Best Online Master’s in Counseling

Q: What can I expect from an online college course?

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.

Q: Is online college easier?

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.

Q: Why does accreditation matter in online college?

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.

Q: Will I be able to transfer my online college 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.

Q: Will employers respect my online degree?

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.

Badge for BEST ONLINE MASTER'S IN COUNSELING

By Dr. James Barham

Published: Jun 22, 2021
Updated: Nov 22, 2023

Find top-ranked online master’s in counseling degree programs to help students prepare for careers as hospital mental health program directors, marriage and family therapists, private practice counselors, or licensed school counselors.

Top 10 Online Master's in Counseling Degree Programs

Florida State University
University of Alabama
University at Buffalo
University of Nebraska Omaha
University of Kentucky
San Diego State University
Virginia Commonwealth University
North Carolina State University
Wake Forest University
Naropa University

Florida State University
University at Buffalo
University of Alabama
University of Kentucky
North Carolina State University
Wake Forest University
San Diego State University
Virginia Commonwealth University
University of North Texas
Winston-Salem State University

Naropa University 100%
Alliance University 100%
Liberty University 99%
Plymouth State University 98%
Prescott College 98%
Marshall University 97%
Southern New Hampshire University 96%
University of Kentucky 95%
West Texas A&M University 92%
University of New Haven 91%

San Diego State University 25 to 1
University of North Texas 23 to 1
Southern New Hampshire University 22 to 1
Regent University 21 to 1
Fort Valley State University 20 to 1
Lamar University 20 to 1
University of New Haven 19 to 1
University of Alabama 19 to 1
California Baptist University 18 to 1
Liberty University 18 to 1

Wake Forest University $62,128
Salve Regina University $46,000
University of New Haven $44,184
St. Bonaventure University $38,770
California Baptist University $38,058
Bradley University $37,800
Nova Southeastern University $36,300
Prescott College $35,450
Naropa University $34,600
Medaille University $34,000

Adler University $41,930
Wake Forest University $38,650
William James College $35,850
Medaille University $23,031
Nova Southeastern University $22,062
Golden Gate University $19,620
Naropa University $19,578
Southern New Hampshire University $18,900
University of New Haven $18,360
Bradley University $17,820

West Texas A&M University
Salve Regina University
Southern Wesleyan University
University of New Haven
Medaille University
Asbury Theological Seminary
Golden Gate University
Montana State University Billings
Hodges University
St. Bonaventure University

Baptist College of Florida
Medaille University
Lindsey Wilson College
Amridge University
Alliance University
Hodges University
Southern Wesleyan University
William James College
Colorado Christian University
Montana State University Billings

Wake Forest University 21%
Florida State University 25%
Regent University 32%
San Diego State University 39%
Fort Valley State University 43%
Truman State University 45%
North Carolina State University 47%
Southern Wesleyan University 51%
Webster University 55%
University at Buffalo 68%

Adler University 1 to 1
William James College 5 to 1
Union Institute & University 6 to 1
Baptist College of Florida 8 to 1
Naropa University 9 to 1
Prescott College 9 to 1
Wake Forest University 10 to 1
Hodges University 10 to 1
Immaculata University 10 to 1
St. Bonaventure University 11 to 1

Winston-Salem State University $3,401
Fort Valley State University $4,064
Montana State University Billings $4,620
Florida State University $4,640
San Diego State University $5,742
Lamar University $6,228
University of Nebraska at Kearney $6,270
University of Nebraska Omaha $6,344
West Texas A&M University $6,372
North Carolina State University $6,535

Winston-Salem State University $3,872
Fort Valley State University $4,344
Baptist College of Florida $4,620
West Texas A&M University $5,088
University of Nebraska Omaha $6,138
Montana State University Billings $6,172
University of Nebraska at Kearney $6,216
University of North Texas $6,350
Lamar University $6,471
San Diego State University $7,176

Featured Programs

Frequently Asked Questions About Counseling Degrees

Why get a master’s in counseling?

After earning a counseling-related undergraduate degree, most students continue on to earn a master’s degree in counseling either online or on campus.

What areas of expertise are there?

Students will likely choose a focused path in areas such as substance abuse counseling, school counseling, mental health counseling, marriage and family therapy, or pastoral counseling. Depending on the chosen track, students can expect to explore areas such as abnormal psychology, mental health disorders, counseling techniques, and developmental psychology.

What are the credentials for getting a master’s in counseling?

A master’s in counseling program is typically 60 credits, and students must also complete comprehensive exams.

What can I do with a master’s in counseling?

Graduates can then go on to earn licensure and gain employment as hospital mental health program directors, marriage and family therapists, private practice counselors, or licensed school counselors.

How do we determine the best online counseling master's degree programs?

Methodology

Pursuing your degree online doesn’t mean you need to settle for an inferior school. Today, most universities and colleges offer online degrees, and many respected schools are seeing significant growth in their numbers of online students.

The people affiliated with a school are ultimately what make it great. This is why influence — i.e., the academic impact of faculty and alumni associated with a school — gets at the heart of what is truly best in education. The combined influence score of a college or university’s top academic influencers is the best indicator of academic excellence. For our online degree rankings, we focus on the academic influence of faculty and alumni in the specific disciplines we’re ranking.

If you are serious about finding the best online colleges, you should be asking where the most influential professors are teaching, and whether their graduates themselves are advancing the school’s reputation for academic excellence. Most ranking sites rely on an opaque combination of reputation surveys and arbitrary performance metrics. Influence, as measured by our InfluenceRanking engine, provides a ranking that is free from bias, insulated from manipulation, and reflective of real-world educational outcomes.

50 Best Online Master’s in Counseling Degree Programs

#1
Florida State University
Tallahassee , FL
#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
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: $11,553
Expenses: $20,296
Starting Salary: $62,392
Salary after 4 years: $66,384
Cost Recoup Time: 6 years
Paid back at 15% of annual salary
Online Degrees
MS in Counseling and Human Systems

Required Credits: 60
Completion time: None Reported
Format: Online
Compare school
#2
University of Alabama
Tuscaloosa , AL
#13 15 Best Online Colleges for Veterans to Start Their Careers #1 Best Grad Schools in Alabama 2024 #1 Alabama's Best Colleges and Universities Ranked for Undergrads in 2024 #1 Most Affordable Colleges in Alabama 2024
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$12K
Acceptance
80%
Graduation
73%
Student body
42K
Median SAT/ACT
1270/27
Career Outlook for Counseling degree at University of Alabama
Cost of Degree: $11,740
Expenses: $21,482
Starting Salary: $59,730
Salary after 4 years: $63,551
Cost Recoup Time: 6 years
Paid back at 15% of annual salary
Online Degrees
MA in Rehabilitation Counseling

Required Credits: 60
Completion time: None Reported
Format: Online
Compare school
#3
University at Buffalo
Buffalo , NY
#3 Best Public Colleges in New York 2024 #5 Most Affordable Colleges in New York 2025 #10 Best Colleges in New York 2024 #5 10 Best Online Master's of Music Education Degree Programs 2025
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$11K
Acceptance
68%
Graduation
74%
Student body
36K
Median SAT/ACT
1285/28
Career Outlook for Counseling degree at University at Buffalo
Cost of Degree: $14,388
Expenses: $23,006
Starting Salary: $71,884
Salary after 4 years: $76,483
Cost Recoup Time: 6 years
Paid back at 15% of annual salary
Online Degrees
MS in Rehabilitation Counseling

Required Credits: 48
Completion time: 2.5-3.5 years
Format: Online
Compare school
#4
University of Nebraska Omaha
Omaha , NE
#2 Best Public Colleges in Nebraska 2024 #2 Most Affordable Colleges in Nebraska 2024 #3 Best Grad Schools in Nebraska 2024 #3 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$8K
Acceptance
86%
Graduation
49%
Student body
18K
Career Outlook for Counseling degree at University of Nebraska Omaha
Cost of Degree: $7,978
Expenses: $16,604
Starting Salary: $57,067
Salary after 4 years: $60,719
Cost Recoup Time: 5 years
Paid back at 15% of annual salary
Online Degrees
MS in Counseling

Concentrations

Student Affairs Practice in Higher Education

Required Credits: 38
Completion time: None Reported
Format: Online
Compare school
#5
University of Kentucky
Lexington , KY
#14 15 Best Online Colleges for Veterans to Start Their Careers #1 Best Public Colleges in Kentucky 2025 #1 Best Grad Schools in Kentucky 2024 #1 Most Affordable Colleges in Kentucky 2025
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$13K
Acceptance
95%
Graduation
69%
Student body
33K
Median SAT/ACT
1180/24
Career Outlook for Counseling degree at University of Kentucky
Cost of Degree: $14,330
Expenses: $21,886
Starting Salary: $62,508
Salary after 4 years: $66,507
Cost Recoup Time: 7 years
Paid back at 15% of annual salary
Online Degrees
MA in Counseling in Counselor Education

Concentrations

Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Rehabilitation Counseling

Required Credits: 60
Completion time: None Reported
Format: Online
Compare school
#6
San Diego State University
San Diego , CA
#9 Best Public Colleges California 2024 #10 Most Affordable Colleges in California 2025 #17 Best Research Universities for Criminal Justice Degrees #19 Best Research Universities for Social Work Degrees 2025
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$8K
Acceptance
39%
Graduation
78%
Student body
39K
Career Outlook for Counseling degree at San Diego State University
Cost of Degree: $9,724
Expenses: $25,782
Starting Salary: $64,707
Salary after 4 years: $68,847
Cost Recoup Time: 6 years
Paid back at 15% of annual salary
Online Degrees
MS in Rehabilitation Counseling

Required Credits: 60
Completion time: 3.5-4.5 years
Format: Hybrid
Compare school
#7
Virginia Commonwealth University
Richmond , VA
#3 Most Affordable Colleges in Virginia 2025 #5 Best Grad Schools in Virginia 2025 #5 Best Research Universities in Virginia 2025 #5 Best Public Colleges in Virginia 2025
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$16K
Acceptance
91%
Graduation
65%
Student body
31K
Median SAT/ACT
1160/26
Career Outlook for Counseling degree at Virginia Commonwealth University
Cost of Degree: $16,753
Expenses: $23,509
Starting Salary: $57,530
Salary after 4 years: $61,211
Cost Recoup Time: 8 years
Paid back at 15% of annual salary
Online Degrees
MS in Rehabilitation and Mental Health Counseling

Required Credits: 60
Completion time: None Reported
Format: Online
Compare school
#8
North Carolina State University
Raleigh , NC
#2 Best Public Colleges in North Carolina 2024 #2 Most Affordable Colleges in North Carolina 2024 #3 Best Grad Schools in North Carolina 2025 #3 Best Research Universities in North Carolina 2025
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$9K
Acceptance
47%
Graduation
85%
Student body
40K
Median SAT/ACT
1370/30
Career Outlook for Counseling degree at North Carolina State University
Cost of Degree: $11,819
Expenses: $17,709
Starting Salary: $68,874
Salary after 4 years: $73,281
Cost Recoup Time: 5 years
Paid back at 15% of annual salary
Online Degrees
MEd in Clinical Mental Health Counseling

Required Credits: 12
Completion time: None Reported
Format: Online
MEd in College Counseling and Student Development

Required Credits: 12
Completion time: None Reported
Format: Online
Compare school
#9
Wake Forest University
Winston-Salem , NC
#2 Best Private Colleges in North Carolina 2024 #3 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024 #4 Best Grad Schools in North Carolina 2025 #4 Best Research Universities in North Carolina 2025
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$62K
Acceptance
21%
Graduation
90%
Student body
10K
Career Outlook for Counseling degree at Wake Forest University
Cost of Degree: $39,350
Expenses: $22,798
Starting Salary: $79,764
Salary after 4 years: $86,156
Cost Recoup Time: 8 years
Paid back at 15% of annual salary
Online Degrees
MC in Master’s in Counseling

Concentrations

Clinical Mental Health
School Counseling

Required Credits: 60
Completion time: None Reported
Format: Online
Compare school
#10
Naropa University
Boulder , CO
#2 Best Small Colleges in Colorado 2024 #3 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Colorado 2025 #3 Best Private Colleges in Colorado 2025
Tuition + fees
$35K
Acceptance
100%
Graduation
31%
Student body
1K
Career Outlook for Counseling degree at Naropa University
Cost of Degree: $22,450
Expenses: $16,710
Starting Salary: $27,857
Salary after 4 years: $30,090
Cost Recoup Time: 12 years
Paid back at 15% of annual salary
Online Degrees
MA in Mindfulness-Based Transpersonal Counseling

Required Credits: 60
Completion time: 3 years
Format: Hybrid
Compare school
#11
William James College
Newton , MA
#10 Best Online Master's in Behavior Analysis Degree Programs
Tuition + fees
$11K
Student body
<1K
Online Degrees
MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling

Required Credits: 60
Completion time: 2.5 - 3 years
Format: Online
Compare school
#12
Adler University
Chicago , IL
#13 Top 15 Fastest Accelerated Online Counseling Doctorates (PhDs) #15 Top 16 Most Affordable Online Counseling PhDs (Doctorates) #17 Best Online Doctorate in Organizational Leadership Degree Programs
Tuition + fees
$17K
Student body
3K
Online Degrees
MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling

Required Credits: None Reported
Completion time: None Reported
Format: Online
Compare school
#13
University of Southern Maine
Portland , ME
#2 Best Grad Schools in Maine 2024 #2 Most Affordable Colleges in Maine 2025 #2 Best Public Colleges in Maine 2024 #4 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Maine 2024
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$10K
Acceptance
85%
Graduation
42%
Student body
10K
Median SAT/ACT
1109/22
Career Outlook for Counseling degree at University of Southern Maine
Cost of Degree: $9,594
Expenses: $15,892
Starting Salary: $51,395
Salary after 4 years: $54,684
Cost Recoup Time: 6 years
Paid back at 15% of annual salary
Online Degrees
MS in Counseling-Rehabilitation

Required Credits: 54-63
Completion time: None Reported
Format: Hybrid
Compare school
#14
University of North Texas
Denton , TX
#8 Top 15 Best Online Colleges for Transfer Students in 2025 #5 Most Affordable Colleges in Texas 2025 #6 Best Public Colleges in Texas 2024 #9 Best Research Universities in Texas 2024
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$11K
Acceptance
79%
Graduation
59%
Student body
49K
Median SAT/ACT
1120/23
Career Outlook for Counseling degree at University of North Texas
Cost of Degree: $9,062
Expenses: $15,823
Starting Salary: $57,067
Salary after 4 years: $60,719
Cost Recoup Time: 5 years
Paid back at 15% of annual salary
Online Degrees
MS in Rehabilitation Counseling

Required Credits: 60
Completion time: 3.5-4.5 years
Format: Online
Compare school
#15
Nova Southeastern University
Fort Lauderdale , FL
#3 Best Private Colleges in Florida 2024 #9 Best Research Universities in Florida 2025 #10 Best Grad Schools in Florida 2024 #1 Best Online Master’s in Forensics Degree Programs 2025
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$36K
Acceptance
76%
Graduation
62%
Student body
24K
Median SAT/ACT
1175/23
Career Outlook for Counseling degree at Nova Southeastern University
Cost of Degree: $24,140
Expenses: $22,596
Starting Salary: $55,714
Salary after 4 years: $60,179
Cost Recoup Time: 9 years
Paid back at 15% of annual salary
Online Degrees
MS in Counseling

Concentrations

Applied Behavior Analysis
Clinical Mental Health Counseling
School Counseling
Substance Abuse Counseling
Substance Abuse Counseling And Education

Required Credits: 33
Completion time: None Reported
Format: Online
Compare school
#16
Prescott College
Prescott , AZ
#1 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Arizona 2025 #1 Best Private Colleges in Arizona 2025 #1 Best Small Colleges Arizona 2024 #4 Best Grad Schools in Arizona 2025
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$35K
Acceptance
98%
Graduation
55%
Student body
1K
Career Outlook for Counseling degree at Prescott College
Cost of Degree: $17,466
Expenses: $12,876
Starting Salary: $34,371
Salary after 4 years: $37,125
Cost Recoup Time: 9 years
Paid back at 15% of annual salary
Online Degrees
MS in Counseling

Required Credits: 60
Completion time: None Reported
Format: Online
Compare school
#17
Bradley University
Peoria , IL
#2 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Illinois 2025 #7 Best Private Colleges in Illinois 2024 #12 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Earning Business Degrees in 2025 #5 Best Online Master's Programs in Illinois 2024
Other Rankings
- #14 Top 18 Most Affordable No GRE Online PhD Degree Programs 2025
- #15 Fastest Online Doctoral Degree Programs Ranked for Students in 2025
Tuition + fees
$38K
Acceptance
75%
Graduation
76%
Student body
6K
Median SAT/ACT
1165/27
Career Outlook for Counseling degree at Bradley University
Cost of Degree: $19,014
Expenses: $16,290
Starting Salary: $58,420
Salary after 4 years: $63,102
Cost Recoup Time: 7 years
Paid back at 15% of annual salary
Online Degrees
MA in Counseling

Concentrations

Clinical Mental Health Counseling

Required Credits: 60
Completion time: None Reported
Format: Online
Compare school
#18
Webster University
Saint Louis , MO
#10 Top 20 Best Military Friendly Online Colleges Ranked for 2025 #2 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Missouri 2025 #3 Best Private Colleges in Missouri 2025 #5 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$30K
Acceptance
55%
Graduation
59%
Student body
9K
Median SAT/ACT
1170/23
Career Outlook for Counseling degree at Webster University
Cost of Degree: $13,340
Expenses: $22,378
Starting Salary: $47,998
Salary after 4 years: $51,845
Cost Recoup Time: 8 years
Paid back at 15% of annual salary
Online Degrees
MA in Psychology

Concentrations

Counseling Psychology

Required Credits: 48
Completion time: None Reported
Format: Online
Compare school
#19
Union Institute & University
Cincinnati , OH
#4 Most Affordable Online Bachelor's of Business Degree Programs 2025 #6 Best Online Bachelor’s in Child Development Degree Programs for 2024 #8 Best Online Colleges in Ohio 2024 #9 10 Best Online Bachelor's of Forensic Psychology Programs 2025
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$17K
Graduation
50%
Student body
1K
Career Outlook for Counseling degree at Union Institute & University
Cost of Degree: $17,270
Starting Salary: $55,113
Salary after 4 years: $59,530
Online Degrees
MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling

Required Credits: 60
Completion time: None Reported
Format: Online
Compare school
#20
Colorado Christian University
Lakewood , CO
#2 Best Christian Colleges in Colorado 2024 #7 Best Private Colleges in Colorado 2025 #1 Best Online Bachelor's in Cybersecurity in Colorado #2 Best Online Associate in Psychology
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$18K
Graduation
61%
Student body
16K
Career Outlook for Counseling degree at Colorado Christian University
Cost of Degree: $16,733
Expenses: $14,976
Starting Salary: $44,692
Salary after 4 years: $48,273
Cost Recoup Time: 8 years
Paid back at 15% of annual salary
Online Degrees
MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling

Concentrations

Marriage And Family Therapy
Substance Use Disorders

Required Credits:60- 68
Completion time: 4 years
Format: Online
Compare school
#21
Marshall University
Huntington , WV
#2 Most Affordable Colleges in West Virginia 2025 #2 Best Grad Schools in West Virginia 2025 #2 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024 #2 Best Research Universities in West Virginia 2024
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$9K
Acceptance
97%
Graduation
50%
Student body
13K
Career Outlook for Counseling degree at Marshall University
Cost of Degree: $9,160
Expenses: $16,352
Starting Salary: $48,270
Salary after 4 years: $51,358
Cost Recoup Time: 6 years
Paid back at 15% of annual salary
MA in Counseling

Concentrations

Clinical Mental Health Counseling
School Counseling

Required Credits: 60
Completion time: None Reported
Format: Online
Compare school
#22
Southern New Hampshire University
Manchester , NH
#11 Top 20 Best Military Friendly Online Colleges Ranked for 2025 #1 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in New Hampshire 2025 #2 Most Affordable Colleges in New Hampshire 2024 #2 Best Private Colleges in New Hampshire 2024
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$15K
Acceptance
96%
Graduation
41%
Student body
224K
Career Outlook for Counseling degree at Southern New Hampshire University
Cost of Degree: $20,469
Expenses: $24,000
Starting Salary: $50,303
Salary after 4 years: $54,335
Cost Recoup Time: 9 years
Paid back at 15% of annual salary
Online Degrees
MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling

Required Credits: 60
Completion time: None Reported
Format: Online
Compare school
#23
Liberty University
Lynchburg , VA
#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
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$23K
Acceptance
99%
Graduation
66%
Student body
131K
Career Outlook for Counseling degree at Liberty University
Cost of Degree: $8,340
Expenses: $21,458
Starting Salary: $41,485
Salary after 4 years: $44,810
Cost Recoup Time: 8 years
Paid back at 15% of annual salary
MA in Human Service Counseling

Required Credits: 30
Completion time: 1.5 years
Format: Online
MA in Addiction Counseling

Required Credits: 48
Completion time: 2 years
Format: Online
MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling

Required Credits: 60
Completion time: 2 years
Format: Online
Compare school
#24
Regent University
Virginia Beach , VA
#13 Best CCCU Colleges and Universities 2024 #2 Best Christian Colleges in Virginia 2025 #5 Best Private Colleges in Virginia 2025 #9 Best Grad Schools in Virginia 2025
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$20K
Acceptance
32%
Graduation
55%
Student body
14K
Median SAT/ACT
1140/22
Career Outlook for Counseling degree at Regent University
Cost of Degree: $17,828
Expenses: $12,146
Starting Salary: $45,694
Salary after 4 years: $49,356
Cost Recoup Time: 7 years
Paid back at 15% of annual salary
Online Degrees
MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling

Required Credits: 60
Completion time: 2 years
Format: Online
MA in Marriage, Couple And Family Counseling

Required Credits: 60
Completion time: 3 years
Format: Online
MA in Human Services

Concentrations

Counseling
Trauma And Crisis Counseling
Biblical Counseling
Grief Counseling

Required Credits: 30
Completion time: 2 years
Format: Online
MA in Human Services-Addiction Counseling

Required Credits: 30
Completion time: None Reported
Format: Online
Compare school
#25
Hampton University
Hampton , VA
#3 Best Online HBCU Doctoral Programs 2025 #4 Best HBCU Online Master's Programs #8 Most Influential HBCUs in the US Ranked for 2024 #3 Best Private Colleges in Virginia 2025
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$29K
Acceptance
74%
Graduation
46%
Student body
5K
Median SAT/ACT
1030/22
Career Outlook for Counseling degree at Hampton University
Cost of Degree: $13,134
Expenses: $16,886
Starting Salary: $50,203
Salary after 4 years: $54,226
Cost Recoup Time: 7 years
Paid back at 15% of annual salary
Online Degrees
MA in Counseling

Concentrations

General Counseling

Required Credits: 31
Completion time: 1.5 years
Format: Online
Compare school
#26
Bellevue University
Bellevue , NE
#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
Tuition + fees
$9K
Graduation
41%
Student body
19K
Career Outlook for Counseling degree at Bellevue University
Cost of Degree: $12,432
Expenses: $16,440
Starting Salary: $60,624
Salary after 4 years: $65,483
Cost Recoup Time: 6 years
Paid back at 15% of annual salary
Online Degrees
MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling

Required Credits: 60
Completion time: None Reported
Format: Online
Compare school
#27
Fort Valley State University
Fort Valley , GA
#18 Best HBCU Online Master's Programs #9 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Georgia 2025 #9 Most Affordable Colleges in Georgia Ranked for Students in 2024 #9 Best Public Colleges in Georgia 2024
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$6K
Acceptance
43%
Graduation
46%
Student body
3K
Median SAT/ACT
880/17
Career Outlook for Counseling degree at Fort Valley State University
Cost of Degree: $6,052
Expenses: $14,872
Starting Salary: $40,167
Salary after 4 years: $42,737
Cost Recoup Time: 6 years
Paid back at 15% of annual salary
Online Degrees
MS in Rehabilitation Counseling and Case Management

Required Credits: 61
Completion time: None Reported
Format: Online
Compare school
#28
Alliance University
New York , NY
#21 Best CCCU Colleges and Universities 2024 #10 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Social Work Degrees #24 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Nursing Degrees #5 Best Online Associate in Liberal Arts
Other Rankings
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
Compare school
#29
Oral Roberts University
Tulsa , OK
#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 Christian Colleges in Oklahoma 2025
Other Rankings
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: $13,102
Expenses: $15,820
Starting Salary: $43,189
Salary after 4 years: $46,650
Cost Recoup Time: 7 years
Paid back at 15% of annual salary
Online Degrees
MA in Professional Counseling

Required Credits: None Reported
Completion time: None Reported
Format: Online
Compare school
#30
Amridge University
Montgomery , AL
#3 Best Online Associate Degrees in Alabama 2024 #3 Best Online Associate in Web Design #4 Best Online Colleges in Alabama 2024 #7 Most Affordable Online Associate Degree Programs Ranked for 2024
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$10K
Graduation
50%
Student body
<1K
Career Outlook for Counseling degree at Amridge University
Cost of Degree: $13,090
Starting Salary: $47,698
Salary after 4 years: $51,520
Online Degrees
MA in Professional Counseling

Required Credits: 60
Completion time: None Reported
Format: Online
MDiv in Professional Counseling

Required Credits: 96
Completion time: None Reported
Format: Online
Compare school
#31
University of Nebraska at Kearney
Kearney , NE
#1 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Nebraska 2024 #3 Best Public Colleges in Nebraska 2024 #3 Most Affordable Colleges in Nebraska 2024 #4 Best Colleges in Nebraska 2024
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$8K
Acceptance
86%
Graduation
54%
Student body
8K
Median SAT/ACT
1100/22
Career Outlook for Counseling degree at University of Nebraska at Kearney
Cost of Degree: $7,866
Expenses: $17,784
Starting Salary: $53,016
Salary after 4 years: $56,408
Cost Recoup Time: 6 years
Paid back at 15% of annual salary
Online Degrees
MSEd in Clinical Mental Health Counseling

Required Credits: 60
Completion time: None Reported
Format: Online
Compare school
#32
Immaculata University
Immaculata , PA
#4 Best Online Associate Degrees in Pennsylvania 2024 #5 Best Online Bachelor's in Cybersecurity in Pennsylvania 2025 #11 Best Online Colleges in Pennsylvania 2024 #21 Best Online Master's Programs in Pennsylvania 2025
Tuition + fees
$28K
Acceptance
70%
Graduation
61%
Student body
3K
Career Outlook for Counseling degree at Immaculata University
Cost of Degree: $12,780
Expenses: $17,154
Starting Salary: $54,812
Salary after 4 years: $59,205
Cost Recoup Time: 6 years
Paid back at 15% of annual salary
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
Compare school
#33
California Baptist University
Riverside , CA
#22 Best Online Christian Colleges and Universities for Doctoral Degrees 2025 #24 Best CCCU Colleges and Universities 2024 #2 Best Online Bachelor's in Cybersecurity in California 2025 #2 Best Online Bachelor's in Kinesiology Degree Programs for 2024
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$38K
Acceptance
80%
Graduation
63%
Student body
14K
Career Outlook for Counseling degree at California Baptist University
Cost of Degree: $14,914
Expenses: $16,178
Starting Salary: $47,598
Salary after 4 years: $51,412
Cost Recoup Time: 7 years
Paid back at 15% of annual salary
Online Degrees
MS in Counseling Psychology

Required Credits: 62
Completion time: 3.5-4.5 years
Format: Online
Compare school
#34
Plymouth State University
Plymouth , NH
#3 Best Public Colleges in New Hampshire 2024 #4 Best Grad Schools in New Hampshire 2025 #4 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in New Hampshire 2025 #4 Best Small Colleges in New Hampshire 2024
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$14K
Acceptance
98%
Graduation
51%
Student body
5K
Career Outlook for Counseling degree at Plymouth State University
Cost of Degree: $18,350
Expenses: $16,296
Starting Salary: $52,784
Salary after 4 years: $56,162
Cost Recoup Time: 7 years
Paid back at 15% of annual salary
Online Degrees
MEd in School Counseling

Required Credits: 48
Completion time: None Reported
Format: Online
MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling

Required Credits: 63
Completion time: None Reported
Format: Online
Compare school
#35
Truman State University
Kirksville , MO
#1 Best Small Colleges in Missouri 2024 #3 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Missouri 2025 #4 Most Affordable Colleges in Missouri 2024 #5 Best Public Colleges in Missouri 2025
Other Rankings
- #7 Best Colleges in Missouri 2024
- #5 Best Online Master's Programs in Missouri 2024
Tuition + fees
$9K
Acceptance
45%
Graduation
71%
Student body
5K
Median SAT/ACT
1200/26
Career Outlook for Counseling degree at Truman State University
Cost of Degree: $11,712
Expenses: $15,981
Starting Salary: $58,456
Salary after 4 years: $62,196
Cost Recoup Time: 6 years
Paid back at 15% of annual salary
Online Degrees
MA in Counseling

Concentrations

Mental Health
School Counseling

Required Credits: 60
Completion time: None Reported
Format: Online
Compare school
#36
Baptist College of Florida
Graceville , FL
#10 Best Online Bachelor's in Music Degree Programs Ranked for 2024 #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: $5,520
Expenses: $10,270
Starting Salary: $36,274
Salary after 4 years: $39,182
Cost Recoup Time: 5 years
Paid back at 15% of annual salary
Online Degrees
MA in Counseling

Required Credits: 30
Completion time: None Reported
Format: Online
Compare school
#37
Lamar University
Beaumont , TX
#2 Best Online MBA in Healthcare Management Ranked for Students in 2024 #4 Best Online Bachelor's in Cybersecurity in Texas 2025 #7 Best Online Master's in Healthcare Administration 2025 #7 Best Online Bachelor's in Computer Science Degree Programs
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$9K
Acceptance
84%
Graduation
38%
Student body
22K
Median SAT/ACT
930/16
Career Outlook for Counseling degree at Lamar University
Cost of Degree: $8,642
Expenses: $16,612
Starting Salary: $53,247
Salary after 4 years: $56,654
Cost Recoup Time: 6 years
Paid back at 15% of annual salary
Online Degrees
MEd in Clinical Mental Health Counseling

Required Credits: 60
Completion time: 3.5-4.5 years
Format: Online
MEd in Counseling and Development

Concentrations

Marriage Couple and Family Counseling
Professional School Counseling Online

Required Credits: 60
Completion time: 3.5-4.5 years
Format: Online
Compare school
#38
Lindsey Wilson College
Columbia , KY
#9 Best Grad Schools in Kentucky 2024 #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
Other Rankings
- #18 Best Online Bachelor’s of Human Services Degree Programs Ranked for 2024
- #20 Top 20 Fastest Accelerated Online Bachelor's in Counseling
Tuition + fees
$26K
Graduation
37%
Student body
3K
Career Outlook for Counseling degree at Lindsey Wilson College
Cost of Degree: $9,809
Expenses: $16,221
Starting Salary: $31,364
Salary after 4 years: $33,878
Cost Recoup Time: 8 years
Paid back at 15% of annual salary
Online Degrees
MEd in Counseling And Human Development

Required Credits: None Reported
Completion time: None Reported
Format: Online
Compare school
#39
Winston-Salem State University
Winston-Salem , NC
#2 Best Online HBCU Doctoral Programs 2025 #3 Best HBCU Online Master's Programs #2 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in North Carolina 2025 #6 Best Colleges in North Carolina 2025
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$6K
Acceptance
73%
Graduation
50%
Student body
6K
Median SAT/ACT
940/16
Career Outlook for Counseling degree at Winston-Salem State University
Cost of Degree: $7,206
Expenses: $16,666
Starting Salary: $43,061
Salary after 4 years: $45,816
Cost Recoup Time: 6 years
Paid back at 15% of annual salary
Online Degrees
MSRC in in Rehabilitation Counseling

Required Credits: 63
Completion time: None Reported
Format: Online
Compare school
#40
St. Bonaventure University
Saint Bonaventure , NY
#7 Best Online MBA Programs in New York 2025 #20 Best Online Master’s in Communications #20 Best Online Christian Colleges and Universities for Master's Degrees #22 Best Online Master's Programs in New York 2025
Tuition + fees
$39K
Acceptance
81%
Graduation
73%
Student body
3K
Median SAT/ACT
1135/28
Career Outlook for Counseling degree at St. Bonaventure University
Cost of Degree: $15,850
Expenses: $17,200
Starting Salary: $52,808
Salary after 4 years: $57,041
Cost Recoup Time: 7 years
Paid back at 15% of annual salary
Online Degrees
MSEd in Clinical Mental Health Counseling

Required Credits: 60
Completion time: 3.5-4.5 years
Format: Online
MSEd in School Counseling

Required Credits: 60
Completion time: 3.5-4.5 years
Format: Online
Compare school
#42
Hodges University
Fort Myers , FL
#4 Best Online Associate in Graphic Design #5 Best Online Bachelor's in Cybersecurity in Florida 2025 #11 Best Online Associate Degree Programs That Can Be Completed in 1 Year #11 Best Online Associate Degrees in Florida 2025
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$16K
Graduation
20%
Student body
<1K
Career Outlook for Counseling degree at Hodges University
Cost of Degree: $15,680
Starting Salary: $43,690
Salary after 4 years: $47,191
Online Degrees
MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling

Required Credits: 60
Completion time: None Reported
Format: Online
Compare school
#43
Montana State University Billings
Billings , MT
#3 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Montana 2024 #3 Best Small Colleges in Montana 2024 #4 Best Colleges in Montana 2025 #4 Best Public Colleges in Montana 2024
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$6K
Graduation
29%
Student body
5K
Career Outlook for Counseling degree at Montana State University Billings
Cost of Degree: $8,320
Expenses: $16,990
Starting Salary: $44,797
Salary after 4 years: $47,663
Cost Recoup Time: 6 years
Paid back at 15% of annual salary
Online Degrees
MS in Rehabilitation And Mental Health Counseling

Required Credits: 51
Completion time: 2-3 years
Format: Hybrid
MEd in School Counseling

Required Credits: 48
Completion time: 2-3 years
Format: Online
Compare school
#44
Golden Gate University
San Francisco , CA
#10 Best Small Colleges in California 2025 #1 Best Online Associate Degrees in California 2025 #2 Best Online Master’s in Forensics Degree Programs 2025 #4 Best Online Master's in Organizational Psychology 2025
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$11K
Student body
4K
Career Outlook for Counseling degree at Golden Gate University
Cost of Degree: $17,070
Starting Salary: $82,469
Salary after 4 years: $89,079
Online Degrees
MA in Counseling Psychology

Required Credits: 60
Completion time: 3.5-4.5 years
Format: Online
Compare school
#45
Asbury Theological Seminary
Wilmore , KY
#11 Best Online Master's in Theology 2025 #15 Best Online Master’s in Biblical Studies 2025
Student body
2K
Career Outlook for Counseling degree at Asbury Theological Seminary
Cost of Degree: $17,858
Starting Salary: $50,303
Salary after 4 years: $54,335
Online Degrees
MA in Mental Health Counseling

Required Credits: 75
Completion time: None Reported
Format: Online
MA in Marriage And Family Counseling

Required Credits: 75
Completion time: None Reported
Format: Online
MA in Pastoral Counseling

Required Credits: 60
Completion time: None Reported
Format: Online
Compare school
#46
Medaille University
Buffalo , NY
#20 Best Online Associate Degrees in New York 2025
Tuition + fees
$34K
Acceptance
69%
Graduation
35%
Student body
3K
Median SAT/ACT
1035/19
Online Degrees
MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling

Required Credits: 60
Completion time: 3.5-4.5 years
Format: Online
Compare school
#47
University of New Haven
West Haven , CT
#6 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Connecticut 2025 #6 Best Grad Schools in Connecticut 2024 #9 Best Private Colleges in Connecticut 2024 #3 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Criminal Justice Degrees
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$44K
Acceptance
91%
Graduation
62%
Student body
9K
Career Outlook for Counseling degree at University of New Haven
Cost of Degree: $19,240
Expenses: $23,874
Starting Salary: $54,712
Salary after 4 years: $59,097
Cost Recoup Time: 8 years
Paid back at 15% of annual salary
Online Degrees
MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling

Required Credits: 60
Completion time: 3 years
Format: Online
Compare school
#48
Southern Wesleyan University
Central , SC
#10 Best Grad Schools in South Carolina 2024 #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
Other Rankings
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: $13,746
Expenses: $14,039
Starting Salary: $46,295
Salary after 4 years: $50,005
Cost Recoup Time: 7 years
Paid back at 15% of annual salary
Online Degrees
MS in Counseling Psychology

Required Credits: 60
Completion time: 24-30 months
Format: Online
Compare school
#49
Salve Regina University
Newport , RI
#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
Other Rankings
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: $12,795
Expenses: $22,986
Starting Salary: $57,819
Salary after 4 years: $62,452
Cost Recoup Time: 7 years
Paid back at 15% of annual salary
Online Degrees
MA in Holistic Clinical Mental Health Counseling

Required Credits: 60
Completion time: 3 years
Format: Hybrid
MA in Holistic Counseling

Required Credits: 60
Completion time: 2-3 years
Format: Hybrid
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
Compare school
#50
West Texas A&M University
Canyon , TX
#4 Best Online Bachelor's in Biology 2025 #9 Best Online Bachelor's in Math Degree Programs Ranked for 2025 #11 Best Online Bachelor's in Strategic Communications Degree Programs #12 Best Online MBA Programs in Texas
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$9K
Acceptance
92%
Graduation
45%
Student body
11K
Median SAT/ACT
1050/20
Career Outlook for Counseling degree at West Texas A&M University
Cost of Degree: $7,284
Expenses: $15,503
Starting Salary: $54,058
Salary after 4 years: $57,516
Cost Recoup Time: 5 years
Paid back at 15% of annual salary
Online Degrees
MA in Counseling

Required Credits: 60
Completion time: 2-3 years
Format: Online
MEd in Counseling

Required Credits: 60
Completion time: 2-3 years
Format: Online
MEd in School Counseling

Required Credits: 48
Completion time: 2-3 years
Format: Online
Compare school

Career Outlook for Students with Counseling Degree

Go to Degree Finder tool

Counseling Psychology

Degree Level: Master's

Location: The U.S. (Private Schools)
Avg. Cost of Degree*: $9,656
Avg. Expenses*: $16,911
Avg. Starting Salary*: $54,120
Avg. Salary after 4 Years*: $57,583
Avg. Cost Recoup Time**: 6 years
Job Growth: 6.50%
Number of Jobs: 1,476,300
* denotes ‘annually’
** denotes ‘at 15% of annual salary’

Career Salaries

Career	Job Growth	Avg. Salary
Industrial-Organizational Psychologists	5.81%	$147,420
Human Resources Managers	6.51%	$136,350
Managers, All Other	5.75%	$133,560
Training and Development Managers	7.41%	$125,040
Psychologists, All Other	4.95%	$117,750
Management Analysts	10.60%	$99,410
Clinical and Counseling Psychologists	13.28%	$96,100
School Psychologists	0.76%	$84,940
Psychology Teachers, Postsecondary	4.89%	$82,140
Human Resources Specialists	7.95%	$67,650

Top Industries

Industry	Avg. Salary
Industrial-Organizational Psychologists	$147,420
Human Resources Managers	$136,350
Managers, All Other	$133,560
Training and Development Managers	$125,040
Psychologists, All Other	$117,750
Management Analysts	$99,410
Clinical and Counseling Psychologists	$96,100
School Psychologists	$84,940
Psychology Teachers, Postsecondary	$82,140
Human Resources Specialists	$67,650

Data from The Bureau of Labor Statistics, The Department of Education College Scorecard, The Department of Education NCES, and The Council for Community and Economic Research.

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.

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.

Do you have a question about this topic? Ask it here

Best Online Master’s in Counseling

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What are the credentials for getting a master’s in counseling?

What can I do with a master’s in counseling?

50 Best Online Master’s in Counseling Degree Programs

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Career Outlook for Counseling degree at California Baptist University