Best Online Master's in School Counseling 2023

Updated May 9, 2023

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If you have a heart for children and education — consider an online master's in school counseling program. The best programs are flexible and affordable.

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Are you ready to discover your college program?

School counselors shape the academic, social, and emotional futures of youth. Earning an online master's in school counseling gives working professionals the flexibility to earn an advanced degree that qualifies for state licensure or certification.

Unlike guidance counselors who focus on vocational help, school counselors offer academic and behavioral development to students in kindergarten through 12th grade.

Use this guide to find the best online master's in school counseling programs, explore common curriculums, and find average salaries.

Frequently Asked Questions About School Counseling

How long does it take to become a school counselor?

If you go to graduate school full time, you can become a school counselor in two years. Part-time students can graduate from accredited school counseling programs in three years.

Are school counselors in demand?

The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) predicts school counseling occupations to increase faster than the average rate for all other jobs. According to the BLS, school counselor positions will grow by 10% from 2021-2031. During that decade, the job market should see 32,000 openings for school counselors.

What skills does a school counselor need to have?

School counselors need specific personal traits and practical skills, such as classroom management and cross-cultural communication. They also need the ability to listen to others and relay information to students, parents, and teachers. While school counselors need empathy, they must maintain professionalism to build relationships and assess and treat students.

How much do school counselors make?

According to the BLS, school counselors make a median annual salary of $60,510. Salaries increase as school counselors gain seniority, with the top 10% making more than $98,190. Pay also varies by setting, with school counselors making the most in elementary and secondary schools. Elementary school counselors earn a median salary of $63,460 a year.

What is the best online program for a master's in school counseling?

The best master's in school counseling programs match your interests, budget, and schedule. For instance, not every online master's in school counseling degree offers asynchronous courses, and students may need to meet at set times for lectures or discussions. Additionally, each online master's in school counseling degree features a different curriculum and practicum requirements.

Is a master's in school counseling worth it?

Earning a master's in school counseling degree requires a time commitment and financial investment. Working as a school counselor can be demanding and physically and emotionally straining. That said, students should make sure the profession suits their interests and career goals.

Why Get a School Counseling Degree?

School counselors can make a lasting impact on students' lives. These professionals can also advance within a school or district. The highest-earning school counselors make over $90,000 annually.

Online school counseling programs make earning a degree easier for many students. Asynchronous programs allow learners to complete coursework around work or family responsibilities.

Online programs sometimes charge lower tuition than on-campus programs. Learners can attend the most affordable master's in school counseling online program without relocating.

Best Online Master's in School Counseling

The school and/or program descriptions below were drafted using natural language generation technology and have been edited for clarity and accuracy. The data is primarily sourced from government databases such as IPEDS – see sources section for more details.

#1 Best Online Master’s in School Counseling 2023

Grand Canyon University

  • Phoenix, AZ
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Students looking for a cost-effective degree in school counseling can consider Grand Canyon University's online master's in school counseling. Located in Phoenix, Arizona, the private, for-profit institution boasts 50 master's programs and offers 45 programs online. The M.Ed. in school counseling is an attractive option for learners who want to study school counseling without compromising their schedule.

The school counseling program offers a rigorous curriculum, preparing students for careers in the field through advanced coursework, which can be modified in consultation with academic advisors.

The institution reports that 81% of all applicants are accepted each year. Once enrolled, online students join a supportive learning community that connects them with colleagues, faculty, and institutional resources. Graduate studies can prove costly, and students should prepare to pay about $536 per credit. Enrollees should discuss their eligibility for internal and external funding with the financial aid office.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$16,424
Out-of-state
$16,424
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$10,528
Out-of-state
$10,528
Retention Rate
74%
Admission Rate
81%
Students Enrolled
103,427
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
92% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#2 Best Online Master’s in School Counseling 2023

Liberty University

  • Lynchburg, VA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Liberty University is a private, nonprofit institution, offering numerous master's programs from its main campus in Lynchburg, Virginia. The institution delivers 71 master's programs and makes 68 programs available online.

The college's online school counseling master's degree is a flexible option for learners from all walks of life.

As part of the M.Ed. program, students complete foundational coursework and advanced school counseling classes. These courses can be customized in consultation with faculty advisors.

The program also connects students with interpersonal guidance, such as career mentorship, academic advising, and experiential learning opportunities. The cost of the graduate degree can be offset by the variety of funding options available to students. Learners can inquire about scholarships, fellowships, and federal financial aid programs through the college’s financial aid office.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$14,791
Out-of-state
$14,791
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$7,935
Out-of-state
$7,935
Retention Rate
81%
Admission Rate
50%
Students Enrolled
93,349
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
93% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#3 Best Online Master’s in School Counseling 2023

New York University

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

Looking for an education that won't disrupt your schedule? An online master's degree might be right for you. Students hoping to advance in the school counseling field often find New York University's online master of arts in school counseling to be a wise choice.

The college supports 47,026 online students and delivers 29 master's programs. School counseling students benefit from access to a supportive online learning community, with opportunities to collaborate with colleagues and faculty. Students interested in experiential learning can pursue internships. 

Master of arts and counseling enrollees complete foundational and advanced coursework, equipping them with the knowledge needed to succeed in the field. Learners can modify their studies in consultation with their academic advisor.

As is standard for graduate study, learners typically need a bachelor's degree prior to enrolling. Graduate students pay about $1,867 per credit. Students seeking to defray the costs of education can learn about scholarships, fellowships, and other funding opportunities through the financial aid office.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$52,204
Out-of-state
$52,204
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$34,704
Out-of-state
$34,704
Retention Rate
90%
Admission Rate
21%
Students Enrolled
52,775
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
89% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education

#4 Best Online Master’s in School Counseling 2023

University of the Cumberlands

  • Williamsburg, KY
  • 4 years
  • Online

Students who want to receive a first-class education in school counseling without compromising their schedule often find the University of the Cumberlands's master of arts in education to be an attractive choice. The private, nonprofit school educates students across 26 master's programs. The institution offers in-person studies on its main campus in Williamsburg, Kentucky, and online enrollment options.

The online M.A.Ed. program offers students a premier education, preparing them for the school counseling field. Upon enrollment, students join the robust online learning community and connect with institutional resources and guidance throughout their graduate program. Students can collaborate one-on-one with faculty members, and work with their academic advisor to ensure courses meet their needs. Learners can also work with their academic advisor to choose full- or part-time study based on their needs.

Depending on their eligibility, students can access external and internal funding opportunities through the institution. Interested learners should speak with the financial aid office to determine if they are among the 99% of attendees to be awarded aid.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$9,875
Out-of-state
$9,875
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$4,282
Out-of-state
$4,282
Retention Rate
66%
Admission Rate
81%
Students Enrolled
19,110
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
99% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#5 Best Online Master’s in School Counseling 2023

University of Southern California

  • Los Angeles, CA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Students hoping to balance graduate education with their busy schedule may find the University of Southern California's online M.Ed. in school counseling to be an attractive option. Many of the college's impressive master's programs allow for remote study, including the school counseling degree.

Upon enrolling, students connect with a strong online community of 41,112 students with many locations, backgrounds, and employment statuses. Enrollees can collaborate with faculty members on research, customize program coursework to suit their career goals, and pursue internships and other experiential learning opportunities. The institution boasts a 9-to-1 student-to-teacher ratio.

Online school counseling students can expect to pay $1,948 per course credit. The institution provides numerous internal and external funding opportunities to make education more affordable. Students can speak with the financial aid office to discuss further funding opportunities.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$59,260
Out-of-state
$59,260
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$47,880
Out-of-state
$47,880
Retention Rate
91%
Admission Rate
16%
Students Enrolled
46,287
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
89% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission

#6 Best Online Master’s in School Counseling 2023

North Carolina State University at Raleigh

  • Raleigh, NC
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

North Carolina State University at Raleigh's online master's-level offerings can be attractive options for learners from all walks of life. Students can choose from 39 online programs. The online modality of the M.Ed. in counselor education often proves flexible for busy students, working professionals, and remote learners.

The counselor education program prepares students for the school counseling field through rigorous academic studies. Degree-seekers participate in foundational courses and, in consultation with their academic advisor, select advanced courses in school counseling.

Students should be aware that 46% of all applicants are admitted, according to the institution. The online M.Ed. program provides a supportive community for remote learners, connecting students with institutional resources and enabling collaboration with faculty. Students can meet with the financial aid office to discuss funding opportunities to reduce their educational expenses.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$6,535
Out-of-state
$26,654
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$9,095
Out-of-state
$26,421
Retention Rate
94%
Admission Rate
46%
Students Enrolled
36,042
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
91% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#7 Best Online Master’s in School Counseling 2023

North American University

  • Stafford, TX
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

North American University, a private, nonprofit institution located in Stafford, Texas, provides flexible online master's programs across five subject areas. The school boasts competitive online education tracks, such as the M.Ed. in school counseling program.

Students with an interest in school counseling benefit from the rigorous M.Ed. program curriculum. As part of the school counseling program, students pursue foundational classes and complete advanced coursework in school counseling later in the program. Enrollees can choose electives and modify their coursework in consultation with their academic advisor to ensure that their education best meets their career goals. 

The online school counseling program connects learners with a robust online community, providing support for the duration of their studies. Students can enhance their educational experience through faculty collaboration, research, internships, and other experiential learning opportunities.

Prospective students should consult with the financial aid office to explore funding opportunities and determine their eligibility. Working professionals may qualify for employer-sponsored tuition remission. As a whole, 96% of all students at the institution receive some form of financial aid.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$9,450
Out-of-state
$12,225
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$9,900
Out-of-state
$17,900
Retention Rate
90%
Admission Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
785
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
100% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges

#8 Best Online Master’s in School Counseling 2023

Southeastern Oklahoma State University

  • Durant, OK
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Looking for a premier graduate education in school counseling? Consider Southeastern Oklahoma State University's online master of education in school counseling. The institution offers 14 master's programs for students and provides 12 of these programs online.

After enrolling, school counseling students connect with colleagues, faculty, and other members of the online academic community. Learners join their peers in online classrooms, collaborating with faculty members on research and experiential learning opportunities. Degree-seekers also receive guidance from academic and career advisors throughout their program. Students can choose between full- and part-time enrollment, depending on their preferred pace.

Graduate students pay an average of $278 per course credit. However, the institution connects learners with numerous internal and external funding opportunities, such as scholarships and fellowships. Students can consult with the financial aid office to explore funding opportunities. About 94% of attendees receive some form of aid.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$6,240
Out-of-state
$14,880
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$4,716
Out-of-state
$10,872
Retention Rate
61%
Admission Rate
79%
Students Enrolled
5,607
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
91% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#9 Best Online Master’s in School Counseling 2023

University of Missouri-Columbia

  • Columbia, MO
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

The University of Missouri-Columbia boasts 78 master's programs. Online study is also available to students through 25 programs. The M.Ed. in educational, school, and counseling psychology program stands out as a competitive option for students interested in school counseling careers.

The rigorous school counseling curriculum prepares students for successful careers in the field. After enrolling, students participate in core courses and take advanced school counseling classes. Learners can choose classes that suit their schedule and pertain to career interests and goals.

Students can connect with institutional resources, career mentorship, and experiential learning opportunities throughout their program. The college connects learners with internal and external funding opportunities, such as federal financial aid, scholarships, and fellowships.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$9,330
Out-of-state
$27,612
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$9,478
Out-of-state
$25,946
Retention Rate
89%
Admission Rate
82%
Students Enrolled
31,089
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
87% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#10 Best Online Master’s in School Counseling 2023

Capella University

  • Minneapolis, MN
  • 4 years
  • Online

Learners from all walks of life find Capella University's online master of science in school counseling to be an attractive choice. The private, for-profit institution's school counseling program is an ideal choice for individuals seeking flexible study.

Students benefit from rigorous coursework and supportive academic structures, preparing them for the demands of the field. Enrollees take foundational and advanced coursework and can modify the curriculum to suit their career goals. Upon enrolling, students join the online academic community, benefiting from peer and institutional connections. Online students gain access to institutional resources, such as academic advising and career services, and may have opportunities to participate in faculty collaboration. Students can enhance their educational experience through research, internships, and other experiential learning opportunities.

The cost of education can vary, and students can meet with the financial aid office to discuss internal and external funding opportunities. Eligible students can benefit from scholarships, fellowships, and federal financial aid. Some learners qualify for employer-sponsored tuition remission. According to the school, 100% of students receive some form of aid to apply toward educational expenses.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$14,148
Out-of-state
$14,148
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$14,767
Out-of-state
$14,767
Retention Rate
45%
Admission Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
38,930
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
Not provided
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#11 Best Online Master’s in School Counseling 2023

East Carolina University

  • Greenville, NC
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

East Carolina University, a public, four-year institution, is located in Greenville, North Carolina. The university facilitates 71 master's programs, offering 41 remote degrees.

Learners interested in school counseling careers can pursue an online MS in counselor education that connects enrollees to institutional resources. Enrollees take advanced school counseling coursework that complements their career trajectory.

Through faculty and institutional connections, students often secure internships in the school counseling field and gain further preparation for careers. Those currently employed in school counseling-related fields can pursue the master's degree without disrupting their work schedule. 

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$4,452
Out-of-state
$20,729
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$4,749
Out-of-state
$17,898
Retention Rate
83%
Admission Rate
88%
Students Enrolled
28,798
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
93% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#12 Best Online Master’s in School Counseling 2023

Northern Arizona University

  • Flagstaff, AZ
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Searching for an affordable online master's program? Consider Northern Arizona University, a public, four-year school with a main campus in Flagstaff. The university supports 63 master's programs and delivers 24 online programs for remote learners. Of these online programs, the M.Ed. in school counseling is a flexible choice for professionals seeking to advance in the field.

Students in the school counseling program complete rigorous coursework that prepares them for careers. This curriculum comprises foundational and advanced courses, which can be modified in consultation with faculty advisors.

Interested students should note that 82% of degree-seekers receive admittance every year. The program's online community is a supportive place for students to engage with colleagues and faculty, and remote learners can access institutional resources, such as career services. Students can meet with the financial aid office to discuss funding opportunities to reduce their educational expenses.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$10,243
Out-of-state
$16,248
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$10,309
Out-of-state
$18,630
Retention Rate
76%
Admission Rate
82%
Students Enrolled
29,566
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
59% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#13 Best Online Master’s in School Counseling 2023

North Carolina Central University

  • Durham, NC
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

North Carolina Central University, a public, four-year institution located in Durham, provides flexible online master's programs across 13 subject areas. The master of arts in school counseling is an ideal choice for individuals seeking flexible study to prepare for careers in the field.

Students interested in school counseling benefit from the program's rigorous course curriculum and supportive resources. Enrollees complete foundational courses, as well as advanced classes. Enrollees can choose electives and modify their coursework in consultation with their academic advisor to ensure their education best meets their career goals. 

Though online, the school counseling program fosters a robust community, connecting enrollees with institutional resources geared toward student success. Enrollees can collaborate with faculty on research projects, pursue internships, and explore other experiential learning opportunities in preparation for a career in school counseling.

When preparing for the costs of a graduate degree, students should meet with the financial aid office to discuss expenses and funding options. Many students qualify for internal scholarships and fellowships or external financial aid. Working professionals can discuss the possibility of sponsored study with their employers. Of all students, 96% receive some form of aid to apply toward educational expenses.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$3,728
Out-of-state
$16,435
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$4,740
Out-of-state
$17,694
Retention Rate
78%
Admission Rate
87%
Students Enrolled
8,078
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
54% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#14 Best Online Master’s in School Counseling 2023

University of Mississippi

  • University, MS
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

The University of Mississippi, a public, four-year institution, offers an impressive selection of master's degree programs. The school connects 10,688 students from around the globe to its virtual campus. Of its 54 master's programs, 11 are available online, including the M.Ed. in counselor education.

Upon enrollment, students gain access to a supportive online learning community and institutional resources geared toward student success. Enrollees interested in experiential learning can discuss research and internship opportunities with their faculty advisor. Students in the online school counseling program complete core courses, as well as specialized school counseling classes.

The financial aid office can connect students with numerous internal and external funding opportunities. According to the institution, 87% of all attendees are awarded some form of financial aid.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$8,718
Out-of-state
$24,990
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$8,718
Out-of-state
$24,989
Retention Rate
86%
Admission Rate
88%
Students Enrolled
21,014
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
51% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#15 Best Online Master’s in School Counseling 2023

University of the Southwest

  • Hobbs, NM
  • 4 years
  • Online

For students seeking a flexible, accessible degree in school counseling, the online MSE program at the University of the Southwest is an attractive choice. The master of science in education program is one of 22 online master's programs offered by the college.

The school provides students with a robust online community, proving supportive for busy students and working professionals. Once enrolled, students can benefit from institutional resources, faculty advising, and experiential learning opportunities. The student-to-teacher ratio for the school is 17-to-1.

The average cost per credit is $663 for graduate students. The institution connects enrollees with numerous internal and external funding opportunities to make education more affordable. Eligible learners can discuss funding options with the financial aid office.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$16,000
Out-of-state
$16,000
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$22,500
Out-of-state
$22,500
Retention Rate
74%
Admission Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
904
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
100% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#16 Best Online Master’s in School Counseling 2023

Southern Arkansas University

  • Magnolia, AR
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Looking for a degree that offers flexibility? Consider an online master's degree from Southern Arkansas University. Students interested in a career in school counseling often find the M.Ed. in school counseling to be an attractive option, accommodating busy schedules.

The college provides 13 online degree options, reaching 3,798 remote students. Enrollees benefit from a supportive online learning community that connects them to peers and faculty through a virtual learning environment. Students work with their faculty advisor to explore experiential learning opportunities, such as internships, research projects, and other collaborative work. 

Each student completes foundational classes and focused coursework to gain competency in topics specific to the school counseling field. In consultation with their academic advisor, students can modify their course schedule and pursue elective options.

Those interested in the school counseling program must have earned a bachelor's degree prior to enrollment. Students seeking to defray the costs of education can learn about scholarships, fellowships, and other funding opportunities through the financial aid office.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$6,420
Out-of-state
$11,460
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$5,112
Out-of-state
$8,028
Retention Rate
72%
Admission Rate
69%
Students Enrolled
4,432
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
86% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#17 Best Online Master’s in School Counseling 2023

University of Louisiana at Monroe

  • Monroe, LA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Hoping to learn without sacrificing your schedule? Consider a flexible online degree from the University of Louisiana at Monroe. The institution's online master's program in school counseling is an attractive option for learners seeking accommodating study.

The public, four-year college enrolls 6,263 remote students across 20 master's degree programs. The school counseling degree connects students with premier educators, competitive funding opportunities, and a supportive online learning community. Students work with their faculty advisor to pursue research and experiential learning opportunities, such as internships. Degree-seekers complete foundational courses and advanced classes throughout their program, preparing them for a career in school counseling. Students can work with academic advisors to discuss elective options, modify their course schedule, and ensure their program path meets their career goals.

Prospective students must have a bachelor's degree upon enrollment. Students seeking to defray the costs of education can learn about scholarships, fellowships, and other funding opportunities through the financial aid office.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$5,788
Out-of-state
$17,888
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$6,490
Out-of-state
$18,590
Retention Rate
74%
Admission Rate
78%
Students Enrolled
8,888
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
70% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#18 Best Online Master’s in School Counseling 2023

Angelo State University

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

Students looking to pursue studies in school counseling without overwhelming their schedule can consider Angelo State University's online master's program in school counseling. The institution provides 13 master's programs in an online modality, including the professional school counseling program.

The college provides students with a robust online community, proving supportive for busy students and working professionals. Learners are paired with a faculty advisor, who can guide them in finding research opportunities, internships, and other learning experiences relevant to the school counseling field. The college prioritizes institutional connections, boasting a 21-to-1 student-to-teacher ratio.

The school offers several funding options for students, including scholarships and fellowships. Students interested in funding opportunities should consult with the financial aid office. According to the institution, 92% of students receive some form of aid, reducing tuition-related expenses and fees to $12,420, on average.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$4,412
Out-of-state
$14,228
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$4,119
Out-of-state
$11,481
Retention Rate
71%
Admission Rate
78%
Students Enrolled
10,775
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
55% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#19 Best Online Master’s in School Counseling 2023

Campbellsville University

  • Campbellsville, KY
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Headquartered in Kentucky, Campbellsville University offers 27 master's programs, 26 of which are available online. Students interested in careers in school counseling can benefit from the institution's online master of arts in education in school counseling.

Through a rigorous curriculum, the program prepares students for the demands of the school counseling field. Students complete focused coursework, exploring foundational concepts and advanced studies in topics relevant to the field. In collaboration with faculty advisors, students can modify their course schedule to suit their career goals.

The school counseling program connects students with a variety of institutional resources, including academic advising, career mentorship, and experiential learning opportunities. Though education can be costly, the school helps enrollees secure financial aid. Interested students can speak with the college's financial aid office to learn about available funding options.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$24,900
Out-of-state
$24,900
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$8,473
Out-of-state
$8,473
Retention Rate
64%
Admission Rate
78%
Students Enrolled
12,771
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
72% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#20 Best Online Master’s in School Counseling 2023

Arkansas State University

  • Jonesboro, AR
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Arkansas State University, a public, four-year institution in Jonesboro, provides premier graduate programs to learners from all walks of life. The university offers 56 master's programs and delivers in-person and online enrollment options.

The master of science in education in school counseling boasts a rigorous curriculum and a supportive learning community. Students can connect with faculty members to pursue school counseling-specific research and access experiential learning opportunities, such as internships. Working professionals and other busy students benefit from the flexibility of the school counseling program, and learners can pursue full- or part-time enrollment.

Online students in the school counseling program can expect to pay about $301 per credit. Though education can be costly, the institution connects students with internal and external funding opportunities, such as scholarships and fellowships. Interested students should speak with the financial aid office to determine whether they are among the 98% of attendees to be awarded aid.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$5,232
Out-of-state
$10,800
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$4,986
Out-of-state
$9,972
Retention Rate
79%
Admission Rate
67%
Students Enrolled
13,106
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
75% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

How Much Does a School Counseling Degree Cost?

What students pay for a school counseling degree depends on if they attend a private or public college. State residency also influences tuition costs.

Online master's in school counseling degrees may waive out-of-state fees and charge non-residents in-state tuition, but otherwise students pay more when they can't prove their residency.

School counseling and guidance services undergraduate in-state students pay an average of $7,070 at public colleges, and out-of-state students pay $32,660 at private schools, according to the 2020 data from Integrated Postsecondary Education Data Systems (IPEDS).

A master's degree can cost $30,000-$120,000, depending on the college. The average master's degree costs $66,340, while the average doctoral program is $114,300.

Financial aid can help offset the cost of college. Students can take out private or federal loans, but they require repayment. Scholarships and grants do not need to be repaid.

Courses in School Counseling

An online master's in school counseling program teaches graduate students how to collaborate in elementary, middle, and high schools with administrators, parents, students, and teachers. Graduates also work in correctional facilities and hospitals —or wherever children and young adults need counseling services.

Online master's in school counseling students supplement theoretical coursework by completing internships and practicums —often in high-risk communities where they need to identify children and teens at risk of behavioral health issues or academic failure.

1 Counseling Skills

A course in counseling skills focuses on building the vital communication skills needed to work 1:1 and in groups with students. Degree-seekers learn interviewing and counseling approaches, often through laboratory scenarios.

They develop the knowledge to identify healthy and unhealthy social and emotional development, as well as learn techniques to build rapport with students. This course may also emphasize the common ethical issues that emerge in a counseling session.

2 Counseling and Culturally Diverse

School counselors need cross-cultural training to create responsive counseling that meets the diverse needs of people and families.

Counselors serve students across different religions, races, ethnicities, socioeconomic upbringings, and sexual orientations.

Creating fair opportunities for students starts by understanding the cultural factors that influence people. This creates a cultural context and allows school counselors to provide more effective counseling that addresses each person's unique needs.

School counselors need the knowledge from this course to serve as social advocates who create culturally responsive interventions that can lead to positive learning outcomes for students.

3 Lifespan and Development

A course on lifespan and development covers the human development theories from birth to old age, using various counseling theories and research.

Students study the developmental milestones for each stage in life and the changes that occur with age. They learn about emotional and learning challenges faced by children and adolescents, and how to best help them.

The curriculum teaches aspiring school counselors how to support and empower students from kindergarten to 12th grade, focusing on counseling approaches for people across the lifespan.

4 Multicultural Counseling

Through a multicultural perspective, future school counselors gain an awareness of culture and context and issues in diversity. Lessons also cover social justice and advocacy in school counseling.

Students enrolled in this course study intervention models, cross-cultural counseling, and effective techniques to increase parental involvement.

Coursework lets students learn to work in diverse populations at government agencies and schools. Developing multicultural competence comes from self-awareness, research and practical experience, which helps school counselors to develop more effective programs and advocacy work.

5 Professional Issues and Ethics

This course surveys the ethical, legal, and professional issues that emerge in school counseling. For instance, aspiring school counselors learn about contacting authorities, maintaining confidentiality, keeping boundaries, and honoring cultural differences.

A student's achievement depends on a school counselor's ability to provide professional and ethical assessments and consultation.

How to Become a School Counselor

  • Complete a bachelor's degree in counseling or education
  • Finish an in-person or online master's in school counseling program
  • Complete practicum and/or internship requirements
  • Obtain certification, if mandated by the state or employer
  • Pass the state exam, if required by your state to get licensed or certified
  • Find a job
  • Complete any required continue education courses to maintain certification or licensure

Licensure for School Counseling

  1. A bachelor's degree or master's degree in school counseling or a related-field
  2. Submit a formal recommendation
  3. Complete required coursework
  4. May need to complete post-bachelor's degree study requirements, ranging from 30-60 graduate credits
  5. Hold national certification, if required
  6. Complete practicum and internships hours
  7. Pass national exam, if needed
  8. Complete fingerprinting and background check
  9. Submit application fee
  10. File processing fee

School Counseling Career Paths and Salaries

Deviations in school counseling salaries are the result of differences in work experience, responsibilities, education, and work settings. Salaries for school counselors may start at below $37,550 a year, but they can reach a median salary around $98,190 for the top 10% of earners.

School Counseling Salaries
Career Average Annual Salary
Educational and guidance counselors $52,420
Career Counselors and Advisors $47,110
High School Teachers $51,510
Elementary School Teachers $48,360
Psychologists $83,640
Middle School Teachers $50,060

Source: Payscale

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