Best Online Master's In School Counseling Degrees

Master's in school counseling programs offer specializations. Options include mental health counseling and career advising.
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Updated July 11, 2023

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Online master's in school counseling programs train students to work as counselors or advisors in educational settings. Many master's in school counseling programs offer specializations. Options include mental health counseling and career advising.

Applicants need a bachelor's degree in a related field, such as psychology. Enrollees complete coursework in human development, counseling theories, and child counseling.

This page highlights the best online master's in school counseling programs. Read on to learn about costs and common courses.

View Our Rankings List Here

Frequently Asked Questions About School Counseling

How long does it take to get a school counseling degree?

Most master's programs take 2-3 years to complete. Learners may need more or less time depending on their prior coursework and enrollment status.

What else can I do with a school counseling degree?

Graduates with a master's in school counseling can pursue diverse careers. They may work in rehabilitation counseling, substance misuse counseling, or guidance counseling. Some graduates work as academic advisors.

What type of master's do you need to be a school counselor?

Most school counselors need a master's degree in a field such as psychology or counseling. Some employers prefer candidates with degrees in school or career counseling.

Featured Online Masters Educational Counseling Programs

Find a program that meets your affordability, flexibility, and education needs through an accredited, online school.

Why Get a Degree in School Counseling?

Professionals who earn school counseling degrees can pursue careers as certified school or career counselors. Graduates can use their skills in rehabilitation settings or private practices.

Pursuing a master's in school counseling online gives enrollees flexibility. They do not need to commute to campus and can often complete coursework when convenient. Online learners can also attend the most affordable program without relocating.

How Much Does a School Counseling Degree Cost?

School counseling degree costs vary by institution. The average cost of a master's degree is $66,340, according to EducationData.org. Students who attend public, in-state schools pay the most affordable tuition usually. Some schools charge all enrollees the same tuition, regardless of residency.

Learners can pursue school counseling degrees on campus, online, and in hybrid formats. Some programs require students to shadow counselors in school settings. Online enrollees should budget for travel and lodging expenses for in-person requirements.

Additional Online Student Fees

Online learners need reliable technology and internet access. They may need to buy new computers or software. Enrollees should also budget for books and course materials. Some schools charge student fees or graduation fees.

Students pursuing school counseling degrees should also factor in certification costs. Registration and exam fees can cost hundreds of dollars.

How Much Do School Counseling Majors Make?

School counselor salary levels vary by employer and geographic location. Many school counseling graduates work as school and career counselors. These professionals make median annual salaries of $58,120, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Graduates may also work as rehabilitation counselors, mental health counselors, or family and marriage therapists. These professionals earn more than the median annual salary of $41,950 for all occupations.

Earning a master's degree can prepare students for high-paying jobs, such as clinical psychologists or school psychologists. These professionals earn median annual salaries of $82,180.

Courses in a Master's in School Counseling Program

School counseling programs teach students the foundations of counseling. Learners develop the skills needed to counsel students within school systems. Master's programs require 45-60 credits.

Many schools offer specialized courses. For example, enrollees may focus on counseling from a social justice perspective. Most programs require students to complete supervised internships or practicums.

See below for some common courses for online master's in school counseling programs. Keep in mind that course offerings and descriptions vary by school.

How to Become a School Counselor

School counselors need a master's degree in a field such as counseling or psychology. Some schools offer degrees in school counseling. Others offer counseling degrees with a concentration in educational settings. Degree-seekers typically complete supervised internships to gain real-world experience.

School counselors help students develop social and academic skills. They help students find their interests and choose career paths. School counselors also look for students with unmet needs who have social or academic challenges. They may mentor these students individually or in small groups.

Most states require school counselors to obtain certification.

Licensure for School Counseling

State boards of education set licensure requirements for school counselors. Most states require applicants to hold advanced degrees and complete practicums or internships. The length of these experiences varies by state. Some states require semester-long practicums. Others require several hundred hours of experience.

The American School Counselor Association lists each state's requirements. Some states also require applicants to pass an exam, such as the Praxis 5421, which requires an additional fee.

School counselors can pursue continued learning by getting a master's degree in psychology or school psychology. Some professional organizations also offer specialized certifications. Counselors can seek national certification through the National Board for Certified Counselors.

Best Online Master's in School Counseling Degrees

See our rankings methodology page.

#1 Best Online Master’s In School Counseling Degrees

Liberty University

  • Lynchburg, VA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Degree-seekers can choose from a variety of online graduate degrees at Liberty University. People with a bachelor’s in counseling may want to explore the top-ranked master of education in school counseling. This program successfully combines the rigor of graduate coursework with the flexibility of the online format.

The 17-to-1 student-to-teacher ratio is a big draw for master's degree-seekers who want more individualized attention and faculty mentorship opportunities. Faculty teach a rigorous curriculum that both educates and engages counseling learners. It prepares graduates with the academic training necessary to succeed in a competitive workforce or a doctoral program.

Paying for college is a top issue, and both Virginia students and out-of-state learners can expect to pay $7,980 per year. The financial aid department can explore aid with degree-seekers, and the funding options may include scholarships and grants. About 57% of enrollees take out student loans, so there are plenty of ways to fund this degree.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$15,409
Out-of-state
$15,409
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$7,847
Out-of-state
$7,847
Retention Rate
79%
Acceptance Rate
99%
Students Enrolled
94,709
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
92% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#2 Best Online Master’s In School Counseling Degrees

University of the Southwest

  • Hobbs, NM
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

The University of the Southwest, a private institution located in Hobbs, New Mexico, specializes in rigorous programs that meet the diverse needs of today's learners. The institution’s 19 master's degrees available from a distance help make the university a leader in online graduate education. Among these is its MSE in school counseling for graduate learners in counseling.

Graduate students can appreciate online education's flexibility and adaptability. They can do so by using video recordings often available and completing coursework in the evenings, on weekends, and at other convenient times that the program allows. A hallmark of this institution is a lot of experience providing rigorous degrees that emphasize both rigor and flexible learning.

The school admits about 45% of applicants each year, but this rate may vary across programs. Degree-seekers usually need a bachelor’s degree in the major or a related field for entry into a master’s program. They may also need to submit official transcripts and letters of recommendation, which the department outlines in its admissions policy.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$16,000
Out-of-state
$16,000
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$22,500
Out-of-state
$22,500
Retention Rate
69%
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
1,064
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
100% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#3 Best Online Master’s In School Counseling Degrees

Lakeland University

  • Plymouth, WI
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Degree-seekers can choose from a variety of online graduate degrees at Lakeland University. One of these options is the master of arts in counseling for degree-holders with a bachelor’s in counseling or a related field. This program successfully blends a rigorous curriculum and a flexible online format.

Students in the master's in counseling program receive more individualized attention with a 13-to-1 student-to-teacher ratio. Faculty teach a rigorous curriculum that both educates and engages learners. This higher-level academic preparation is a prerequisite for career advancement or a doctoral program in this field and related ones.

The institution charges Wisconsin students and out-of-state learners $11,286 in tuition per year. The scholarships and grants available to many degree-seekers help them reduce the price of tuition.When you add in student loans, used by about 78% of enrollees, there are plenty of ways to finance all or part of a program.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$29,950
Out-of-state
$29,950
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$12,366
Out-of-state
$12,366
Retention Rate
73%
Acceptance Rate
80%
Students Enrolled
2,094
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
44% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#4 Best Online Master’s In School Counseling Degrees

University of Massachusetts Boston

  • Boston, MA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

The University of Massachusetts Boston’s M.Ed. in counseling ranks highly among similar programs and should be of particular interest to students wanting to study online. Learners receive the advanced training employers expect from highly skilled professionals. Some holders of a master's will certainly move on to a doctorate.

The convenient online format makes this school an especially good choice for many. Students report being able to work and prioritize other obligations without sacrificing advanced education. Enrollees also like the fact that faculty serve as mentors, and they study in an environment that sees each learner’s potential.

Unless otherwise stated, applicants need a bachelor’s to apply to this program. About 76% of applicants get accepted to this school on average, but applicants may find that programs have different averages. Popular funding streams for those who qualify include loans and scholarships, and the tuition costs Massachusetts residents about $18,433 per year.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$14,187
Out-of-state
$34,649
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$18,433
Out-of-state
$35,980
Retention Rate
75%
Acceptance Rate
79%
Students Enrolled
15,637
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
27% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes New England Commission on Higher Education

#5 Best Online Master’s In School Counseling Degrees

Adams State University

  • Alamosa, CO
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Adams State University delivers one of the nation’s top-ranked online master's programs in school counseling to students around the country. This degree provides learners with advanced knowledge and training required for many higher-level job opportunities in the field. If they choose, graduates with a master's degree in school counseling can also pursue a doctorate later on.

The school’s online format is very attractive to busy learners who have other obligations. Students can fit in other responsibilities such as work, caregiving, and family life because of the program’s flexibility. Enrollees enjoy a student-focused environment, whether they learn remotely or on campus.

The school typically requires that master’s degree-seekers hold a bachelor’s degree to apply. The data from this school show a 99% admission rate, but expect some variances across programs. If accepted, students in Colorado can expect to pay around $4,590 per year before applying grants, loans, and scholarships.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$5,976
Out-of-state
$14,229
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$7,132
Out-of-state
$8,175
Retention Rate
59%
Acceptance Rate
100%
Students Enrolled
3,138
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
56% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#6 Best Online Master’s In School Counseling Degrees

Our Lady of the Lake University

  • San Antonio, TX
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Our Lady of the Lake University is a private institution with many programs to offer from the San Antonio, Texas, campus. The school's six online master's degrees are a big draw to many people who want to attend graduate school online. The master of arts in counseling is a good option for counseling learners who want advanced degrees.

Logistics is no barrier to earning this degree, which offers graduate students the freedom to learn at their convenience. They can do so by using video recordings often available and completing coursework in the evenings, on weekends, and at other convenient times that the program allows. The school counseling degree provides a rigorous education that does not sacrifice strong preparation for career advancement.

The school’s admissions statistics show that about 68% of applicants get in, with some variations across programs. In order to receive consideration, master's degree-seekers will need a bachelor's degree unless otherwise stated. Contact the school to see how to apply to this program and submit the required documents.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$29,038
Out-of-state
$29,038
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$16,650
Out-of-state
$16,650
Retention Rate
56%
Acceptance Rate
66%
Students Enrolled
2,550
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
73% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#7 Best Online Master’s In School Counseling Degrees

Missouri Baptist University

  • Saint Louis, MO
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Without significantly interrupting their lives, graduate students can earn degrees at Missouri Baptist University, an institution that emphasizes flexibility and accessibility. The MA in school counseling is one of the top-ranked programs that attracts remote learners, who can choose from 10 online master's programs at the Saint Louis, Missouri, school. Accessibility is a key determining factor for many degree-seekers exploring graduate school, and this degree addresses that concern with a flexible format.

Applicants to master’s programs usually meet entry requirements with a bachelor’s degree, or the equivalent, and other criteria that varies depending on the program. What draws students to a master’s like the school counseling program is the advanced training it provides to people who want to assume leadership roles and other higher-level opportunities. Some degree recipients interested in research, academia, or related positions will pursue a Ph.D. after this program.

Learners studying from within Missouri or elsewhere pay an average of $10,197 per year. If they qualify, students can use grants and scholarships to help fund their education. Loans are another way to help pay for part or all of the program's tuition.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$29,076
Out-of-state
$29,076
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$10,670
Out-of-state
$10,670
Retention Rate
73%
Acceptance Rate
62%
Students Enrolled
4,983
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
33% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#8 Best Online Master’s In School Counseling Degrees

Lamar University

  • Beaumont, TX
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Lamar University offers a number of graduate programs through its online platform. The master's degree in counseling and development is one of those options, designed for degree-holders with a bachelor’s in counseling or a related field. Enrollees have more control over their schedules by completing the rigorous graduate curriculum remotely.

Students in the M.Ed. in counseling and development program receive more individualized attention with an 18-to-1 student-to-teacher ratio. The biggest attraction is the educational attainment acquired when learners complete a rigorous curriculum delivered by counseling experts. This higher-level academic preparation is a prerequisite for career advancement or a doctoral program in this field and related ones.

Texas students pay a yearly average of $6,324, while those living elsewhere pay $13,920. The financial aid department can explore aid with degree-seekers, and the funding options may include scholarships and grants. When you add in student loans, used by about 43% of enrollees, there are plenty of ways to finance all or part of a program.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$6,228
Out-of-state
$16,020
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$6,471
Out-of-state
$13,815
Retention Rate
57%
Acceptance Rate
88%
Students Enrolled
16,320
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
88% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#9 Best Online Master’s In School Counseling Degrees

Capella University

  • Minneapolis, MN
  • 4 years
  • Online

Capella University attracts graduate students who want extra flexibility to pursue counseling degrees without significantly interrupting their lives.The school, located in Minneapolis, Minnesota, offers top-ranked degrees such as the master's degree in school counseling among the 76 online master's programs. People who may have had challenges pursuing graduate school because of their hectic schedules can appreciate this degree’s flexibility.

Applicants will need to review the program page for more admissions information, but a bachelor’s is usually a starting point for a master's program. The MS in school counseling program offers advanced training for careers and other opportunities a bachelor’s alone could not provide. Some degree recipients interested in research, academia, or related positions will pursue a Ph.D. after this program.

The school keeps tuition competitive for residents of Minnesota and those who live elsewhere. Many learners help foot the bill by securing grants and scholarships from the institution and outside sources. Many students use loans to help pay for the program's tuition.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$14,148
Out-of-state
$14,148
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$14,784
Out-of-state
$14,784
Retention Rate
60%
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
38,716
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
Not provided
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#10 Best Online Master’s In School Counseling Degrees

Creighton University

  • Omaha, NE
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Creighton University is home to rigorous graduate programs, some available online. Learners with a bachelor's degree in counseling may find the MS in school counseling of particular interest. The graduate program provides advanced training in a format friendly to those who work or have to manage other obligations.

More individualized attention and opportunities to collaborate with peers are key benefits of the 11-to-1 student-to-teacher ratio that students enjoy. The curriculum is steeped in advanced theoretical concepts and practices in school counseling. The rigorous academic preparation that a master’s provides makes potential employees stands out.

The institution charges Nebraska students and out-of-state learners $16,128 in tuition per year. Many degree-seekers at the institution qualify for grants and scholarships to help reduce the price of tuition. When you add in student loans, used by about 48% of enrollees, there are plenty of ways to finance all or part of a program.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$42,618
Out-of-state
$42,618
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$17,190
Out-of-state
$17,190
Retention Rate
91%
Acceptance Rate
78%
Students Enrolled
8,735
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
39% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#11 Best Online Master’s In School Counseling Degrees

Gallaudet University

  • Washington, DC
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

The MA in school counseling at Gallaudet University maintains a high ranking among similar online programs for students. A bachelor’s degree provides foundational education compared to the advanced training in this program. A terminal degree like a doctorate is the next stop for some holders of a master's in school counseling.

This program offers a format conducive to effective time management, which many learners need. Students may want an advanced degree but have other concerns such as caregiving and employment, and this flexible degree supports those endeavors. Enrollees also like the fact that faculty serve as mentors, and they study in an environment that sees each learner’s potential.

The application requirements include a bachelor’s degree, unless the program states otherwise. The acceptance rate is 61% at this school, but expect some differences across programs. Tuition stands at around $18,180 per year for people who live in the District of Columbia, and students can help fund their education with grants, loans, and scholarships.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$16,512
Out-of-state
$16,512
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$18,180
Out-of-state
$18,180
Retention Rate
80%
Acceptance Rate
62%
Students Enrolled
1,433
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
45% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education

#12 Best Online Master’s In School Counseling Degrees

New York University

  • New York, NY
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

New York University offers counseling students an online master's in school counseling that is a top-ranked program in its class. Learners pursue this degree to build on prior knowledge attained in a bachelor’s, completing training specifically related to the field. If they choose, graduates with a master's in school counseling can also pursue a doctorate later on.

The convenient online format makes this school an especially good choice for many. Students can juggle their various responsibilities thanks to this program's flexibility. Enrollees also benefit from a learning environment that is student-focused, thereby giving them the attention they need for academic success.

For consideration, applicants usually need to have a bachelor's degree. The data from this school show a 16% admission rate, but expect some variances across programs. The tuition rate for New York students is about $33,408 per year, and learners can help fund their education with grants, loans, and scholarships.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$53,770
Out-of-state
$53,770
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$35,982
Out-of-state
$35,982
Retention Rate
94%
Acceptance Rate
13%
Students Enrolled
58,226
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
45% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education

#13 Best Online Master’s In School Counseling Degrees

Wake Forest University

  • Winston-Salem, NC
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Wake Forest University has a reputation for developing rigorous online graduate programs. A notable option is the master of arts in school counseling developed for learners with a bachelor’s in counseling. Enrollees can complete the graduate curriculum remotely, ensuring they have more control over their schedule.

A 10-to-1 student-to-teacher ratio facilitates faculty mentorship opportunities and collaboration in this master's in school counseling program. Learners receive strong preparation using a curriculum that emphasizes advanced theoretical concepts and practices in counseling. The rigorous academic preparation that a master’s provides makes potential employees stands out.

North Carolina students and those living elsewhere pay a yearly average of $38,650. Many degree-seekers work with the financial aid department to identify aid such as scholarships and grants. About 21% of enrollees take out student loans, so there are plenty of ways to fund this degree.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$58,708
Out-of-state
$58,708
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$38,650
Out-of-state
$38,650
Retention Rate
94%
Acceptance Rate
25%
Students Enrolled
8,947
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
16% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#14 Best Online Master’s In School Counseling Degrees

Southern Arkansas University

  • Magnolia, AR
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Prospective graduate students can earn a degree at Southern Arkansas University, an institution known for developing flexible graduate programs. The school administers online degrees from the campus in Magnolia, Arkansas, and they include 13 online master's degrees such as the M.Ed. in school counseling. This degree offers a flexible online format that accommodates the needs of busy professionals and others who work.

Unless otherwise stated, a bachelor’s degree in the major or the equivalent is usually required for admission. The program provides advanced education beyond a bachelor’s, preparing enrollees for career advancement and other opportunities. Some degree recipients interested in research, academia, or related positions will pursue a Ph.D. after this program.

The current tuition rate stands at $5,040 per year for residents of Arkansas and $7,920 for out-of-state residents. Learners can use resources at the financial aid department to determine if they qualify for financial aid like grants and scholarships. Many students may also want to consider loans as an option to afford tuition.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$6,750
Out-of-state
$11,970
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$5,274
Out-of-state
$8,262
Retention Rate
64%
Acceptance Rate
63%
Students Enrolled
4,434
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
79% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#15 Best Online Master’s In School Counseling Degrees

Chadron State College

  • Chadron, NE
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Counseling students from around the country attend Chadron State College for the top-ranked online master's degree in school counseling, one of the best in its class. This degree provides learners with advanced knowledge and training required for many higher-level job opportunities in the field. Students earn the MAE in school counseling so they can also pursue a doctorate later on if they choose.

The school’s online format is a big draw for students who need to effectively manage their time. Students do not need to sacrifice other important aspects of their lives such as work and family to earn this degree. The academic environment at the school is supportive and student-focused, whether those students are learning in person or online.

The school typically requires that master’s degree-seekers hold a bachelor’s degree to apply. Popular funding streams for those who qualify include loans and scholarships, and the tuition costs Nebraska residents about $4,086 per year.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$5,208
Out-of-state
$5,236
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$4,650
Out-of-state
$9,300
Retention Rate
68%
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
2,250
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
78% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#16 Best Online Master’s In School Counseling Degrees

Mercy College

  • Dobbs Ferry, NY
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Mercy College administers a number of quality online graduate programs. The MS in counseling with a school counseling concentration may be of particular interest to holders of a bachelor’s in counseling. Enrollees complete a curriculum that is very rigorous using a flexible format that accommodates their schedules.

The benefits of the 17-to-1 student-to-teacher ratio that students enjoy include individualized attention, more room to collaborate, and faculty mentorship opportunities. Faculty teach a rigorous curriculum that both educates and engages learners. By far the biggest benefit of this master’s is preparation for career advancement in this field and related ones, along with the foundational knowledge for a Ph.D.

Tuition is $16,146 per annum, regardless of state residency status. The financial aid department can explore aid with degree-seekers, and the funding options may include scholarships and grants. Student loans are another option, and about 55% of enrollees use this popular funding stream to afford their education.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$19,920
Out-of-state
$19,920
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$16,974
Out-of-state
$16,974
Retention Rate
71%
Acceptance Rate
86%
Students Enrolled
8,772
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
73% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education

#17 Best Online Master’s In School Counseling Degrees

Oregon State University

  • Corvallis, OR
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Counseling students attend Oregon State University for top-ranked degrees such as the online M.Couns. in school counseling program. Learners receive the advanced training employers expect from highly skilled professionals. The counseling master's program provides preparation for a terminal degree such as a Ph.D.

Many learners appreciate the school’s convenient online format. Students may want an advanced degree but have other concerns such as caregiving and employment, and this flexible degree supports those endeavors. Enrollees also like the fact that faculty serve as mentors, and they study in an environment that sees each learner’s potential.

Though the department can provide more information, the application requirements include a bachelor’s degree and transcripts. The admission rate is an average of 82% of applicants. Popular funding streams for those who qualify include loans and scholarships, and the tuition costs Oregon residents about $12,933 per year.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$10,065
Out-of-state
$29,456
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$13,446
Out-of-state
$27,297
Retention Rate
87%
Acceptance Rate
89%
Students Enrolled
33,193
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
52% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities

#18 Best Online Master’s In School Counseling Degrees

The University of Texas at Tyler

  • Tyler, TX
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

At The University of Texas at Tyler, prospective graduate students receive advanced preparation in degrees designed for busy learners. The Tyler, Texas, school’s catalog includes nine online master's degrees such as the MA in school counseling. This adaptable program opens up access to full-time workers and others with scheduling challenges preventing in-person graduate education.

Applicants will need to review the program page for more admissions information, but a bachelor’s is usually a starting point for a master's program. The many benefits of a master’s such as the school counseling program include higher pay and more job opportunities, a big draw for program enrollees and a lot of people. The program also provides the foundational knowledge for a Ph.D.

The tuition rate depends on residency, with people living in Texas paying $5,850 per year. Students pay $14,328 if they are residents elsewhere. If they qualify, learners can use grants and scholarships to help fund their education. Many students use loans to help pay for the program's tuition.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$7,020
Out-of-state
$21,570
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$6,264
Out-of-state
$14,940
Retention Rate
62%
Acceptance Rate
94%
Students Enrolled
9,687
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
77% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#19 Best Online Master’s In School Counseling Degrees

University of Central Arkansas

  • Conway, AR
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Without significantly interrupting their lives, graduate students can earn degrees at the University of Central Arkansas, an institution that emphasizes flexibility and accessibility. The Conway, Arkansas, school offers an MS in school counseling among its 10 online master's degrees. Full-time workers and others who want to earn a graduate degree but cannot relocate should consider this adaptable degree.

While criteria may vary depending on the degree, a bachelor’s is generally required to apply to a master’s program. What the school counseling program provides is advanced preparation through an intensive curriculum that may involve research opportunities and other hands-on experience. In addition to enhancing career prospects, this program prepares degree recipients for a doctoral program.

Tuition is $5,018 per year for residents of Arkansas and $10,037 per year for nonresidents. Learners can use resources at the financial aid department to determine if they qualify for financial aid like grants and scholarships. Students can help pay for a graduate degree with federal loans.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$6,870
Out-of-state
$13,740
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$5,063
Out-of-state
$10,125
Retention Rate
71%
Acceptance Rate
92%
Students Enrolled
10,105
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
47% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#20 Best Online Master’s In School Counseling Degrees

Salem College

  • Winston-Salem, NC
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Salem College, a private college, offers graduate programs in different fields from the Winston-Salem, North Carolina, campus. Those interested in the counseling field should explore the M.Ed. in school counseling program.

Graduate students can appreciate online education's flexibility and adaptability. Real-time interaction is often not required, and enrollees can complete coursework at their own pace within a given timeframe. The program provides this opportunity without sacrificing the rigor that prepares students for higher-level work and further education.

Based on their latest statistics, the school accepts about 80% of applicants each year. Degree-seekers need a bachelor’s degree for admission to most master’s programs. Contact the program department, or admissions office, to determine entrance and application requirements like transcripts and recommendation letters.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$30,500
Out-of-state
$30,500
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$8,100
Out-of-state
$8,100
Retention Rate
62%
Acceptance Rate
90%
Students Enrolled
496
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
68% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

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