Online Master’s In School Counseling
School counselors usually provide direct support to K-12 or college students. They help address issues such as peer pressure, depression, divorce, and bullying. School counselors sometimes collaborate with families, community agencies, and school administrators to create learning plans and schoolwide programs that foster student well-being and enhance learning.
A school counselor career typically requires at least a master’s degree in a related field, plus professional licensure by a state board. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) cites a median annual salary of $58,120 for school and career counselors. The BLS projects jobs for these professionals to grow 8% between 2019-2029.
This guide ranks the best onlinecounseling programs. It also covers other important information for prospective students, such as common courses and scholarship opportunities for school counseling students.
FAQs from Prospective Students in Counseling Programs
Do school counselors get paid well?
According to the BLS, school counselors earn a median annual salary of $58,120. However, salaries vary by factors like location, employer, position, and experience.
Is counseling a good career?
School counselors positively impact young people. They also enjoy above-average salaries and strong job growth projections.
How many years does it take to become a school counselor?
School counselors need a bachelor’s and a master’s degree. This educational journey often takes around six years to complete. Acquiring requisite clinical experience and licensure may demand additional time.
What kinds of jobs can I get with a degree in school counseling?
With requisite training and licensure, graduates with an online school counseling degree can work as substance abuse counselors, school psychologists, and school counselors.
Featured Online Programs
Find a program that meets your affordability, flexibility, and education needs through an accredited, online school.
Why Get a Degree in School Counseling?
Students earning a school counselor degree online gain advanced interpersonal skills and insights. Graduates can pursue jobs such as school or career counselor, community services manager, and school psychologist. These professions typically pay above-average salaries.
Online master’s in school counseling programs often serve working professionals pursuing career transition or advancement. This cohort of accomplished professionals can provide valuable networking opportunities.
Earning a school counselor degree online often gives students the flexibility to balance their studies with personal and professional responsibilities.
How Much Does a School Counseling Degree Cost?
According to the National Center for Education Statistics, graduate tuition at public institutions cost an average of $12,171 in 2018-19, meaning a two-year master’s degree may cost around $24,000. However, higher education prices vary by factors like school, enrollment status, and delivery format.
Pursuing a school counselor degree online often saves enrollees money. For example, online learners often avoid many of the expenses that on-campus students incur, such as commuting costs. Additionally, many schools offer tuition discounts to online students. Flexible, asynchronous attendance options also allow students to continue working while they earn their degree.
How Much Do School Counseling Majors Make?
The BLS reports that school and career counselors earn a median annual salary of $58,120. However, salaries vary by factors like location, experience, and role. PayScale salary data from March 2021 suggests that average annual salaries for school counselors fall into the $44,000-$66,000 range, depending on experience level.
Other common roles for graduates with a master’s in school counseling include substance abuse counselor and education, guidance, and vocational counselor. According to the BLS, these jobs pay annual median salaries of $47,660 and $55,410, respectively. Some licensed professional counselors make more money by going into private practice or obtaining additional credentials.
With relevant training and licensure, online school counseling degree graduates may pursue careers as social workers or school psychologists. BLS data indicates that social workers earn a median salary of $51,760 per year, while psychologists make a median $82,180 annually.
Online school counseling graduates can also pursue roles as social and community service managers or educational administrators. These professionals earn median annual salaries of $69,600 and $98,490, respectively.
Courses in Counseling
Online master’s in school counseling programs usually comprise around 30 credits. Most counseling programs feature core courses in research methods, psychology, ethics, and counseling theory and practice. Enrollees also complete supervised internships.
Some programs offer specializations in areas such as early childhood counseling or special needs counseling. Master’s-level programs also typically require students to complete a thesis-based capstone project supervised by counseling faculty.
Courses vary by program, but the following courses often appear in online master’s in school counseling programs.
The course teaches students how to assess and address child and adolescent behavior issues. Students survey various youth counseling approaches that address social, developmental, behavioral, and cognitive issues. Participants also gain familiarity with key legal and ethical issues surrounding counseling minors.Youth Counseling
The class prepares participants to lead the development and implementation of schoolwide counseling programs. Enrollees study topics like systems change, advocacy, and leadership principles. The course also explores state and national school counseling models and standards.School Counseling Program Leadership
The class familiarizes participants with special education disability categories, laws, assessment processes, and support methods. Enrollees learn how to define emotional and behavioral disorders in relation to special needs issues.Special Education Issues in Counseling
Certifications and Licensure for School Counseling
To qualify for most school counseling jobs, candidates must obtain licensure from the state where they wish to practice. An online master’s in school counseling helps graduates qualify for licensure. Some master’s graduates seek additional credentials that align with specific career aspirations. See below for some common school counseling credentials.
National Certified Counselor
The National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC) grants NCC certification to applicants with related graduate degrees or certificates and at least 3,000 postgraduate counseling experience hours. Doctoral degree-holders, state-licensed counselors, and accredited program graduates may not need as many experience hours. All NCC candidates must pass a professional certification examination.
National Certified School Counselor
Only NCCs qualify for this specialized certification. The NBCC grants this certification to applicants who finish requisite graduate-level coursework, complete professional experience, pass a certification examination, and receive professional endorsement by a credentialed colleague.
Licensed Professional Counselor
State board licensure requirements vary, but they often include a related master’s degree, several thousand hours of professional experience, and passing scores on the LPC licensure examination. This versatile license qualifies counselors to work in various counseling fields and contexts.
Scholarships for School Counseling
Students pursuing an online school counseling degree can take advantage of scholarships to help lower the cost of their degree. Unlike loans, scholarships do not require repayment, making them ideal forms of financial aid. The following list outlines several scholarship opportunities for school counseling students.
Scholarship | Amount | Who Can Apply |
---|---|---|
Ruth G. and Joseph D. Matarazzo Scholarship | $3,000 | Master’s students planning to pursue doctoral study qualify for this scholarship. Candidates must receive nomination from a psychology department affiliated with the Council of Graduate Departments of Psychology (COGDOP). Applicants must submit a project outline, resume, and recommendation letter. |
Harry and Miriam Levinson Scholarship | $5,000 | This scholarship goes to interim master’s students who receive nomination from a COGDOP-affiliated psychology department. Application materials include a CV, recommendation letter, and project outline. |
Texas School Counselor Association Molly Gerold Scholarships | $500 | These graduate scholarships support school counseling students with outstanding academic records. Candidates must receive nominations by colleagues or professors. Applicants must submit a rationale statement, recommendation letter, and resume demonstrating significant school counseling experience. |
Online School Counseling Programs
Canisius College
Buffalo, NY
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
New York-based Canisius College educates degree-seekers online and at its Buffalo campus. The school offers a total of 15 online master's programs, including a master's in school counseling.
Degree-holders can pursue a variety of positions in school counseling. Graduates often benefit from increased career opportunities after earning their master's degree. To help students succeed academically and professionally, the school provides a variety of support services, including academic advising and career counseling.
Enrollees benefit from affordable tuition rates and institutional funding, which can reduce out-of-pocket expenses. Learners with financial need can fund their education through federal grants and loans. Degree-seekers may also fund their studies through scholarships and fellowships.
Canisius College Fast Facts:
Price Per Credit: Not Known
Students Receiving Aid: 97%
Students Receiving Loans: 63%
Total Master's Programs: 40
Total Online Master's Programs: 40
Transfer Credits Toward Degree: No
- In-State$27,940
- Out-of-state$27,940
- In-State$14,760
- Out-of-state$14,760
- Retention Rate84%
- Acceptance Rate83%
- Students Enrolled3,102
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment32%
- AccreditationYes
Angelo State University
San Angelo, TX
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Situated in San Angelo, Texas, Angelo State University offers undergraduate and graduate programs in virtual and in-person formats. Learners across the country can pursue the school's 13 online master's programs without relocating.
Graduates of the institution's online master of science in professional school counseling can pursue a variety of positions in the field. Master's degree-holders can transition to a school counseling career or advance their current career. The school provides support services, such as academic advising and career counseling, to support enrollees' overall success.
Degree candidates benefit from affordable tuition rates and institutional funding. Students at the accredited institution qualify for federal financial aid programs. Scholarships and fellowships can also help learners reduce out-of-pocket expenses.
Angelo State University at a Glance:
Price Per Credit: Not Known
Students Receiving Aid: 94%
Students Receiving Loans: 35%
Total Master's Programs: 22
Total Online Master's Programs: 22
Awards Transfer Credits: No
- In-State$4,332
- Out-of-state$14,460
- In-State$4,059
- Out-of-state$11,655
- Retention Rate69%
- Acceptance Rate77%
- Students Enrolled10,568
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment41%
- AccreditationYes
Salem College
Winston-Salem, NC
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Salem College educates graduate degree-seekers online and in person at its Winston-Salem, North Carolina, campus. The private institution delivers several online master's programs, including a flexible master of education in school counseling.
The online program features core classes that help students develop foundational knowledge in the field. After completing core requirements, degree-seekers can select elective classes to customize the program to their interests and career goals. To prepare to enter the workforce after graduation, master's students can take advantage of faculty mentorship and experiential learning opportunities.
Master's graduates often qualify for higher salaries than bachelor's degree-holders in the field. For assistance locating job placements, graduate students and alumni can consult with the institution's career counselors.
Information on the school's cost per credit is unavailable. The institution holds accreditation, which means degree-seekers can receive federal grants and loans. Scholarships, fellowships, and employer-sponsored tuition reimbursement programs can help distance learners fund their master's studies. At the school, 98% of students receive financial aid.
- In-State$29,750
- Out-of-state$29,750
- In-State$7,920
- Out-of-state$7,920
- Retention Rate76%
- Acceptance Rate80%
- Students Enrolled709
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment19%
- AccreditationYes
Indiana State University
Terre Haute, IN
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Terre Haute-based Indiana State University educates graduate degree-seekers online and on campus. Busy learners can enroll in the public institution's master of education in school counseling.
The online program features core classes. After advanced courses, the program encourages degree-seekers to customize their course of study. To prepare to enter the workforce after graduation, master's students can take advantage of faculty mentorship and experiential learning opportunities.
Master's degree-holders can pursue leadership roles in their field. The institution's career counselors help master's students prepare to secure professional roles after graduation.
The amount students pay per credit on average is currently unknown. Degree-seekers with financial need can apply for federal grants and loans. According to the school, 92% of the student body receives financial aid.
- In-State$9,036
- Out-of-state$19,960
- In-State$7,542
- Out-of-state$14,814
- Retention Rate65%
- Acceptance Rate90%
- Students Enrolled12,144
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment47%
- AccreditationYes
North Carolina Central University
Durham, NC
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
North Carolina Central University is a leader in e-learning. The master's in school counseling program uses a rigorous curriculum taught by experts in the field. With an online program, students can save money on transportation, childcare, and other expenses. The program uses video lectures, assignments, and class discussions.
Financial aid, including scholarships, can help master's students graduate with less debt. The admissions rate is 68% for prospective students across all programs.
North Carolina Central University Facts:
Number of Online Students: 3,771
Total Online Master's Programs: 12
Graduate Tuition Rate: $4,740 in-state; $17,694 out-of-state
Average Total Aid Per Learner: $10,418
Average Net Price: $13,755
The school is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
- In-State$3,728
- Out-of-state$16,435
- In-State$4,740
- Out-of-state$17,694
- Retention Rate76%
- Acceptance Rate68%
- Students Enrolled8,011
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment47%
- AccreditationYes
University of Missouri-Columbia
Columbia, MO
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Degree-seekers can enroll in University of Missouri-Columbia's undergraduate and graduate programs online or on campus. The school delivers 21 master's programs online, including a master of education in school counseling.
Master's graduates often qualify for promotions or raises. The school offers students access to faculty mentorship and career counseling.
The school charges online enrollees affordable tuition rates and offers institutional funding for eligible applicants. At the accredited institution, students who demonstrate financial need can qualify for federal aid. Scholarships and fellowships can also help learners reduce out-of-pocket expenses.
University of Missouri-Columbia Facts:
Fee Per Credit: Not Known
Students Receiving Aid: 89%
Students Receiving Loans: 38%
Total Master's Programs: 80
Total Online Master's Programs: 80
Offers Transfer Credits: No
- In-State$9,120
- Out-of-state$26,991
- In-State$9,264
- Out-of-state$25,363
- Retention Rate88%
- Acceptance Rate81%
- Students Enrolled30,014
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment32%
- AccreditationYes
University of Mississippi
University, MS
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
University of Mississippi, a public institution located in University, Mississippi, offers online undergraduate and graduate programs. In addition to on-campus offerings, the school delivers several online programs. One option includes a master of education in counselor education.
Students can pursue the degree while maintaining employment. Graduates may qualify for promotions or raises. Master's students can access support services such as faculty mentorship and career counseling.
The online program makes affordability a priority. The institution holds accreditation, which means enrollees can submit the FAFSA and determine whether they qualify for federal financial aid. Additional financial aid options to help learners fund their master's studies include private scholarships and fellowships.
University of Mississippi at a Glance:
Per-Credit Price: Unavailable
Students Receiving Aid: 86%
Students Receiving Loans: 36%
Total Master's Programs: 53
Total Online Master's Programs: 53
Permits Transfer Credits: No
- In-State$8,718
- Out-of-state$24,990
- In-State$8,718
- Out-of-state$24,989
- Retention Rate87%
- Acceptance Rate88%
- Students Enrolled21,617
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment38%
- AccreditationYes
Kansas State University
Manhattan, KS
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Kansas State University offers an online master's in school counseling. The Manhattan-based university enrolls 3,464 students in its online courses. The accredited program offers a rigorous course of study valued by employers. The degree’s advanced training prepares students for the workplace. Enrollees enjoy a student-to-faculty ratio of 18-to-1, which gives them one-on-one time with faculty.
Degree-seekers can learn more about online support services at the program's website. Online students pay affordable tuition rates and receive financial aid. This makes the master's degree an affordable option for learners on a budget. Students can expect a graduation rate of 65% at the school.
Kansas State University Numbers:
Total Online Enrollment: 5,850
Number of Online Master’s Programs: 26
Graduate Tuition: $10,212 per year in-state, $23,050 per year out-of-state
Average Amount of Aid Awarded: $6,227
Average Net Price: $18,103
The school is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
- In-State$9,735
- Out-of-state$25,251
- In-State$10,212
- Out-of-state$23,050
- Retention Rate86%
- Acceptance Rate95%
- Students Enrolled21,719
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment27%
- AccreditationYes
Concordia University-Wisconsin
Mequon, WI
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Situated in Mequon, Concordia University-Wisconsin offers undergraduate and graduate programs in virtual and in-person formats. Learners located anywhere in the country can enroll in online master's programs from the private institution. The flexible master of science in education - counseling program prepares students for a variety of opportunities in counseling.
During the first year of the online program, master's students explore foundational principles through core counseling classes. The curriculum also features advanced counseling coursework and elective options. Faculty members provide mentorship, and students can pursue experiential learning opportunities to prepare for careers.
After completing the counseling program, master's degree-holders can apply to leadership roles, which often pay higher salaries. For assistance locating job placements, graduate students and alumni can consult with the institution's career counselors.
The amount learners pay per credit on average is unknown. The institution holds accreditation, which means degree-seekers can submit the FAFSA to receive federal grants and loans. Enrollees can reduce out-of-pocket costs by applying for grants, scholarships, and fellowships. Of the school's graduate students, 100% obtain financial aid to pay for their degree.
- In-State$30,060
- Out-of-state$30,060
- In-State$11,052
- Out-of-state$11,052
- Retention Rate81%
- Acceptance Rate64%
- Students Enrolled5,777
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment39%
- AccreditationYes
University of Central Arkansas
Conway, AR
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
University of Central Arkansas enrolls students in an online master of science in school counseling. The Conway-based university reports that 3,365 students take online classes. The accredited program provides a rigorous education valued by employers. The degree builds advanced knowledge and skills for careers. Degree-seekers benefit from a student-to-faculty ratio of 16-to-1, giving learners one-on-one attention from faculty.
Prospective students can learn more about online support services at the college's website. Students pay affordable tuition rates and receive financial aid. These options help master's students pay for their degree with less debt. The institution reports a 43% graduation rate for its programs.
University of Central Arkansas Fast Facts:
Total Online Enrollment: 4,563
Number of Online Master’s Programs: 10
Graduate Tuition: $5,018 per year in-state, $10,037 per year out-of-state
Average Amount of Aid Awarded: $7,161
Average Net Price: $14,796
The school has received accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission.
- In-State$6,810
- Out-of-state$13,620
- In-State$5,018
- Out-of-state$10,037
- Retention Rate75%
- Acceptance Rate90%
- Students Enrolled10,869
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment42%
- AccreditationYes
University of Louisiana at Monroe
Monroe, LA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Distance learners pursuing University of Louisiana at Monroe's affordable graduate programs can complete requirements in a convenient online format. The institution offers 34 online programs, including 16 online master's programs. The school offers a top-ranked master of science in counseling for graduate degree-seekers. Working professionals who enroll in the online program can complete academic requirements around their schedule.
Learners gain transferable skills and prepare for positions in the field during core coursework and classes. Students prepare for specialized careers and gain theoretical and practical knowledge during experiential learning opportunities. Master's degree-seekers typically graduate in 1-2 years, unless enrolled part time. The program website provides specific application details, including requirements and deadlines.
The school charges online learners affordable tuition rates and offers institutional funding for eligible applicants. Graduate tuition rates at the institution average $6,490 for Louisiana residents and $18,590 for out-of-state students. The institution holds accreditation, which means enrollees can submit the FAFSA and determine whether they qualify for federal financial aid. The school reports that 98% of students receive financial aid.
- In-State$5,788
- Out-of-state$17,888
- In-State$6,490
- Out-of-state$18,590
- Retention Rate73%
- Acceptance Rate80%
- Students Enrolled8,673
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment43%
- AccreditationYes
Harding University
Searcy, AR
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Harding University delivers undergraduate and graduate programs from its Searcy, Arkansas, campus. The school's offerings include on-campus and online master's programs. Graduates of the institution's online master's in professional school counseling can pursue a variety of positions.
The rigorous curriculum, combined with academic and career advising, prepares enrollees for counseling careers. Busy learners balancing work and school can benefit from the online program's scheduling flexibility. While most master's degree-seekers graduate in 1-2 years, part-time enrollment may extend degree-completion time.
Students at the accredited institution can qualify for federal grants and loans. The school reports that 51% of enrollees fund their education using student loans. Learners can also apply for financial aid to fund their degree, and 99% of the institution's learners receive aid.
Harding University at a Glance:
Total Programs: 129
Number of Online Programs: 19
Online Master's Programs: 30
Number of Online Students: 574
Per-Credit Price: Not Known
Religious Affiliation: Christian
Transfer Credits Toward Degree: No
- In-State$20,010
- Out-of-state$20,010
- In-State$13,372
- Out-of-state$13,372
- Retention Rate85%
- Acceptance Rate61%
- Students Enrolled4,879
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment12%
- AccreditationYes
Fort Hays State University
Hays, KS
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Fort Hays State University educates undergraduate and graduate degree-seekers from its campus in Hays, Kansas. In addition to on-campus offerings, the school delivers several master's programs online.
The institution offers an online master of science in school counseling that is ideal for busy degree-seekers interested in advancing their skills. The flexible course options and rigorous curriculum allow professionals to launch or advance their career. The school provides support services, such as academic advising and career counseling, to support master's students' overall success.
Online enrollees pay affordable tuition rates, making graduate studies more accessible. The institution holds accreditation, which means students with financial need can qualify for federal grants and loans. Learners can also pay for their degree through scholarships, institutional aid, and other forms of financial aid.
Fort Hays State University Numbers:
Per-Credit Tuition: N/A
Students Receiving Aid: 96%
Students Receiving Loans: 36%
Total Master's Programs: 19
Total Online Master's Programs: 19
Transfer Credits Accepted: No
- In-State$3,990
- Out-of-state$14,070
- In-State$3,582
- Out-of-state$10,206
- Retention Rate74%
- Acceptance Rate91%
- Students Enrolled15,908
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment55%
- AccreditationYes
Northern Arizona University
Flagstaff, AZ
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Northern Arizona University enrolls students in an online master's in school counseling. The institution, located in Flagstaff, reports that 7,915 students take online classes. The accredited program sets high academic standards that employers value. The program's advanced training prepares graduates for the workforce. The school offers a student-to-faculty ratio of 19-to-1, giving learners one-on-one attention from faculty.
Students can learn more about online support services at the program's website. The college offers affordable tuition rates and financial aid opportunities. This makes it easier for master's degree-seekers to pay for their education. Enrollees can expect a graduation rate of 57% at the school.
Northern Arizona University Facts:
Total Online Enrollment: 14,098
Number of Online Master’s Programs: 25
Graduate Tuition: $10,305 per year in-state, $19,522 per year out-of-state
Average Amount of Aid Awarded: $12,831
Average Net Price: $14,236
Northern Arizona University holds accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission, an independent accrediting agency.
- In-State$10,018
- Out-of-state$16,613
- In-State$10,305
- Out-of-state$19,522
- Retention Rate78%
- Acceptance Rate85%
- Students Enrolled30,733
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment46%
- AccreditationYes
Oregon State University
Corvallis, OR
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Distance learners at Oregon State University can pursue a variety of respected degrees, including a master of counseling. Located in Corvallis, the public institution enrolls 14,977 students in its flexible online programs. The flexibility can make it easier for busy learners to complete degree requirements.
Enrollees develop field-specific knowledge and skills that apply to many professional roles. Faculty mentors work with graduate students to ensure the curriculum aligns with their professional goals. Learners in the flexible online program gain specialized knowledge relevant to the industry. After earning the master's degree, graduates often secure advanced roles. Master's students can leverage the institution's career services and alumni network to access professional opportunities.
Learners enrolled in the school's master's programs can access support services including career advising and financial aid counseling. Students pursuing online graduate programs benefit from the school's affordable tuition rates. They may also qualify for scholarships, fellowships, or other forms of financial aid. The institution's cost per credit is unknown.
- In-State$9,846
- Out-of-state$29,445
- In-State$12,933
- Out-of-state$24,975
- Retention Rate85%
- Acceptance Rate82%
- Students Enrolled31,719
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment47%
- AccreditationYes
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