Best Online Master’s in Christian Counseling Degree Programs
Find top-ranked online master’s in Christian counseling degree programs for students wanting to work as counselors for organizations like pregnancy centers, churches, group homes, and behavioral healthcare centers.
Top 10 Online Master's in Christian Counseling Programs
- Creighton University
- Southern Baptist Theological Seminary
- Colorado Christian University
- Liberty University
- Alliance University
- Oral Roberts University
- Amridge University
- California Baptist University
- Baptist College of Florida
- Lindsey Wilson College
- Bob Jones University
- Creighton University
- Liberty University
- Southern Baptist Theological Seminary
- Oral Roberts University
- St. Bonaventure University
- Sacred Heart University
- Faulkner University
- Dallas Baptist University
- Southwestern Assemblies of God University
- Shasta Bible College and Graduate School 100%
- Alliance University 100%
- Liberty University 99%
- Grand View University 98%
- Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary 93%
- Dallas Baptist University 91%
- Concordia University Nebraska 91%
- Freed–Hardeman University 91%
- Baptist College of Florida 89%
- Southern Baptist Theological Seminary 87%
- Southeastern University 27 to 1
- Campbellsville University 23 to 1
- Southern Baptist Theological Seminary 20 to 1
- Missouri Baptist University 19 to 1
- California Baptist University 18 to 1
- Liberty University 18 to 1
- Dallas Baptist University 17 to 1
- Lindsey Wilson College 17 to 1
- Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary 17 to 1
- Southwestern Assemblies of God University 17 to 1
- Sacred Heart University $46,580
- Salve Regina University $46,000
- Creighton University $45,590
- Concordia University Irvine $40,180
- Messiah University $39,490
- St. Bonaventure University $38,770
- Buena Vista University $38,644
- California Baptist University $38,058
- Concordia University Nebraska $37,720
- Houston Christian University $36,750
- Sacred Heart University $34,852
- Southwestern Adventist University $23,400
- Dallas Baptist University $21,186
- University of Mount Olive $18,300
- Creighton University $17,496
- Our Lady of the Lake University $17,316
- LeTourneau University $16,875
- Faulkner University $15,325
- St. Bonaventure University $14,520
- Alliance University $14,400
- Immaculata University
- Shasta Bible College and Graduate School
- Luther Rice College & Seminary
- Truett McConnell University
- Campbellsville University
- Holy Apostles College and Seminary
- Concordia University Nebraska
- Buena Vista University
- Messiah University
- Southwestern Adventist University
- Shasta Bible College and Graduate School
- Luther Rice College & Seminary
- Baptist College of Florida
- Freed–Hardeman University
- Ohio Christian University
- Concordia University Nebraska
- Truett McConnell University
- Missouri Baptist University
- Lindsey Wilson College
- Amridge University
- LeTourneau University 49%
- Southern Wesleyan University 51%
- Union College 53%
- Southwestern Adventist University 54%
- Southeastern University 61%
- Sacred Heart University 66%
- Luther Rice College & Seminary 68%
- Concordia University Irvine 69%
- Immaculata University 70%
- Concordia University Wisconsin 70%
- Shasta Bible College and Graduate School 3 to 1
- Ohio Christian University 8 to 1
- Baptist College of Florida 8 to 1
- Holy Apostles College and Seminary 8 to 1
- Union College 9 to 1
- Immaculata University 10 to 1
- Luther Rice College & Seminary 10 to 1
- Creighton University 11 to 1
- Our Lady of the Lake University 11 to 1
- St. Bonaventure University 11 to 1
- Amberton University $8,550
- Amridge University $9,000
- Holy Apostles College and Seminary $9,440
- Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary $9,480
- Luther Rice College & Seminary $9,808
- Southern Baptist Theological Seminary $12,000
- Baptist College of Florida $12,450
- Shasta Bible College and Graduate School $14,460
- Colorado Christian University $17,476
- Southwestern Assemblies of God University $17,782
- Baptist College of Florida $4,620
- Luther Rice College & Seminary $5,976
- Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary $6,520
- Amberton University $6,840
- Holy Apostles College and Seminary $7,020
- Shasta Bible College and Graduate School $7,650
- Concordia University Nebraska $7,650
- Liberty University $7,893
- Southwestern Assemblies of God University $8,280
- Truett McConnell University $8,460
Featured Programs
Frequently Asked Questions About Christian Counseling Degrees
With a master’s in Christian counseling, graduates can pursue their counseling careers in a variety of sectors.
Back to TopCredit requirements for this degree vary by program, from 36-70 credits, and can take between two to four years to complete. Most students will have the option to take classes either online or on campus.
Back to TopAlong with courses such as Helping Relationships, Career and Lifestyle Development, and Crisis and Trauma Counseling, many programs require students to complete a supervised clinical practicum and internship or thesis. These elements allow students to put their education into practice while strengthening their faith. Additionally, specializations, like leadership, pastoral counseling, or marriage and family may also be available.
Back to TopUpon graduation, students can work as counselors for organizations like pregnancy centers, churches, group homes, and behavioral healthcare centers.
Back to TopLearn more about what you can do with a master’s degree in psychology.
Best Online Master’s in Christian Counseling Degree Programs
- #5 The Best Catholic Colleges and Universities Ranked for 2024 #11 Best Online Christian Colleges and Universities for Doctoral Degrees 2025 #1 Best Christian Colleges in Nebraska 2025 #1 Best Private Colleges in Nebraska 2025
Tuition + fees
$46K
Acceptance
76%
Graduation
78%
Student body
10K
Median SAT/ACT
1313/29
Career Outlook for Counseling degree at Creighton University
Cost of Degree: $19,676Expenses: $16,790Starting Salary: $70,244Salary after 4 years: $75,874Cost Recoup Time: 6 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryOnline Degrees
MS in School Counseling Mental Health
- Required Credits: 36-69
- Completion time: None Reported
- Format: Online
- #2 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024 #8 Best Online Master’s in Biblical Studies 2025
Tuition + fees
$12K
Acceptance
87%
Graduation
43%
Student body
6K
Median SAT/ACT
1085/22
Online Degrees
MDiv in Divinity
Concentrations
- Christian Ministry
- Great Commission Studies
- Biblical Counseling
- Required Credits: 88
- Completion time: None Reported
- Format: Online
- #2 Best Christian Colleges in Colorado 2025 #7 Best Private Colleges in Colorado 2025 #1 Best Online Bachelor's in Cybersecurity in Colorado #2 Best Online Associate in Psychology
Tuition + fees
$18K
Graduation
61%
Student body
16K
Career Outlook for Counseling degree at Colorado Christian University
Cost of Degree: $16,733Expenses: $14,976Starting Salary: $44,692Salary after 4 years: $48,273Cost Recoup Time: 8 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryOnline Degrees
MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Concentrations
- Marriage and Family Therapy
- Substance Use Disorders
- Required Credits: 68
- Completion time: 4 years
- Format: Online
- #6 15 Best Self-Paced Online Colleges Ranked for 2025 #9 Top 20 Best Military Friendly Online Colleges Ranked for 2025 #10 Best Online Christian Colleges and Universities for Doctoral Degrees 2025 #11 Top 15 Best Online Colleges for Transfer Students in 2025
Tuition + fees
$23K
Acceptance
99%
Graduation
66%
Student body
131K
Career Outlook for Counseling degree at Liberty University
Cost of Degree: $8,340Expenses: $21,458Starting Salary: $41,485Salary after 4 years: $44,810Cost Recoup Time: 8 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryOnline Degrees
MA in Pastoral Counseling
- Required Credits: 36
- Completion time: 1.5 years
- Format: Online
MA in Addiction Counseling
- Required Credits: 48
- Completion time: 2 years
- Format: Online
MEd in Education – School Counseling
- Required Credits: 48
- Completion time: 2.5 years
- Format: Online
MA in Human Service Counseling
- Required Credits: 30
- Completion time: 1.5 years
- Format: Online
MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
- Required Credits: 60
- Completion time: 2 years
- Format: Online
- #21 Best CCCU Colleges and Universities 2024 #10 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Social Work Degrees #24 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Nursing Degrees #6 Best Online Associate in Biblical Studies
Tuition + fees
$28K
Acceptance
100%
Graduation
40%
Student body
2K
Online Degrees
MA in Mental Health Counseling
- Required Credits: 63
- Completion time: 3.5-4.5 years
- Format: Online
- #9 Best CCCU Colleges and Universities 2024 #15 Best Online Christian Colleges and Universities for Doctoral Degrees 2025 #2 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Oklahoma 2024 #3 Best Private Colleges in Oklahoma 2024
Tuition + fees
$33K
Acceptance
78%
Graduation
63%
Student body
6K
Median SAT/ACT
1115/22
Career Outlook for Counseling degree at Oral Roberts University
Cost of Degree: $13,102Expenses: $15,820Starting Salary: $43,189Salary after 4 years: $46,650Cost Recoup Time: 7 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryOnline Degrees
MA in Professional Counseling
- Required Credits: None Reported
- Completion time: None Reported
- Format: Online
- #3 Best Online Associate Degrees in Alabama 2024 #3 Best Online Associate in Web Design #4 Best Online Colleges in Alabama 2024 #12 Most Affordable Online Associate Degree Programs Ranked for 2025
Tuition + fees
$10K
Graduation
50%
Student body
<1K
Career Outlook for Counseling degree at Amridge University
Cost of Degree: $13,090Starting Salary: $47,698Salary after 4 years: $51,520Online Degrees
MA in Professional Counseling
- Required Credits: 60
- Completion time: None Reported
- Format: Online
MDiv with Professional Counseling
- Required Credits: 96
- Completion time: None Reported
- Format: Online
- #22 Best Online Christian Colleges and Universities for Doctoral Degrees 2025 #24 Best CCCU Colleges and Universities 2024 #1 Best Online Bachelor's in Kinesiology Degree Programs for 2025 #2 Best Online Bachelor's in Cybersecurity in California 2025
Tuition + fees
$38K
Acceptance
80%
Graduation
63%
Student body
14K
Career Outlook for Counseling degree at California Baptist University
Cost of Degree: $14,914Expenses: $16,178Starting Salary: $47,598Salary after 4 years: $51,412Cost Recoup Time: 7 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryOnline Degrees
MS in Counseling Psychology
- Required Credits: 62
- Completion time: 3.5-4.5 years
- Format: Online
- #11 Best Online Bachelor's in Music Degree Programs Ranked for 2025 #18 Best Online Associate Degrees in Florida 2025 #25 Best Online Bachelor’s in Biblical Studies
Tuition + fees
$12K
Acceptance
89%
Graduation
59%
Student body
<1K
Median SAT/ACT
1065/20
Career Outlook for Counseling degree at Baptist College of Florida
Cost of Degree: $5,520Expenses: $10,270Starting Salary: $36,274Salary after 4 years: $39,182Cost Recoup Time: 5 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryOnline Degrees
MA in Counseling
- Required Credits: 30
- Completion time: None Reported
- Format: Online
- #9 Best Grad Schools in Kentucky 2025 #10 Best Christian Colleges in Kentucky 2024 #14 Best Online MBA Programs in Kentucky #15 Best Online Bachelor’s of Counseling Degree Programs for 2025
Tuition + fees
$26K
Graduation
37%
Student body
3K
Career Outlook for Counseling degree at Lindsey Wilson College
Cost of Degree: $9,809Expenses: $16,221Starting Salary: $31,364Salary after 4 years: $33,878Cost Recoup Time: 8 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryOnline Degrees
MEd in Counseling and Human Development
- Required Credits: None Reported
- Completion time: None Reported
- Format: Online
- #10 Best Grad Schools in South Carolina 2025 #1 Best Online Associate Degrees in South Carolina 2025 #7 Best Online MBA Programs in South Carolina #11 Best Online MBA Programs in South Carolina
Tuition + fees
$28K
Acceptance
51%
Graduation
60%
Student body
1K
Median SAT/ACT
1086/21
Career Outlook for Counseling degree at Southern Wesleyan University
Cost of Degree: $13,746Expenses: $14,039Starting Salary: $46,295Salary after 4 years: $50,005Cost Recoup Time: 7 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryOnline Degrees
MS in Counseling Psychology
- Required Credits: 60
- Completion time: 24-30 months
- Format: Online
- #2 Best Christian Colleges in Rhode Island 2024 #4 Best Small Colleges in Rhode Island 2025 #4 Best Grad Schools in Rhode Island 2024 #5 Best Private Colleges in Rhode Island 2025
Tuition + fees
$46K
Acceptance
70%
Graduation
76%
Student body
3K
Median SAT/ACT
1205/27
Career Outlook for Counseling degree at Salve Regina University
Cost of Degree: $12,795Expenses: $22,986Starting Salary: $57,819Salary after 4 years: $62,452Cost Recoup Time: 7 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryOnline Degrees
MA in Rehabilitation Counseling
- Required Credits: 48
- Completion time: 2 years
- Format: Online
MA in Clinical Rehabilitation and Mental Health Counseling
- Required Credits: 60
- Completion time: 2.5 years
- Format: Online
- #2 Best Christian Colleges in Connecticut 2024 #6 Best Research Universities in Connecticut 2024 #10 Best Private Colleges in Connecticut 2024 #5 Best Online Colleges in Connecticut 2024
Tuition + fees
$47K
Acceptance
66%
Graduation
73%
Student body
11K
Career Outlook for Counseling degree at Sacred Heart University
Cost of Degree: $34,060Expenses: $22,300Starting Salary: $61,927Salary after 4 years: $66,890Cost Recoup Time: 9 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryOnline Degrees
MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
- Required Credits: 60
- Completion time: 2 years
- Format: Online
- #9 Best Online Christian Colleges and Universities for Doctoral Degrees 2025 #1 Best Small Colleges in South Carolina 2025 #1 Best Christian Colleges in South Carolina 2025 #2 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024
Tuition + fees
$22K
Graduation
69%
Student body
4K
Online Degrees
MA in Biblical Counseling
- Required Credits: 33-41
- Completion time: 1-1.5 years
- Format: Online
MDiv in Divinity
Concentrations
- Advanced Track
- Bible Translation and Linguistics
- Biblical Counseling
- Biblical Languages
- Church Planting and Urban Ministry
- Church Worship
- Global Missions
- Military Chaplaincy
- Preaching and Pastoral Ministry
- Required Credits: 72-87
- Completion time: 2-3 years
- Format: Online
- #9 Best Private Colleges in Iowa 2024 #5 Best Online Master's Programs in Iowa 2024 #9 Best Online Colleges in Iowa 2024
Tuition + fees
$32K
Acceptance
98%
Graduation
52%
Student body
2K
Career Outlook for Counseling degree at Grand View University
Cost of Degree: $9,278Expenses: $18,426Starting Salary: $45,293Salary after 4 years: $48,923Cost Recoup Time: 7 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryOnline Degrees
MS in Mental Health Counseling
- Required Credits: 60
- Completion time: None Reported
- Format: Online
Tuition + fees
$26K
Acceptance
82%
Graduation
49%
Student body
2K
Median SAT/ACT
1065/21
Career Outlook for Counseling degree at Lubbock Christian University
Cost of Degree: $11,621Expenses: $15,686Starting Salary: $50,604Salary after 4 years: $54,659Cost Recoup Time: 6 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryOnline Degrees
MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
- Required Credits: 36
- Completion time: 2-3 years
- Format: Online
- #16 Best CCCU Colleges and Universities 2024 #4 Best Christian Colleges in Alabama 2025 #5 Best Private Colleges in Alabama 2025 #6 Best Small Colleges in Alabama 2025
Tuition + fees
$24K
Acceptance
82%
Graduation
33%
Student body
4K
Median SAT/ACT
1040/20
Career Outlook for Counseling degree at Faulkner University
Cost of Degree: $16,025Expenses: $14,420Starting Salary: $40,784Salary after 4 years: $44,052Cost Recoup Time: 8 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryOnline Degrees
MEd in School Counseling
- Required Credits: 36
- Completion time: None Reported
- Format: Online
- #10 Best Online Associate Degrees in Ohio 2025 #10 Best Online MBA Programs in Ohio #11 Best Online Colleges in Ohio 2024 #13 Best Online Master's Programs in Ohio 2024
Tuition + fees
$23K
Graduation
32%
Student body
2K
Career Outlook for Counseling degree at Ohio Christian University
Cost of Degree: $11,828Expenses: $13,162Starting Salary: $33,068Salary after 4 years: $35,718Cost Recoup Time: 8 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryOnline Degrees
MA in Ministry
Concentrations
- Pastoral Care and Counseling
- Required Credits: 36
- Completion time: None Reported
- Format: Online
- #10 Best Online MBA Programs in Missouri #10 Best Online Associate Degrees in Missouri 2024 #11 Best Online Bachelor's of Cybersecurity Degree Programs in Missouri #21 Best Online Colleges in Missouri 2024
Tuition + fees
$33K
Acceptance
71%
Graduation
41%
Student body
6K
Median SAT/ACT
1130/23
Career Outlook for Counseling degree at Missouri Baptist University
Cost of Degree: $11,538Expenses: $18,898Starting Salary: $39,281Salary after 4 years: $42,429Cost Recoup Time: 8 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryOnline Degrees
MA in School Counseling
- Required Credits: 36
- Completion time: None Reported
- Format: Online
- #11 Best Online Associate Degrees in Missouri 2024 #12 Best Online Associate in Biblical Studies #20 Best Online Colleges in Missouri 2024 #22 Best Online Master’s in Biblical Studies 2025
Tuition + fees
$9K
Acceptance
93%
Graduation
41%
Student body
5K
Online Degrees
MA in Biblical Counseling
- Required Credits: 60
- Completion time: None Reported
- Format: Online
MDiv in Divinity
Concentrations
- Biblical Counseling
- Biblical Languages
- Preaching and Pastoral Ministry
- Christian Education
- Church Planting
- Leadership
- Christian Ministry
- Required Credits: 90
- Completion time: None Reported
- Format: Online
- #19 Best CCCU Colleges and Universities 2024 #21 Best Online Christian Colleges and Universities for Doctoral Degrees 2025 #7 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Texas 2024 #24 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Religious Studies Degrees 2025
Tuition + fees
$37K
Acceptance
84%
Graduation
49%
Student body
5K
Median SAT/ACT
1145/24
Career Outlook for Counseling degree at Houston Christian University
Cost of Degree: $11,475Expenses: $17,018Starting Salary: $52,408Salary after 4 years: $56,608Cost Recoup Time: 6 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryOnline Degrees
MA in Human Services Counseling
Concentrations
- Human Sexuality
- Marriage and Family
- Professional Life Coaching
- Required Credits: 30
- Completion time: 2-3 years
- Format: Online
MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
- Required Credits: 60
- Completion time: 3.5-4.5 years
- Format: Online
- #9 Best Christian Colleges in Kentucky 2024 #12 Best Online MBA Programs in Kentucky #18 Best Online Bachelor’s of Counseling Degree Programs for 2025
Tuition + fees
$31K
Acceptance
53%
Graduation
33%
Student body
1K
Career Outlook for Counseling degree at Union College, Kentucky
Cost of Degree: $8,930Expenses: $13,861Starting Salary: $36,475Salary after 4 years: $39,398Cost Recoup Time: 7 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryOnline Degrees
MS in Substance Abuse Counseling
- Required Credits: 30
- Completion time: None Reported
- Format: Online
- #4 How To Get an Online Master’s Degree in Biblical Studies #8 Best Online Master’s in Executive MBA #10 Top 10 Best Online Bachelor's of Web Design Degree Programs 2025 #16 Best Online Associate Degrees in Florida 2025
Tuition + fees
$30K
Acceptance
61%
Graduation
43%
Student body
11K
Career Outlook for Counseling degree at Southeastern University
Cost of Degree: $12,350Expenses: $20,420Starting Salary: $37,978Salary after 4 years: $41,022Cost Recoup Time: 9 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryOnline Degrees
MS in Pastoral Care and Counseling
- Required Credits: 36
- Completion time: None Reported
- Format: Online
- #15 Most Affordable Online Colleges Ranked for Students 2024 #10 Best Online Bachelor's in Religious Studies Degree Programs for 2024 #11 Most Affordable Online Bachelor's Degree Programs Ranked for 2025 #13 Best Online Bachelor's in Human Development Degree Programs for 2024
Tuition + fees
$9K
Student body
2K
Online Degrees
MA in Professional Development
Concentrations
- Counseling
- Required Credits: 36
- Completion time: 2-3 years
- Format: Online
MS in Family Studies Christian Counseling
- Required Credits: 36
- Completion time: 2-3 years
- Format: Online
- #9 Best Small Colleges in Texas 2025 #3 Best Online Associate Degrees in Texas 2024 #4 Best Online Associate in Biblical Studies #6 Best Online Associate in Christian Ministry
Tuition + fees
$35K
Acceptance
91%
Graduation
57%
Student body
5K
Median SAT/ACT
1085/22
Career Outlook for Counseling degree at Dallas Baptist University
Cost of Degree: $24,508Expenses: $14,730Starting Salary: $49,301Salary after 4 years: $53,252Cost Recoup Time: 8 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryOnline Degrees
MA in Professional Development
Concentrations
- Counseling
- Required Credits: 36
- Completion time: 2-3 years
- Format: Online
- #25 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Religious Studies Degrees 2025 #4 Best Online Associate in English 2025 #4 Best Online Bachelor's in Religious Studies Degree Programs for 2024 #5 Best Online Associate in Biblical Studies
Tuition + fees
$18K
Acceptance
86%
Graduation
42%
Student body
2K
Median SAT/ACT
1018/19
Career Outlook for Counseling degree at Southwestern Assemblies of God University
Cost of Degree: $9,360Expenses: $16,650Starting Salary: $38,780Salary after 4 years: $41,887Cost Recoup Time: 7 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryOnline Degrees
MA in School Counseling
- Required Credits: 48
- Completion time: 2.5-3.5 years
- Format: Online
MDiv in Divinity
Concentrations
- Counseling
- Required Credits: 72
- Completion time: 4-5 years
- Format: Online
MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
- Required Credits: 60
- Completion time: 3.5-4.5 years
- Format: Online
MS in Human Services Counseling Non-Clinical
- Required Credits: 30
- Completion time: 2-3 years
- Format: Online
- #3 Best Christian Colleges in Wisconsin 2025 #4 Best Research Universities in Wisconsin 2025 #4 Best Grad Schools in Wisconsin 2025 #5 Best Small Colleges in Wisconsin 2025
Tuition + fees
$33K
Acceptance
70%
Graduation
66%
Student body
6K
Career Outlook for Counseling degree at Concordia University Wisconsin
Cost of Degree: $13,170Expenses: $20,000Starting Salary: $47,397Salary after 4 years: $51,196Cost Recoup Time: 7 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryOnline Degrees
MS in Education
Concentrations
- School and Professional Counseling
- Required Credits: 45-60
- Completion time: None Reported
- Format: Online
- #13 Best Online Master's in Theology 2025 #22 Best Online Master's in Healthcare Administration 2025 #25 Best Online Master’s in Educational Administration
Tuition + fees
$40K
Acceptance
69%
Graduation
63%
Student body
5K
Career Outlook for Counseling degree at Concordia University Irvine
Cost of Degree: $8,730Expenses: $18,300Starting Salary: $50,904Salary after 4 years: $54,984Cost Recoup Time: 6 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryOnline Degrees
MA in Counseling
- Required Credits: 60
- Completion time: 3.5-4.5 years
- Format: Online
MA in School Counseling
- Required Credits: 48
- Completion time: 2.5-3.5 years
- Format: Online
- #19 The Best Catholic Colleges and Universities Ranked for 2024 #7 Top 7 Best Online Social Work PhDs (DSW Programs) 2024 #14 Top 15 Most Affordable Online Social Work PhDs (Doctorates) #16 Best Online MBA Programs in Texas
Tuition + fees
$31K
Graduation
38%
Student body
3K
Career Outlook for Counseling degree at Our Lady of the Lake University
Cost of Degree: $18,498Starting Salary: $42,587Salary after 4 years: $46,000Online Degrees
MA in Counseling
- Required Credits: 48
- Completion time: 2.5-3.5 years
- Format: Online
- #6 Best Online Bachelor's in Cybersecurity in Texas 2025 #7 Best Online Associate Degrees in Texas 2024 #8 Best Online Associate in Cybersecurity #10 Best Online Bachelor’s in Biblical Studies
Tuition + fees
$34K
Acceptance
49%
Graduation
67%
Student body
4K
Median SAT/ACT
1250/24
Career Outlook for Counseling degree at LeTourneau University
Cost of Degree: $16,875Expenses: $16,758Starting Salary: $56,917Salary after 4 years: $61,478Cost Recoup Time: 7 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryOnline Degrees
MA in School Counseling
- Required Credits: 66
- Completion time: 3.5-4.5 years
- Format: Online
MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
- Required Credits: 66
- Completion time: 3.5-4.5 years
- Format: Online
- #3 Best Online Associate Degrees in North Carolina 2025 #7 Most Affordable Early Childhood Education Bachelor's (Online, On-Campus) 2025 #10 Best Online Bachelor’s in Agribusiness and Agriculture Degree Programs #11 Best Online MBA Programs in North Carolina
Tuition + fees
$24K
Acceptance
75%
Graduation
49%
Student body
3K
Career Outlook for Counseling degree at University of Mount Olive
Cost of Degree: $18,700Expenses: $14,562Starting Salary: $43,790Salary after 4 years: $47,299Cost Recoup Time: 8 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryOnline Degrees
MSC in Counseling
Concentrations
- Clinical Mental Health
- Required Credits: 60
- Completion time: None Reported
- Format: Online
- #14 Best Online MBA Programs in Tennessee #17 Most Affordable Online Applied Behavioral Analysis PhD Programs #22 Best Online Master's Programs in Tennessee 2024
Tuition + fees
$24K
Acceptance
91%
Graduation
70%
Student body
2K
Median SAT/ACT
1140/22
Career Outlook for Counseling degree at Freed–Hardeman University
Cost of Degree: $11,700Expenses: $13,590Starting Salary: $41,184Salary after 4 years: $44,485Cost Recoup Time: 7 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryOnline Degrees
MS in Education
Concentrations
- School Counseling
- Required Credits: 61
- Completion time: 24 months
- Format: Online
- #8 Best Online Bachelor's in Religious Studies Degree Programs for 2024 #15 Best Online Associate Degrees in Texas 2024
Tuition + fees
$24K
Acceptance
54%
Graduation
47%
Student body
1K
Median SAT/ACT
1040/20
Career Outlook for Counseling degree at Southwestern Adventist University
Cost of Degree: $24,588Expenses: $13,232Starting Salary: $47,197Salary after 4 years: $50,979Cost Recoup Time: 8 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryOnline Degrees
MS in School Counseling
- Required Credits: 48
- Completion time: 2.5-3.5 years
- Format: Online
MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
- Required Credits: 60
- Completion time: 3.5-4.5 years
- Format: Online
- #18 Fastest Online Master's Degrees Ranked for Students in 2025 #18 Fastest Online Doctoral Degree Programs Ranked for Students in 2025 #18 Best Online Colleges in Pennsylvania 2024
Tuition + fees
$39K
Acceptance
79%
Graduation
78%
Student body
4K
Median SAT/ACT
1215/27
Career Outlook for Counseling degree at Messiah University
Cost of Degree: $13,590Expenses: $16,130Starting Salary: $50,604Salary after 4 years: $54,659Cost Recoup Time: 7 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryOnline Degrees
MA in Healthcare Leadership
Concentrations
- Clinical Mental Health Counseling
- Marriage
- Couple and Family Counseling Concentrations
- Required Credits: 30
- Completion time: 1-2 years
- Format: Online
- #12 Best Online Master's Programs in Iowa 2024 #22 Best Online Master's in Behavior Analysis Degree Programs
Tuition + fees
$39K
Acceptance
77%
Graduation
58%
Student body
3K
Median SAT/ACT
1030/22
Career Outlook for Counseling degree at Buena Vista University
Cost of Degree: $10,170Expenses: $14,589Starting Salary: $42,688Salary after 4 years: $46,109Cost Recoup Time: 7 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryOnline Degrees
MS in Education in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Concentrations
- Addictions Counseling
- Play Therapy
- Trauma-Informed Counseling
- Required Credits: 60
- Completion time: 2 years
- Format: Online
MS in Education in Professional School Counseling
- Required Credits: 48
- Completion time: None Reported
- Format: Online
- #6 Best Christian Colleges in Nebraska 2025 #8 Best Private Colleges in Nebraska 2025 #9 Best Small Colleges in Nebraska 2025 #7 Best Online MBA Programs in Nebraska
Tuition + fees
$38K
Acceptance
91%
Graduation
59%
Student body
4K
Median SAT/ACT
1125/22
Career Outlook for Counseling degree at Concordia University Nebraska
Cost of Degree: $7,650Expenses: $14,120Starting Salary: $44,191Salary after 4 years: $47,732Cost Recoup Time: 6 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryOnline Degrees
MA in School Counseling
- Required Credits: 50
- Completion time: None Reported
- Format: Online
- #3 Best Online Associate Degrees in Connecticut 2025 #9 Best Online Colleges in Connecticut 2024 #11 Best Online Bachelor's in Philosophy Degree Programs Ranked for 2024 #13 Best Online Master's Programs in Connecticut 2024
Tuition + fees
$9K
Student body
1K
Online Degrees
MA in Pastoral Studies
Concentrations
- Pastoral Counseling
- Required Credits: 36
- Completion time: None Reported
- Format: Online
- #4 Best Christian Colleges in Kentucky 2024 #7 Best Grad Schools in Kentucky 2025 #10 Best Private Colleges in Kentucky 2025 #5 Best Online Associate Degrees in Kentucky 2024
Tuition + fees
$26K
Graduation
41%
Student body
17K
Career Outlook for Counseling degree at Campbellsville University
Cost of Degree: $9,920Expenses: $15,742Starting Salary: $35,473Salary after 4 years: $38,316Cost Recoup Time: 8 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryOnline Degrees
MA in Education
Concentrations
- School Guidance Counseling P-12
- Required Credits: 48
- Completion time: 18 months
- Format: Online
Tuition + fees
$24K
Acceptance
81%
Graduation
46%
Student body
3K
Median SAT/ACT
1095/20
Career Outlook for Counseling degree at Truett McConnell University
Cost of Degree: $9,532Expenses: $14,420Starting Salary: $37,176Salary after 4 years: $40,156Cost Recoup Time: 7 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryOnline Degrees
MA in Medical
Concentrations
- Professional Counseling
- Required Credits: 63
- Completion time: 24 months
- Format: Online
- #13 Best Online Colleges in Georgia 2024 #19 Most Affordable Online Master's Degree Programs Ranked for Students #23 Best Online Master's in Theology 2025 #24 Best Online Master’s in Biblical Studies 2025
Tuition + fees
$10K
Acceptance
68%
Student body
<1K
Career Outlook for Counseling degree at Luther Rice College & Seminary
Cost of Degree: $7,332Starting Salary: $45,493Salary after 4 years: $49,139Online Degrees
MA in Theology
Concentrations
- Biblical Counseling
- Required Credits: 36
- Completion time: 18-24 months
- Format: Online
Tuition + fees
$14K
Acceptance
100%
Graduation
50%
Student body
<1K
Online Degrees
MDiv in Divinity
Concentrations
- Biblical Counseling and Christian Family
- Required Credits: 96
- Completion time: 4-5 years
- Format: Online
Online Degree Frequently Asked Questions
If this is your first time taking an online course, the experience may require some adjustment. While you’ll generally learn the same content and take the same exams as your on-campus peers, the medium will likely require you to manage much of this experience independently. You’ll be accountable for your own time management, your ability to harness the technology at your fingertips, and your ability to focus on the lectures, lessons, and assignments at hand. This means you’ll need to create a suitable workspace for yourself, maintain a realistic schedule, and take it upon yourself to build relationships with your instructors and classmates. With online college, your goal is to find a balance between independence and engagement.
No. The only part of online education that’s easier is actually getting there. Taking the commute out of the equation means getting to class should be a lot more manageable. But that’s where it ends. In general, your online courses will incorporate the very same materials, concepts, and testing methods as would a traditional classroom.
And in many cases, you’ll even have the same instructors as your on-campus counterparts. In fact, if you are adjusting to the experience of independent learning or working with remote learning technology for the first time, online college may even be a little more challenging for you. For a few insights on how to manage this new experience, check out our 10 Tips for Adjusting to School Online.
Accreditation is especially important when it comes to online college. This is because the online education landscape is a mix of highly-reputable institutions and less-than-reputable for-profit schools. Accreditation gives you the power to differentiate between the two. Accreditation is a stamp of approval from an independent accrediting agency which indicates that a college or university is meeting standards of quality, credibility, and currency. School-wide accreditation falls into two major categories: regional and national accreditation. Regional accreditors generally hold jurisdiction only over schools in the states comprising their region, whereas national accreditors hold jurisdiction over schools in all states. Regional accreditation is widely regarded as a more rigorous standard of quality and credibility than national accreditation.
Attending a college or university which is not regionally accredited could limit your opportunities. When seeking an online education, we strongly recommend that students opt for regionally accredited schools. Regional accreditation ensures eligibility for federal loans and grants, ensures your college credits can be transferred between schools, and ensures that your degree credits can be accepted if you wish to earn an advanced degree.
As long as your online college degree is regionally accredited, you should have little difficulty transferring most of your credits or credentials to another regionally accredited undergraduate school. Every school carries its own standards and procedures for granting a transfer. In many cases, you will be required to navigate a bureaucracy in which some of your credits will be transferred and others will be jettisoned. However, provided that you have attended an online school with the proper regional accreditation, you should have plenty of options for transfer.
In most cases, as long you graduate from a well-regarded, regionally-accredited online college, prospective employers won’t look sideways at your degree. In fact, unless you attend an exclusively online college or university, there will likely be no specific indicator on your degree, transcript or resume differentiating your school from its brick-and-mortar counterpart. This means that your employer will likely only differentiate between an online and in-person degree if you mention this distinction.
While some employers may express concern about making the adjustment from online education to in-person workplace collaboration, many other employers will view your online degree as evidence of valuable 21st Century professional skills such as independence, self-motivation, time management, and tech savvy.
If you are a student who thrives on the dynamic energy of in-person discussion, who requires the physical surroundings of a classroom to feel engaged, or who considers the social aspects of education to be of equal importance to the actual content of your courses, online education will require some adjustment.
While there is much that can be supplanted or simulated through the online medium, some students may find that there is nothing which can replace the conversation, collaboration, and motivation that occur in an actual classroom setting. As you make the adjustment to online education, one of the biggest challenges you will likely face is overcoming this difference in order to the get the most out of your classes. Fortunately, we’ve got some great Tips for Online Education Beginners.
The advantages of online classes are many. First and foremost, online courses give you the freedom and flexibility to attend class from anywhere that works for you, whether you’re at home, in a coffee shop, or in a quiet conference room at work. In many cases, you’ll also enjoy the convenience of asynchronous learning opportunities-educational experiences that you can complete on your own schedule. This may include pre-taped lectures, ongoing chat-board discussions, and 24/7 access to digital materials. And of course, just as there are some learners who prefer the energy of a live classroom, there are those who learn best when working in their own personal space, free from distractions. If this sounds like you, you might find the solitude of online learning to be a major advantage.
Resources for Prospective Grad Students
Whether you’re just getting started on your college search, you’re looking for survival tips on your way to a bachelor’s degree, or you’re preparing for the transition into grad school, we’ve got guides, how to’s and tons of other valuable resources to keep you moving forward in your educational journey.
Online Counseling from Christian College
Immaculata University
Career Outlook for Counseling degree at Immaculata University
Online Degrees
MS in Nutrition Education and Counseling
Concentrations
- Tracks: Nutrition Education and Counseling
- Clinical Nutrition
- Required Credits: 63
- Completion time: None Reported
- Format: Online