9 Top Masters in Counseling Programs in New Jersey

Ready to kickstart your counseling career with an LPC program in NJ? The timing couldn’t be better to join this expanding field.

New Jersey gives future counselors plenty of choices with 28 counseling degree programs throughout the state. Students can pick from 29 schools that offer programs in five main counseling areas: mental health counseling, marriage and family therapy, rehabilitation counseling, school counseling, and substance abuse counseling. On top of that, many Master’s programs let you customize your path with specialized tracks that match your career goals.

The job market for counselors in New Jersey looks bright. O*Net Online expects the state’s need for mental health counselors to grow by 22% by 2030 – that’s substantially higher than the 18% national growth rate. The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts counseling psychologist jobs will rise 7% from 2023 to 2033. More people are reaching out for professional help these days.

Busy schedule? No problem. Four New Jersey schools now have hybrid and online LPC programs. These options make getting your counseling education more available when traditional classroom learning doesn’t fit your lifestyle.

This guide will walk you through nine top masters programs in counseling in New Jersey starting in 2025. We’ll help you find the right program to launch your counseling career.

1. The College of New Jersey – MA in School Counseling

TCNJ’s MA in School Counseling program stands out among LPC programs in NJ. Students receive exceptional training and professional preparation.

Program overview

TCNJ’s MA in School Counseling is a CACREP-accredited, 60-credit program that prepares students to work with students of all backgrounds from PreK through 12th grade. Students become skilled clinicians who support student growth and create positive changes in schools, families, and communities. Graduates can pursue Licensed Associate Counselor/Licensed Professional Counselor (LAC/LPC) licensure, which opens career paths beyond school settings.

The program boasts impressive job placement rates. 100% of the Class of 2022 graduates who responded to TCNJ’s career survey work in the school counseling field. Students learn from nationally and internationally recognized faculty who have strong professional connections, creating valuable networking chances.

Accreditation & licensure

TCNJ’s Department of Counselor Education has managed to keep continuous accreditation from the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP) since 1991. The program’s accreditation extends until October 31, 2030. This prestigious recognition will give a solid foundation to your education.

The CACREP-approved program prepares students completely for New Jersey school counseling certification (K-12). Students receive guidance on certification procedures and application materials for New Jersey licensure before graduation. TCNJ’s Certification Office helps students seeking Pennsylvania certification complete their application through the Teacher Information Management System (TIMS) portal.

The College of New Jersey format & flexibility

Students can choose flexible scheduling options. The program takes 2-2.5 years full-time or 3-4 years part-time. Classes take place on campus in Ewing, NJ.

TCNJ offers a special international option through their International School Counseling Program in Portugal during summer sessions. Students get a chance to learn about global viewpoints while completing degree requirements.

Students attend an orientation and review the department’s online Student Manual that outlines curriculum, policies, and procedures before starting. A clinical orientation and Clinical Manual review prepare students for their capstone experience.

Tuition & financial aid

TCNJ delivers quality education at $117 per credit. The college charges the same tuition rates whatever your residency status. This makes TCNJ’s program available to out-of-state students looking for LPC programs in NJ.

Graduate students can access several financial aid options:

• Federal loan assistance through the Office of Student Financial Assistance
• Graduate assistantships with tuition waivers from $3,000 to $10,000 per academic year
• Graduate assistants complete 22 hours for each $500 tuition waiver per semester

Student loan eligibility requires enrollment in at least five credit hours at the 500 level or above. Note that fellowships or tuition waivers might affect your student loan eligibility.

2. Monmouth University – M.S.Ed. in School Counseling

Monmouth University’s M.S.Ed. in School Counseling reshapes the scene by creating compassionate professionals who help students at every educational level. Students get a perfect blend of academic rigor and hands-on experience to become well-rounded counseling professionals.

Program overview

The 60-credit M.S.Ed. in School Counseling program helps you become a caring professional who supports students in P-12 settings. You’ll learn both theory and practice through courses that cover key counseling skills. Core courses include:

• Introduction to Professional Counseling
• Counseling Skills
• Advanced Topics in Race and Racism
• Diversity and Social Justice
• Group Counseling
• School Counseling Program Planning and Consultation
• Career Development and Counseling

The program’s courses help you learn about social justice and explore topics like class, race, culture, and privilege. Monmouth’s approach stands out because it emphasizes understanding students from different backgrounds. Every student completes a capstone project and gains 700 hours of clinical experience through a practicum and two internships.

University accreditation & licensure

The Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP) has accredited Monmouth University’s graduate program in school counseling. New Jersey’s Department of Education has fully endorsed and certified the program. CACREP accreditation runs through 2025.

Your MSEd in Educational Counseling will meet New Jersey’s educational requirements for Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) credentials. The program aligns with CACREP standards and covers all nine simple course areas needed for New Jersey’s LPC licensure.

Format & flexibility

Working professionals can benefit from Monmouth’s adaptable hybrid format. Students attend weekly evening classes in person and complete some work online. This setup lets you manage your studies while keeping up with work and life.

Students practice their skills in actual school settings through field experiences. You’ll graduate with valuable real-life school counseling experience from supervised practicums and internships. This practical approach will give a solid foundation in creating detailed programs for P-12 students while you develop into a caring, skilled professional school counselor.

Tuition & financial aid

Monmouth University’s annual tuition and fees for full-time undergraduate students will be around $48,140 in 2025-26. Graduate students pay per credit, and international students’ program tuition is $38,010 yearly.

Monmouth makes quality education available to everyone. Almost all undergraduate students (95%) receive financial aid, and 90% get scholarship or grant money directly from the University. Financial aid packages usually combine:

• Federal and state government scholarships and grants
• Support from philanthropic organizations
• Direct funding from Monmouth University
• Student loans
• Work-study opportunities

Financial counselors at The Great Hall or through virtual meetings can help you create a tailored plan. These resources make Monmouth’s education more affordable through personalized financial solutions.

3. Rutgers University – Ed.M. in School Counseling

Rutgers University’s Graduate School of Education provides an Ed.M. in School Counseling. The program builds multicultural skills needed to serve diverse student populations in New Jersey schools.

Program overview

Rutgers’ Ed.M. in School Counseling is a complete 48-credit program that prepares school counselors to work in preschool through 12th grade settings. Students learn about multicultural and diversity topics while developing counseling programs that help all students succeed.

The program’s core components are:

• Counseling foundations (18 credits): Students learn counseling basics, group counseling, family systems, career development, professional ethics, and counseling theories
• Testing and assessment (3 credits): Students study psychometric theory
• Psychology electives (6 credits): Courses cover exceptional children, child psychology, and learning psychology
• Sociological foundations (6 credits): Topics include multicultural issues and program planning
• Research and evaluation (6 credits): Students learn statistics, research, and program evaluation
• Supervised clinical experience (9 credits): Students complete school-based practicum and internship

Rutgers will start an exciting initiative in 2025, backed by a $3.3 million grant from the U.S. Department of Education. This initiative will train and place school counselors in New Jersey school districts that need them most. The program will cover full tuition for 30 school counselors in Rutgers’ master’s program.

Accreditation & licensure

The Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP) has accredited Rutgers’ Ed.M. program until March 2026. This accreditation confirms the program’s quality and its alignment with professional standards.

Students who complete all requirements can get New Jersey School Counselor and Educational Services Certification. The program meets every state requirement for this certification, letting graduates provide counseling in preschool through 12th grade settings.

The Office of Academic Services handles certification applications after graduation, sending them to the NJ Department of Education’s Office of Licensing and Credentialing. Graduates usually get their NJ School Counselor Educational Services Certificate within 4-6 weeks.

Format & flexibility

The School Counseling Program uses a full-time graduate cohort admissions model. Students can finish the curriculum in two academic years of full-time study. The program expects all admitted students to complete their Curriculum Planner within 2 years.

Students take courses and get clinical instruction. The clinical part combines practicum and internship requirements, giving hands-on experience in schools. These experiences shape students’ professional identity as school counselors beyond what they learn in class.

Students must apply by February 1 and need GRE scores with a minimum combined score of 1000 on verbal and quantitative sections.

Tuition & financial aid

Rutgers University’s in-state tuition for 2024-2025 is $17,929, while out-of-state students pay $37,441. The total cost with food, housing, and other expenses reaches $37,717 for in-state and $56,479 for out-of-state students.

Rutgers offers several financial aid options:

• First-year students got financial aid in 2023-2024 (56%)
• First-year students’ average aid package was $16,865
• First-year students received over $91 million in aid for 2023-2024

The Scarlet Guarantee helps eligible in-state students from families earning below $65,000 attend tuition-free for four years. Students from families earning below $100,000 pay reduced tuition and fees.

Students can get federal grants, loans, merit-based scholarships, and work-study opportunities through the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). The university encourages all students to submit FAFSA each year.

4. Seton Hall University – MA in School Counseling (Online)

Seton Hall University stands out among online LPC programs in NJ with its 48-credit MA in School Counseling program. The program shapes caring and skilled professionals who help students thrive in today’s diverse schools.

Program overview

The online MA in School Counseling program prepares counselors to work in K-12 schools with students from different ethnic, geographic, and social backgrounds. Students learn essential counseling theory, ethics, human development, and multicultural skills. The program focuses on three main areas:

• Prevention and intervention of personal concerns
• Ways to encourage optimal human development
• Coordination of care services for students

Graduates learn to help students reach their full potential through complete developmental school counseling programs. You’ll learn from researchers and practitioners who work closely with schools and community agencies. This hands-on approach helps you build practical skills in individual and group counseling, assessment, and consultation.

Accreditation & licensure

The program has earned accreditation from the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP). It also meets New Jersey Department of Education’s requirements for school counselors. The program aligns with standards set by the Council of Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP) and the National Board of Certified Counselors (NBCC).

Students who complete the program can become certified school counselors in New Jersey and many other states. Those looking to become licensed professional counselors can take the Education Specialist (Ed.S.) degree path. New Jersey’s membership in the National Association of State Director of Teacher Education and Certification (NASDTEC) lets graduates seek certification in other states, though extra requirements may apply.

Format & flexibility

Students take courses online and attend two weekend-long in-person residencies. The first residency happens when you start, and the second takes place in your second year. This setup works well for new graduates, teachers, and people changing careers.

You can earn your 48-credit master’s degree in about two-and-a-half years. The program has a three-semester clinical part where you get real experience through internships and practicums. Faculty members guide and support you throughout your journey.

Tuition & financial aid

The MA in School Counseling Online program costs $1,150 per credit. The total comes to about $55,200, which covers all fees except application fees, books, and residency costs. Students need to pay separately for computer equipment, software, Internet access, and travel to residencies.

Seton Hall helps make education more affordable with several options:

• Scholarships that can cut your degree cost by up to 50%
• Federal loans through the FFELP/Stafford Loan program
• Alternative or personal loans
• Monthly payment plans that spread tuition costs across the year

Students must fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to get financial aid. Seton Hall gives over $96 million in financial aid annually to students.

5. Montclair State University – MA in Counseling

Montclair State University ranks among the best LPC programs in New Jersey. The counseling department serves around 457 students through three CACREP-accredited specializations. Students graduate as culturally competent professionals ready to thrive in a variety of work environments.

Program overview

The counseling program gives you the tools to become a multiculturally competent counselor through a theory-to-practice model. Students can choose from several specialized tracks:

• Clinical Mental Health Counseling (60 credits)
• School Counseling (60 credits starting Spring 2024)
• Addictions Counseling (60 credits)
• Student Affairs/Higher Education (36 credits)

A remarkable 95% of students graduate within the six-year timeframe across all concentrations. The success rate soars even higher as nearly 100% of Clinical Mental Health Counseling graduates find employment right after graduation. Students practice in a state-of-the-art counseling laboratory where they record, archive, and review sessions to enhance their client service skills.

Accreditation & licensure

The Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP) has accredited both Clinical Mental Health Counseling and School Counseling programs through 2025. Clinical Mental Health track completion meets all academic requirements for New Jersey’s initial counselor licensure (Licensed Associate Counselor, LAC). Students can then pursue Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) independent licensure. School Counseling graduates qualify directly for New Jersey school counselor certification.

Format & flexibility

Working students benefit from flexible scheduling options through face-to-face, hybrid, or Saturday classes. Students typically complete the 60-credit programs in 2½ to 3 calendar years full-time, with part-time options available for those with professional commitments. Summer sessions help speed up degree completion. Each program includes three semesters of fieldwork at approved sites.

Tuition & financial aid

The 2024-2025 in-state tuition at Montclair State University costs $15,912, while out-of-state students pay $26,022. Total expenses including housing reach about $36,398 for in-state and $45,758 for out-of-state students. More than 72% of Montclair students receive grants, loans, or scholarships. Students who qualify for need-based aid pay an average net price of $23,763. The FAFSA opens doors to federal and state funding options.

6. Kean University – MA in Counseling

Kean University’s Counselor Education Department has a unique trauma-centric MA in Counseling program that equips students from all backgrounds to reach their mental health, wellness, education, and career goals.

Program overview

The MA in Counseling at Kean University has several CACREP-accredited options through a humanistic, multicultural program that prepares professional counselors. Students learn from nationally-recognized faculty members in a vibrant, diverse community. This program stands out as one of the few trauma-centric counseling programs nationwide, and graduates excel in many different settings.

Students can choose from several specialized options:

• Clinical Mental Health Counseling (60 credits) – prepares graduates to qualify as Licensed Professional Counselors (LPC)
• School Counseling (60 credits) – qualifies for NJ Department of Education Certification
• School Counseling with LPC Qualification (60 credits) – combines both credentials
• Alcohol and Drug Abuse Counseling (48 credits) – approved for LCADC licensing
• College Counseling and Student Services (48 credits) – has path to LPC

The core curriculum builds theoretical knowledge, develops skills, and applies learning through supervised practica and internships. Graduates work in schools, colleges, agencies, mental health centers, hospitals, and government organizations.

Accreditation & licensure

CACREP accredits all counseling options at Kean University, ensuring high-quality education that meets national standards. The Clinical Mental Health Counseling option helps graduates start their journey to become Licensed Professional Counselors (LPC). Students can apply right away for the Licensed Associate Counselor (LAC) credential and take the National Counselor Examination (NCE).

Kean offers a post-M.A. program if you already have a master’s degree in Counseling of 48 credits or less. This program lets you get additional courses qualifying for the LAC.

Format & flexibility

Kean makes scheduling convenient for both full-time and part-time students. Classes run at:

• Union Campus – weeknight classes at 4:30 & 7:30 PM, plus some optional weekend courses
• Ocean (Toms River) Campus – mainly weekend classes for part-time students

Students start with three core courses, move to required courses, then specialized courses, and finish with practicum and internship experiences. This well-laid-out structure helps students build their counseling skills and use them in supervised clinical settings.

Tuition & financial aid

The 2024-25 academic year’s in-state tuition is $14,299, while out-of-state students pay $22,446. First-year students received an average need-based scholarship or grant of $14,639, and 81% got need-based financial aid.

Students must file the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to get financial aid. Kean’s steadfast dedication to affordability shows through several programs:

• Kean Tuition Promise program for incoming freshmen
• Garden State Guarantee for students with 60+ credits
• Graduate assistantships
• Federal Work-Study opportunities
• TEACH Grant for eligible graduate students

Median federal loan debt for Kean’s undergraduate degree completers is $23,250.

7. Rowan University – MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling

Rowan University offers a comprehensive 60-credit MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling program. The program helps aspiring Licensed Professional Counselors become skilled at diagnostic and treatment planning.

Program overview

The program builds critical clinical skills in differential diagnosis, case conceptualization, and treatment planning for mental health patients. Students must complete at least 600 supervised practicum hours at approved placement sites. Rowan stands out from other LPC programs in NJ by offering multiple educational paths:

• Advanced Clinical Track (most common): The track has two specialized electives to improve clinical skills
• Thesis Track: Students can work in faculty research labs based on availability and fit

Graduates can work in community centers, mental health facilities, prisons, and private practice. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 22% growth in this field from 2018 to 2028.

Accreditation & licensure

The program meets all educational requirements set by the Professional Counselor Examiners Committee Laws for Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) certification. Students need to pass either the Counselor Preparation Comprehensive Exam (CPCE) or the National Counselor Exam (NCE) before graduating.

Format & flexibility

The program accepts applications until February 15 each year. Late applications might be considered if spots remain open. Students need 12 undergraduate psychology credits, including abnormal psychology and statistics/research methods. A 3.0 minimum GPA and an interview are required.

Tuition & financial aid

Rowan University’s 2024 tuition rates are $16,574 for in-state and $26,932 for out-of-state students. Total costs with housing and other expenses reach about $37,179 for in-state and $47,043 for out-of-state students. Students can access various financial aid options through grants, loans, work-study, and scholarships. The university shows its dedication to making education available despite college costs.

8. New Jersey City University – MA in Counseling

NJCU has created a versatile MA in Counseling program that offers two paths toward professional licensure. The program combines theoretical knowledge with hands-on experience through an innovative hybrid format.

Program overview

The university’s specialized tracks in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and School Counseling shape culturally competent professionals. Students who complete the Clinical Mental Health Counseling track can work in community agencies, schools, hospitals, government, and private practice. The School Counseling track prepares students for K-12 school counselor roles. Both programs help students become ethical practitioners who use evidence-based practices in a variety of populations.

Accreditation & licensure

The counseling programs earned prestigious CACREP accreditation in Spring 2014. This accreditation is a big deal as it means that national standards are met and the licensure application process becomes simpler. Students who graduate can qualify for New Jersey Licensed Associate Counselor status and take the National Counselor Examination.

Format & flexibility

The program’s hybrid structure splits coursework between in-person classes on Mondays/Wednesdays and online sessions on Tuesdays/Thursdays. Students can attend classes at 4:25pm or 7:00pm, which works well for professionals with day jobs. The program accepts new students during fall and spring semesters.

Tuition & financial aid

NJCU’s financial support is substantial, with over $20 million in financial aid distributed annually. The university helps 75% of undergraduate students with financial aid. Graduate students in degree programs can qualify for federal loans if they take at least six credits each semester.

9. William Paterson University – M.Ed. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling

William Paterson University offers an outstanding M.Ed. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling program. The program’s success speaks for itself with a 99% completion rate and 97% of graduates finding employment.

Program overview

This 60-credit master’s program prepares students to become Licensed Associate Counselors (LAC). LAC serves as the stepping stone to earning the Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) credential in New Jersey. The program has 48 credits of professional counseling core courses, 6 credits of clinical mental health concentration courses, and 6 credits of electives. Students learn everything in counseling skills, multicultural counseling, ethics, theories, career development, and human growth through core coursework.

Accreditation & licensure

The program’s prestigious CACREP accreditation plays a vital role in national certifications. Students can take the National Counselor Examination (NCE) right at William Paterson during their internship semester. Students become eligible for LAC status after completing 60 credits, their portfolio, comprehensive exam, and NCE.

Format & flexibility

Students must excel in both academic coursework and supervised clinical internships. The program’s structure helps students build a complete portfolio that showcases their professional development.

Tuition & financial aid

The 2025-2026 tuition costs $872.50 per credit for in-state students and $1,361.00 for out-of-state students. Out-of-state students who qualify can receive tuition waivers to pay in-state rates, saving $488.50 per credit. The university offers graduate assistantships, student employment, and several scholarship programs for additional financial support.

Choose the Best Masters in Counseling in New Jersey

The right LPC program can make or break your counseling career success. New Jersey’s options are outstanding with specializations, formats, and accreditations that fit your needs. These nine programs show why New Jersey is a great place to study counseling, and each school brings something special to the table.

The job market looks bright for counseling graduates in New Jersey. A 22% growth rate through 2030 is way above national averages, which means plenty of jobs for new professionals. William Paterson University’s graduates have done well, with 97% finding jobs right after graduation.

These programs come with CACREP accreditation, which means you’ll get high-quality education that meets professional standards. This credential helps you become a Licensed Professional Counselor much faster.

Money doesn’t have to stop you from getting your education. Many schools offer financial aid, scholarships, and ways to pay that work for you. Seton Hall can cut your costs in half with scholarships, and Rutgers got a $3.3 million grant that pays full tuition for 30 school counselors.

These schools make it easy to fit education into your life. You can take hybrid classes at NJCU, study online at Seton Hall, or attend evening classes at Kean. Working professionals can find a schedule that works for them.

Your trip to becoming a counselor starts with picking the program that matches your goals. Think about what specialization you want, where the school is, how classes are taught, what it costs, and if it’s accredited. These fast-track LPC programs will set you up for success in New Jersey’s ever-changing counseling field.