Most Affordable Master’s in Counseling Degree Programs Ranked for 2025
We rank the most affordable colleges and universities for getting your master’s degree in counseling.
Key Takeaways
- Master’s degrees in mental health counseling prepare students for a variety of careers in mental health counseling.
- A graduate student with an MS in counseling can pursue a career as a school counselor, addiction counselor, family counselor, and much more.
- It may also be possible to earn an online master in counseling through an array of fully accredited online degree programs
Most Affordable Master's in Counseling Degree Programs in 2025
2025 Ranking Update
Our Influence Ranking Engine™ leverages machine learning to track the real-world influence of colleges and universities over time. Below you’ll see which schools gained or lost ground for the 2025 school year.
In 2025, the top ten schools in our ranking of the most affordable master’s in counseling degree programs saw a large amount of movement. The University of Houston gained the most ranking positions as a result of the university expanding its counseling simulation labs, offering students hands-on training with advanced tools for practicing counseling techniques and therapeutic interventions in real-world scenarios. New specializations in areas such as trauma counseling, multicultural counseling, and teletherapy have been added, reflecting the growing demand for diverse and flexible counseling practices.
Additionally, UH has strengthened its community partnerships, offering counseling students enhanced opportunities for internships and practicum placements in schools, hospitals, and mental health clinics. These updates ensure that Master’s in Counseling students receive comprehensive, practical training to excel in their field.
Earning a master’s degree in counseling can put you in an excellent position to help others. An advanced degree in counseling can provide a direct route to a career in school counseling, mental health counseling, substance abuse counseling, family counseling, and much more.
A master’s degree in counseling can prepare you to work in a wide range of settings from mental health and clinical healthcare facilities to public schools and social services organizations. In other words, a master’s degree in counseling can be a valuable credential. But how can you be sure you’re getting a counseling degree that is both affordable and excellent? We’ve ranked the very best master’s degree programs in counseling with tuition for under $10,000 per year.
Of course, another way to save money on housing, travel, and campus fees is to earn your master’s degree in counseling online.
Or you can read on for a look at the most affordable master’s in counseling degree programs today.
How to Get a Master’s Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
The basic threshold for entering most master’s in counseling degree programs is a bachelor’s degree in counseling or in a related subject such as psychology, social sciences, or addiction counseling.
Earning a bachelor’s degree from an accredited program prepares students to enter into accredited master’s degrees in an array of both on-campus and online counseling degree programs. Accreditation is essential because only students earning degrees from schools with Department of Education-approved accrediting agencies will qualify for financial aid. Once you’ve completed your master’s in counseling, you would be eligible for certification as a counselor. However, there are typically several critical steps required before you can become a licensed professional counselor.
How to Pursue a Career in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Students who have earned their counseling master’s degree will generally qualify for internship opportunities in a wide range of clinical mental health settings. You may also be able to intern in settings that provide crisis counseling, rehabilitation counseling, family therapy, school counseling, and much more.
Here, you’ll learn essential counseling skills and learn how to apply these skills in clinical mental health settings. Once you’ve served in your internship, you will typically qualify to sit for your National Counselor Examination. Passing this exam will qualify you to apply to become a licensed professional counselor in your state.
That said, many specialized areas of counseling may also require you to earn additional certifications in areas like clinical counseling, family counseling, mental health counseling, career counseling, professional school counseling, and much more.
Check Out Related Educational Programs
Whether you’re pursing a traditional graduate degree or you’re considering an online program, there are numerous pathways for those interested in counseling careers. It may be possible to enter into mental health counseling, school counseling, professional counseling, college counseling, and an array of other roles in the counseling profession by first earning a master’s degree in a related subject area.
Related educational programs may include master’s degrees in area like psychology, organizational psychology, and—for students who plan to practice mental health counseling in a spiritual context—a master’s degree in theology.
And for a look at well-rounded advanced degree programs in related subject areas, considering earning your degree from one of the best liberal arts colleges for psychology. This may offer you the best opportunity for honing in on a specific in-person or online counseling program. You may be able to enter into a focused school counseling program, substance abuse counseling program, group counseling, and much more.
Is it possible get an online master’s in counseling degree?
Students in search of affordable online counseling programs may be able to pursue an array of related educational programs entirely through online education. Earning a degree in counseling online may help to cut costs by offsetting expenses like housing, transportation, and certain campus fees.
In most cases, online programs offer a similar curriculum and set of credentials as traditional on-campus counseling programs. The online degree in clinical mental health counseling will generally incorporate core courses in human development, counseling psychology, and multicultural counseling alongside advanced counseling theories and best practices in mental health counseling. This makes it a suitable pathway to a career for marriage and family therapists, school counselors, career counselors, and much more.
Many online counseling degrees will carry certain in-person requirements. Even the most affordable online master’s in counseling degrees may require degree candidates to visit campus for workshops, practicums, and other face-to-face meetings. For prospective students weighing their options for a master’s in counseling online, be sure that you’re aware of all on-campus requirements first.
This may be a strong argument in favor of earning your online master’s in counseling from a grad school in your state. In fact, many of the most affordable online counseling degrees are offered by public colleges and universities, where in-state students can enjoy significant tuition rate discounts.
How We Ranked the Most Affordable Schools For a Master’s in Counseling
The master’s degree in counseling programs listed below topped our Influence ranking when filtering for graduate programs available for under $10,000 per year in tuition.
We have even more affordable master’s degree programs in our Guide to Affordable Degrees.
The 20 Most Affordable Schools for a Master’s in Counseling
- #11 50 Best Public Grad Schools 2025 #11 50 Best Public Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2025 #1 Most Affordable Colleges in New York 2025 #2 Best Public Colleges in New York 2024
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$7K
Acceptance
67%
Graduation
59%
Student body
17K
Career Outlook for Counseling degree at City College of New York
Cost of Degree: $11,402Expenses: $24,344Starting Salary: $54,765Salary after 4 years: $62,927Cost Recoup Time: 7 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat do we love about the City College of New York?
City College of New York is the flagship school in a CUNY public higher education system that includes 25 distinct institutions. This makes it the very first free public higher education institution in the United States.
Established in 1847, the City College of New York is located in the Hamilton Heights section of the city, an area that provides sweeping views of Harlem and Manhattan.
- The City College of New York is great for students who:
Enjoy an incredible legacy of higher education firsts, including the establishment of the first student government in 1867, the first racially and religiously integrated fraternity with Delta Sigma Phi in 1899, and the first night school program to award degrees, with the School of Education starting in 1907.
- The City College of New York might not be the best fit for students who:
Require an extra level of advisor support. Some students say it can be challenging to procure an appointment with an academic advisor.
- The City College of New York is great for students who:
- #6 Best Value Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2024 #9 Top Schools that Offer Free Master's Degrees Online #12 Most Affordable Colleges and Universities in the U.S. 2025 #13 50 Best Public Grad Schools 2025
Other Rankings
- #13 50 Best Public Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2025
- #1 Best Public Colleges in North Carolina 2024
- #1 Most Affordable Colleges in North Carolina 2024
- #2 Best Grad Schools in North Carolina 2024
- #2 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024
- #2 Best Research Universities in North Carolina 2025
- #2 Best Colleges in North Carolina 2025
- #11 Best Research Universities for Education Degrees
- #13 Best Research Universities for Nursing Degrees
- #16 Best Research Universities for Business Degrees 2025
- #17 Best Research Universities for Communications Degrees 2025
- #20 Best Research Universities for Religious Studies Degrees
- #20 Best Research Universities for Sociology Degrees
- #22 Best Research Universities for English Degrees
- #22 Best Research Universities for Biology Degrees 2025
- #23 Best Research Universities for Philosophy Degrees 2025
- #23 Best Research Universities for Psychology Degrees 2025
- #25 Best Research Universities for History Degrees
- #25 Best Research Universities for Earth Sciences Degrees
- #25 Best Research Universities for Chemistry Degrees
- #25 Best Research Universities for Math Degrees
- #1 Best Online Master's Degrees in Accounting 2025
- #1 Best Online Master's in Healthcare Administration
- #1 Fastest Accelerated Online Healthcare Administration Masters
- #2 Best Online Master's Programs in North Carolina 2024
- #2 Fastest Accelerated Online Public Health Doctorates (PhDs) 2025
- #2 15 Most Affordable Online Public Health Doctorates (PhDs)
- #2 Best Online MBA Programs in North Carolina
- #2 Best Online Doctorate of Physical Therapy Programs (PhDs)
- #2 Best Online MBA Degree Programs for 2024 with No GMAT Required
- #3 Best Online Master’s in Health Informatics 2025
- #3 The Best Online MBA Degree Programs in 2025 Ranked for Students
- #3 Best Online Master's in Public Administration Degree Programs
- #3 Top 8 Best Online Public Health PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates)
- #4 Fastest Online Doctoral Degree Programs Ranked for Students in 2025
- #4 Best Online Master’s in Communications
- #7 Guide to Free Online Courses for MBA Students in 2024
- #7 Top 20 Best Online MBA Programs that Can Be Completed in One Year 2024
- #8 Best Online Master's in Management 2025
- #8 Best Online MBA Degree Programs No GRE Required Ranked for 2024
- #8 Best Online Master's Programs 2024
- #9 Fastest Online Master's Degrees Ranked for Students in 2025
- #5 Best Online PhD of Nursing (DNP) Degree Programs Ranked for 2024
- #14 Best Schools in the World for Earning an MBA Degree Ranked for 2024
- #20 Top 20 Best Business Schools for MBAs Ranked for Students 2025
Tuition + fees
$9K
Acceptance
17%
Graduation
91%
Student body
34K
Median SAT/ACT
1440/32
Career Outlook for Counseling degree at University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
Cost of Degree: $12,527Expenses: $16,260Starting Salary: $74,024Salary after 4 years: $85,057Cost Recoup Time: 5 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat do we love about the University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill?
University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill is considered a “Public Ivy,” a school with state funding that offers the prestige and educational experience akin to those at a private Ivy League school.
The University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill is the flagship campus for the broader University of North Carolina system and began enrolling students in 1795. This makes UNC the only public school in the U.S. to both teach and graduate students in the 18th Century!
- The University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill is great for students who:
Desire a well-rounded education. All students are required to complete a liberal arts education on the way to their chosen major. Popular majors include biology, business administration, and psychology.
- The University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill might not be the best fit for students who:
Prefer a more conservative environment. Many students at UNC note that the campus culture tends to lean to the liberal side of the political spectrum.
- #2 15 Best Online Colleges for Veterans to Start Their Careers #19 50 Best Public Grad Schools 2025 #19 50 Best Public Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2025 #1 Best Grad Schools Iowa 2024
Other Rankings
- #1 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024
- #1 Best Public Colleges in Iowa 2024
- #1 Most Affordable Colleges in Iowa 2024
- #1 Best Research Universities in Iowa 2024
- #1 Best Colleges in Iowa 2024
- #1 The Best Online Colleges Ranked for Students in 2025
- #1 Best Online Bachelor's in Sports Management Degree Programs for 2025
- #1 Best Online Bachelor’s of Communications Degree Programs for 2025
- #1 Best Online Bachelor's in Social Work Degree Programs Ranked for 2025
- #1 Best Online MBA Programs in Iowa
- #1 Best Online Colleges in Iowa 2024
- #2 Top 15 Most Affordable Online Economics PhD Programs (Doctorates) 2025
- #2 Best Online Bachelor’s in Liberal Arts and Humanities Degree Programs for 2025
- #2 Most Affordable Online Sociology Doctorate Programs (PhDs) 2025
- #4 Fastest Online Bachelor's Degrees Ranked for 2025
- #5 Top 20 Best Online MBA Programs that Can Be Completed in One Year 2024
- #5 Top 5 Best Online English PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates)
- #11 Top 50 Best No GRE Online PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates)
- #4 Best Online PhD of Nursing (DNP) Degree Programs Ranked for 2024
Tuition + fees
$10K
Acceptance
86%
Graduation
74%
Student body
33K
Median SAT/ACT
1235/25
Career Outlook for Counseling degree at University of Iowa
Cost of Degree: $12,564Expenses: $16,530Starting Salary: $66,708Salary after 4 years: $76,650Cost Recoup Time: 5 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat do we love about the University of Iowa?
The University of Iowa is a public university that is noteworthy for the depth and excellence of its research activities. The oldest and largest school in the state rests on the banks of the Iowa River and serves more than 30,000 students.
The University of Iowa is home to a particularly large contingent of graduate students, with more than 6000 students pursuing their advanced degrees in the Fall of 2022.
- The University of Iowa is great for students who:
Are interested in campus activities. The school is home to roughly 500 student-run groups, 22 athletic teams, and an enormous alumni network.
- The University of Iowa might not be the best fit for students who:
Prefer a small-campus experience.
- #2 Online Colleges with the Most Generous Financial Aid in 2025 #2 Top 15 Best Online Colleges for Transfer Students in 2025 #3 15 Best Self-paced Online Colleges Ranked for 2025 #6 15 Best Online Colleges for Veterans to Start Their Careers
Other Rankings
- #8 Best Value Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2024
- #20 Most Affordable Colleges and Universities in the U.S. 2025
- #20 Most Affordable Graduate Schools Ranked for 2025
- #22 50 Best Public Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2025
- #23 50 Best Public Grad Schools 2025
- #1 Best Public Colleges in Florida 2025
- #1 Most Affordable Colleges in Florida 2025
- #1 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024
- #1 Best Grad Schools in Florida 2024
- #1 Best Colleges in Florida 2024
- #1 Best Research Universities in Florida 2025
- #1 Best Research Universities for Criminal Justice Degrees
- #14 Best Research Universities for Education Degrees
- #17 Best Research Universities for Nursing Degrees
- #20 Best Research Universities for Business Degrees 2025
- #20 Best Research Universities for Communications Degrees 2025
- #21 Best Research Universities for Anthropology Degrees
- #21 Best Research Universities for Earth Sciences Degrees
- #22 Best Research Universities for History Degrees
- #23 Best Research Universities for Chemistry Degrees
- #23 Best Research Universities for Biology Degrees 2025
- #25 Best Research Universities for Engineering Degrees
- #1 Best Online Bachelor's in Anthropology 2025
- #1 Best Online Bachelor's in Computer Science Degree Programs
- #1 Best Online Master's Programs in Florida 2024
- #1 Best Online Colleges in Florida 2024
- #2 Best Online Bachelor’s of Digital Media for 2025
- #2 Best Online Bachelor's in Biology 2025
- #2 Best Online MBA Programs in Florida
- #2 Most Affordable Online Applied Behavioral Analysis PhD Programs
- #3 Fastest Accelerated Online Public Health Doctorates (PhDs) 2025
- #3 10 Best Online Master's of Music Education Degree Programs
- #4 Top 20 Most Affordable Online Doctorate of Education (PhDs) 2025
- #5 Best Online History Doctorate Degree Programs (PhDs) 2025
- #9 Top 20 Best Online MBA Programs that Can Be Completed in One Year 2024
- #19 Top 20 Easiest Online Degrees from Accredited Schools in 2024
- #15 Best Schools in the World for Earning an MBA Degree Ranked for 2024
Tuition + fees
$6K
Acceptance
23%
Graduation
90%
Student body
63K
Median SAT/ACT
1395/30
Career Outlook for Counseling degree at University of Florida
Cost of Degree: $12,737Expenses: $15,430Starting Salary: $70,689Salary after 4 years: $81,225Cost Recoup Time: 5 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is University of Florida known for?
University of Florida’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
Most Influential Alumni
What do we love about the University of Florida?
University of Florida is a public university with strong appeal for students with an interest in research. The University of Florida is classified among R1 Doctoral Universities, those institutions noted for a very high level or research activity.
The University of Florida also holds the distinction of being the only Florida college with members in the Association of American Universities.
- The University of Florida is great for students who:
Enjoy an excellent athletics program. The University of Florida Gators varsity sports teams have claimed 45 national championships for the school.
- The University of Florida might not be the best fit for students who:
Prefer a more intimate experience. With more than 57,800 students enrolled during the 2020-21 academic year, the University of Florida is the fifth largest school in the United States.
- #7 15 Best Online Colleges for Veterans to Start Their Careers #22 Most Affordable Colleges and Universities in the U.S. 2025 #24 50 Best Public Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2025 #25 50 Best Public Grad Schools 2025
Other Rankings
- #1 Best Public Colleges in Utah 2024
- #1 Best Grad Schools in Utah 2024
- #1 Best Colleges in Utah 2024
- #1 Most Affordable Colleges in Utah 2025
- #1 Best Research Universities in Utah 2024
- #2 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024
- #1 Best Online Master's Programs in Utah 2024
- #1 Best Online MBA Programs in Utah
- #1 Best Online Colleges in Utah 2024
- #9 Most Affordable Online Computer Science PhDs (Doctorates) 2025
- #9 Fastest Accelerated Online Computer Science Doctorates (PhDs)
Tuition + fees
$9K
Acceptance
89%
Graduation
65%
Student body
40K
Median SAT/ACT
1290/25
Career Outlook for Counseling degree at University of Utah
Cost of Degree: $8,448Expenses: $17,365Starting Salary: $68,322Salary after 4 years: $78,505Cost Recoup Time: 4 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat do we love about the University of Utah?
The University of Utah was founded in 1850 as the University of Deseret before becoming the University of Utah in 1892. The flagship public research university in the state of Utah actually predates Utah’s 1896 admission to statehood.
The University of Utah has a storied academic track record, producing 22 Rhodes Scholars, four Nobel Prize winners, and three Turing Award winners.
- The University of Utah is great for students who:
Wish to live on a “green” campus. The University of Utah ranks high among higher education institutions for its efforts in sustainability and the use of renewable energies.
- The University of Utah might not be the best fit for students who:
Desire religious diversity. The state’s large Mormon population is also a predominant demographic at the University of Utah.
- #4 Top 20 Best Military Friendly Online Colleges Ranked for 2025 #24 Most Affordable Graduate Schools Ranked for 2025 #2 Best Public Colleges in Florida 2025 #2 Most Affordable Colleges in Florida 2025
Other Rankings
- #3 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024
- #3 Best Grad Schools in Florida 2024
- #3 Best Colleges in Florida 2024
- #3 Best Research Universities in Florida 2025
- #4 Best Research Universities for Criminal Justice Degrees
- #14 Best Research Universities for Social Work Degrees
- #1 Best Online Master’s in Information Technology 2025
- #1 Best Online Bachelor's in Criminal Justice
- #1 Best Online Master’s in Counseling
- #2 Fastest Accelerated Online Master's of Information Technology 2025
- #2 Best Online Bachelor's in Computer Science Degree Programs
- #2 Best Online Colleges in Florida 2024
- #3 Best Online MBA Programs in Florida
- #3 Most Unusual Doctoral Degrees You Can Earn Online (PhDs)
- #3 Best Online Master's in Art Education and Art Administration
- #3 Best Online Master's Programs in Florida 2024
- #3 Most Affordable Online Criminology Doctorate Programs (PhDs) 2025
- #4 Top 20 Best Online Accredited Doctorate Degree Programs (PhDs) 2025
- #4 20 Best Online Master's of Speech Pathology Degree Programs
- #4 Best Online Doctorate in Education Degree Programs Ranked for Students
- #4 Best Online Master's in Social Work MSW
- #5 Best Research Universities with Online Doctorates (PhDs) 2025
- #5 Best Online Master's in Criminal Justice 2025
- #6 Best Online Master’s in Communications
- #8 Fastest Online Doctoral Degree Programs Ranked for Students in 2025
- #9 Best Online Master’s in Engineering 2025
- #10 Fastest Online Bachelor's Degrees Ranked for 2025
- #12 The Best Online MBA Degree Programs in 2025 Ranked for Students
- #12 Top 50 Best No GRE Online PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates)
- #17 Best Online Master's in Management 2025
- #20 Best Online Master's Programs 2024
Tuition + fees
$7K
Acceptance
25%
Graduation
85%
Student body
51K
Median SAT/ACT
1290/28
Career Outlook for Counseling degree at Florida State University
Cost of Degree: $11,553Expenses: $18,124Starting Salary: $57,993Salary after 4 years: $66,636Cost Recoup Time: 6 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat do we love about Florida State University?
Founded in 1851 as the Florida Institute, FSU in Tallahassee actually stands on the oldest continuously used site for higher education in the state of Florida. With more than 360 undergraduate, graduate, and professional degree programs, FSU students have plenty of options.
This is fitting for a university that enrolls well over 45,000 students every year.
- Florida State University is great for students who:
Are looking to participate in campus activities, Greek life, and sporting event attendance.
- Florida State University might not be the best fit for students who:
Prefer a more intimate college experience.
- #6 50 Best Christian Colleges and Universities 2024 #15 Most Affordable Graduate Schools Ranked for 2025 #1 Best Christian Colleges in Utah 2025 #1 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$6K
Acceptance
67%
Graduation
79%
Student body
39K
Median SAT/ACT
1374/29
Career Outlook for Counseling degree at Brigham Young University
Cost of Degree: $7,932Expenses: $14,816Starting Salary: $66,304Salary after 4 years: $77,155Cost Recoup Time: 4 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat do we love about Brigham Young University?
Brigham Young University is a highly regarded private university affiliated with the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS). BYU’s main campus is located in Provo, Utah with satellite campuses in Salt Lake City and Jerusalem, as well as “sister schools” in Hawaii and Idaho.
Brigham Young University serves an extremely large population of students, with more than 31,000 undergraduates and more than 3000 graduate students enrolled for the Fall ’21 semester.
- Brigham Young University is great for students who:
Are seeking a degree with great ROI. BYU is often ranked among the best schools for the money..
- Brigham Young University might not be the best fit for students who:
Are not affiliated with the Church of Latter-day Saints (LDS). BYU students are expected to adhere to a behavioral code that aligns with LDS beliefs.
- Brigham Young University is great for students who:
- #4 Top 15 Best Online Colleges for Transfer Students in 2025 #3 Best Public Colleges in Texas 2024 #3 Most Affordable Colleges in Texas 2025 #4 Best Research Universities in Texas 2024
Other Rankings
- #4 Best Colleges in Texas 2024
- #5 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024
- #2 Best Online History Doctorate Degree Programs (PhDs) 2025
- #3 Best Online Master’s in Health Science 2025
- #3 Best Online Master’s in Education
- #4 Best Online Master's Programs in Texas 2024
- #6 20 Fastest Accelerated Online English Doctorates (PhDs) 2024
- #7 Best Online Doctorate in Education Degree Programs Ranked for Students
- #7 Best Online Master's in Social Work MSW
- #8 Best Online Master's in Special Education 2025
- #9 Best Online Master's in Nursing MSN
- #12 Best Online Master’s in Engineering 2025
- #19 Best Online Master's Programs 2024
- #22 Best Online Master's in Management 2025
Tuition + fees
$10K
Acceptance
66%
Graduation
63%
Student body
53K
Median SAT/ACT
1245/26
Career Outlook for Counseling degree at University of Houston
Cost of Degree: $9,727Expenses: $16,102Starting Salary: $65,201Salary after 4 years: $74,919Cost Recoup Time: 5 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat do we love about the University of Houston?
The University of Houston was founded in 1927 and, today, serves a massive student population of over 47,000 undergrads and grad students. This makes the Southeast Houston campus the third largest in the state of Texas.
Students can choose from a wide range of degree programs, with more than 275 degrees offered across 16 academic colleges.
- The University of Houston is great for students who:
Enjoy college athletics. The school is home to 17 intercollegiate NCAA Division I teams.
- The University of Houston might not be the best fit for students who:
Prefer the personal attention of a small school.
- #21 50 Best Liberal Arts Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students #8 Most Affordable Colleges in New York 2025 #8 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in New York 2025 #9 Best Public Colleges in New York 2024
Tuition + fees
$7K
Acceptance
50%
Graduation
74%
Student body
24K
Career Outlook for Counseling degree at Baruch College
Cost of Degree: $11,452Expenses: $25,620Starting Salary: $68,429Salary after 4 years: $78,628Cost Recoup Time: 6 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat do we love about Baruch College?
Baruch College is a public university located in New York City. Baruch College is noted for the wide array of both undergraduate and graduate programs offered through its three primary schools: Zicklin School of Business, the Weissman School of Arts and Sciences, and the Marxe School of Public and International Affairs.Baruch College has an excellent educational tradition that dates back to its 1847 founding as the Free Academy. This made Baruch the very first free public higher education institution in the U.S.
- Baruch College is great for students who:
Wish to take advantage of the sprawling CUNY system of campuses and resources.
- Baruch College might not be the best fit for students who:
Don’t prefer to pursue their degree in a metropolitan setting.
- Baruch College is great for students who:
- #1 Best Grad Schools in West Virginia 2025 #1 Most Affordable Colleges in West Virginia 2024 #1 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024 #1 Best Research Universities in West Virginia 2024
Other Rankings
- #1 Best Colleges in West Virginia 2024
- #1 Best Public Colleges in West Virginia 2024
- #1 Best Online Master's Programs in West Virginia 2024
- #1 Best Online MBA Programs in West Virginia
- #3 Top 20 Most Affordable Online Business Administration Doctorates 2025
- #10 Top 20 Most Affordable Online Doctorate of Education (PhDs) 2025
- #19 Top 20 Best Online MBA Programs that Can Be Completed in One Year 2024
Tuition + fees
$9K
Acceptance
88%
Graduation
62%
Student body
28K
Median SAT/ACT
1110/23
Career Outlook for Counseling degree at West Virginia University
Cost of Degree: $10,602Expenses: $15,568Starting Salary: $56,702Salary after 4 years: $65,153Cost Recoup Time: 5 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat do we love about West Virginia University?
West Virginia University is a public research university with four campuses located across the state. The main campus in Morgantown, West Virginia is home to more than 26,000 undergraduate and graduate students.
West Virginia University is noted for its high level of research activity especially in the area of biometric technology. In fact, WVU is the FBI’s lead academic partner in this area.
- West Virginia University is great for students who:
Are looking for options. Students can choose from between more than 350 degree programs at the bachelor’s, master’s, doctoral, and professional levels.
- West Virginia University might not be the best fit for students who:
Aren’t looking for a university with a “party school” reputation.
Student body
6K
Career Outlook for Counseling degree at Teachers College, Columbia University
Cost of Degree: $35,430Starting Salary: $66,212Salary after 4 years: $77,047What do we love about Teachers College?
Teachers College is Columbia University’s graduate school for students in education, health, and psychology disciplines. As part of the prestigious private research university located in New York City, Teachers College offers some of the most highly regarded post-graduate degrees in the world.
Teachers College was formed in 1887 and is therefore both the oldest and largest graduate school of education in the nation.
- Teachers College is great for students who:
Are seeking a post-graduate education in the heart of a bustling city.
- Teachers College might not be the best fit for students who:
Prefer a more traditional campus experience.
- Teachers College is great for students who:
- #2 Best Public Colleges in Utah 2024 #3 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024 #3 Best Grad Schools in Utah 2024 #3 Best Colleges in Utah 2024
Other Rankings
- #3 Most Affordable Colleges in Utah 2025
- #3 Best Research Universities in Utah 2024
- #1 Best Online Associate Degrees in Utah 2025
- #2 Best Online Master's Programs in Utah 2024
- #2 Best Online MBA Programs in Utah
- #2 Best Online Colleges in Utah 2024
- #6 Most Affordable Online Applied Behavioral Analysis PhD Programs
- #13 Most Affordable Online Sociology Doctorate Programs (PhDs) 2025
Tuition + fees
$8K
Acceptance
94%
Graduation
54%
Student body
33K
Median SAT/ACT
1175/23
Career Outlook for Counseling degree at Utah State University
Cost of Degree: $7,595Expenses: $13,156Starting Salary: $53,366Salary after 4 years: $61,320Cost Recoup Time: 5 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat do we love about Utah State University?
.Utah State University was founded in 1888 in Logan Utah. Today, Utah State University serves more than 20,000 students, which makes it the largest public residential campus in the state of Utah.
This number is aided by the fact that USU is a big draw to out-of-state students, who make up 23% of the student body.
- Utah State University is great for students who:
Enjoy an active campus community. The majority of USU’s students are on-campus residents. As a result, social and cultural life in the region are largely concentrated around the campus itself.
- Utah State University might not be the best fit for students who:
Are looking for degrees in some of the physical sciences. Though degree offerings are numerous, some students note that these offerings are concentrated in specific degree areas.
- #9 Top 15 Best Online Colleges for Transfer Students in 2025 #9 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in California 2025 #4 Best Online Colleges in California 2024 #7 Best Online Master’s in Information Technology 2025
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$7K
Acceptance
67%
Graduation
69%
Student body
46K
Career Outlook for Counseling degree at California State University, Fullerton
Cost of Degree: $8,441Expenses: $20,824Starting Salary: $55,733Salary after 4 years: $64,040Cost Recoup Time: 6 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat do we love about the California State University, Fullerton?
California State University, Fullerton is a massive public university campus. With more than 41,000 students enrolled, Fullerton is the largest of the expansive 23-school CSU system.
And with 5000 graduate students, California State University, Fullerton awards among the largest number of advanced degrees in the state of California.
- California State University, Fullerton is great for students who:
Are seeking a diverse campus.
- California State University, Fullerton might not be the best fit for students who:
Prefer a small-campus atmosphere.
- California State University, Fullerton is great for students who:
- #4 Best Public Colleges in North Carolina 2024 #4 Most Affordable Colleges in North Carolina 2024 #6 Best Grad Schools in North Carolina 2024 #6 Best Research Universities in North Carolina 2025
Other Rankings
- #8 Best Colleges in North Carolina 2025
- #2 Most Affordable Online Master's of Speech Pathology Programs
- #2 Best Online Colleges in North Carolina 2024
- #2 Best Online Bachelor’s of Elementary Education Degree Programs for 2025
- #3 Best Online Bachelor’s in Marketing and Advertising Degree Programs for 2024
- #4 Top 20 Most Affordable Online PhD of Nursing (DNP) Programs
- #5 5 Inexpensive Online Master's Programs in Library Science
- #6 Best Online Master's Programs in North Carolina 2024
- #6 Top 8 Best Online Public Health PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates)
- #6 Best Online Bachelor's in Hospitality and Tourism Degree Programs for 2024
- #7 Best Online Bachelor’s of Education Degree Programs for 2024
- #7 Most Affordable Online Master's of Music Education Programs 2025
- #8 10 Fastest Accelerated Online Master's of English Programs 2025
- #9 15 Most Affordable Online Public Health Doctorates (PhDs)
- #9 Best RN to BSN Online
- #10 Fastest Accelerated Online Public Health Doctorates (PhDs) 2025
- #11 20 Best Online Master's of Speech Pathology Degree Programs
- #14 Best Online Bachelor’s in Business Administration Degree Programs
- #17 Best Online Bachelor’s of Communications Degree Programs for 2025
- #4 10 Best Accelerated Online PhD Programs Ranked for Students in 2025
- #12 Fastest Accelerated Online Master's of Nursing Degree Programs 2024
Tuition + fees
$7K
Acceptance
92%
Graduation
65%
Student body
31K
Career Outlook for Counseling degree at East Carolina University
Cost of Degree: $7,622Expenses: $16,488Starting Salary: $49,278Salary after 4 years: $56,622Cost Recoup Time: 5 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat do we love about East Carolina University?
Eastern Carolina University was founded as a teacher training school in 1907. Today, the public research institution is the fourth largest in North Carolina with more than 29,000 students at both the undergraduate and graduate levels.
East Carolina University’s excellent in-state tuition rate makes it an attractive and affordable destination for many local students, with 90% of the student population coming from in state.
- East Carolina University is great for students who:
Are interested in its top-flight degree programs in areas like nursing, psychology, public health, and more.
- East Carolina University might not be the best fit for students who:
Don’t enjoy a “party school” atmosphere.
Student body
1K
What do we love about the Fielding Graduate University?
Fielding Graduate University is a private university focused specifically on awarding graduate degrees. Located in Santa Barbara, Fielding was founded in 1974 with the mission of serving non-traditional learners.
Today, Fielding matches this mission by focusing on the academic and professional needs of working adults.
- Fielding Graduate University is great for students who:
Are already working in their field and looking for ways to advance their credentials.
- Fielding Graduate University might not be the best fit for students who:
Are not proactive about their education. Graduate students are expected to take the lead in coordinating graduate level projects and work.
- Fielding Graduate University is great for students who:
- #3 Best Private Colleges in Colorado 2024 #7 Best Grad Schools in Colorado 2025 #7 Most Affordable Colleges in Colorado 2025 #8 Best Small Colleges in Colorado 2024
Other Rankings
- #9 Best Colleges in Colorado 2024
- #1 Best Online Associate Degrees in Colorado 2024
- #1 Most Affordable Online Bachelor's Degree Programs Ranked for 2024
- #1 Most Affordable Online PhD Programs Ranked for Students in 2024
- #2 Most Affordable Online Master's Degree Programs Ranked for Students
- #8 Best Online Master's Programs in Colorado 2025
- #10 Top 20 Most Affordable Online MBA Degree Programs Ranked 2025
- #11 Best Online Colleges in Colorado 2024
- #16 Most Affordable Online Computer Science PhDs (Doctorates) 2025
- #20 The Most Affordable Traditional MBA Degree Programs for 2024
Tuition + fees
$5K
Student body
14K
What do we love about the Aspen University?
Aspen University is a fully online university offering both undergraduate and graduate degrees in a wide range of subject areas including nursing, education, and counseling. Aspen’s bachelor’s and master’s degrees in Psychology of Addiction and Counseling are approved by the National Association for Alcoholism and Drug Abuse Counselors (NAADAC).
The University of Aspen was actually founded as the International Academy in the 1960s, and significantly predates the inception of online education.
- Aspen University is great for students who:
Wish to choose from a wide range of fully online undergraduate and graduate degree programs.
- Aspen University might not be the best fit for students who:
Require a regionally accredited degree.
- #5 Best Grad Schools in New Hampshire 2024 #6 Best Online MBA Programs in New Hampshire #7 Best Online Master's Programs in New Hampshire 2025
Student body
1K
Career Outlook for Counseling degree at Antioch University New England
Cost of Degree: $26,422Starting Salary: $38,763Salary after 4 years: $45,106What do we love about Antioch University?
Antioch University New England is the second largest campus in the Antioch University System. With 1200 students, the Keene, New Hampshire campus is the second largest of three campuses.
Antioch University New England specializes in graduate-level degrees for students in areas like Clinical Mental Health Counseling, Marriage and Family Therapy, Education, and Environmental Studies.
- Antioch University is great for students who:
Love the great outdoors. Antioch New England is based in New Hampshire’s Monadnock Region, noted for its expansive state park system.
- Antioch University might not be the best fit for students who:
Recent high school graduates with an interest in the traditional campus experience. Many of Antioch University’s students are adult learners.
- Antioch University is great for students who:
- #7 Most Affordable Online Colleges Ranked for Students 2024 #2 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Nebraska 2024 #2 Best Private Colleges in Nebraska 2024 #4 Best Grad Schools in Nebraska 2024
Other Rankings
- #4 Most Affordable Colleges in Nebraska 2024
- #7 Best Colleges in Nebraska 2024
- #3 Best Online Master's Programs in Wyoming 2024
- #3 Best Online Bachelor's of Cybersecurity Degree Programs in Nebraska
- #4 Best Online MBA Programs in Nebraska
- #5 Best Online Colleges in Nebraska 2024
- #5 Best Online Doctorate in Business Administration Degree Programs
- #5 Best Online Bachelor's in Cybersecurity in Wyoming
- #6 Best Online Master's Programs in Nebraska 2025
- #8 Most Affordable Online Bachelor's of Business Degree Programs 2025
- #9 Best Online Master’s in Human Services
- #10 Best Online Bachelor’s of Graphic Arts Degree Programs for 2025
- #10 Most Affordable Online Bachelor's Degree Programs Ranked for 2024
- #10 Fastest Accelerated Online Bachelor's of Information Technology
- #11 Best Online Bachelor's in Math Degree Programs Ranked for 2025
- #12 Best Online Master's in Organizational Psychology
- #12 Best Online Bachelor’s of Data Science and Analytics Degree Programs for 2024
- #13 Top 20 Easiest Online Degrees from Accredited Schools in 2024
- #13 Best Online Bachelor’s of Data Science and Analytics Degree Programs for 2024
- #13 Best Online Bachelor's in Network Administration Degree Programs for 2024
- #20 Top 20 Most Affordable Online Business Administration Doctorates 2025
- #20 Best Online Bachelor's in Public Health Degree Programs for Students
- #20 Best Online Bachelor's in Hospitality and Tourism Degree Programs for 2024
- #22 Best Online Master’s in Emergency Management 2025
- #23 Best Online Bachelor's in Sports Management Degree Programs for 2025
- #23 Best Online Bachelor's in Law and Legal Studies Degree Programs for 2025
- #24 Best Online Master’s in Finance
- #16 20 Fastest Online Bachelor's of Business Degree Programs Ranked 2024
Tuition + fees
$9K
Graduation
41%
Student body
19K
Career Outlook for Counseling degree at Bellevue University
Cost of Degree: $12,090Expenses: $16,395Starting Salary: $56,104Salary after 4 years: $65,285Cost Recoup Time: 6 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat do we love about Bellevue University?
Bellevue University is a private institution based in Bellevue, Nebraska. Founded in 1966 as Bellevue College, the university’s broader mission has long been to serve the specific needs of adult learners. As a result, more than 80% of the student population is over the age of 25 .
Bellevue University’s focus on adult learning also encouraged the introduction of various flexible degree programs including accelerated bachelor’s degree programs and online master’s degree programs.
- Bellevue University is great for students who:
Are above traditional college age.
- Bellevue University might not be the best fit for:
Recent high-school graduates looking for the typical campus lifestyle.
- #5 Best Online Master's Programs in Oregon 2024 #6 The Most Affordable Online Clinical Nutrition Doctorate Degree Programs (PhDs) 2024 #10 Best Online Clinical Nutrition PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates) 2025
Student body
2K
Career Outlook for Counseling degree at University of Western States
Cost of Degree: $10,716Starting Salary: $50,633Salary after 4 years: $58,919What do we love about the University of Western States?
The University of Western States is a private university located in Portland, Oregon. UWS places a heavy emphasis on health sciences programs, offering graduate degrees in areas like sports medicine, human nutrition, and clinical mental health counseling.
The University of Western States is also home to the second oldest chiropractic medicine school in the nation.
- The University is great for students who:
Enjoy an intimate experience. With a student body of under 1000 students, the University of Western States is truly a close-knit educational community.
- The University might not be the best fit for students who:
Prefer a liberal arts focused graduate degree program.
- The University is great for students who:
Student body
<1K
What do we love about the Phoenix Seminary?
Phoenix Seminary is an Evangelical Christian seminary based in Phoenix Arizona and serves both online and on-campus students. The Seminary offers a host of graduate degree programs that merge divinity, biblical studies, and mental health counseling.
Phoenix Seminary is noteworthy for both its affordable tuition rate and its generous array of scholarships packages.
- Phoenix Seminary is great for students who:
Desire a practical, faith-based education.
- Phoenix Seminary might not be the best fit for students who:
Are interested in pursuing religious studies through a secular or academic lens.
- Phoenix Seminary is great for students who:
Career Outlook for Students with Counseling Degree
Go to Degree Finder toolCounseling Psychology
Degree Level: Master's
- Location: The U.S. (Private Schools)
- Avg. Cost of Degree*: $9,742
- Avg. Expenses*: $15,969
- Avg. Starting Salary*: $50,114
- Avg. Salary after 4 Years*: $57,583
- Avg. Cost Recoup Time**: 6 years
- Job Growth: 4.47%
- Number of Jobs: 1,414,900
- * denotes ‘annually’
- ** denotes ‘at 15% of annual salary’
Career Salaries
Career | Job Growth | Avg. Salary |
---|---|---|
Human Resources Managers | 5.22% | $115,604 |
Training and Development Managers | 6.54% | $111,455 |
Managers, All Other | 3.34% | $106,040 |
Industrial-Organizational Psychologists | 4.95% | $103,134 |
Psychologists, All Other | 4.97% | $99,205 |
Average Career Salaries
Bottom 10% | Median | Top 10% |
---|---|---|
$52,579 | $90,945 | $142,495 |
Promising Job Markets
State | Cost of Living | Avg. Salary |
---|---|---|
#2 Delaware | 2% higher than average | $124,685 |
#3 Ohio | 14% higher than average | $95,085 |
#4 New Jersey | 13% higher than average | $124,557 |
#5 Virginia | 5% higher than average | $102,824 |
#6 Texas | 10% higher than average | $96,358 |
Top Industries
Industry | Avg. Salary |
---|---|
Human Resources Managers | $115,604 |
Training and Development Managers | $111,455 |
Managers, All Other | $106,040 |