candidates complete core and advanced coursework. The curriculum features upper-division requirements, which help learners develop transferable soft skills. Full-time undergraduate degree-seekers typically require four years to complete the 120-credit bachelor's program.
The school offers support services, including academic advising and career counseling, for online and on-campus learners. The institution holds accreditation, which means enrollees can submit the FAFSA and determine whether they qualify for federal financial aid.
Ohio Christian University at a Glance:
Undergraduate Admission Rate: Not Known
Total Programs: 33
Total Bachelor's Programs: 22
Online Bachelor's Programs: 11
Awards Transfer Credits: No
Admission Rate
Not provided
Percent Online Enrollment
84%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
Featured Counseling Programs
How Much Does a Counseling Program Cost?
The cost of attending a counseling program depends on several factors, including location, prestige, and financial aid availability. The National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) reports that, in 2021-2022, the average annual cost of attendance for a bachelor's degree was $30,031 — $21,878 at public schools and $47,962 for private schools. These figures include tuition and fees, along with room and board.
Attending a counseling program online can help you save on costs like travel, relocation, and rent. You may have additional costs to cover a reliable high-speed internet connection, textbooks, and supplies.
Break down your current financial situation, and receive a college tuition estimate you can afford to pay.
Common Courses in Counseling Programs
During your counseling program, you will complete general education courses, specialized classes, and fieldwork observations. Coursework explores ways to apply theoretical concepts, along with effective and ethical practice. You may also be able to pursue a formal or informal concentration focused on a particular type of counseling or client population.
Common courses in undergraduate counseling programs include:
- Mental Wellness Assessment: In this course, learners explore standardized ways of assessing mental well-being and their strengths and weaknesses, along with when and how to apply them.
- Social and Emotional Development: This key class explains how humans develop through their lifetime as individuals and members of society. Coursework covers healthy developmental stages, along with typical challenges and milestones.
- Cultural Competence in Counseling: This course develops your ability to provide counseling for people across many backgrounds. Instructors focus on gender, race, and ethnicity, including ways to work effectively and ethically across cultures.
Career and Salary Outlook for Counseling Program Graduates
Most counseling careers require a degree from a master's in counseling program. As a bachelor's degree-holder, you may still be able to work in a counseling setting, depending on state regulations and certification requirements. Check with your state to confirm regulations and requirements.
Substance Misuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselor
Substance misuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors conduct assessments of patient needs, establish counseling objectives, and help clients find solutions for their challenges. Substance misuse counseling has a particularly wide range of state requirements. These counselors may work as independent practitioners in healthcare or for government agencies, among other options.
Median Annual Salary (May 2022): $49,710
Projected Growth Rate (2022-2032): +18%
School and Career Counselor
School and career counselors work with middle, high, and college students. They may also assist adults as independent practitioners. Many counseling programs have specialty tracks for this subset of the field. Depending on your state, you may be able to practice as a career advisor or coach without an advanced degree.
Median Annual Salary (May 2022): $60,140
Projected Growth Rate (2022-2032): +5%
Rehabilitation Counselor
Rehabilitation counselors work with people who have experienced serious accidents or illnesses. They help patients understand and respond to the life changes that the accident or health conditions have caused. In addition to general healthcare and independent practice settings, rehabilitation counselors may specialize and work in the military or teams of first responders. Not all counseling programs have extensive coursework in this area.
Median Annual Salary (May 2021): $38,560
Projected Growth Rate (2021-2031): +11%
Marriage and Family Therapist
These therapists help couples and families understand and resolve conflicts. Their work often involves one-on-one meetings with each spouse or family member, as well as sessions with both spouses or all family members. This concentration ranks among the most popular pathways in counseling programs.
Median Annual Salary (May 2021): $49,880
Projected Growth Rate (2021-2031): +14%
Certifications and Licensure for Counseling
Many states require counselors to hold licensure to practice. Licensing requirements vary by state but typically include a master's degree and at least 2,000 hours of supervised clinical practice. In addition to licensure, counselors can pursue optional certifications to demonstrate their skills and advance their careers. The three counseling certifications below accept bachelor's-trained applicants.
A candidate for this credential must hold a bachelor's degree in human services from an accredited college or university, along with at least 1,000 hours of professional sexuality counseling experience.
Each candidate must hold an accredited mental health bachelor's degree. They need to complete a pre-training webinar, a five-day onsite course, and other post-training requirements to earn certification.
To qualify for this credential, a candidate must hold a bachelor's degree in counseling or a related field, along with a state-issued credential in the field and 6,000 hours of relevant work experience.
Additional Counseling Resources
Frequently Asked Questions About Counseling Careers
What is the difference between a therapist and a counselor?
In general, a therapist helps in the short term to identify and address problems that affect an individual's internal emotions and behavior. Counseling focuses more on providing support for interpersonal interactions and ongoing advice.
What is the best degree for a counseling career?
The best degree for a counseling career is typically a master's degree. This degree level meets licensing requirements in most states. Master's counseling programs also offer more specialization opportunities than bachelor's programs.
What skills do you need to be a counselor?
Some necessary skills to become a counselor include communication abilities, empathy, attention to detail, and cross-cultural competence. Good counseling programs teach these in both theory and practice.
How long does it take to complete a counseling degree?
Full-time students typically take four years to complete most bachelor-level counseling programs and an additional 2-3 years to complete a master's counseling program. If you have advanced placement credits, an associate degree, or other college credits, you may be able to finish faster. Part-time enrollment extends these timelines.
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