17 Top Masters in School Counseling Programs: Online & Campus Options
Want to kickstart your career in educational guidance with a master’s in school counseling? The timing couldn’t be better. School counselor positions are growing 10% faster than other jobs over the next decade. On top of that, the pay is attractive – counselors earn between $43,580 and $105,870 yearly, with most making around $65,140 as of May 2024.
These master’s programs take two to three years to complete. Students get specific training in essential areas like human development, career development, crisis intervention counseling, and cross-cultural counseling. The cost runs from $12,000 to $30,000, but the career advancement opportunities make it worthwhile. This piece will guide you through 17 top-rated master’s programs in school counseling – from Seton Hall’s 48-credit online program to traditional campus options. You’ll find everything you need to choose the right educational path for your future.
University of Denver
The University of Denver’s Morgridge College of Education offers one of the best school counseling masters programs through its online Master of Arts in School Counseling program. This program stands apart from others by preparing school counselors to be change agents who support students’ academic, career, and social/emotional needs.
Program format
SchoolCounseling@Denver requires 24 courses totaling 90 quarter credit hours (equivalent to 60 semester hours). Students can earn this online masters in school counseling in just 22 months with full-time study. The program features weekly live classes through HD streaming video that lets you interact with faculty and peers in shared groups. Students don’t need to visit campus at any point to graduate.
Accreditation
The program has earned the prestigious Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP) accreditation. This status validates the program’s content quality and professional standards. CACREP accreditation becomes essential when you need state licensure, as many states require degrees from CACREP-accredited programs.
University of Denver tuition and fees
The program’s total tuition costs approximately $70,920 plus fees, at $985 per credit hour. The good news is that Morgridge College provides financial aid to all its students, including substantial scholarships. The college distributes more than $14 million each year in student financial support.
Fieldwork requirements
The program features a strong fieldwork component that requires 700 hours of direct and indirect services:
- One 100-hour practicum experience
- Two 300-hour internships
Licensed school counselors at P-12 schools in your community will supervise your work during these experiences. Students must complete at least 240 hours of direct client/student contact during internships. The program values self-reflection and helps students understand their strengths and areas for growth while serving diverse student populations.
Liberty University
Liberty University combines faith-based education with high professional standards in its Master of Education in School Counseling program. Students can earn their school counseling license through this CACREP-accredited program that blends online flexibility with a complete curriculum.
Program format
The M.Ed. in School Counseling runs mostly online but requires two synchronized online intensives, a full-semester practicum, and two full-semester internships. Students spend 36-40 hours in synchronized video instruction during these intensives, along with pre- and post-intensive assignments. The clinical part needs 600 hours of internship experience split into two 300-hour semesters, with at least 240 hours of direct student service. Students can finish most classes from home while getting hands-on practice in their area.
Accreditation
The Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP) and the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Preparation (NCATE/CAEP) have both accredited the program. Liberty’s School Counseling program got an 8-year CACREP renewal until March 31, 2032, as of January 2024. This respected status shows the curriculum meets national standards and helps with state-to-state license transfers.
Tuition and fees
Full-time graduate students will pay $580.00 per credit hour in the 2025-2026 school year, while part-time students pay $645.00. Military members get a big discount at $290.00 per credit hour. Liberty has managed to keep its prices steady with online tuition rising less than 5% in the last decade.
Online learning experience
Students take 8-week courses with eight yearly start dates, without fixed login times except for practicums and internships. The intensives let you work with teachers and other students in a shared space that welcomes learners from around the world. You’ll build connections with professionals across the country while learning from experts. Working professionals can advance their school counseling careers thanks to this mix of flexibility and engagement.
University of Georgia
Ranked #1 in the nation for 2024 by U.S. News and World Report, the University of Georgia’s dual MEd/EdS in Professional Counseling program prepares aspiring school counselors. The Mary Frances Early College of Education gives graduates the tools they need for certification and licensure in Georgia’s educational settings.
Program format
Students can complete both degrees within two calendar years through an intensive, full-time structure. The program uses a cohort model where students attend classes two to three days each week. Students must complete 66 credit hours, which includes a 100-hour practicum and 660 hours of internship experiences in school settings. Clinical experiences require students to complete at least 40 clock hours during practicum and 240 hours in internship working directly with individuals and groups. Students gain experience working with children at all grade levels (PK-2, 3-5, 6-8, and 9-12) to meet Georgia Professional Standards Commission requirements.
Accreditation
The program’s CACREP accreditation is a vital credential that ensures it meets national standards. This recognition helps graduates obtain certification and licensure across states. Graduates can work as counselors in community mental health agencies, hospitals, juvenile justice facilities, and drug and alcohol treatment facilities. The program shapes counselors who embrace ‘new vision’ school counseling principles.
Tuition and financial aid
Graduate students from Georgia pay approximately $9,808 per year, while out-of-state students pay about $30,182 annually. The total cost for in-state graduate students living off-campus reaches an estimated $35,532, including housing, food, books, transportation, and other expenses. Most in-state students start their program paying minimal tuition or fees. The university offers various assistantships and scholarships. Financial aid reaches 94% of students, and graduate students receive an average of $8,878 in assistance.
Seton Hall University
Seton Hall University offers a nationally recognized M.A. in School Counseling program with a focus on social consciousness and equity. The CAEP-accredited program welcomes students from various backgrounds – recent graduates, experienced educators, and professionals changing careers who want to create meaningful change in educational settings.
Program format
The M.A. in School Counseling program requires 48 credits and provides training in counseling theory, ethics, human development, and multicultural competency. Students can choose between on-campus classes or a flexible online format to learn practical skills in individual and group counseling, assessment, and consultation. The program stands out with its summer residencies and a full school counselor internship that helps you apply classroom knowledge to ground settings. You’ll study with experienced researchers and practitioners who actively work with schools and community agencies.
Accreditation
The Council for Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP) has certified the program, which meets strict professional standards. Graduates become eligible for New Jersey School Counselor Certification after completion. Many states have reciprocity agreements, but students should verify certification requirements with their state’s department of education. Seton Hall has started a mission to gain national recognition from the American School Counselor Association (ASCA), which would further verify the program’s excellence.
Tuition and scholarships
The online M.A. in School Counseling program costs $1,150 per credit. The total program cost comes to about $55,200 for 48 credits. The university offers several financial aid options to help students manage costs. University-subsidized scholarships can cut degree expenses by up to 50%. Students should apply by May 1 for fall admission and November 1 for spring admission to be considered for scholarships.
Career outcomes
The program boasts strong career outcomes with a 97.2% overall employment rate for recent graduates. New Jersey school counselors earn an annual mean wage of $79,030 (as of 2023). The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 7% growth in this field. Graduates become influential professionals in K-12 educational settings who serve as consultants, leaders, and change agents capable of delivering developmental counseling programs.
University of Southern California
USC’s Rossier School of Education offers a complete Master of Education in School Counseling program that prepares future K-12 school counselors. The program helps students support social, emotional, and academic development through both theory and hands-on practice.
Program format
Students need to complete 49 units through online courses and field experience. Live class sessions let students connect with faculty while they complete additional activities in the learning management system. The curriculum covers ethical counseling practices, learning theories, career development, and multicultural counseling among other key areas. We trained practitioners to turn challenges into opportunities and support each student’s overall development.
Accreditation
The Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) has granted USC regional accreditation. The program meets all credential and authorization standards set by the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing. Qualified graduates receive USC’s recommendation for the California Pupil Personnel Services: School Counseling credential. This credential can be a valuable asset to get reciprocity in other states.
Tuition and cost per unit
The 2025-2026 academic year costs $2,467 per unit, which adds up to about $120,883 for the full program. Students also pay these fees each semester: $55 for new student orientation, $700 for student health service, $20 for graduate student programming, and $11 for the Norman H. Topping student aid fund.
Practicum and internship
Field experience includes a 100-hour practicum and 700 hours of internship over two terms. Students complete these requirements in K-12 settings within their communities to apply classroom learning in real situations. USC’s dedicated field placement specialists help students find sites that match their career goals and interests.
University of San Diego
The University of San Diego offers a strong MA in Counseling with School Counseling specialization that gives graduates all the skills needed in educational environments. This program ranks among the best masters in school counseling programs if you have plans to pursue California’s Pupil Personnel Services credential.
Program format
Students must complete 60 units through two specialization options. The 48-unit track leads to PPS credential eligibility, while the 60-unit option includes extra coursework for Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor eligibility. The curriculum combines theoretical foundations with practical applications to help students who want to support others through developmental challenges.
Accreditation
The program holds WASC accreditation, and its School Counseling specialization has managed to keep Council for Accreditation of Counseling & Related Educational Programs (CACREP) accreditation since 2008. The program also meets California Commission of Teacher Credentialing standards, which ensures graduates can obtain state credentials.
Tuition
Current tuition costs $1,700 per unit, with total program expenses reaching $102,000. Students can access financial aid through FAFSA and may qualify for $10,000 stipends from the Health Resources & Services Administration TeamUP Project.
Fieldwork
Fieldwork has:
- 100 hours of practicum (40 direct service hours)
- 600 total supervised hours across two semesters
- Minimum 240 direct service hours
Ohio State University
Ohio State University’s Master of Arts in Counselor Education ranks consistently among the top 10 counseling programs nationwide by U.S. News & World Report.
Program format
Students join a full-time, two-year cohort model program at OSU’s Columbus, Ohio campus. The program creates strong peer bonds that build a supportive community and extend into professional networks. Students complete a minimum of 61 credit hours by taking four to five courses each semester. Working professionals can attend weekly classes scheduled at 4 p.m. or 7 p.m.. The field experience combines a practicum requiring 10 hours per week and an internship needing 20 hours per week.
Accreditation
The program’s prestigious eight-year CACREP accreditation (2016-2024) stands as the gold standard for graduate counseling programs. Graduates meet initial licensure requirements through this quality-verified accreditation. The Oregon Board of Licensed Professional Counselors and the National Board of Certified Counselors recognize this program.
Tuition and fees
The program boasts impressive statistics with 100% completion rates, 100% exam pass rates, and 100% job placement rates in recent years. Students need a bachelor’s degree with a minimum 3.0 GPA, but the GRE isn’t required. The fall admission deadline falls on December 1.
University of Maryland
The University of Maryland’s School Counseling program, part of the #1 ranked counseling department according to U.S. News & World Report, shapes students into dynamic leaders who promote change in K-12 urban educational settings.
Program format
The M.Ed. program offers a supportive cohort model with an outstanding 4:1 student-to-faculty ratio. Students move through their coursework together, which makes shared learning possible. The curriculum emphasizes equity and social justice through core courses in counseling theory, human development, multicultural counseling, and ethics. Students complete 700 hours of field experience, split between a 100-hour practicum and two 300-hour internships. They must spend at least 240 hours directly working with students at local partner school districts.
Accreditation
The program’s credentials come from two respected sources:
- Association for Advancing Quality in Educator Preparation (AAQEP) accreditation
- Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE) approval
These credentials allow graduates to become certified school counselors in Maryland and possibly other states.
Tuition and ROI
Graduate students from out of state pay $1,625 per credit hour, while in-state residents pay $731. The university’s graduate assistantships offer tuition support and living allowances, though master’s students aren’t guaranteed these positions. The program’s success speaks for itself—more than 90% of graduates find jobs in their field within a year of finishing.
Boston College
Boston College’s Lynch School of Education and Human Development offers an outstanding masters in school counseling program. Students learn in a supportive environment with peers who share their educational journey. The program ranks among the best options available to future educational guidance professionals.
Program format
The MA in School Counseling combines traditional classroom learning with online courses each semester. Students complete 48 credits through 16 courses over two years. The program requires students to complete a 600-hour, year-long practicum at Massachusetts public schools. Licensed professional school counselors supervise this hands-on experience. Students who want to earn the School Adjustment Counseling license must complete 900 supervised hours in complete school systems.
Accreditation
The Lynch School’s credentials speak for themselves. The Mental Health Counseling program has earned accreditation from the Master’s in Psychology and Counseling Accreditation Council (MPCAC). Boston College’s institutional accreditation comes from the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE), dating back to 1935.
Tuition and financial aid
The 2025-2026 graduate tuition rate is $1,834 per credit. The total cost for the 48-credit program comes to about $88,032. Boston College shows its steadfast dedication to student success by providing $11.4 million in financial aid each year. Students can get federal unsubsidized loans up to $10,250 per semester. They can also apply for additional Grad Plus Loans based on their needs.
North Carolina State University
NC State University’s M.Ed. in Counselor Education ranks among the best school counseling masters programs available today. The program gives working professionals a well-laid-out online path to advance their careers.
Program format
Students follow a three-year, part-time cohort model that runs throughout the year, including summers. The program starts in Summer II (June), and students take two online classes during fall and spring semesters. The final year requires some weekend classes on campus. Students gain hands-on experience through field placements at K-12 schools in North Carolina. This practical training prepares graduates to serve as Professional School Counselors for grades K-12.
Accreditation
The program’s excellence shows in its Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP) accreditation, which extends through March 31, 2030. NC State’s counseling programs have maintained this prestigious accreditation for more than 30 years. The university also holds institutional accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Tuition and online options
Graduate tuition rates vary significantly between residents and non-residents. North Carolina residents pay $272.29 per credit hour, while non-residents pay $1,312.50 per credit hour. Graduate students benefit from a tuition cap at nine credit hours per semester. Students can choose between on-campus and online formats. The online option provides maximum flexibility for busy professionals.
University of Minnesota
Students at the University of Minnesota’s counselor education program gain skills to guide people through life’s journey in schools and communities. The program ranks among the best masters in school counseling programs and emphasizes understanding demographic changes and multicultural issues.
Program format
A two-year, full-time structure forms the program’s foundation. Students become skilled at individual, group, and family counseling while learning vital areas such as research methods, counseling theory, human development, and diagnostic assessment. The curriculum builds strong knowledge in social and cultural foundations, ethics, and career development—these elements help create effective school counselors.
Accreditation
The program earned its prestigious Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP) credentials. The accreditation started in January 2023 and runs through October 31, 2032. The university’s Twin Cities campus has held continuous accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission since 1913 [138, 139].
Tuition and fees
Graduate students who are residents pay $1,773.50 per credit or $10,640 for full-time enrollment (6-14 credits). Non-resident rates are higher at $2,796 per credit or $16,776 for full-time status. The total cost calculation should include housing, books, transportation, and personal expenses beyond tuition.
Campbellsville University
Campbellsville University distinguishes itself with a faith-informed approach to counselor education and provides affordable online options among the best school counseling masters programs. This Kentucky-based institution blends academic excellence with Christian values that prepare skilled school guidance professionals.
Program format
The MAEd in School Counseling features a complete 48-hour curriculum delivered through a cohort model. Students complete courses in eight-week terms, and the practica and internships run as 1.5-hour components during the academic year. The program’s 100% online delivery format lets students balance their professional and personal commitments effectively. The university also provides a 12-hour Rank I/Standard Certificate Program if you have a master’s degree in school counseling.
Accreditation
Campbellsville has managed to keep regional accreditation through the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC). The education programs have earned Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP) accreditation and approval from the Education Professional Standards Board of Kentucky (EPSB).
Tuition
The online masters in school counseling program provides excellent value at $319.00 per credit hour. Students can transfer up to nine credit hours from regionally accredited institutions.
CSU East Bay
CSU East Bay’s Masters in School Counseling program stands out with its focus on social justice, equity, and diversity in P-20 educational settings. Students become evidence-based professionals who excel at providing complete school counseling services.
Program format
The Master of Science in Counseling with School Counseling concentration needs 60 units to complete. Students have the flexibility to choose between a two-year full-time track or a three-year part-time option. The program follows a cohort model through fall, spring, and summer terms. Classes run in a hybrid format during afternoons and evenings to help working professionals balance their schedules. Students interested in dual preparation can complete the Marriage and Family Therapy option alongside their School Counseling concentration.
Accreditation
The California Commission on Teacher Credentialing (CTC) has accredited this outstanding program. Graduates can apply for the California Pupil Personnel Services (PPS) Credential in School Counseling after completing the program. This credential allows them to create, implement, and assess complete school counseling programs that support students’ academic, career, personal, and social growth.
Tuition and duration
California residents who enroll as graduate students pay $9,607 per year in tuition and fees. Students living off-campus should plan for total yearly expenses of about $38,685, which includes living costs. Full-time students can finish the program in five semesters when they take summer courses.
San Diego State University
San Diego State University’s MS in Counseling program with School Counseling specialization gives you the skills to become a successful school counselor. This career-focused program helps create leaders who can drive meaningful changes in educational settings.
Program format
The program requires 60 units completed over two years of full-time study and includes the California Pupil Personnel Services credential. Students follow a well-laid-out schedule with classes running Tuesday through Thursday from 4-10 p.m. The campus attendance starts with one day per week in the first year and increases to two days weekly in the second year. Students should limit their work hours to 20 per week during enrollment.
Accreditation
The program holds NCATE and CTCC accreditation but not CACREP. The curriculum matches CACREP standards completely even without this specific credential. SDSU also maintains its institutional accreditation through the WASC Senior College and University Commission.
Tuition and fieldwork
Students pay about $15,000 for every 30 units. The fieldwork starts with a first-year practicum that typically happens on Thursdays. Second-year placements need at least two full days each week at school sites. Students take CSP 600/600L with a full-day practicum in their first year. The second year requires a minimum of two full days of fieldwork.
University of San Francisco
The University of San Francisco’s Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology with a School Counseling concentration stands out from the rest. The program shapes counselors into social justice champions who create positive change. Graduates learn to advocate for equity both within and beyond school environments.
Program format
Students complete a well-laid-out 49-unit program that spans two years and meets California State Commission on Teacher Credentialing requirements. The program runs on an alternate weekend schedule with classes on Friday evenings and Saturdays, spanning nine weekends each semester. Students start their field experience during their first semester and can apply classroom concepts immediately. The program offers an optional dual concentration that adds 11 credits for students who want Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor eligibility.
Accreditation
The California Commission on Teaching Credentialing fully accredits this program. The university maintains institutional accreditation from the Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior College and University Commission. Students who complete the program meet educational requirements for California licensure and may qualify in other states.
Tuition
The credit hour cost for graduate students runs $1,695. Students need 49 units to graduate, bringing the total program cost to approximately $83,055. School of Education students pay according to the university’s credential tuition rate.
Azusa Pacific University
Azusa Pacific University blends Christian-based education with professional standards through its Master of Arts in Education: Educational Counseling program. This unique blend creates ethical and responsive professionals ready for K-12 school counseling careers.
Program format
APU’s masters in school counseling comes with two options: a 50-unit Educational Counseling program and a 62-unit Educational and Clinical Counseling program. The latter prepares graduates to become Licensed Professional Clinical Counselors (LPCC). Students attend accelerated eight-week sessions that meet once weekly for about 4 hours and 15 minutes. The program runs two evenings each week with small groups of 15-20 students. Students who attend full-time can complete the program in two years by taking 6 units every 8 weeks.
Accreditation
APU’s triple accreditation makes it stand out. The university has earned recognition from the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC), the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP), and the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing (CTC). This achievement makes APU one of just three private schools in California with CAEP recognition.
Tuition
Students pay $815 per unit in the School Counseling program. The total tuition reaches approximately $40,750 based on the 50-unit requirement. Graduate students can access various financial aid options, from federal loans to state grants.
Bridgewater State University
Bridgewater State University offers an affordable yet complete school counseling program. Students learn to support academic, emotional and psychosocial development. BSU stands out among master’s degree options because of its tailored approach to counselor education.
Program format
BSU’s Master of Education (MEd) in School Counseling program gives students two concentration choices: PreK-8 and 5-12 grade levels. Small classes of 12-15 students create an intimate learning environment. Students develop critical thinking and communication skills through group discussions, lectures, project-based work, and problem-based learning. The program takes just two years to complete, making it the quickest path to certification.
Accreditation
The prestigious CACREP accreditation backs BSU’s Department of Counselor Education school counseling programs. This credential validates that Mental Health Counseling and School Counseling concentrations meet professional standards. The program’s 2024 results speak volumes – 96% completion rate and 100% credentialing exam pass rate.
Tuition and fees
Graduate credit hours cost $535.50 each, with annual tuition around $16,050. A typical 3-credit graduate course runs $1,606.50. BSU’s rates beat other accredited Massachusetts institutions while providing excellent preparation for the school counseling licensure exam. Students can access various funding options through the College of Graduate Studies.
Choose a Master’s in School Counseling Now
Your career path and professional growth depend heavily on picking the right master’s program in school counseling. A close look at these 17 top-rated programs reveals several factors you should think over during your selection. CACREP recognition is a big deal as it means that you’ll be eligible for licenses in different states. The program format will determine how well you can balance your studies with other commitments. You’ll find options ranging from traditional campus-based programs to flexible online formats that need minimal campus visits.
Each program has its own fieldwork requirements, though most need 600-700 hours of supervised practice. This hands-on experience helps you develop practical skills that you can’t get from classroom learning alone. The cost varies quite a bit – public schools like Bridgewater State University charge around $15,000, while prestigious private universities like USC can cost over $120,000. All the same, most schools offer great financial aid packages to help with these costs.
Most students complete their programs in two to three years, though you can choose accelerated or part-time options that fit your schedule better. The field looks promising – the Bureau of Labor Statistics expects school counselor positions to grow by 10% in the next decade, with median yearly salaries over $60,000.
The best program for you comes down to your situation, goals, and how you prefer to learn. While this choice needs careful thought, these accredited programs will give you the knowledge and skills to help students with their academic, career, and emotional growth. Take your time to assess each program’s strengths against your personal and professional goals before making this investment in your future.