3 Best Masters in Counseling Programs in West Virginia (2025 Guide)

A master’s degree in counseling from West Virginia can help you make the most important difference in communities that face unique challenges. West Virginia has many low-income residents who deal with poverty. People from all backgrounds struggle with family conflict, addiction, and trauma. These issues create a real need for qualified counseling professionals across the state.

The path to becoming a Marriage and Family Therapist or Mental Health Counselor starts with an undergraduate degree in a related field. Students then complete a specialized master’s program that takes 2-3 years. Counseling education attracted 12,926 students nationwide in 2021-2022. 92 graduates from West Virginia earned an average salary of $54,814. The WVU counseling program offers hybrid formats that blend online learning with on-campus elements. This approach gives students flexibility while ensuring high educational standards. Online masters in counseling programs are now accessible to more people who juggle work and personal life.

This piece explores the three best counseling master’s programs in West Virginia. You’ll find detailed comparisons of their unique features, admission requirements, and costs to help you choose the right educational path.

Marshall University – Master of Arts in Counseling

Marshall University has trained counselors worldwide since 1961. The program focuses on ethical, competent, and culturally sensitive practice. Students can choose from several masters in counseling options in West Virginia through flexible delivery and a complete curriculum.

Program overview

Marshall University’s Master of Arts in Counseling is a 60-semester credit hour program that prepares students for professional counseling practice. Students can specialize in Clinical Mental Health Counseling (CMHC) or School Counseling (SC).

The program’s dual-career pathway makes it special. Students who finish the School Counseling track can become Certified School Counselors and Licensed Professional Counselors in West Virginia. This dual qualification gives graduates more career choices.

The curriculum meets national standards and prepares students for licensure in West Virginia. The state participates in the U.S. National Counseling Compact with 28 other states. Graduates can practice across state lines easily – a big advantage for career growth.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects job growth for substance use, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors 18 percent from 2022 to 2032. This growth rate is much higher than other occupations. Marshall’s graduates are ready to meet this rising need for mental health professionals.

Key features

Marshall University’s counseling program stands out from other regional institutions:

CACREP Accreditation: Both Clinical Mental Health Counseling and School Counseling tracks have earned Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP) accreditation. This prestigious recognition continues through October 2025. Students receive education meeting the highest national standards.

Complete Preparation: Students can earn multiple professional credentials:

• Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC)
• Certified School Counselor in West Virginia
• National Certified Counselor
• Certified Clinical Mental Health Counselor
• National Certified School Counselor through the National Board for Certified Counselors

Quick Licensure Process: Many states speed up licensure applications for CACREP-accredited program graduates. This makes it easier to start practicing after graduation.

Career Options: Graduates work in many settings. These include schools, colleges, addiction treatment centers, community mental health facilities, private practices, and government agencies.

Fast-Track Graduate Degree: Junior and senior undergraduates can start master’s courses through the Accelerated Graduate Degree program. This helps students transition into the full master’s program quickly.

Dr. Teresa Eagle, dean of the College of Education and Professional Development, says “We’ve seen growing need for mental health and school counselors this past year. Marshall helps meet these needs”. This shows the program’s dedication to addressing mental health professional shortages.

Admission requirements

Admission to Marshall’s Counseling Program is selective and competitive, with applications accepted on a rolling basis for Fall, Spring, and Summer start dates. The program evaluates applicants based on multiple criteria to ensure they’re well-suited for success in the counseling profession:

Educational Background:

• A bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
• Evidence of academic aptitude demonstrated by either:
  • A 2.75 overall undergraduate GPA or higher on a 4.0 scale
  • A 3.0 GPA on any previously completed advanced degree

Application Materials:

• A writing sample expressing career goals and personal suitability for the counseling profession
• Two written references, preferably from current or former professors
• International students must demonstrate English proficiency according to university standards

The evaluation process considers factors beyond academic metrics, including: relevance of career goals, aptitude for graduate-level study, potential success in forming effective counseling relationships, and respect for cultural differences.

Once admitted, students undergo a candidacy review after completing their first 9 hours of prescribed coursework. During this review, faculty evaluate each student’s performance to determine their appropriateness for continuance in the program.

Note: The GRE is not required for admission, removing a potential barrier for many qualified applicants.

Program format

Marshall University offers a distinctive hybrid learning format designed to accommodate students at different life stages and with varying commitments:

Flexible Delivery Model: The curriculum is delivered 100% remotely with no mandatory on-campus requirements. This allows students to:

• Complete the degree from any location
• Travel or relocate during the program (until practicum and internship)
• Access the enriching physical campuses in South Charleston and Huntington, WV if desired

Blended Learning Approach: The program utilizes a unique blend of:

• Synchronous learning (real-time video/virtual participation)
• Asynchronous learning (video lectures, demonstrations, discussions, problem-based learning)

Thoughtful Scheduling: Synchronous class times are scheduled during both daytime and evening hours to accommodate students with different life commitments. This consideration for working professionals and caregivers increases accessibility.

Course Availability: All core courses and most electives are offered three terms per year—Fall, Spring, and Summer semesters. This frequent scheduling helps students progress through the program without unnecessary delays.

Completion Timeline: On average, students complete the program in 6.4 terms, with some finishing in as few as 18 months. The program must be completed within a seven-year period, starting with the first day of the first semester.

Students work with academic advisors to develop an individualized Plan of Study prior to registering for courses. This collaborative approach ensures the program aligns with each student’s career goals and personal circumstances.

Accreditation

Accreditation serves as a quality assurance mechanism, and Marshall University’s counseling program holds multiple prestigious accreditations:

CACREP Accreditation: Both the Clinical Mental Health Counseling and School Counseling emphasis areas are accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP). This accreditation has been extended through October 2025.

CACREP accreditation is significant for several reasons:

• It ensures the program meets rigorous educational standards
• Many employers prefer or require graduates from CACREP-accredited programs
• It often simplifies the licensure process in many states
• It can provide a competitive advantage in the job market

Additional Accreditations: The program also holds accreditation from:

• The College of Education and Professional Development and the School Counseling Emphasis area are accredited by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE)
• West Virginia State Department of Education

These multiple layers of accreditation demonstrate Marshall University’s commitment to maintaining high educational standards and preparing graduates who meet or exceed professional expectations in the field of counseling.

Tuition & financial aid

Marshall University, under the leadership of President Brad D. Smith, operates with the philosophy “We will grow students, not fees”. This commitment to affordability makes the program accessible to a broader range of students.

Tuition Considerations: The total cost for the degree varies based on several factors:

• Number of credits taken per term
• Number of terms enrolled
• Scholarships and grants received
• Changes to Marshall University tuition and fees

For the most current and detailed information about program costs, prospective students should visit the Marshall University Tuition and Fees page.

Financial Aid Options: Marshall University offers numerous financial support options to help students fund their education:

1. Graduate Assistantships: Positions that typically include a stipend and tuition benefits
2. Program-Specific Scholarships:
   • School-Based Mental Health Scholars Program
   • William A. Wallace Memorial Scholarship
   • John Hunsley Memorial Scholarship
3. University Resources:
   • Higher Education for Learning Problems Center (H.E.L.P.)
   • Student Financial Assistance programs
4. External Funding:
   • Various scholarship and grant opportunities through external organizations
   • Loan repayment programs
5. Payment Plans: Student deferred payment plans for tuition are offered for fall and spring semesters

Students receiving financial assistance covered by Title IV who officially withdraw receive refunds in accordance with the Higher Education Act. Furthermore, Marshall’s Office of Student Financial Assistance determines financial aid eligibility by subtracting your Student Aid Index (SAI) and Other Financial Assistance (OFA) from your Cost of Attendance (COA).

For those seeking to reduce the financial burden and increase return on investment, exploring all available financial aid resources is essential. The university provides comprehensive support to help students navigate these options.

Marshall University describes itself as “big enough to matter and small enough to care,” and as one of the most affordable R2 universities, it makes significant contributions to the counseling field while maintaining focus on elevated student experiences, engaged instruction, and accessible advising.

West Virginia University – Clinical Mental Health Counseling

West Virginia University’s Clinical Mental Health Counseling program takes a unique approach to counseling education. The program blends academic excellence with flexible learning options that work for aspiring counselors with different needs. As only two CACREP-accredited counselor education programs exist in West Virginia, WVU’s counseling program gives students a strong foundation to make a difference in mental health.

Program overview

WVU’s Master of Science in Counseling with Clinical Mental Health emphasis prepares counselors to work in many settings. Students can work in inpatient facilities, outpatient clinics, non-profit organizations, private practices, community agencies, government institutions, and educational environments. This detailed program gives students the knowledge and skills they need for professional counseling licensure in West Virginia and many other states.

The program aims to prepare ethical and capable entry-level clinical mental health counselors. These counselors serve in various settings across the state, region, and country. Students learn through a curriculum focused on academic excellence, counseling skills, and personal growth. This preparation helps graduates tackle unique mental health challenges in Appalachian communities and beyond.

Professional counseling applies mental health, psychological, and human development principles. These principles work through cognitive, affective, behavioral, or systemic intervention strategies that address wellness, personal growth, career development, and pathology. This integrated approach ensures graduates can work with different populations and issues.

Graduates can practice individual, couple, family, and group counseling. Students learn to provide various services like child and youth counseling, couple and family therapy, employment assistance, health services, gerontological support, substance abuse treatment, and wellness counseling.

Key features

WVU’s counseling program stands out through several features that boost students’ educational experience and career prospects:

Program Excellence Designation: The West Virginia Board of Trustees named the on-campus counseling program a “Program of Excellence”, showing its high quality and reputation.

CACREP Accreditation: The Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP) fully accredits both on-campus and online Clinical Mental Health Counseling specializations. This prestigious accreditation verifies the program meets national standards and helps graduates find jobs.

Flexible Delivery Options: Students can choose between two models:

• On-campus program at WVU’s Morgantown (Evansdale) campus with daytime and evening courses
• Digital program with full-time and part-time options

Low-Residency Model: Online students combine asynchronous courses with two campus visits to develop counseling skills. Students build strong relationships as they complete advanced coursework together and enter their careers.

Comprehensive Curriculum: Students study essential topics including:

• Individual and group counseling techniques
• Cultural competence and diversity awareness
• Trauma-informed practices
• Addiction counseling
• Couples and family therapy
• Grief counseling

Faculty Expertise: Faculty members lead specialized areas like virtual reality in academic settings, rural wellness, vocational rehabilitation, and violence prevention. Their expertise keeps the curriculum current and enriches student learning.

Career Preparation: The program prepares graduates to become Licensed Professional Counselors (LPC) in West Virginia and many other states. Students learn to work in various settings:

• Community mental health centers
• Adolescent treatment centers
• Correctional facilities
• Outpatient mental health centers
• Private practice
• School-based mental health services

Students also learn to work with different groups like children and adolescents, adults, people with substance abuse and addiction issues, psychiatric hospital patients, couples and families, clients dealing with grief and loss, and those in crisis or experiencing suicidal thoughts.

Admission requirements

Admission to the WVU counseling program involves a comprehensive two-step process designed to identify candidates with both academic ability and personal qualities necessary for success in the counseling profession:

Step One: Review of Credentials

• Bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution
• Minimum undergraduate GPA of 2.75 (a 3.0 or higher is typically necessary to be competitive)
• Resume/CV
• Personal statement addressing:
  • How your interest in counseling developed
  • Your concept of counseling
  • Experiences that led you to believe you could work in a helping capacity
  • Academic and professional goals as a counselor
  • Your commitment to diversity and social justice[102]
• Three letters of recommendation[102]
• Official transcripts from all institutions attended
• TOEFL or IELTS scores for international students

Step Two: Department Interview The interview evaluates several critical factors:

• Interpersonal style relevant to working as a counselor
• Communication skills
• Capacity for empathic understanding
• Ability to articulate professional goals
• Knowledge and understanding of counseling
• Assessment of the applicant’s capacity to complete the curriculum successfully[112]

Application Deadlines:

• On-campus programs (Clinical Mental Health and School Counseling): January 25
• Online Clinical Mental Health program: February 15 for fall admission and October 1 for spring admission[112]

Note: The GRE is not required for admission, making the program more accessible to a wider range of qualified applicants.

Once admitted, students must maintain a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 in all graduate coursework and earn at least a B- in all major coursework[112]. Additionally, students must demonstrate the personal characteristics and ethical standards essential for effective counseling relationships, which are assessed throughout the program, particularly during clinical coursework and field experiences.

Program format

The Clinical Mental Health Counseling specialization at WVU offers flexible format options to accommodate different learning preferences and life circumstances:

On-Campus Format:

• Requires attendance at WVU’s Morgantown (Evansdale) campus
• Includes both daytime and evening courses
• Most students complete the program within two years as full-time students
• Follows a strict course sequence with advisor guidance to ensure course availability

Digitally Delivered Format:

• Available for both full-time and part-time students
• Combines asynchronous online courses with two residencies on campus for counseling skill development
• Creates an environment where students form strong bonds as they progress through advanced coursework together
• Requires aptitude with digital learning platforms such as eCampus and Zoom, and the digital information tracking platform Tevera[101]

Practicum and Internship: Both formats include practical field experiences through a practicum and internship. The practicum and internship fieldwork manual provides comprehensive information on requirements and options for completing these experiences, including:

• Field placement opportunities
• Prerequisites
• Evaluation procedures
• Other essential details

As an added benefit, counseling students enrolled in practicum or internship are covered by a state insurance policy in the amount of $1,000,000. This coverage provides important protection as students gain hands-on experience in clinical settings.

Accreditation

Accreditation serves as a critical quality assurance mechanism, and WVU’s counseling program holds prestigious credentials that validate its educational excellence:

CACREP Accreditation: The Clinical Mental Health Counseling specialization is fully accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP)[101][102]. This makes it one of only two counselor education programs in West Virginia with this distinguished accreditation.

CACREP accreditation offers several significant advantages:

• Ensures the program meets rigorous national standards for counselor education
• Enhances graduates’ employability and professional credibility
• Facilitates the licensure process in many states
• Demonstrates the program’s commitment to excellence in counselor preparation

Program Outcomes: The program’s quality is further demonstrated by its impressive outcomes. For the 2024-2025 academic year, the Clinical Mental Health Counseling program reported:

• 15 out of 16 on-campus students graduated
• All 15 graduates passed the National Counselor Examination (NCE) on their first attempt
• 10 secured jobs by graduation
• 1 was accepted into a Ph.D. program

For the online Clinical Mental Health Counseling program:

• All 16 students in the cohort graduated
• 9 passed the NCE on first attempt
• 6 secured jobs by graduation

These strong outcomes reflect the program’s effectiveness in preparing students for successful careers in counseling.

Tuition & financial aid

Investing in a masters in counseling at WVU represents excellent value, especially considering the program’s quality and career prospects. Nevertheless, financial planning remains an important consideration for prospective students.

Tuition Rates (2025-2026):

Note: These rates are subject to change. Listed costs are based on two semesters with a minimum of 9 credits each. A $125 Mountaineer Athletics Advantage Fee is billed separately each fall and spring term for on-campus programs.

In addition to these base rates, your program will charge college tuition, so it’s important to check the specific rate for your on-campus or online program.

Beyond tuition and fees, students should budget for other educational expenses such as books, supplies, and living expenses. For those living on campus, housing expenses average around $13,306 per year.

Financial Aid Options:

WVU offers numerous financial support options that make graduate education more accessible:

1. Graduate Assistantships: WVU awards approximately 1,700 graduate assistantships annually to incoming and continuing graduate students. These positions typically include a stipend and tuition benefits.
2. Fellowships and Scholarships: Several options are available for:
   • Incoming Ph.D. students
   • Continuing Ph.D. students
   • Master’s students
3. Federal Financial Aid: Students can apply for federal financial aid by submitting the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) with school code 003827 for WVU Morgantown.
4. Grants and Loans: Various need-based grants and loans are available. Students and parents can borrow up to the full amount of the estimated Cost of Attendance each academic year.
5. Employment Opportunities: WVU helps students find jobs both on and off campus to earn money and gain valuable experience.

As stated on the WVU Graduate Admissions website, “Paying for graduate school doesn’t have to be stressful. WVU offers a quality education at a great price. We know you have a budget. We’re not looking to break it”. This commitment to affordability makes the WVU counseling program an attractive option for students seeking high-quality education without excessive financial burden.

For those considering career earnings potential, the median annual wage for substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors was $48,520 in May 2021, while school counselors earned a median of $60,510 per year. These figures suggest that the return on investment for a WVU counseling degree can be substantial over the course of a career.

University of Charleston – Master of Arts in Mental Health Counseling

The University of Charleston’s Master of Arts in Mental Health Counseling prepares ethical professionals to tackle today’s mental health challenges. This online program blends academic excellence with hands-on experience. Students can advance their counseling careers without moving to a new location.

Program overview

The Master of Arts in Mental Health Counseling at University of Charleston offers a well-laid-out 60-hour program that prepares students to enter the counseling profession successfully. Students learn everything in counseling to become ethical, compassionate professionals who promote wellness in various mental health settings.

Students who complete this program meet all academic requirements to get counselor licensure in West Virginia. The coursework lines up with requirements set by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP). This means graduates can get licensed in most states including West Virginia, Kentucky, and Virginia.

Students must complete a 100-hour practicum and 600-hour internship before graduation. These ground experiences help build practical skills through supervised training. The program needs 15 required courses and at least 4 elective courses that build complete counseling competencies.

Key features

The University of Charleston’s program stands out with its student-focused approach:

Fully Online Format: The program runs completely online. Students can complete their practicum and internship in their local area.

Tailored Support: Faculty members help students find suitable placements and support both students and hosting sites. This teamwork creates meaningful learning experiences whatever your location.

Small Class Sizes: Limited enrollment promotes deeper participation and individual attention from faculty.

Cultural Competency Focus: Students learn to serve diverse populations effectively – a vital skill in today’s multicultural world.

Practical Skills Development: Students gain hands-on counseling skills they can use right away in their work.

Engaging Residencies: The online program builds community through residency experiences where students develop key skills.

Career Versatility: The program welcomes people passionate about mental health and counseling. New graduates and experienced professionals can benefit equally. Students from human services backgrounds fit well, but the program accepts qualified candidates from all disciplines.

Admission requirements

The university carefully selects candidates who show both academic strength and personal qualities suited to counseling:

Applicants need:

• A bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution with a minimum 2.5 GPA
• To maintain a 3.0 GPA in the program
• At least 9 semester credit hours (or 12 quarter hours) in social sciences, including Introduction to Psychology and Lifespan Development or equivalents
• Two recommendation letters from professional or academic sources who can speak about the applicant’s graduate-level work capabilities, drive, and ethics
• A Statement of Purpose (750-1,000 words) covering:
  • Why you want to become a counselor and your career goals
  • Your academic and interpersonal strengths and weaknesses
  • Your point of view on diversity and respect for different cultural backgrounds

This thorough evaluation ensures admitted students have the right foundation and qualities to succeed in counseling.

Program format

The program offers convenience and flexibility:

100% Online Delivery: Students can complete everything online without campus visits. This works well if you have work or family commitments.

Flexible Study Options: Students choose full-time or part-time study based on their schedule.

Supportive Distance Learning: UC faculty guide both students and practicum/internship sites remotely.

Experiential Learning in Your Location: Students complete their practicum and internship locally. This reduces life disruptions while ensuring quality supervised training.

Accreditation

The program meets high professional standards:

We have a long way to go, but we can build on this progress toward CACREP accreditation. The program’s coursework lines up with CACREP curricular requirements. Graduates receive education that matches national counselor preparation standards.

The program helps students meet licensure requirements in most states, particularly West Virginia, Kentucky, and Virginia. Keep in mind that requirements vary by state. Students should check their state’s licensing board website and talk to program advisors about specific requirements.

The North Central Association of Colleges and Schools, The Higher Learning Commission accredits the University of Charleston. This ensures high educational quality standards.

Tuition & financial aid

Here’s what you need to know about program costs:

Program Cost: The Master’s program costs $468 per credit hour, with total tuition around $28,080. These rates compete well with similar programs.

Financial Aid Options: The university offers several ways to fund your education:

• Federal Grants and Loans: Submit your FAFSA using school code 003818
• Scholarships: Merit-based opportunities to reduce costs
• Payment Plans: Options to spread out tuition payments

All University of Charleston students receive some form of financial help. The university combines institutional, federal, state, and outside aid to make education affordable.

The Financial Aid Office helps students explore all funding options. Financial Aid Counselors stay available throughout your educational experience to discuss awards and provide guidance.

Licensed professional counselors make meaningful differences in their communities while building rewarding careers. This investment opens doors to these opportunities.

Pick the Right Program Today

Picking the right master’s in counseling program is a big step toward helping West Virginia communities. This piece shows you three excellent programs that will prepare you for professional licensure and career success.

Marshall University shines with its dual-career pathway option and CACREP accreditation. Their graduates can work in both school counseling and clinical mental health counseling. West Virginia University pairs academic excellence with flexible class options and has great pass rates on national exams. The University of Charleston’s fully online program with customized support makes advanced counseling education available to students anywhere in the state.

These three programs meet the growing need for qualified counseling professionals in West Virginia. Local communities face unique challenges with poverty, addiction, and trauma. Your choice will depend on what matters most to you – the program format, location, specialization options, or costs.

CACREP accreditation should be high on your list when you choose a program. Programs with CACREP accreditation usually make it easier to get licensed and are well-respected by employers. Marshall and WVU have this prestigious designation, while the University of Charleston’s curriculum follows CACREP standards.

Each school has different tuition rates and ways to help you pay for your degree. Most programs give you several financial aid options to make your education more affordable. Better yet, you’ll be ready for a career field that keeps growing and lets you make a real difference.

Mental health challenges affect West Virginia’s communities deeply. This creates real opportunities for dedicated counseling professionals. With this information, you can take your next steps confidently toward a rewarding career where you’ll help others through their toughest times. Your journey starts by picking a program that fits your career goals, personal situation, and learning style best.