11 Top-Rated Master’s in Counseling Programs in North Carolina

Want to study counseling in North Carolina? You’ve picked a great state. North Carolina is one of the top states for counseling education.

North Carolina’s educational landscape features over 40 schools with counseling programs. These programs cover five key areas: mental health counseling, marriage and family therapy, rehabilitation counseling, school counseling, and substance abuse counseling. Students who want to pursue a master’s in counseling in NC will find 36 CACREP-accredited programs. The state also provides many flexible learning options. More than 20 schools offer hybrid and online counseling degrees, which makes getting your master’s degree in counseling easier when traditional programs don’t work with your schedule.

A counseling degree in North Carolina is an excellent choice if you want a rewarding career helping others. This guide explores the 11 best master’s in counseling programs in North Carolina. You’ll learn about their unique features, requirements, and benefits to help you find the program that fits you best.

1. North Carolina State University

NC State University is a top choice for future counselors looking to get quality education in North Carolina. Their Master of Education in Clinical Mental Health Counseling prepares students to work in professional settings of all types. The program shows a steadfast dedication to multiculturalism and wellness.

Program overview

NC State’s counseling program has a rich history that goes back to 1946. It evolved from its developmental theory roots to become a multicultural counseling innovator. The M.Ed. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling centers on developmental theory, clinical counseling practice, and preventive interventions. Students focus on five core areas: multiculturalism, scientist-practitioner model, school-college-community collaboration, clinical counseling theory, and developmental theory. Students also get valuable experience at the Community Counseling, Education, and Research Center. This center serves as a national model for multicultural counseling, supervision, and advocacy.

Accreditation and licensure

NC State’s on-campus and online counseling programs have accreditation from the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP) through March 30, 2030. This respected accreditation means graduates meet all educational standards needed for professional licensure. Students who complete the program can take the National Counselor Examination and qualify as Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associates (LCMHCA) in North Carolina.

Format and flexibility

Students can choose between on-campus and online options at NC State. Full-time students starting in summer might finish in two years if they follow a specific course sequence. The online option uses a three-year, part-time cohort model that includes summer studies. Online students usually take two classes each semester. They join weekly live web conferences that include interactive learning activities like counseling practice and role-plays.

Admission requirements

The program’s competitive selection process looks at several factors:

• Completed online application with resume and personal statement
• Three recommendations from people who know your academic potential
• Official transcripts showing strong academic achievement
• No GRE/MAT needed
• Interview (for selected candidates)
• 0 undergraduate GPA expected

International students must submit official English proficiency test scores.

Tuition and financial aid

The university charges in-state tuition at $8,986 and out-of-state at $33,034 per year. Online students pay the same rates as on-campus students. Graduate students’ credit hour charges stop at nine credit hours per semester. Student loans make up most financial aid packages. Students can also apply for scholarships and work-study positions. Monthly payment plans help make educational expenses more manageable.

Best for:

The program works great for students interested in a multicultural view. The program’s cultural diversity has grown from less than 5% to almost 20% over the last several years. Students who value developmental approaches to counseling and the scientist-practitioner model will find this program appealing. Working professionals in North Carolina benefit from the flexible online option while completing their practicum and internship locally.

2. Wake Forest University

Wake Forest University stands out with one of North Carolina’s most respected counseling programs. Their graduates achieve remarkable success rates on licensing exams as they pursue their counseling careers.

Program overview

The Master of Arts in Counseling at Wake Forest needs 60 semester hours in a structured program. Students can pick between School Counseling or Clinical Mental Health Counseling tracks. The curriculum dives deep into eight core areas: human growth and development, social and cultural foundations, helping relationships, group work, career development, appraisal, research, and professional orientation. Students also gain clinical skills through practicum and internship experiences. This detailed approach helps graduates achieve over 90% pass rates on the National Counselor Examination.

Accreditation and licensure

The Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP) has accredited both School Counseling and Clinical Mental Health Counseling programs through October 2026. The university also holds accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS). Graduates can take the National Counselor Examination (NCE) or the National Clinical Mental Health Counselor Examination (NCMHCE). School Counseling graduates qualify for North Carolina’s Department of Public Instruction licensure. Clinical Mental Health Counseling graduates can become Licensed Professional Counselors after passing exams and completing supervised experience.

Format and flexibility

Students can choose between two delivery options. The campus-based format works best for full-time students with fall admission only. The online program suits part-time students with fall, spring, and summer entry points. Online students usually finish in three years. They learn through a mix of asynchronous and synchronous classes with scheduled weekly sessions. Students must attend two 3-day residencies at the Reynolda Campus for hands-on training.

Admission requirements

The university uses a comprehensive Sociocultural Inquiry Admissions Model that lets applicants showcase their strengths. You’ll need a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution, 3.0 undergraduate GPA, personal statement, resume, three recommendation letters, $80 application fee, virtual interview, and background check. Selected applicants must complete a recorded personal interview. Final acceptance depends on passing a criminal background check.

Tuition and financial aid

Each credit hour costs $1,700, making the total program around $90,600 plus fees. Campus-based full-time students receive partial scholarships covering about 75% of costs. Online students need to look for external funding. The financial aid office helps students find loans and scholarships.

Best for:

This program works great for professionals who want quality part-time online study. It’s perfect for anyone interested in school counseling or clinical mental health counseling through a CACREP-accredited program in North Carolina. The high exam pass rates make it an excellent choice for students focused on getting licensed.

3. North Carolina Central University

North Carolina Central University sits in Durham, offering several paths to counseling careers through its outstanding master’s programs. The university takes pride in its diverse environment and hands-on training in mental health services.

Program overview

NCCU’s Clinical Mental Health Counseling MA features a 60-credit curriculum that prepares you for careers in nonprofit, private, and community-based mental health settings. Students learn to work as counselors in agencies, private practice, hospitals, and correctional facilities. Graduates can apply for initial licensure with the North Carolina Board of Licensed Professional Counselors and become National Certified Counselors. The program lets students qualify as Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialists by completing just three extra addiction-specific courses. Students interested in education can choose the 60-hour School Counseling program that leads to K-12 licensure in North Carolina.

Accreditation and licensure

The Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP) fully accredits both campus-based and online programs. The university has earned membership in the International Registry of Counselor Education Programs (IRCEP). This prestigious accreditation brings major benefits – graduates have higher pass rates on the National Counselor Examination and face fewer sanctions from state licensure boards compared to non-CACREP graduates. NCCU graduates can easily pursue licensure and professional practice throughout North Carolina and beyond.

Format and flexibility

Students can choose between on-campus and online options. NCCU’s online counseling program has earned recognition as one of the nation’s top five accredited online master’s counseling degree programs. This ranking looked at tuition costs, flexibility, student-to-faculty ratio, support services, and practical learning opportunities. Working professionals will find the online format particularly helpful with its flexible scheduling options.

Admission requirements

You’ll need these items to apply to NCCU’s counseling programs:

• Online graduate admission application with $50 non-refundable fee
• Minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 (though the formal requirement is 2.75)
• GRE scores less than 5 years old
• Two letters of recommendation
• Personal statement
• Official transcripts from all schools attended
• An interview with faculty

The program accepts new students once yearly, with applications due by February 1st for fall admission.

Tuition and financial aid

Yearly tuition runs $6,700 for in-state and $19,736 for out-of-state students (2024-25). The online Clinical Mental Health Counseling program costs $299.23 per credit hour for in-state and $1,038.57 for out-of-state students. Food and housing add about $14,968 each year. Students can access various financial aid options through scholarships, grants, work-study, and loans. In-state students who earn $80,000 or less might qualify for $5,000 or more yearly through the Next NC Scholarship.

Best for:

NCCU’s counseling programs serve students looking for affordable education with strong multicultural training. The program works well for those drawn to clinical mental health or school counseling. Its CACREP accreditation and additional addiction specialist pathway give students many career options in counseling fields across North Carolina.

4. Montreat College

Montreat College’s Clinical Mental Health Counseling program stands out with its faith-integrated approach. Students experience a unique blend of professional preparation and Christian worldview in counselor education.

Program overview

The Clinical Mental Health Counseling (CMHC) program at Montreat prepares students to become licensed professional counselors through a detailed 60-credit curriculum. Students typically complete these requirements in 2.5 years by taking three courses (9 credits) each semester. Students gain 700 hours of practical experience before graduation. They progress from novice observers to autonomous professionals. Montreat’s curriculum combines Christian principles with counseling theory and practice. This creates a distinctive educational experience compared to secular programs. The program has common core courses that last 15 weeks and specialized CMHC courses that run for eight weeks.

Accreditation and licensure

The Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP) has accredited the CMHC program through 2026. The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges provides institutional accreditation to Montreat College. Graduates meet educational requirements to apply as Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associates (LCMHC-A) in North Carolina. The program meets all North Carolina Board of Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselors requirements.

Format and flexibility

Students can choose from several format options:

• Hybrid courses with on-site classes in Asheville and Charlotte
• Evening classes from 6-9 PM that work well for professionals
• Bi-weekly classes that allow students to learn at their own pace between sessions
• A new fully online program starting January 2024 that makes education available beyond North Carolina

Students in the online format attend two 5-day in-person residencies to develop hands-on skills.

Admission requirements

Students need to provide:

• Application with resume and professional goals essay
• Official transcripts showing a minimum 3.0 GPA from last 60 credit hours of undergraduate study
• National background check (student pays)
• Drug test results before starting first course

Tuition and financial aid

Montreat’s tuition costs 25% less than what other private colleges and universities charge nationally. Student data shows 99% of students get some type of financial aid. Students can also access federal loans, work-study opportunities, and payment plans.

Best for:

This program works well for students who want a Christian viewpoint on counseling education. Students interested in private practice or agency counseling will find great value here. The program offers strong mentorship relationships and evening classes that fit working professionals’ schedules. Students get practical experience throughout their education instead of waiting until the end of the program.

5. Pfeiffer University

Pfeiffer University has launched its Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling program to meet North Carolina’s growing need for qualified mental health professionals.

Program overview

Students complete the MA-CMHC program at Pfeiffer University in 2.5 years through a detailed curriculum that combines theory and hands-on experience. Core courses include Clinical Mental Health Counseling, Multicultural Counseling, and Advanced Human Growth and Development. The program requires students to complete an intensive internship at an agency for 20 hours weekly during their final two semesters. Each candidate must pass the Counselor Preparation Comprehensive Examination (CPCE) before graduation. This exam helps prepare students for the National Counselor Examination, which they need for provisional licensure.

Accreditation and licensure

The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) accredits Pfeiffer University as an institutional accrediting agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. Graduates can start counseling as associates under supervision while working toward full licensure. The process in North Carolina typically requires approximately 3,000 hours of supervised counseling experience with at least 100 hours of direct supervision and takes about two years.

Format and flexibility

Working professionals benefit from the program’s blend of synchronous and asynchronous online instruction. The university planned for its first cohort to include between 24-36 students. Pfeiffer regularly updates its graduate offerings to match student needs and industry requirements.

Admission requirements

Pfeiffer looks for candidates with strong interpersonal and analytical skills who demonstrate:

• Passion for supporting others
• Diverse life experiences
• Interest in mental health and human connection
• Readiness for graduate-level academic work

The program welcomes students from undergraduate backgrounds of all types, including psychology, education, nursing, business, and even the arts.

Pfeiffer University tuition and financial aid

Graduate tuition costs $400 per semester hour. Pfeiffer’s tuition ($33,930) is substantially lower than the national average for private institutions ($47,890). Most students receive financial assistance, with 95% of Pfeiffer’s students getting some form of financial aid. The university gives over $12.8 million in institutional aid each year. Graduates with federal loans have a median debt of $26,163, with monthly payments averaging $277 over ten years.

Best for:

The counseling program serves students who want careers in hospitals, mental health clinics, private practices, or non-profit agencies especially well. Students find the program’s emphasis on practical experience valuable, as shown by undergraduate counseling students who landed positions at their internship sites.

6. Appalachian State University

Appalachian State University’s Clinical Mental Health Counseling program provides hands-on counseling education and will mark its 50th anniversary of counselor preparation in 2024.

Program overview

App State offers a 60-hour CACREP-accredited Clinical Mental Health Counseling (CMHC) program that prepares students to work in mental health centers, social service agencies, educational institutions, and private practice. Students learn through a community of practice that helps them grow from novices into entry-level practitioners through meaningful social activities. The program stands out by offering unique graduate certificates in Expressive Arts Therapy and Addictions Counseling. The Southern Association for Counselor Education and Supervision recognized the program’s excellence with its Outstanding Master’s Counselor Education and Supervision Program Award in 2019.

Accreditation and licensure

The CMHC program holds CACREP accreditation, a specialized accrediting body. Students who graduate can take the National Certified Counselor examination. The program meets North Carolina’s licensure requirements, but App State cannot guarantee it fulfills requirements in other states.

Format and flexibility

Students attend face-to-face classes on the Boone campus. The program accommodates both full-time and part-time study options. Clinical experience includes a 100-hour practicum (10-12 hours weekly) and a 600-hour internship. Students can complete the internship in one semester at 40-42 hours weekly or spread it across two semesters at 20-25 hours weekly.

Admission requirements

Admission requires:

• Application through the Cratis D. Williams Graduate School
• Resume/CV
• CMHC questionnaire
• Transcripts
• Two references
• Group interview (required for admission)

Students must apply by December 1, and decisions come out in February.

Tuition and financial aid

Annual in-state tuition is $8,379 while out-of-state students pay $26,541. Graduate tuition costs NC residents $6,108 and non-residents $17,556. About 70% of students get financial aid. CMHC students can apply for limited assistantships that require 10-20 hours of work weekly.

Best for:

App State excels at teaching body-centered therapy, mindfulness-based counseling, and expressive arts approaches. Students who value small class sizes will appreciate the program’s faculty focus on social justice and multicultural counseling competence.

7. University of North Carolina at Greensboro

Ranked 11th nationally by U.S. News & World Report for over three decades, UNC Greensboro’s counseling program stands as North Carolina’s premier graduate counseling program.

Program overview

The Master of Science in Counseling program has three distinct concentrations: Clinical Mental Health Counseling, School Counseling, and Couple and Family Counseling. Students need 60 credit hours to graduate, though the Couple and Family concentration requires 63 credits. The curriculum builds strong foundations in evidence-based, ethical, and culturally responsive skills. Students work with real clients under supervision at the Nicholas Vacc Counseling and Consulting Clinic, an in-house training facility that provides hands-on experience.

Accreditation and licensure

The program’s full CACREP accreditation ensures graduates meet professional licensure’s educational standards. Graduates can take the National Counselor Examination and pursue licensure based on their chosen concentration.

Format and flexibility

The programs run exclusively full-time on the main campus. Students attend weekday classes between 9:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m., which demands substantial time commitment.

Admission requirements

The application process has these components:

• Online graduate school application
• Two professional recommendation letters
• Resume detailing work and research experience
• Three written statements
• Official transcripts (minimum 2.75 GPA preferred)
• Group interview for selected candidates

Students must submit applications by November 15 for fall admission only.

Tuition and financial aid

Annual in-state graduate tuition and fees cost $8,684, while out-of-state students pay $24,001. Most students (87%) receive some form of financial aid, with scholarships available based on academic merit and financial need.

Best for:

The program excels at teaching specialized evidence-based practices like dialectical behavior therapy and motivational interviewing. Students looking for intensive clinical supervision will benefit from diverse practical experiences in settings of all types, including schools, hospitals, and private practice.

8. University of North Carolina at Charlotte

UNC Charlotte has earned national recognition for its counseling program. The university received the Robert Frank Outstanding Counselor Education Program Award for excellence in standards and breakthroughs.

Program overview

UNC Charlotte’s Master of Arts in Counseling offers three concentrations: Clinical Mental Health, School Counseling, and Addiction Counseling. The 60-credit hour program prepares graduates to work in educational institutions and private practices of all sizes. Students get unique hands-on experience through a 150-hour practicum and two 300-hour internships in their final three semesters.

Accreditation and licensure

The master’s and doctoral programs have CACREP accreditation. School Counseling graduates can apply for K-12 licensure in North Carolina. North Carolina has reciprocity agreements with 42 states, though students must still pass the Praxis II test.

Format and flexibility

Classes run Monday through Thursday with evening options from 5:30-8:15pm. Students complete the program in 2-3 years, and part-time options are available. Full-time students usually take up to four courses (12 credits) each semester.

Admission requirements

The application deadline is October 15. Students need a bachelor’s degree, 3.0 GPA, statement of purpose, three recommendation letters, and transcripts. The program accepts 30-35% of applicants.

Tuition and financial aid

In-state students pay $7,020 while out-of-state students pay $22,274. About 75% of students get financial aid.

UNC Charlotte best for

This program stands out for students who want multicultural views, flexible schedules, and varied clinical experiences. Students interested in specialized certifications like Play Therapy will find great value here.

9. University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

UNC Chapel Hill offers a prestigious Master of Science degree in clinical mental health counseling right in the heart of the Tar Heel State. Students can earn 60+ credits with concentrations in developmental and psychiatric disabilities.

Program overview

UNC Chapel Hill’s Clinical Mental Health Counseling program equips graduates with clinical expertise and cultural humility to help people with various mental health issues. Students get comprehensive training in mental health counseling principles, disorders, culturally responsive approaches, and evidence-based practices. The program helps students become skilled at clinical practice, advocacy, leadership, consultation, and client assessment.

Accreditation and licensure

The Clinical Mental Health Counseling program at UNC holds full CACREP accreditation until October 2032. Students who graduate can qualify for the National Certified Counselor credential and meet educational requirements to get licensed in most states. They can also pursue certifications like Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist with additional training.

Format and flexibility

Students must commit full-time to the program, which integrates clinical training throughout. The university also offers a 14-month School Counseling program as another path to becoming a licensed clinical mental health counselor after completing post-masters supervision.

Admission requirements

Students need to meet these criteria:

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
• Pre-admission faculty interview
• Eligibility for clinical training participation
• Three recommendation letters
• Personal statement/statement of purpose
• Minimum TOEFL/IELTS scores for non-native English speakers

Tuition and financial aid

In-state students pay $9,003 while out-of-state students pay $41,211. About 38% of students get financial aid with average need-based packages of $17,382. UNC meets 100% of proven financial need.

Best for:

This program stands out for students who want specialized training in developmental and psychiatric disabilities. UNC’s rehabilitation counseling program ranks #7 nationally in U.S. News & World Report. The program works well for people pursuing careers in mental health treatment, education, research, private practice, or government settings.

9. Western Carolina University

Western Carolina University offers a Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at its Biltmore Park-Asheville location. The 60-hour curriculum focuses on practical training and prepares graduates to become Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associates (LCMHC-A).

Program overview

Students receive complete training in professional orientation, cross-cultural counseling, crisis intervention, and counseling techniques. The program requires 750 hours of hands-on learning through field placements. Graduates can pursue careers in mental health facilities, substance recovery centers, schools, and private practice.

Accreditation and licensure

CACREP accreditation allows students to take the National Certified Counselor examination in their final semester. Graduates meet North Carolina’s requirements for LCMHC-A licensure.

Format and flexibility

The program schedules classes in 3-hour blocks during day and evening hours. Full-time students can graduate in 2 years with summer sessions, while part-time students typically need 4 years. Field experience combines a one-semester practicum requiring 8-10 hours weekly and an internship. Students can complete the internship in one semester at 40 hours weekly or spread it across two semesters at 20 hours weekly.

Admission requirements

The priority deadline falls on December 1, with final applications due February 1. Applicants need GRE scores (minimum 150 Verbal/Quantitative, 4.0 Analytical), three recommendations, and essay prompt responses.

Tuition and financial aid

In-state graduate students pay $7,931 while out-of-state students pay $18,650. The university reserves graduate assistantships for full-time students only.

Best for:

The program suits students who want extensive practical training to work in mental health settings of all types.

10. East Carolina University

East Carolina University offers a 100% online Counselor Education master’s program that lets students earn advanced counseling degrees while managing their daily lives.

Program overview

ECU’s CACREP-accredited Counselor Education program helps students build careers in a variety of counseling fields through three specializations: School Counseling, Clinical Mental Health Counseling, or Student Affairs and College Counseling. Students can also pursue a 62-credit MS in Clinical Counseling with an addiction focus. The program’s mission centers on human development by preparing culturally skilled counselors who can serve people from all backgrounds. ECU’s expertise in addiction counseling spans more than 30 years.

Accreditation and licensure

The program’s CACREP accreditation meets educational requirements for the National Counselor’s Examination. Graduates can seek licensure from the North Carolina Board of Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselors. Clinical Counseling graduates need just one year of supervised practice to qualify for Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist status.

Format and flexibility

The program runs entirely online with only required residencies needed. Students from different locations and life situations can easily adapt to the format. Real-world experience comes through a 100-hour practicum and 600-hour internship with supervised practice.

Admission requirements

Students should submit applications by January 15th for summer and fall terms. A minimum 2.75 undergraduate GPA is needed. The process requires three recommendation letters, a statement of intent, and an interview. Counselor education faculty make final admission decisions in this competitive program.

Tuition and financial aid

Annual graduate tuition costs $7,973 for in-state and $21,779 for out-of-state students. Distance learners pay $5,496 (in-state) or $19,302 (out-of-state). Total costs including housing and other expenses range from $30,756 to $44,562. Students can access three annual scholarships, graduate assistantships starting at $15.00 per hour, and federal loans.

Best for:

Students looking for flexible online education with minimal campus visits will find this program ideal. The program’s track record speaks for itself – graduates have achieved a 95% comprehensive exam pass rate, 95% licensure exam pass rate, and 97% job placement rate within six months of graduation.

11. University of Mount Olive

The University of Mount Olive offers a Master of Science in Counseling program that prepares graduates for clinical mental health counseling careers in a variety of settings. The program earned its prestigious CACREP accreditation in 2024.

Program overview

Students can complete UMO’s MS in Counseling: Clinical Mental Health program in two years with full-time, continuous enrollment. The curriculum builds clinical proficiencies through academic coursework and practicum experiences. The program has 98 enrolled students and has produced 62 graduates. Students build hands-on experience through three courses that focus on direct supervised clinical experience with individuals, couples, and families.

Accreditation and licensure

The program achieved CACREP accreditation in 2024 by meeting all 177 required standards—a remarkable feat for first-time accreditation. This “gold standard” accreditation stays valid until October 31, 2032. Graduates can qualify for licensure in North Carolina and most states. The Counseling Compact allows graduates to practice in participating states without additional licenses.

Format and flexibility

Students can develop their clinical proficiencies through this 100% online graduate program at times that fit their schedules. The program requires some scheduled meeting times. Working professionals who need flexibility while maintaining educational quality will find this program suitable.

Admission requirements

Applicants must provide:

• Responses to two personal statements (250-word minimum each)
• Resume
• Professional recommendation letters
• Bachelor’s degree with minimum 3.0 GPA (2.5-3.0 considered with personal statement)
• Pre-admission interview with faculty

Tuition and financial aid

The program costs $610 per credit hour, with annual costs around $18,300. Students can seek federal aid through FAFSA and might qualify for scholarships, grants, work-study, or loans.

Best for:

Students looking for license-eligible counseling education in an available online format will benefit from this program. The program works well for those who want to work in substance abuse treatment centers, private practice, hospitals, mental health centers, or social services.

Choose the Right Masters in Counseling in NC

The right master’s in counseling program should match your career goals and personal needs. North Carolina has many CACREP-accredited options. You’ll find specializations ranging from clinical mental health to school counseling, addiction treatment, and more.

These programs each bring something special to the table. NC State and Wake Forest boast exceptional exam pass rates. Montreat College gives students a faith-integrated approach. UNC Greensboro has held its spot as the 11th best nationwide program for more than 30 years.

Many aspiring counselors need schedule flexibility. North Carolina universities understand this need. East Carolina and Mount Olive run fully online programs with just a few campus visits. Appalachian State takes a different approach with intensive face-to-face classes that help you develop hands-on skills.

Money matters too. Annual tuition ranges from $7,000 for in-state students at public universities to $40,000 at prestigious private schools. The good news is that most programs help manage costs through scholarships, assistantships, and payment plans.

North Carolina’s counseling career opportunities keep growing. This makes it a great time to earn your master’s degree. The state’s program variety lets you pick an educational path that fits your interests, schedule, and career goals. Your next move might be to reach out to programs that appeal to you. Talk with admissions counselors and maybe connect with current students or alumni to learn about their first-hand experiences.

Your counseling experience begins with the right educational foundation. Look for a program that prepares you academically and provides clinical experiences and professional connections. These elements will help ensure your long-term success in this rewarding field.