If you want to enter the counseling field quickly and flexibly, an accelerated online master’s in counseling is an excellent option. These programs prepare graduates for roles such as mental health or substance abuse counselors, with a median salary of $53,170 in 2023, and school counselors, earning a median salary of $61,170 the same year. With a focus on providing comprehensive training in a condensed format, these degrees can be completed in just 18 to 24 months, allowing you to kick-start your career faster than traditional programs.
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How we rank schools
Our list features the best online Counseling degree programs at top colleges nationwide. Each school featured is a nonprofit, accredited institution — either public or private — with a high standard of academic quality for post-secondary institutions.
We evaluated each school’s program on tuition costs, admission, retention and graduation rates, faculty, reputation, and the student resources provided for online students. We collected data from trusted sources like the National Center for Education Statistics, individual school and program websites, school admissions counselors, and other data sources. Then, we calculated the Intelligent Score on a scale of 0 to 100 based on the following criterion:
Academic Quality:
- Admission rate versus enrollment rate
- Retention rate of students who return after year one
- Accreditation status (regional and programmatic)
- Nonprofit status, both private and public institutions
Graduation Rate
- Overall graduation rate
- Total number of currently enrolled students, including diversity metrics
- Student-to-faculty ratio
Cost and ROI
- In-state and out-of-state per-credit tuition rates and fees
- Required credits to graduate
- Earning potential after graduation
- Availability of federal student loans, scholarships, and other financial aid options
Student Resources
- Available student services for online-only and hybrid programs
- On-campus amenities like tutoring centers and the number of libraries
Read more about our ranking methodology.
Best 23 Accelerated Online Master’s in Counseling Programs
FiltersInstitution Type
Status
- Intelligent Score
- Alphabetically By University Name
- Acceptance Rate
- Enrollment
- In-state Graduate Tuition
- Out-of-state Graduate Tuition
- In-state Undergraduate Tuition
- Out-of-state Undergraduate Tuition
Northwestern University
Intelligent Score: 99.028In-state: $58,227
Out-of-state: $58,227
In-state: $56,067
Out-of-state: $56,067
SAT: 1430-1550
ACT: 33-35
$1,394
Online, On-Campus
Council for the Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs
34
University of Denver
Intelligent Score: 97.732In-state: $52,596
Out-of-state: $52,596
In-state: $52,596
Out-of-state: $52,596
SAT: 1170-1360
ACT: 26-31
$1,605
Online
Council for the Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs
60
Concordia University Irvine
Intelligent Score: 97.515In-state: $32,660
Out-of-state: $32,660
In-state: $9,090
Out-of-state: $9,090
SAT: 990-1180
ACT: 19-25
$695
Online
Council for the Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs
60
New York University
Intelligent Score: 96.292In-state: $52,204
Out-of-state: $52,204
In-state: $34,704
Out-of-state: $34,704
SAT: 1370-1540
ACT: 31-34
$2,101
Online
Masters in Psychology and Counseling Accreditation Council
60
University of Southern California
Intelligent Score: 95.647In-state: $59,260
Out-of-state: $59,260
In-state: $47,880
Out-of-state: $47,880
SAT: 1340-1530
ACT: 30-34
$2,354
Online
Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior College and University Commission
49
UMass Boston
Intelligent Score: 95.004In-state: $15,791
Out-of-state: $35,779
In-state: $14,014
Out-of-state: $14,014
SAT: 1200-1390
ACT: 27-32
$575
Online, Hybrid
Masters in Psychology and Counseling Accreditation Council
60
Wake Forest University
Intelligent Score: 93.641In-state: $56,722
Out-of-state: $56,722
In-state: $38,650
Out-of-state: $38,650
SAT: N/A
ACT: N/A
$1,700
Online
Council for the Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs
60
Seton Hall University
Intelligent Score: 91.762In-state: $42,920
Out-of-state: $42,920
In-state: $24,372
Out-of-state: $24,372
SAT: 1150-1310
ACT: 25-30
$1,000
Online
Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation
48
Regent University
Intelligent Score: 91.265In-state: $17,220
Out-of-state: $17,220
In-state: $15,552
Out-of-state: $15,552
SAT: 940-1220
ACT: 21-29
$730
Online, On-Campus
Council for the Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs
60
Liberty University
Intelligent Score: 88.835In-state: $14,791
Out-of-state: $14,791
In-state: $7,935
Out-of-state: $7,935
SAT: 1040-1250
ACT: 21-29
$565
Online
Council for the Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs
60
Arkansas State University
Intelligent Score: 88.773In-state: $5,232
Out-of-state: $10,800
In-state: $4,986
Out-of-state: $4,986
SAT: 1000-1220
ACT: 20-26
$340
Online
Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation
48
Southern New Hampshire University
Intelligent Score: 87.703In-state: $9,600
Out-of-state: $9,600
In-state: $18,810
Out-of-state: $18,810
SAT: N/A
ACT: N/A
$637
Online
Council for the Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs
60
Chaminade University of Honolulu
Intelligent Score: 87.193In-state: $26,800
Out-of-state: $26,800
In-state: $24,720
Out-of-state: $24,720
SAT: 960-1140
ACT: 18-23
$1,120
Online, On-Campus
Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior College and University Commission
60
Lamar University
Intelligent Score: 86.103In-state: $6,129
Out-of-state: $15,945
In-state: $6,397
Out-of-state: $6,397
SAT: 943-1140
ACT: 17-23
$342
Online
Association for Advancing Quality in Educator Preparation
60
University of North Dakota
Intelligent Score: 84.744In-state: $8,540
Out-of-state: $12,810
In-state: $11,060
Out-of-state: $11,060
SAT: 1000-1230
ACT: 20-27
$800
Online, On-Campus
Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation
60-66
Gwynedd Mercy University
Intelligent Score: 84.707In-state: $36,027
Out-of-state: $36,027
In-state: $13,967
Out-of-state: $13,967
SAT: 950-1140
ACT: 18-21
$750
Online
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
60
Palo Alto University
Intelligent Score: 84.467In-state: $17,627
Out-of-state: $17,627
In-state: $30,116
Out-of-state: $30,116
SAT: N/A
ACT: N/A
$615
Online, Hybrid
Council for the Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs
63
Eastern University
Intelligent Score: 83.273In-state: $34,136
Out-of-state: $34,136
In-state: $13,374
Out-of-state: $13,374
SAT: 1010-1190
ACT: 20-24
$790
Hybrid
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
60
How to Choose an Accelerated Online Master’s in Counseling Program
Choose your area of study
Before you begin your research, take some time to decide on a potential specialization for this degree. This will help you narrow down your options more effectively so you can focus on selecting programs that align with your career goals and professional interests.
For example, students seeking to support K-12 students in their academic and professional development may enjoy specializing in school counseling. At the same time, those more interested in relational dynamics and conflict resolution may prefer marriage and family therapy. Even further, individuals passionate about assisting others as they overcome addiction may opt for substance abuse counseling.
Research schools and programs
Once you’ve chosen a specialization, you can turn your attention to researching schools and programs. Consider using the following questions to guide your research:
- Does a recognized counseling accreditation body accredit the program?
- What are the faculty’s qualifications and areas of interest, and how do they align with mine?
- Are there opportunities for internships or practicum placements in my area?
Most of this information will be readily available on program websites, but many students benefit from contacting admissions offices or attending an information session. You might also consider utilizing sites like LinkedIn and Reddit to get an idea of past and current students’ experiences.
Prepare for tests and applications
After narrowing down your shortlist of programs, start preparing for tests and applications. While some admissions requirements may vary, typical criteria include:
- A bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
- Transcripts from all previous academic work
- Letters of recommendation
- A statement of purpose or personal essay
- A resume or CV detailing relevant experience
- GRE scores, if required
Enrolling in a test prep program can significantly boost GRE scores, improving your application’s competitiveness and increasing your chance of acceptance into top programs.
Select your program
When acceptance letters arrive, revisit your initial research criteria and evaluate how each program performs in the areas most important to you. This may include curriculum relevance, specialization availability, and the faculty you’ll learn from. Then, assess the total cost of attendance and compare it to any financial aid offers to better understand the financial commitment involved.
Determine how you’ll pay for your degree
To determine how to finance your degree, complete the FAFSA to access federal financial aid options. Then, seek scholarships and grants from different sources, like professional organizations and community foundations. Explore assistantships offered by your program, which can provide resume-boosting work experience and financial support.
While federal loans are available to many students, it’s important to only use them for bridging financial gaps. Be sure to use these sparingly to avoid taking on a debt burden.
What Can You Expect From an Accelerated Online Master’s in Counseling Program?
An accelerated online master’s in counseling program is designed for students eager to fast-track their careers while maintaining flexible schedules. These programs typically cover fundamental components like counseling theories, ethical practices, human development, multicultural counseling, and clinical skills. As a student, you can expect comprehensive coursework that includes theoretical foundation and practical applications, often culminating in supervised clinical practicums or internships.
A significant component of these programs is the development of effective counseling techniques and the ability to address client needs. You’ll learn about assessment and diagnosis, research methods, and personal and professional growth strategies. Many programs emphasize evidence-based practices, preparing graduates to apply the latest research in their work with clients.
These programs can be completed in as little as 18 to 24 months, depending on your pace and the program’s specific requirements.
Potential courses you’ll take in an accelerated online master’s in counseling program
- Counseling Theories: Often one of the first courses you’ll take, this course explores various foundational and contemporary counseling theories, such as cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, psychodynamic, and systemic approaches. Students learn to apply these theories in practice, developing skills in creating treatment plans and interventions customized to individual client needs.
- Counseling Issues and Ethics: Another fundamental course, this class thoroughly examines the ethical standards and legal issues counselors will likely experience. Participants will learn about the American Counseling Association (ACA) Code of Ethics, confidentiality, informed consent, and professional boundaries.
- Mental Health Diagnosis: Typically considered an upper-level class, this course focuses on different assessment tools and diagnostic criteria used in counseling. Students will gain proficiency in administering, scoring, and interpreting psychological assessments, such as standardized tests and diagnostic interviews.
What Can I Do With a Master’s in Counseling Degree?
The career outlook for graduates with a master’s in counseling or psychology is positive, with the field expected to add thousands of new jobs annually over the next decade and consistently offering median salaries that exceed the national median of $48,060.
Career outlook
- Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) — LPCs work in private practices, mental health clinics, hospitals, and community agencies. They provide individual, group, and family therapy, helping clients manage mental health issues, emotional difficulties, and life challenges.
- Median annual salary: $53,710
- Projected employment growth (through 2032): 18%
- New jobs projected: 42,000
- Marriage and Family Therapist (MFT) — MFTs work with couples and families to address relationship issues, improve communication, and resolve conflicts. They often work in private practice, family therapy centers, and community agencies.
- Median annual salary: $58,510
- Projected employment growth (through 2032): 15%
- New jobs projected: 5,900
- School Counselor — School counselors provide counseling services, implement prevention programs, and collaborate with teachers, parents, and administrators to create a supportive educational environment.
- Median annual salary: $61,710
- Projected employment growth (through 2032): 5%
- New jobs projected: 26,600
Accelerated Online Master’s in Counseling Degree Frequently Asked Questions
How do accelerated degree programs work?
Accelerated online master’s in counseling programs condense the same curriculum into a tighter schedule by offering intensive courses, shorter academic terms, and a year-round calendar. This allows students to complete their degrees faster without compromising the quality of education.
To learn more about these accelerated programs and determine if they’re the right fit for you, visit our page that breaks down the pros and cons.
How long does it take to earn an accelerated online master's in counseling degree?
Compared to the traditional two to three years, these degrees can take 18 to 24 months to complete. That said, credit requirements can still vary by program — making it especially important to double-check these requirements to get a more accurate picture of how long it’ll take to complete your degree.
How much does an accelerated online master's in counseling degree cost?
The average annual cost of graduate school tuition is $20,513. However, it’s important to note that tuition doesn’t necessarily cover all expenses. In addition to tuition, you should budget for technology feeds, textbooks, and course materials — as these expenses can add up over time, making your educational pursuit more expensive.