7 Accredited Masters in Counseling Programs in Illinois: Campus & Online Options
Choosing the right master’s in counseling program in Illinois might seem daunting at first glance. Your future in the counseling field largely depends on selecting a graduate program that aligns with your career goals and aspirations.
Illinois’s educational landscape offers a wealth of accredited counseling programs. Students can choose from at least 15 different graduate counseling programs, including Bradley University’s M.A. in Counseling for School Counseling and Roosevelt University’s M.A. School Counseling program. This piece highlights 7 fully accredited programs that give you campus and online options. These flexible learning formats let you pick what best fits your schedule and priorities.
1. Bradley University
Bradley University leads Illinois’s counseling education with its complete masters programs. The university combines academic theory with hands-on clinical experience to give students a path that helps them make a difference in mental health and school settings.
Bradley University Degree Programs in Counseling
Bradley University has two specialized Master of Arts in Counseling programs that prepare you for professional licensure and career growth. Both programs need 60 credit hours of coursework to graduate.
The Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Bradley gets you ready for the National Counselor Examination (NCE) and a career in mental health counseling. This CACREP-accredited program helps you grow through:
- Coursework that focuses on diverse populations
- Clinical training in trauma, substance abuse, and family dynamics
- Ground experience counseling individuals, couples, and communities
You can work in these settings after graduating:
- Community mental health agencies
- Psychiatric hospitals
- University student counseling centers
- School-based mental health services
- Private practice
- Partial hospitalization programs
- Administrative positions in mental health organizations
The Master of Arts in Professional School Counseling prepares counselors to work in educational environments and help students handle academic and personal challenges.
Accreditation and Recognition
Bradley University’s prestigious accreditations ensure quality programs and graduate employability. The Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP) accredits the counseling programs. The Council for Higher Education Accreditation in the United States recognizes this accreditation.
The Higher Learning Commission also accredits the university. This dual accreditation matters because:
- Programs meet high quality standards
- Graduates can get licenses and certifications
- Credits transfer easily to other schools
Bradley University has managed to keep its accreditation since 1913, showing its steadfast dedication to excellent education.
Campus and Online Options
Bradley University gives you options to earn your counseling degree. You can choose fully online programs if you can’t attend campus-based classes.
The online Master of Arts in Counseling programs offer:
- Schedules that let you work while studying
- A complete curriculum matching campus programs
- Two required virtual residencies (first and eighth terms)
- Local practicum and internship experiences
- New neurocounseling techniques and neuroscientific treatment methods
- Direct preparation for licensure
You need these to join Bradley’s counseling programs:
- A bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution
- At least 3.0 GPA in your last 60 semester hours of undergraduate work
- A 3.0 GPA and 12 completed graduate credit hours if you have previous graduate work
The application needs official transcripts, a statement about your achievements and career goals, three recommendation letters, and a virtual interview.
Bradley’s online learning platform creates an immersive and shared environment. It builds a supportive culture that pushes you to develop personally and professionally. The program also teaches groundbreaking neurocounseling approaches to boost your effectiveness as a therapist.
Bradley University stands out as an excellent choice for anyone looking for a masters in counseling Illinois program. It gives you quality education that’s easy to access.
2. Chicago State University
Chicago State University takes a unique approach to counseling education. The program strongly emphasizes urban populations and multicultural competence. The university’s south side Chicago location helps students learn about mental health challenges that diverse and underserved communities face.
Chicago State University Degree Programs in Counseling
CSU’s Department of Psychology has a Master of Arts in Counseling with two specialized tracks. Both tracks require 60 semester credit hours to complete. Working professionals will find these programs convenient since all courses run in the evening. This schedule works well for full-time employees.
The Clinical Mental Health Counseling track prepares you for careers in:
- Mental health clinics
- Substance abuse treatment facilities
- Developmental intervention roles
- Consulting positions in various settings
The School Counseling track helps you serve mental health and counseling needs in school settings, especially in urban environments. This program emphasizes:
- Clinical intervention skills for urban youth needs
- Primary prevention program development
- Implementation of the American School Counseling Association (ASCA) Model
- Organization of counseling interventions integrated into school curriculum
Both programs feature a strong clinical focus with a three-course clinical sequence. This ensures detailed training in evidence-based practices. The curriculum weaves multicultural emphasis into every course and addresses critical issues like:
- Social justice
- Power and privilege dynamics
- Institutional racism
- Intergenerational trauma transmission
- Oppression and giving the ability to others
CSU’s counseling programs stand out because of their trauma-informed approach. Instructors bring rich experience from urban and diverse settings. Students learn practical skills alongside theoretical knowledge.
Accreditation and Recognition
The Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP) has accredited both CSU’s counseling programs. This respected accreditation offers several benefits:
- Graduates from both tracks can sit for National Certified Counselor (NCC) certification examinations
- Graduates qualify for Illinois Licensure as Licensed Professional Counselors (LPC)
- School Counseling track graduates qualify for Illinois Professional Education License (PEL) with School Counseling endorsement
The Illinois State Board of Education has approved the School Counseling program as an Educator Preparation Program. CSU also has accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission, a regional agency the U.S. Department of Education recognizes.
The Clinical Mental Health Counseling program has managed to keep its accreditation since its original Community Counseling program accreditation in March 2002. The program officially became Clinical Mental Health Counseling in January 2011. Its current accreditation runs through October 31, 2026.
Campus and Online Options
CSU’s counseling programs mainly serve Chicago’s urban area residents who live and work there. The student body reflects the region’s minority populations. The program’s mission matches the complex counseling work needed in urban settings.
CSU’s Counseling Center gives enrolled students additional resources such as:
- Assistance and support services
- Consultation opportunities
- Mutually beneficial alliances with faculty, administrators, staff, and community organizations
- Co-curricular services and resources
School Counseling program students must pass the Illinois School Counselor Content-Area Test for licensure. Both counseling tracks need 60 total credit hours.
The Clinical Mental Health track has courses like:
- Principles of Clinical Mental Health Counseling
- Counseling Theories and Ethics
- Techniques of Assessment and Diagnosis
- Treatment Interventions for Urban Youth and Families
- Family Systems Counseling
- Advanced Psychopathology
Students graduate ready to provide life-changing counseling to clients from diverse backgrounds. Small class sizes let you explore complex concepts deeply. You’ll develop clinical skills through practicum (100 hours) and internship (900 hours) field placements.
3. DePaul University
DePaul University has been one of Illinois’ leading counseling education providers for many years. Their CACREP-accredited programs focus on cultural competence and social justice. DePaul’s well-rounded approach to counseling education helps students become skilled practitioners who can work in diverse settings.
DePaul University Degree Programs in Counseling
DePaul University’s Master’s in Counseling program has three specialty areas. The Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP) has accredited all of them:
- Clinical Mental Health Counseling (MA/MEd) – This hands-on 90-quarter hour program takes at least three years to finish. Students learn to work in community mental health centers, hospitals, correctional facilities, foster care agencies, and private practice.
- College Counseling & Student Affairs (MA/MEd) – This program prepares professionals for careers in student affairs offices, career centers, residential life, and college counseling programs.
- School Counseling (MA/MEd) – Graduates can get professional school counselor licensure through the Illinois State Board of Education and work in public and private K-12 school systems.
DePaul’s counseling program stands out as the first in Illinois and 24th in the United States to partner with Education Trust’s National Center for Transforming School Counseling. The program’s success shows in its numbers – 91% of Counseling graduates found employment, continued their education or pursued other goals within six months after graduating.
The Clinical Mental Health Counseling specialty area combines counseling knowledge, skills, and clinical field experiences based on current research and best practices. Students who complete this program meet Illinois State Department of Financial and Professional Regulation’s requirements for both Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) credentials.
Accreditation and Recognition
CACREP renewed DePaul’s counseling program accreditation through 2027 after a thorough multi-year evaluation. This recognition shows the program meets high standards in:
- Faculty-to-student ratios
- Core content area offerings
- Faculty professional identity
- Counseling learning environments
- Clinical training requirements
The Higher Learning Commission accredits the university itself, which is a private, not-for-profit Catholic institution. DePaul’s counseling program has worked toward CACREP accreditation for over 10 years. This commitment ensures students are ready to serve as counselors, leaders, and advocates in culturally diverse communities.
DePaul’s program uniquely focuses on social justice and community engagement. The counseling program has built strong partnerships with Chicago Survivors, Cara Collective, and Chicago Public Schools. Students get hands-on experience through service learning while helping people in Chicago’s underserved communities.
Campus and Online Options
DePaul offers flexible course options to fit your schedule. Classes run on weekday evenings and Saturdays at the Lincoln Park Campus in several formats:
- In-person
- Hybrid
- Asynchronous
- Synchronous
Most students complete the program in three years. DePaul’s state-of-the-art Education and Counseling Center gives students valuable practical experience under supervision.
The program teaches culturally responsive practice across all specialty areas. Students learn to become skilled practitioners who can guide and support clients from all backgrounds. Many graduates now work with diverse populations, including LGBTQ clients, people from various racial and ethnic backgrounds, and economically disadvantaged communities.
You’ll need a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university to apply, and one year of work experience is recommended. The application process needs official transcripts, a personal statement, three recommendation letters, and might include a faculty interview.
Mental health services have seen substantial growth over the last several years. DePaul’s focus on preparing culturally responsive counselors helps address diverse populations’ growing needs. The program continues to evolve while staying true to its core values of equity, social justice, and community engagement.
4. Eastern Illinois University
Eastern Illinois University’s Master of Science in Counseling program stands out with its hands-on training through a unique cohort model and supervised experience. The program ranks among the best masters in counseling Illinois choices as a “First Choice” program that upholds scholarly excellence.
Eastern Illinois University Degree Programs in Counseling
The M.S. in Counseling at Eastern Illinois University lets you choose between two specialized paths:
- Clinical Mental Health Counseling – Gets you ready for the Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) credential in Illinois
- School Counseling – Prepares you for the Professional Educator License (PEL) with School Counseling endorsement
The program’s cohort model sets it apart with a classroom ratio of 15 students to 1 faculty member. You’ll move through your studies with the same group, building lasting professional connections that continue after graduation. Students benefit from:
- Small classes that let you deeply understand complex concepts
- Close peer relationships that help you complete the program
- Close supervision both on-site and on-campus
Students need 32 semester hours for non-thesis options and 30 semester hours for thesis options. The counseling program requires 60 credit hours to meet licensure standards. We designed this to give students detailed training they need to practice professionally.
Students gain ground experience through 1,000 hours of supervised practice starting in their second semester. This includes a 100-hour practicum and a 900-hour internship in settings that match their future work environments.
Accreditation and Recognition
The counseling program holds national accreditation from the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP). This prestigious recognition brings several key benefits:
- Shows the program meets the profession’s quality standards
- Lets graduates take the National Counseling Examination (NCE) in their second year
- Opens doors to jobs in federal agencies like VA or TRICARE health systems
- Makes it easier to transfer credentials when moving
The Higher Learning Commission accredits the university. The Master of Science in Counseling’s “First Choice” status shows it meets the Graduate School’s high standards.
The School Counseling track asks students to submit a criminal background check. This step ensures graduates can work in educational settings.
Campus and Online Options
EIU offers more than 40 online programs in many fields. The Masters in Counseling uses a mixed approach that blends coursework with field experiences in your chosen career settings.
The program’s hands-on experiences include:
- Practicum placements in the second semester
- Internships in different settings
- Local field work that puts theory into practice
Students can apply to the counseling program through MyEIU. You’ll need to provide:
- Email addresses for two academic references
- Current resume or CV
- A brief essay about why you want to become a counselor (this essay helps with scholarship decisions)
The Paul Ward endowment makes the program even more attractive. New full-time counseling students can get scholarships between $200-$400 for their first year. Some students receive up to $2,500.
The program’s success speaks through numbers – every Spring 2023 graduate found work in the field or entered a doctoral program. EIU’s masters in counseling Illinois program gives you academic excellence, practical training, and financial support opportunities.
5. Governors State University
Governors State University began a mission to prepare compassionate practitioners who serve people from all backgrounds. Their Masters in Counseling program teaches students to apply ethical knowledge throughout their careers. Students learn to become culturally competent counselors who serve their communities while upholding the highest practice standards.
Governors State University Degree Programs in Counseling
The Master of Arts in Counseling program at Governors State University offers three specialized paths that align with your career goals:
- Clinical Mental Health Counseling – Prepares you to work in mental health clinics, hospitals, and various intervention programs
- Marriage, Couple, and Family Counseling – Teaches therapeutic approaches for relationship and family dynamics
- School Counseling – Builds your skills to address student needs in educational settings
Faculty members blend theory, research, cross-cultural studies, and social justice advocacy with clinical practice training throughout these programs. The curriculum focuses on culturally competent practice and teaches you to apply knowledge ethically while serving people from different backgrounds.
GSU’s Counseling program works well for professionals. Classes run Monday through Thursday, with evening sessions from 4:30-7:20 p.m. and 7:30-10:20 p.m.. This schedule lets you keep your job while earning your degree.
Students can also choose from several counseling-related programs:
- Post Master’s School Counseling Certificate
- Clinical Mental Health Counselor Post BA Certificate
- Marriage, Couple, and Family Counseling Post BA Certificate
Students interested in addiction counseling can pursue a Master of Health Science in Addictions Studies through the Department of Addictions Studies and Behavioral Health, though this program isn’t fully online yet.
Accreditation and Recognition
The Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP) has accredited GSU’s counseling program through March 31, 2031. This recognition shows the program meets national standards for counselor preparation.
The Higher Learning Commission accredits the university itself – an institutional accreditation agency the U.S. Department of Education recognizes. The Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE) has approved GSU’s School Counseling sequence as an educator licensure program with School Counseling endorsement.
New students must complete prerequisite candidacy courses in their first academic year. These include Professional Orientation & Ethical Standards, Social & Cultural Foundations, Beginning Counseling Skills, and Group Dynamics & Interventions.
Campus and Online Options
Students can finish their Masters in Counseling at GSU in three years. Most courses in this 60-credit hour program happen on campus, while school counseling specialty courses use a hybrid format.
GSU’s program features an on-campus counseling lab that serves the local community. Students gain valuable hands-on experience under supervision here. Each student must complete:
- A minimum 100-hour practicum experience (in the on-site Counseling Lab or school settings for school counseling students)
- A minimum 600-hour internship
Students need one of these academic standards to qualify:
- Cumulative GPA of 2.75 or higher for all undergraduate coursework, or
- GPA of 3.0 for the last 60 hours of undergraduate coursework
Students with GPAs between 2.5 and 2.74 might still qualify by scoring at least 155 on the verbal portion of the Graduate Record Exam or completing specific courses with a B- or better. The program doesn’t usually accept applicants with GPAs below 2.5.
The Counseling Department offers limited Graduate Assistantships that include a waiver of up to six credits per semester plus a stipend. This support makes the masters in counseling Illinois program available to more qualified students.
6. Northern Illinois University
Northern Illinois University delivers a unique counseling education through its cohort-based programs. Students learn self-reflective practices and multicultural competence. The Department of Counseling and Higher Education at NIU sets high standards for professional education. They remain focused on student needs and society’s demands.
Northern Illinois University Degree Programs in Counseling
NIU features two main graduate-level counseling programs:
- Master of Science in Education in Counseling – Available with specializations in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and School Counseling
- Doctor of Philosophy in Counselor Education and Supervision – Recipient of the NCACES Innovative Counselor Education Program Award
The Clinical Mental Health Counseling program shows remarkable results with 92% of students completing their degree. Even more impressive, every graduate passed their licensure examination and found employment after graduation.
The School Counseling program delivers equally strong outcomes with 90% of students graduating. Like the Clinical Mental Health track, all students passed their licensure examination and 98% landed jobs after graduation.
NIU also offers a Trauma-Informed Counseling Certificate and a Minor in Counseling for students seeking additional credentials.
Accreditation and Recognition
The Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP) accredits NIU’s counseling programs. This includes both M.S.Ed. specializations and the Ph.D. program, with accreditation lasting through 2027.
NIU’s counseling programs stand out by maintaining CACREP accreditation since 1989.
The Higher Learning Commission (HLC) accredits Northern Illinois University. The Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching places NIU in the Research Universities – High Research Activity category.
Campus and Online Options
NIU’s counseling faculty created well-laid-out learning experiences for both master’s and doctoral programs. Students admitted to the master’s program can choose between:
- A three-year, full-time plan
- A four-year, part-time program plan
This makes NIU’s masters in counseling Illinois program available to recent graduates and professionals looking to advance their careers.
Expert faculty provide guidance, teaching, and supervision. Their main goal is to develop highly competent, ethical, and culturally-responsive professional counselors.
Note that NIU’s counseling program asks applicants to assess if a three-year program matches their learning and career goals. Admitted students should be ready to participate in critical self-reflection. These practices are the foundations of personal and professional growth as multiculturally and social justice-oriented practitioners.
The Department of Counseling and Higher Education stays dedicated to professional preparation best practices. They advance scholarly work and support individual and shared efforts in a variety of settings.
7. Roosevelt University
Roosevelt University stands out among masters in counseling Illinois programs because of its exceptional student outcomes and career preparation. The university’s counseling programs focus on practical training and have achieved 100% pass rates on required examinations.
Roosevelt University Degree Programs in Counseling
Roosevelt offers two specialized counseling programs that meet national CACREP standards:
- Master of Arts in School Counseling – This hands-on, field-based program prepares counselors who support K-12 students’ learning and social-emotional needs. Students learn democratic practices to work with students and families from different backgrounds. Graduates receive an Illinois school counselor credential and can pursue Illinois professional counselor licensure.
- Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling (CMHC) – Students learn to help children and adults handle difficult life events, diagnose and manage serious mental illnesses, and connect clients with resources. The program qualifies graduates for state licensure as Clinical Mental Health Counselors and National Certified Counselor certification.
Students from both programs have achieved remarkable success with 100% pass rates on state and national exams. Recent graduates have secured a 100% job placement rate.
Accreditation and Recognition
The counseling programs at Roosevelt maintain high academic standards through accreditation from the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP). This prestigious recognition was renewed in 2021 for 10 years and will give a quality education that meets industry standards. The Higher Learning Commission (HLC) has granted full accreditation to the university.
Campus and Online Options
Students interested in these counseling programs should know about these features:
- Full-time, 3-year program structures
- In-person classes on the Chicago campus
- Part-time options for working professionals
Students need a bachelor’s degree with a minimum 2.7 GPA to apply. The application process includes writing a personal statement about professional goals. Selected candidates must complete an admission interview.
Roosevelt’s counseling programs provide valuable hands-on experience through intensive internships at local counseling and community agencies. Students can apply their classroom knowledge in real-life settings.
Pick the Right Master’s in Counseling in Illinois
You’ll need to think about several things when picking the right master’s in counseling program. These include accreditation, specialization options, program flexibility, and career outcomes. Illinois has many high-quality options that can match your professional goals and personal needs.
CACREP accreditation is something all seven programs share. This ensures high educational standards and clear paths to licensure. The recognition makes it easier to transfer your credentials if you move after graduating.
Each program brings something special to the table. Bradley University shines with its innovative neurocounseling approaches. Chicago State University puts its focus on urban populations and trauma-informed care. DePaul University champions social justice through its community partnerships. Eastern Illinois University gives great scholarship opportunities through its Paul Ward endowment. Governors State University has evening classes that work well for professionals. Northern Illinois University shows impressive licensure exam pass rates. Roosevelt University boasts exceptional job placement success.
These schools offer different ways to complete your degree. Some have three-year fast tracks, while others let you take up to four years part-time. Several mix online and evening classes. You can pick a structure that fits your work and family life.
Clinical experience is the basis of all seven programs. You’ll get hands-on training through practicum placements and internships, with 700-1,000 supervised hours that really prepare you for professional practice. These opportunities often lead to jobs after graduation.
Picking your ideal master’s in counseling program might seem daunting at first. Yet these seven accredited Illinois options give you clear paths to becoming a licensed professional counselor. Your passion might be in school counseling, clinical mental health, or specialized areas like family therapy. These programs will give you the skills, credentials, and experiences you need for a successful counseling career.
The counseling profession grows faster in Illinois and nationwide. There’s a huge demand for qualified practitioners. Without doubt, your investment in a quality counseling education from any of these accredited programs will help you make real differences in your future clients’ lives and communities.