[2025] 3 Best Graduate Programs in Counseling: Montana’s Top Picks
Your path to a thriving career in a faster growing field might start with graduate counseling programs in Montana. The counseling profession shows strong potential with a projected job growth rate of 19% by 2033. Counseling professionals are needed in settings of all types.
Montana offers compelling options whether you’re thinking over graduate programs to launch your career or advance existing credentials. The state’s universities show impressive results – some programs have achieved 100% job placement rates and their graduates earn average salaries of $72,203. Students interested in a masters of mental health counseling or school counseling will find programs aligned with their professional goals.
We researched the top three counseling graduate programs in Montana to help you make an informed choice. These institutions equip students with the education and practical experience they need. Programs offer flexibility with no GRE requirements for admission and specialized tracks. The high employment rates of 82% post-graduation prove these programs prepare counselors effectively for ground practice.
University of Providence – M.S. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
The University of Providence’s Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling program stands out among Montana’s graduate counseling programs. The program combines academic excellence with hands-on experience to help future counselors develop their skills. These skills prove invaluable when supporting people with mental health challenges.
Program overview
The University’s Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling creates professional mental health counselors ready for rewarding careers. Students learn both theory and practical applications to build a strong foundation for effective counseling. The program lets students participate in various topics from psychology to diagnosis and treatment methods. A well-laid-out structure helps build clinical expertise.
Students need 60 semester hours of counseling coursework, including required practicum and internship experiences. Most students finish the program in three calendar years with Fall, Spring, and select Summer sessions. The program uses a cohort learning model where students move through their courses together. This setup promotes a supportive community that values individual attention and team learning.
Thirteen students earned their Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling degree during the 2023–2024 academic year. They showed excellence in advanced counseling practice and leadership. Five more students got their MSC degrees in 2024–2025, carrying on the program’s tradition of creating skilled counseling professionals.
The university strongly suggests part-time attendance for working professionals or those with other commitments. Taking more time boosts both academic success and personal well-being.
Accreditation and format
The Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP) accredits the program. This prestigious recognition came on July 31, 2017. After submitting an Interim Report in December 2018, the accreditation now extends to 2025.
CACREP accreditation proves the program meets specific standards for counseling curriculum, faculty credentials, and professional growth. Students get several key benefits:
- Meeting educational requirements for state licensure through the National Counselor Examination
- Better job prospects in counseling
- Quality education that meets industry standards
Students experience a mix of classroom learning and practical training. They work with academic advisors to choose electives that match their interests and career goals. Students must also qualify for Advanced Candidacy by keeping a 3.0 GPA and finishing core courses.
Graduating requires showing competence in academic, professional, and personal areas that align with career goals. Students must maintain a 3.0 GPA, and only two grades of C or below count toward the degree.
Specializations offered
The graduate programs for counseling at University of Providence offer specialty concentrations that allow students to tailor their education to specific career paths. While the program’s primary focus is clinical mental health counseling, students can choose optional concentrations in:
- Addictions Counseling – Equipping students with specialized knowledge and skills for working with individuals struggling with substance use disorders and other addictive behaviors
- Clinical Rehabilitation Counseling – Preparing counselors to work specifically with individuals who have physical, mental, developmental, or emotional disabilities
Beyond these concentrations, the university also offers an Addictions Counseling Certificate. MSC students can obtain this certificate by taking 5 additional Addictions Counseling courses at Continuing Education rates. This provides graduates with verified expertise in this high-demand specialty area.
The curriculum is thoughtfully structured to provide students with all necessary tools to become licensed professional counselors (LPC). Both the content and clinical hours are designed to prepare students for licensing examinations and meet supervision requirements across all U.S. states.
Job placement and licensure
The University of Providence boasts impressive outcomes for graduates of its masters of mental health counseling program. According to recent data, all students who completed the program during the 2023-2024 academic year successfully graduated and secured employment in the clinical mental health counseling field. This 100% employment rate underscores the program’s effectiveness in preparing students for real-world practice.
Equally impressive, all students who took the National Counselor Examination for Licensure and Certification (NCE) during the 2023 calendar year passed the exam. This perfect pass rate highlights the program’s academic rigor and comprehensive preparation.
The program’s curriculum and clinical hours are specifically structured to prepare students for the NCE, providing the necessary educational courses and supervision required for licensure in Montana and all other U.S. states. Upon completion of the program, graduates are eligible to sit for the NCE through the National Board for Certified Counselors.
After obtaining certification, graduates can pursue various employment avenues as licensed professional counselors, including:
- Private practice settings
- Clinical practice environments
- Licensed mental health counseling positions in hospitals
- Community mental health agencies
- Rehabilitation centers
The School of Health Professions has established multiple Clinical Education Agreements across various clinical sites, giving students valuable opportunities for practicums and internships. These partnerships include Providence Health and Services and numerous other clinical partners nationwide, providing students with diverse real-world experiences before graduation.
The Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling prepares program graduates to apply for licensure as a Licensed Professional Counselor by the Montana Board of Social Work Examiners and Professional Counselors.
Tuition and financial aid
For students considering graduate programs counseling at University of Providence, understanding the financial investment is essential. As of 2022, full-time domestic students paid tuition of $24,237 per academic year. Since University of Providence is a private institution, this tuition rate applies equally to all accepted students regardless of residency status, including out-of-state and international students.
Students living on campus should also budget for room and board costs, which totaled $10,233 per academic year in 2022. The total expenses table looks as follows:
| Expense Category | Annual Cost (2022) |
| Tuition | $24,237 |
| Room and Board | $10,233 |
The University of Providence offers several financial incentives and aid options to help make education more affordable. Particularly noteworthy are the special tuition incentives for healthcare professionals:
- Currently-employed healthcare professionals may qualify for tuition discounts through the Healthcare Professional Tuition Incentive program
- Providence Caregivers and their dependents can access tuition discounts and other benefits through the Human Resources Service Portal
These incentives make the program particularly attractive for those already working in healthcare fields who wish to transition into or advance within counseling careers.
Admission requirements
Admission to the University of Providence’s graduate programs for counseling requires meeting several criteria to ensure students are prepared for the rigorous academic work ahead. The requirements include:
- Completion of a graduate application
- Submission of official transcripts showing completion of a baccalaureate degree from an accredited institution
- An undergraduate GPA of 3.0 (applicants with lower GPAs may be required to complete the GRE exam at the program coordinator’s discretion)
- A one-page essay included with the application
- Submission of a current CV or résumé
- Payment of a $38.00 application fee (required by GradCAS)
The admissions process evaluates not only academic performance but also the applicant’s potential for success in the counseling profession. The one-page essay provides an opportunity for candidates to express their motivations, goals, and understanding of the counseling field.
The comprehensive nature of these admission requirements helps ensure that accepted students are well-prepared for the challenges and opportunities of graduate-level counseling education. Hence, prospective students should carefully prepare all application materials to present themselves as strong candidates.
Throughout the program, students must maintain high academic standards. To qualify for degree candidacy, students must maintain a GPA of 3.0 or better and successfully complete foundational coursework including MSC 500, MSC 516, MSC 508, MSC 512, MSC 515, MSC 517, MSC 606, and MSC 607. Should a student’s cumulative GPA fall below 3.0, they are placed on academic probation and have until the completion of the next semester to restore their GPA to at least 3.0.
The University of Providence’s Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling program represents an excellent option for those seeking quality education in counseling within Montana. With its CACREP accreditation, specialized concentration options, impressive job placement rates, and comprehensive preparation for licensure, the program equips graduates with the knowledge and skills needed to succeed in this rewarding profession.
Montana State University Billings – M.Ed. in School Counseling
Montana State University Billings has a flexible pathway that’s available to anyone who wants to become a school counselor through its M.Ed. in School Counseling program. This program stands out as one of Montana’s few hybrid counseling graduate programs. It blends online convenience with hands-on training, making it perfect for professionals who want to advance their careers in school counseling.
Program overview
The Master of Education in School Counseling at Montana State University Billings gets students ready to work as professional counselors in K-12 schools. The program’s main goal is to shape compassionate, skilled practitioners who can bring positive changes in students’ intellectual, behavioral, and emotional growth. Students learn how to support academic success and personal well-being.
The program shines with its flexible format. Students can create a study plan that’s almost entirely online, with just four classes needing blended/online formats during summer sessions. These summer courses need only one weekend campus visit during each of two consecutive summers. Working professionals and people living far from Billings find this hybrid setup particularly appealing.
The program needs 48 credits and has four main parts:
- Professional Core (6 credits)
- School Counseling Core (8 credits)
- Professional Specialization (21 credits)
- Internship and Capstone (13 credits)
Students take essential courses like Theories of Counseling, Ethical and Professional Issues, Career and Lifestyle Development, and Group Process. The program has hands-on experience through internships at elementary and secondary schools, adding up to 12 credits. This approach ensures graduates get experience with all K-12 grade levels.
Full-time students who take 9 credits each semester can finish in about six semesters. Notwithstanding that, students can design their own study plans to fit their personal and professional needs.
Accreditation and format
The School Counseling program has accreditation from the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP). This prestigious recognition proves the program meets high standards for preparing elementary and secondary teachers and school counselors through the Master of Education degree. The Montana State Board of Public Education has also accredited the Teacher Education Program, proving it right and showing it meets state standards.
The program mixes theory with practical application. Most courses are online, and the program follows a hybrid model that has:
- Most courses online for flexibility
- Blended summer classes with some on-campus time
- Evening classes that work for professionals
MSU Billings is Montana’s only online program that specializes in school counseling. The 48-credit curriculum meets all the licensure requirements set by the Office of Public Instruction (OPI) for counseling in Montana schools.
Students can choose between two paths: a 48-credit K-12 Licensure option and a 42-credit Endorsement option. The K-12 Licensure option prepares you for counseling roles across all grade levels, while the Endorsement option works best for teachers who want to add school counseling to their skills.
Graduates show they can:
- Put school counseling ethics and theory into evidence-based action plans
- Build collaborative relationships with diverse populations
- Review assessment data to meet unique student needs
- Use professional skills in prevention, consultation, and advocacy
Specializations offered
MSU Billings’ M.Ed. in School Counseling focuses on preparing counselors for K-12 schools. Unlike other counseling programs with multiple concentrations, this one zeroes in on school counseling practice and theory.
The well-laid-out curriculum prepares graduates for school counseling roles and covers many aspects of student support services. Students become experts in:
- Elementary and middle school counseling techniques
- Career and lifestyle development counseling
- Group process theory and practice
- Organization and administration of school counseling programs
On top of that, it has coursework in special education through SPED 540: Education of Exceptional Learners. This helps graduates work effectively with students who have different learning needs and abilities—a vital skill in today’s schools.
Students develop their professional identity and learn behaviors that help students succeed. The program uses proven practices and ethical decision-making to prepare graduates for today’s student challenges.
Though there aren’t different concentration tracks beyond school counseling, the curriculum ensures graduates can handle various school counselor responsibilities. Students graduate ready to support academic achievement, career development, and social/emotional well-being.
JMSU Billings job placement and licensure
The School Counseling program’s graduates do exceptionally well in their careers. Recent data shows 100% of 2022 graduates who reported employment data found jobs after graduation. This shows how well the program prepares students for school counseling careers.
Montana’s school counselors have good financial prospects. They earn between $53,530 and $60,510 yearly, with potential lifetime earnings of $2,359,890 over 39 years. These numbers show graduates can build stable financial futures.
Many students get counseling jobs before finishing their programs through OPI-Internships or Provisional Licensure. About 82% of graduates work in their field within nine months of graduation, earning an average of $46,643.
The program meets Montana’s Office of Public Instruction requirements for school counseling licensure. Graduates can get the Montana Class 6 School Counselor Specialist license. They need to:
- Finish the M.Ed. in School Counseling program
- Pass the Professional PRAXIS exam in school counseling
- Submit materials through the Montana Office of Public Instruction
Students can get a Class 5 Provisional License while studying. This needs Graduate Studies admission, a fingerprint and background check, and a formal Study Plan signed by everyone involved.
Local school internships give graduates the hands-on skills they need for successful licensure and professional work.
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Montana State University – M.S. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Montana State University stands as the state’s flagship institution. Its M.S. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling program shapes professional counselors through hands-on learning and theory-based methods. The program ranks among Montana’s best graduate counseling programs. Students learn to handle mental health needs of all types.
Program overview
The Clinical Mental Health Counseling program blends classroom learning with real-world practice. Students complete 60 credits and learn counseling theories while working with actual clients. The program helps students work with adult clients (18 and older). They learn about client backgrounds, environments, and the issues they face.
Students can earn up to 1,500 hours of supervised counseling experience. These hours count toward the 3,000 supervised hours needed to practice in Montana. The course sequence helps students build knowledge and skills while growing professionally. The training pushes students hard and expects high levels of maturity and people skills.
The program’s main features include:
- Methods to treat mental disorders, including serious adult mental illness
- Theory-based work with adult clients
- Supervised counseling practice and extra guidance during internship
- Projects that boost personal and professional growth
Students learn to tackle mental health issues from many angles. The program covers human development, counseling theory, learning theory, group dynamics, and the roots of mental illness.
Accreditation and format
The program holds accreditation from the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP). This matters because at least 23 states need CACREP accreditation for counseling licenses.
The program also earned approval as a Western Regional Graduate Program. Students from Western Interstate Commission for Higher Education (WICHE) member states pay only 150% of resident tuition instead of full non-resident rates.
Students need 60 credits and at least two years to graduate. They gain up to 1,500 hours of supervised counseling experience in core areas. Classes build on each other to help students learn better.
The program offers several perks:
- Second-year students can become teaching assistants
- Research work with faculty who have funded projects
- Different stipend amounts based on role
Specializations offered
The Department of Counseling opens more doors beyond Clinical Mental Health Counseling. Students can choose from several paths:
- S. in Marriage, Couples & Family Counseling
- Ed. in School Counseling
- Graduate certificate in Addictions Counseling
- Graduate certificate in Mental Health Support
The Addictions Counseling certificate takes 30 credits and leads to addiction counselor licensure. The Mental Health Support certificate runs during summer only. This 12-credit program trains people to support mental health in schools and communities.
The department aims to create skilled professionals who understand different cultures and promote mental health. These experts help people and families of all ages across Montana and beyond.
Job placement and licensure
The program’s graduates find jobs quickly. Numbers show 82% finish on time, and every reporting graduate had a job at graduation.
The class of 2023/24 achieved a perfect score on the National Counselor Examination (NCE). This shows how well the program prepares future counselors.
Graduates work in many places:
- Community agencies and mental health hospitals
- Group practices and various care settings
- For-profit organizations (72% of graduates)
- Private practices (16% of graduates)
AllCounseling.com and Bozeman Therapy and Counseling hire many graduates. Within 10 years, alumni earn between $30,000 and $150,000, averaging $60,000.
Graduates can become Licensed Clinical Professional Counselors in Montana. After graduation, they need 1,500 hours of supervised practice before taking the NCE exam.
Tuition and financial aid
The 2025-2026 costs depend on where you live. Montana residents pay $6,542 yearly for tuition and fees. Non-residents pay $21,098.
Total costs break down like this:
| Expense Category | Resident Students | Non-Resident Students |
| Tuition & Fees | $6,542 | $21,098 |
| Food & Housing | $14,580 | $14,580 |
| Books & Supplies | $1,128 | $1,128 |
| Miscellaneous | $9,244 | $9,244 |
| Total | $31,494 | $46,050 |
Students without insurance must pay extra health coverage fees.
The university helps with costs through various aid options. Assistantships cover most expenses with monthly stipends and tuition help. Students with assistantships often pay in-state rates regardless of where they’re from.
Second-year students can apply to teach in the Department of Counseling. These nine-month positions provide experience and money. Research work might be available with faculty who have funding.
Admission requirements
Each Graduate School program has its own requirements. The Counseling program looks for specific qualities in applicants.
The department trains future mental health providers who understand different cultures. They pick students who share these values and can handle the program’s challenges.
The program demands maturity and strong people skills. Good candidates should show:
- Related academic background
- Experience in the field
- Counseling-friendly personality traits
- Interest in helping diverse communities
The program carefully picks students who can handle intense training and help individuals, groups, families, and communities.
Montana State University’s Clinical Mental Health Counseling program offers excellent counselor training in Montana. Strong theory, real experience, and great job prospects make this program ideal for future mental health professionals.
Pick The Right Montana Program
Your professional future depends on picking the right graduate counseling program. Montana’s top three counseling programs share some impressive qualities. These schools have earned CACREP or CAEP accreditation that meets industry standards you’ll need for licensure and employment.
The numbers speak volumes about how well these programs work. The University of Providence and Montana State University report 100% job placement rates for their graduates. MSU Billings graduates land field-relevant jobs within nine months at an 82% rate. Perfect NCE exam pass rates at several schools show just how well they prepare their students.
Each program brings something special to the table. The University of Providence specializes in addictions and rehabilitation counseling. MSU Billings offers a hybrid format that works great for professionals seeking school counseling credentials. Montana State University blends deep theoretical knowledge with hands-on experience – you’ll clock up to 1,500 supervised hours toward your license requirements.
Tuition costs vary substantially between schools and residency status. These universities make their programs more available than you might expect with financial aid options. Teaching assistantships, research positions, and healthcare professional discounts help manage the costs.
Your career goals and personal situation will guide your final choice. MSU Billings’ hybrid format might suit you better if you’re headed for school counseling. The University of Providence or Montana State University could be your best bet for clinical mental health practice. These top Montana counseling programs will prepare you well for a career that’s growing faster than ever.