Want to earn your masters in counseling in Wisconsin? The timing couldn’t be better. Mental health concerns affect 859,000 Wisconsin residents, and the field needs qualified professionals. The job market for mental health counselors will grow by 19% by 2030, making it a great time to start your counseling education journey.

The state has 29 counseling degree programs, and 14 of them have CACREP accreditation. Your career goals might lead you toward clinical mental health counseling or school counseling programs at Wisconsin universities. Students who can’t make it to campus have options too. The state’s 12 schools offer hybrid and online counseling masters programs.

Counseling graduates have bright career prospects in Wisconsin. The median salary stands at $46,210, and the state government backs mental health services strongly. The ‘Get Kids Ahead’ initiative shows this commitment with over $30 million going to mental health programs in public and charter schools.

Let’s take a closer look at 13 accredited masters in counseling programs in Wisconsin. We’ll cover program formats, tuition costs, specializations, and accreditation status. You’ll find everything you need here to choose the right path, whether you want traditional campus learning or the flexibility of online studies.

1. Marquette University

Marquette University stands out among Wisconsin’s masters in counseling programs with its complete approach to counselor education. The Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling helps you become skilled at professional counseling through evidence-based practices and hands-on learning.

Program overview

The program’s curriculum focuses on everything in counseling competencies such as human development, psychopathology, assessment, counseling theories, consultation, and ethical issues. You’ll also develop skills in individual, group, family, and other counseling interventions. The program creates socially conscious leaders who support equity and help diverse populations. Marquette’s counseling program shows strong student outcomes with a 100% employment rate 90 days after graduation and a 96% on-time graduation rate.

Accreditation

The Higher Learning Commission, a commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools, accredits Marquette University. The Clinical Mental Health Counseling program also maintains accreditation from the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP). This ensures the program meets nationwide recognized educational standards.

Program format

Marquette gives you flexibility to pursue your degree. You can choose between in-person and fully online options. The online format combines self-paced learning with live sessions that enhance hands-on counseling practice. Students must complete required practicum and internship experiences in approved clinical settings, whatever format they choose.

Tuition and costs

The online program’s tuition costs $1,045 per credit hour for 2025-2026. Total estimated tuition reaches $62,700 for the complete 60-credit program. The $50 application fee is waived for Marquette’s alumni.

Program length

Students need 60 credit hours to complete the program, which typically takes 21 months full-time. This includes a comprehensive examination along with required practicum and internship experiences.

Specializations

Marquette offers several specialization options to match your career goals:

General track (non-specialization option)
Addiction counseling: Clinical services for clients with addictions and co-occurring disorders
Child and adolescent counseling: Clinical services for children, adolescents, and their families
Clinical rehabilitation counseling: Counseling in rehabilitation agencies for youth and adults

Online students can choose between the general track or the child and adolescent counseling specialization.

2. Mount Mary University

Mount Mary University runs a CACREP-accredited counseling program that works well for professionals who want to get their masters in counseling in Wisconsin. The Milwaukee campus program weaves multicultural counseling and social justice principles into every course.

Program overview

The Master of Science in Professional Counseling gets you ready for counseling careers with a strong emphasis on advocacy and multicultural skills. The program aims to develop counselors who value integrity and social justice. Students can work as professional counselors in mental health clinics, schools, and rehabilitation facilities after graduation. Many students have found practicum placements in southeastern Wisconsin, which shows the program’s success.

Accreditation

The Clinical Mental Health Counseling specialization has full accreditation from the Council for Accreditation of Counseling & Related Educational Programs (CACREP) through 2031. This respected accreditation means the program meets high academic standards and makes state licensure easier. The Higher Learning Commission (HLC) also accredits Mount Mary University, which adds to the program’s credibility.

Program format

Evening classes start between 3pm and 6pm to fit your busy schedule. The program uses a hybrid learning approach where about 25% of courses are online. This setup lets you manage your studies alongside work and personal life while still getting valuable face-to-face time with teachers and classmates.

Tuition and costs

The counseling program costs $820 per credit hour, and the Counseling Doctorate program is $910 per credit. Full-time graduate students pay a $310 general fee each semester, while part-time students pay $160.

Program length

The program needs 54-60 credit hours based on your specialization. You can study part-time or full-time. Clinical specializations require 700 hours of practicum/internship experience.

Specializations

Mount Mary offers three distinct specialization paths:

Clinical Mental Health Counseling: A 60-credit CACREP-accredited program that covers trauma counseling, addictions, and psychopharmacology
School Counseling: A 54-credit program that prepares you for K-12 school counseling roles with Wisconsin DPI licensure
Clinical Rehabilitation Counseling: Focuses on counseling people with disabilities and provides training in psychiatric rehabilitation and medical aspects of disability

3. University of Wisconsin-Madison

The University of Wisconsin-Madison stands out among Wisconsin’s masters in counseling programs with its scientist-practitioner approach. The MS in Counseling program combines strong theoretical knowledge with practical skills to prepare students for professional practice in community settings.

Program overview

The MS program concentrates on counseling in community and agency settings, which includes university and college counseling centers. Students develop their skills through a curriculum that covers individual and group counseling, consultation, research, ethics, multiculturalism, social justice, and vocational psychology. The university’s training clinic, counseling centers, community mental health centers, and many other agencies offer supervised practicum opportunities for hands-on experience. The program meets all academic requirements for students to become licensed professional counselors in Wisconsin.

Accreditation

The Masters in Psychology and Counseling Accreditation Council (MPCAC) has accredited the program through 2031. This recognition will give students confidence that their education meets high standards and prepares them for licensure in multiple states. The program’s graduates can pursue certification or licensure in twelve states, including Wisconsin, Minnesota, New York, and Texas.

Program format

Students have the option to complete their degree full-time or part-time. Part-time students must carefully sequence their courses. The Department of Counseling Psychology only accepts fall enrollment applications without spring or summer start options. Competition for admission runs high with about 150 applicants competing for 10-12 spots each year. Students should prepare their applications well in advance.

Tuition and costs

A student’s residency status determines their tuition. Wisconsin residents pay $10,766 per year, while non-residents pay $38,654. Minnesota residents benefit from reciprocity agreements and pay $14,812. Students need to budget beyond tuition for educational supplies ($1,150), housing and meals ($12,548), and personal expenses.

Program length

Students who attend full-time can complete the program in two years with summer classes. The degree requires at least 60 graduate credits. The program culminates in the Professional Integration Exercise (PIE), a capstone experience that tests the student’s clinical case conceptualization skills and professional identity.

Specializations

The program creates practitioners ready to work in:

Community agencies
Post-secondary educational institutions
Business and industry settings

This hands-on approach gives students specialized skills they need for clinical mental health counseling careers in different professional settings.

4. University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh

The Professional Counseling program at University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh combines theoretical knowledge with practical experience to prepare tomorrow’s counselors. This program has shaped counseling professionals since 1962 and maintains its steadfast dedication to social justice principles.

Program overview

UW-Oshkosh’s Professional Counseling program puts strong emphasis on evidence-based practices and hands-on learning. Students earn a Master of Science in Education degree while they develop counseling skills through practical experience with comprehensive supervision and mentoring. The program shapes counselors who can promote social justice through innovative teaching methods, scholarly work, service learning, and community involvement.

Accreditation

CACREP (Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs) fully accredits the Clinical Mental Health Counseling Program. This recognition will give graduates the credentials needed for licensure in multiple states.

Program format

Summer term admissions happen once a year with a January 15 application deadline. Students need a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution and must maintain a minimum 3.0 overall GPA or 3.25 in their final undergraduate years. The application process includes a supplement, plus individual and group faculty interviews. Faculty members create an interactive interview environment that helps everyone make informed admission decisions.

Tuition and costs

Full-time Wisconsin residents pay $5,025 per semester for 9 credits, while non-residents pay $9,967. Minnesota students get a special rate of $6,843 per semester through reciprocity agreements.

Program length

Students complete the program in 3 years full-time or 4-5 years part-time. The curriculum starts with summer courses and progresses to practicum (100 hours) followed by internship experiences (600 total hours).

Specializations

Students can choose from three specialized paths:

Clinical Mental Health Counseling: A 60-credit CACREP-accredited program that focuses on clinical counseling skills, diagnosis and treatment, neuroscience, crisis and trauma, family systems, and addiction
School Counseling: Students learn K-12 school counseling with emphasis on multicultural and social justice viewpoints
Student Affairs and College Counseling: A track designed for higher education roles (currently not accepting applications)

5. University of Wisconsin-River Falls

The University of Wisconsin-River Falls, a 55-year old institution, offers a focused masters in counseling Wisconsin program that prepares professional school counselors for K-12 educational settings.

Program overview

The UWRF Counseling Program calls the Wyman Education Building its home, right in the heart of campus. The program maintains a close-knit community with three full-time faculty members and approximately 50-60 students. Students learn exclusively about school counseling. The program’s mission helps counselors “exhibit excellence in counseling practice and leadership, respect human dignity and cultural diversity in the broadest sense, and commit to lifelong personal and professional growth”. Graduates can implement detailed school counseling programs and build mutually beneficial alliances with stakeholders.

Accreditation

The program has earned accreditation from the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP). This certification ensures high professional standards. The program also meets state certification requirements and follows proven practices for counselor training.

Program format

Students experience “a carefully constructed blend of in-person, online and hybrid-style courses”. Evening classes make the program available to working professionals. Students must pass a written exam based on core course content before starting their internship.

Tuition and costs

The program doesn’t list specific tuition rates. Students should plan to spend about $800-$1,000 on textbooks throughout their studies. Costs vary based on priorities between hard copies and electronic versions.

Program length

Students can complete their degree in as little as two years, with up to seven years allowed. The program used to take two and a half years minimum, suggesting recent improvements in efficiency.

Specializations

The 60-credit program offers two specialized tracks:

Track A: Substance Use Disorder (6 credits)
Track B: Higher Education Administration (6 credits)

Students can choose additional electives with their advisor’s guidance to fulfill the required 12 credits of directed elective courses.

6. University of Wisconsin-Whitewater

The University of Wisconsin-Whitewater’s Counselor Education Department creates well-rounded counseling professionals through a combination of academic rigor, hands-on learning, and self-reflection. Their exceptional approach earned them the 2016 Teaching Excellence Award from the Board of Regents.

Program overview

The curriculum lines up with standards set by the Council on Accreditation of Counseling and Related Programs (CACREP) and Wisconsin certification requirements. Students become skilled at assessing personal issues, analyzing information, using appropriate techniques, and preparing documentation. The program has graduated over 2,000 students since its establishment. About 40 students graduate each year, and the department currently serves approximately 130 enrolled students.

Accreditation

The Clinical Mental Health Counseling and School Counseling programs maintain CACREP accreditation through March 2032. This prestigious recognition validates program quality, simplifies licensure applications, and helps graduates excel on the National Counselor Examination. The Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction has also approved the program for school counseling licensure.

Program format

Students can apply for summer and fall 2026 terms, with applications due by October 1, 2025. Beyond standard graduate admission requirements, candidates need to submit a cover letter, resume, personal statement, and complete a background check. October applicants will interview on October 17, 2025.

Tuition and costs

Graduate students from Wisconsin pay Wisconsin residents pay $614.60 per credit or $5,531.33 full-time. Non-resident costs are $1,229.05 per credit or $11,061.38 full-time. Minnesota residents enjoy reduced rates through reciprocity agreements.

Program length

Students must complete 60 credits. UW-Whitewater’s School of Graduate Studies allows seven years for degree completion. The program boasts an impressive 88% completion rate within three years, with Clinical Mental Health Counseling reaching 99%.

Specializations

Two emphases are available:

Clinical Mental Health Counseling: Graduates can work in community centers, inpatient facilities, and higher education
School Counseling: A 48-credit program that qualifies graduates for early childhood through adolescence school counselor licensure

The program’s success shows in its job placement rates: 100% for Clinical Mental Health Counseling graduates and 81% overall as of May 2024.

7. University of Wisconsin-Stout

UW-Stout’s counseling programs come with multiple delivery options. Students can easily balance their professional and personal commitments.

Program overview

UW-Stout’s CACREP-accredited Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling program gives you the skills to assess, diagnose, prevent, and treat clients from various backgrounds. The program has essential courses in counseling theories, grief and trauma, family systems, human development, and psychological assessment. Students learn to aid their clients’ personal, social, and economic independence through comprehensive clinical training.

Accreditation

The Clinical Mental Health Counseling program holds accreditation from the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP). The Marriage & Family Therapy program has maintained its accreditation from the Commission on Accreditation for Marriage and Family Therapy Education (COAMFTE) since 1977. It stands as one of the two longest COAMFTE-accredited programs in the country. The School Counseling program also has Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction (DPI) approval.

Program format

Students can choose from these delivery methods:

Clinical Mental Health Counseling comes in both online and on-campus formats
School Counseling runs completely online
Rehabilitation Counseling uses asynchronous online learning so students can complete weekly assignments when it suits them

Tuition and costs

Wisconsin residents pay about $11,196 for tuition and fees at the graduate level. Non-resident costs run around $20,188. All the same, customized instruction programs (online) charge the same rate whatever your residency.

Program length

Students need 60 credits to complete the Clinical Mental Health Counseling program. Most students finish in two years – about 75% of them.

Specializations

The Clinical Mental Health Counseling program has these specialized concentrations:

Alcohol and Drug Abuse Counseling
Crisis and Trauma Counseling
Child and Adolescent Counseling
Eating Disorders Counseling
Gerontological Counseling

8. Viterbo University

Viterbo University’s Master of Science in Mental Health Counseling program shows remarkable success with a 100% job placement rate and 97% of graduates passing their credentialing exams. This Wisconsin-based program equips professionals to treat a wide range of mental health conditions.

Program overview

The program shapes counselors who blend values of contemplation, integrity, hospitality, stewardship, and service into their clinical work. Students learn through diverse approaches like class discussions, role-playing, small group work, and simulations. The curriculum covers professional identity, cultural diversity, human development, helping relationships, assessment, diagnosis, and evidence-based intervention skills.

Accreditation

The Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP) has accredited the Mental Health Counseling program. The program also maintains Higher Learning Commission accreditation as part of Viterbo University. Graduates can pursue licensure in Wisconsin, Minnesota, and Iowa.

Program format

Working professionals will find the program’s schedule convenient with afternoon/evening and weekend classes. Classes run on Wednesdays and Thursdays (3–6 p.m. and 6:30–9:30 p.m.) with additional weekend options on Friday evenings and Saturdays. Students can choose between full-time or part-time study, with 6 credits per semester considered full-time.

Viterbo University tuition and costs

Graduate tuition runs $635 per credit with an additional $15 per credit resource fee. Students can access federal financial aid through FAFSA (code 003911). Veterans can also use their benefits for this program.

Program length

Students must complete 60 credits to earn their degree. Taking 9 credits each semester, including summers, allows students to finish coursework in two years before starting their counseling internship. Most students earn their degree in 2-3 years.

Specializations

Students choose one specialty area from these options:

Substance abuse counseling
Integrative health and wellness counseling
Child and adolescent counseling

These focused tracks prepare graduates for careers in high-growth counseling fields.

9. University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee

UWM’s counseling program is pioneering urban counselor education with a steadfast dedication to training professionals in multicultural competency. The Department of Educational Psychology provides masters in counseling Wisconsin options that specifically target practice in urban environments.

Program overview

Students can choose between two distinct concentrations that prepare graduates to serve clients from various backgrounds in urban settings. The School Counseling concentration gives you the tools to deliver counseling services within schools and their communities. Students learn to apply principles of learning, human development, and research. The Clinical Mental Health Counseling track teaches students assessment, diagnosis, and evidence-based approaches for individual and group settings.

Accreditation

The Master’s in Psychology and Counseling Accreditation Council (MPCAC) has accredited the Clinical Mental Health Counseling program. This recognition confirms the program’s high educational standards. The program meets certification and licensure requirements in thirteen states beyond Wisconsin, including Arizona, Colorado, Illinois, and New York.

Program format

Several courses run in an asynchronous online format, including COUNS 702, 774, 775, 820, and 904, while most take place in person. Both concentrations need summer enrollment. Working professionals can attend classes scheduled in the evening.

Tuition and costs

The annual tuition varies by residency status. Wisconsin residents pay about $10,916, and non-residents pay $23,515. Minnesota residents get reciprocity rates of approximately $15,181 per year.

Program length

The School Counseling track needs 48 credits, while Clinical Mental Health Counseling requires 60 credits. Full-time students taking 12 credits each semester graduate within 2 years with summer sessions. Part-time students complete their degree in 3 years typically.

Specializations

The program offers two main concentrations:

School Counseling: The Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction approves this track, offering K-12 and Bilingual Counselor certification
Clinical Mental Health Counseling: The program boasts an 85% success rate of graduates becoming licensed professional counselors within two years

10. Concordia University Wisconsin

Concordia University Wisconsin provides a unique Master of Science in Education-Counseling program. The program blends Christian values with professional counseling education through faith-based principles.

Program overview

The program shapes ethical servant leaders who value diversity and help others. Graduates enable people to achieve fulfilling lives mentally, physically and spiritually. Students learn evidence-based counseling theories, ethical standards, and lifelong learning principles. They also focus on serving diverse needs and analyzing client requirements through data-driven assessments.

Accreditation

The Higher Learning Commission provides regional accreditation to the university. The Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction has approved the School Counseling program. The Professional Counseling program has received approval from the Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services (DSPS).

Program format

The program runs online with 8-week sessions throughout the academic year. Students need to attend only two courses in person – individual and group counseling. New students can join at the beginning of any 8-week session.

Tuition and costs

The School and Professional Counseling program costs $735 per credit. Students can access several scholarship options including Business Community, Christian Community, and Veterans scholarships.

Program length

Students complete the school counseling track in 2.5-3 years. The professional counseling track takes 3-3.5 years to finish.

Specializations

Students can choose from four main options:

School Counseling (K-12) with WDPI License #7054
Clinical Mental Health Counseling leading to WDSPS Certificate 226
Non-licensable Counseling Foundations degree
Dual Licensure Track combining school and professional counseling

Professional Counseling students can get Substance Abuse Counselor In-Training credentials by completing specific coursework.

11. Lakeland University

Lakeland University’s Master of Arts in Counseling (MAC) program will prepare you for a professional counseling career. The program combines theoretical knowledge with hands-on experience. Students learn through experiential activities that promote ethical decision-making and culturally responsive practices.

Program overview

Working professionals who want counseling careers will find the MAC program ideal for their needs. The curriculum has essential courses in counseling theories, group counseling, career development, ethics, psychopathology, and human development. Students get practical experience through practicums and internships. They must complete 125 clock hours in practicum and 600 hours in internships.

Accreditation

The Higher Learning Commission accredits the program. The clinical mental health counseling track meets Wisconsin’s Department of Safety and Professional Services standards. Wisconsin’s Department of Public Instruction approves the school counseling track. The higher education track aligns with standards endorsed by the Council for the Advancement of Standards in Higher Education.

Program format

Students can take courses in 12-week or 7-week semesters with multiple format options. The program lets you switch between on-site, online, online live, or BlendEd® formats based on your needs.

Tuition and costs

Graduate tuition is $614.60 per credit.

Program length

Most students complete the program in 3 years.

Specializations

The program has three concentrations:

Clinical Mental Health Counseling (60 credits)
School Counseling (51 credits)
Higher Education Counseling & Student Affairs (48 credits)

12. University of Wisconsin-Superior

The Master of Science in Education – Counseling program at University of Wisconsin-Superior has grown faster from 60 to almost 600 students since launching its online option in 2021.

Program overview

UW-Superior’s counseling program prepares students for professional practice by intensive development of counseling skills. Students will improve their expertise to help clients work through personal issues, prevent interpersonal problems, and encourage optimal human development. The program focuses on building therapeutic relationships with clients from a variety of backgrounds through current strategies that expert faculty members teach.

Accreditation

The university maintains accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission, an institutional accreditation agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. This recognition will give students a program that meets Wisconsin and Minnesota licensure requirements.

Program format

Students can access the program 100% online with practicum and internship experiences blended within the curriculum. The graduation requirements include 600 internship hours and 100 practicum hours in clinical settings, with 40% direct service mandatory.

Tuition and costs

The program’s tuition is $520 per credit hour ($1,560 per three-credit course). The total cost reaches $31,200 for the full program with an additional $60 technology fee per course.

Program length

Students can earn their degree in as few as 24 months.

Specializations

Three concentrations are available both online and on campus:

Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Marriage and Family Therapy
School Counseling

13. University of Wisconsin-Parkside

UW-Parkside will launch a new Clinical Mental Health Counseling program in September 2025. The program gives students flexibility with both on-campus and fully online options.

Program overview

The 60-credit program helps students become skilled at counseling through knowledge and skills that match National Board of Certified Counselors competencies. Small student-to-faculty ratios and 700 hours of practical placement experience make this program stand out. Students can choose placements based on their clinical interests. The faculty brings expertise in trauma, crisis intervention, addictions, career counseling, multiculturalism, and telehealth.

Accreditation

The Higher Learning Commission (HLC) has fully accredited the program through UW-Parkside. Wisconsin’s professional counselor licensure requirements recognize this program’s educational credentials.

Program format

Students can choose between two options. The first combines in-person, accelerated, and online courses in a hybrid format. UW-Extended Campus supports a completely online alternative. The final year includes practicum (3 credits) and internship (6 credits) for online students.

Tuition and costs

Online students pay $800 per credit, with the total program cost reaching $48,000. The on-campus graduate tuition changes based on where students live.

Program length

Students who study full-time usually finish in 2.5 years. Part-time students need about 4.5 years to graduate.

Specializations

The program builds student expertise in assessment, diagnosis, intervention, advocacy, and program evaluation.

Choose a Master’s in Counseling in Wisconsin

Your choice of a master’s in counseling program in Wisconsin will substantially shape your professional experience and career path. The 13 accredited programs provide specializations, flexible learning formats, and completion timelines that match your goals and situation. These programs also meet strict educational standards through CACREP and MPCAC accreditations, which means your credentials will be recognized across the country.

Mental health needs in Wisconsin keep growing, creating excellent opportunities for counseling graduates. Job security and advancement look promising with a projected 19% growth in counseling positions by 2030. The state’s ‘Get Kids Ahead’ program shows its steadfast dedication to expanding mental health services, especially in schools.

Students can expect to pay between $520 to $1,045 per credit hour. Many schools provide financial aid and have reciprocity agreements with neighboring states. Full-time students usually finish in 2-3 years, while working professionals who study part-time take 4-5 years.

You should think over several factors before choosing your program. Look at specialization options, accreditation status, format flexibility, and location. Clinical mental health counseling remains the most accessible concentration. School counseling, rehabilitation counseling, and marriage and family therapy are great alternatives with strong job prospects.

This complete overview helps you review which Wisconsin master’s in counseling program lines up with your career goals, priorities, and personal situation. Your choice will shape your education and help you make meaningful changes in your future clients’ lives throughout Wisconsin and beyond.