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School counselors can make a difference in a student's future career and life. This guide explains how to earn an online master's in school counseling to prepare to become a school counselor. Explore more today to see if this is the right path for you.
Why Earn an Online Master's in School Counseling
Earning an online master's in school counseling can prepare you for a variety of careers. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the number of school counseling jobs could grow 5% between 2022 and 2032, faster than the average across all jobs. Many school counselors, like teachers, have at least part of the summer off, which allows for work-life balance and can help you take advantage of your own children's summer vacations.
Did You Know...
- School counselors work in elementary, middle, and high schools.
- The BLS projects there could be 360,800 school and career counselor job openings from 2022-2032.
- While many school counselors have the summer off, some work other jobs during the summer months.
- In elementary and secondary schools, the median school and career counselor salary is $65,930.
Popular Online Counseling Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
The Best Online Master's in School Counseling Programs
These rankings include
#1 Best Online Master’s in School Counseling
Campbellsville University
Campbellsville, KY - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Programmatic Accreditation: Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation
Avg. Cost per Credit:
In-State | $319
Out-of-State | $319
Credits to Graduate: 48
Campbellsville University is a Kentucky-based private Christian university with a master's in school counseling emphasizing Christian principles. Students can complete the program in 18 months. The program includes three internships; the first two include 100 hours of fieldwork each, and the final comprises 200 hours.
To apply, you should have at least a 2.75 GPA from your most recent degree. Campbellsville University is a Yellow Ribbon school and offers reduced tuition for active military members.
#2 Best Online Master’s in School Counseling
Seton Hall University
South Orange, NJ - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Programmatic Accreditation: Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation
Avg. Cost per Credit:
In-State | $1,465
Out-of-State | $1,465
Credits to Graduate: 48
Seton Hall University offers a master's in school counseling through its College of Human Development, Culture, and Media. It meets New Jersey Department of Education requirements and standards established by the Master's in Psychology and Counseling Accreditation Council.
A 3.0 GPA is preferred, and you do not have to have a background in counseling or any prerequisite coursework to apply. Applicants who attend a virtual introduction session qualify for application fee waivers. The program follows a cohort structure and takes 24-30 months, including a nine-credit internship. The program occurs online but requires an initial three-day residency.
#3 Best Online Master’s in School Counseling
North Carolina State University at Raleigh
Raleigh, NC - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Programmatic Accreditation: Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs
Avg. Cost per Credit:
In-State | $526
Out-of-State | $1,635
Credits to Graduate: 60
The master of education in counselor education at North Carolina State University at Raleigh aims to recruit students from diverse backgrounds. In recent years, the university reports to have increased the diversity of its student body by 15%.
Its online counseling program occurs through part-time enrollment and takes three years. While the program is online, enrollees can participate in fieldwork in North Carolina.
#4 Best Online Master’s in School Counseling
New York University
New York, NY - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Programmatic Accreditation: Masters in Psychology and Counseling Accreditation Board
Avg. Cost per Credit:
In-State | $2,101
Out-of-State | $2,101
Credits to Graduate: 48
The online master of arts in school counseling at New York University offers a generalist track and a pathway in bilingual education. You can complete the program in five terms (two years). It includes a 100-hour practicum, a 600-hour internship, and a virtual fieldwork prep lab.
Each enrollee completes an in-person immersion segment on its New York City campus. If you choose, you can continue with an additional 12 credits required for a New York state advanced certificate in school counseling.
#5 Best Online Master’s in School Counseling
University of West Alabama
Livingston, AL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Programmatic Accreditation: Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation
Avg. Cost per Credit:
In-State | $429
Out-of-State | $429
Credits to Graduate: 60
The University of West Alabama's master of education in school counseling requires each applicant to have teaching certification, have at least two years of teaching experience, and complete a background check. It awards a master's-level certificate and a master of education degree.
Each enrollee attends a four-day residency on campus, along with completing a 100-hour practicum and 600-hour internship. During the program, a faculty mentor provides one-on-one mentoring sessions, and an academic advisor provides consistent assistance.
What to Know About Master's in School Counseling Coursework
School counselors should possess specific skills and competencies that lead to safe, effective learning experiences for students. The best master's in school counseling programs develop compassion, empathy, interpersonal skills, acceptance, multicultural competencies, adaptability, and communication skills.
On average, master's degrees in school counseling require 60 credits. Full-time students typically earn their degree in two years, while part-time learners might need four. Universities offer multiple program formats, including traditional in-person and online options.
Distance learning also offers multiple options. Synchronous learning does not limit students to geographic location, but learners in synchronous courses must attend virtual classes at set times. Hybrid learning allows students to study independently, but it requires in-person attendance for some classes. Alternatively, asynchronous learning provides optimal flexibility, allowing students to take courses on their own time. Distance programs may offer accelerated options that allow students to graduate faster.
What Common Courses Are Offered in a Master's in Counseling Program?
Accredited master's in school counseling programs include fundamental coursework, but students should note that colleges and universities develop their own curricula. Applicants should examine programs closely to select the best school, as coursework and program emphases vary. The five options below reflect potential courses schools may offer:
-
Counseling Children and Adolescents
This course examines relevant counseling theories and techniques, including intervention for students with behavioral and emotional disorders. As a survey course, students must understand fundamental counseling skills. This course also requires applied practice by developing empirically supported, applied interventions. Outcomes include understanding the cultural, environmental, and developmental factors impacting children. -
Group Counseling
Group counseling explores group theory and research. Students apply group counseling techniques to case study scenarios. This course also emphasizes strategies for interacting with students of different age groups and ethnicities. Class activities include lectures, discussions, and group projects. Other topics include ethics and law. -
Counseling Theories
Counseling theories teach various approaches to psychotherapy and counseling, including assessment, intervention strategies, and cultural relevance. It also outlines current trends through lectures, discussions, readings, and experiential learning. Other tasks include comparing and contrasting counseling theories and philosophies, determining theory effectiveness, and identifying concepts for future developments. -
Counseling Diverse Populations
In counseling diverse populations, learners explore how various behavior patterns and value systems impact learners. Pertinent factors include age, developmental stages, ethnicity, geographic origin, and language. As an advanced course, outcomes include understanding the impact of research data and best practices for ethical school counseling. -
Mental Health and Substance Abuse
This course prepares students to identify existing and undiagnosed psychological and substance abuse in students. Mental health and substance abuse also emphasizes assessment, diagnostic skills, treatment plan development, and levels of care for clients' family members. Potential topics include the etiology of addiction, effects of medications, and intervention approaches.
What Concentrations Are Available in a Master's in School Counseling Program?
Colleges and universities provide advanced elective courses that develop specialized knowledge and skills, giving learners the competitive advantage in niche areas of the job market. Students should note that program outcomes vary by school. Therefore, students should consider their career goals when examining program options.
Elementary School Counseling
Elementary school counseling focuses on the needs and psychology of elementary students and their families. If you want to concentrate in this area, you can take electives that focus on communicating with young children and find placement for your fieldwork.
Secondary School Counseling
If you want to focus on secondary school counseling, you can pursue an online master's in school counseling that offers electives or a concentration in teen and adolescent psychology and teen development. You can also pursue fieldwork in secondary schools.
Students with Disabilities
While online master's in school counseling programs include coursework on students with disabilities, you can also focus on the needs of students with various abilities. Some master's programs have fieldwork placement opportunities in which you can work with differently abled students.
What Exams or Projects Should I Expect?
Advanced degrees, such as master's in school counseling, require extensive field experience. However, state requirements vary. Students should turn to their state's department of education website to find out the number of hours required. Field hours include direct client contact with small groups, classrooms, and individual clients. Students must also work directly under administrative supervisors.
This degree requires students to pass the national counselor examination, which includes 200 multiple-choice questions. This exam assesses human growth and development, social and cultural diversity, group counseling and group work, career counseling, assessment, research and program evaluation, and ethical practice.
How Can I Choose a Quality Master's in School Counseling Program?
Students earning a master's in school counseling should research prospective programs to ensure that their education qualifies them for licensure. Learners may want to begin this research by identifying which agencies accredit their prospective schools.
Higher education accrediting agencies establish a minimum quality standard. Students should consider programs that hold accreditation from the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP). CACREP only accredits master's and doctoral programs in counseling and related specialities. Employers also trust schools holding accreditation from the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education.
Prospective students should also verify credit transferability, even if they plan to stay at one school. If it is hard to transfer credits from a school of choice, learners should reconsider their options. Likewise, students should examine schools' support services offerings.
Career Opportunities with an Online Master's in School Counseling Degree
The BLS projects that jobs for graduates with an on-campus or online master's in school counseling could grow 5% between 2022 and 2032. While most school counselors work directly with students, they can also lead a team or department, work in educational nonprofits or think tanks, or in advocacy for schools.
The median salary for school counselors is $60,140, according to the BLS. While this is lower than the salary for other careers that require a master's degree, many school counselors have at least part of the summer off.
School Counselors
School counselors work with K-12 students in elementary and secondary schools. Counselors strive to help young learners develop excellent decision-making and studying skills. At the high school level, counselors also help students prepare for college, financial aid applications, resume writing, and internship experiences. This role may require some professionals to administer aptitude tests or conduct student interviews. School counselors often collaborate with parents, teachers, and other members of students' care teams.
- Median Salary: $65,930, according to the BLS
- Currently Employed: 156,510
- Projected Job Growth: 5% (2022-2032)
Career Counselors
Career counselors use aptitude tests to uncover their clients' interests and skills. They also develop logical pathways to help clients reach their goals. Duties may include developing job search skills, locating jobs, updating clients' resumes, mock interviewing, and role-playing. Career counselors may also teach clients to navigate conflict in professional environments and best practices for collaborating with others. At times, career counselors may assist clients in applying for additional credentials or educational programs.
- Median Salary: $49,700 according to Payscale, 2023
- Currently Employed: 342,400 (for all school, guidance, and career counselors)
- Projected Job Growth: 5% (2022-2032)
Postsecondary Teacher
A master's in school psychology qualifies graduates to enter academia teaching entry-level courses in the field. Responsibilities include preparing lectures, leading class discussions, and creating assignments. Professors also grade assignments, provide feedback, and administer exams. Additional duties may include collaborating with other instructors to develop new courses or programs. Academia creates opportunities for scholarly work and research projects. This position also requires professionals to stay abreast on developments and innovations in their field.
- Median Salary: $80,840, according to the BLS
- Currently Employed: 1,333,900
- Projected Job Growth: 8% (2022-2032)
Behavioral Disorder Counselor
Behavioral disorder counselors assist clients living with addictions. This may require multi-step programs to guide clients through the healing process. Responsibilities include teaching clients to cope, strategies for rebuilding relationships, and reestablishing clients' careers. Clients may attend sessions by choice or receive court orders to attend. These sessions might include one-on-one or group interaction. Professionals with master's in school counseling degrees can specialize in working with adolescent populations.
- Median Salary: $49,710 according to the BLS
- Currently Employed: 388,200 (for all substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors)
- Projected Job Growth: 18% (2022-2032)
Rehabilitation Counselor
Rehabilitation counselors work with clients coping with mental, emotional, and developmental disabilities. These professionals can work with clients of all ages, but those with master's degrees in school counseling may target adolescent and young adult populations. Duties include providing consultations, developing individualized treatment plans, arranging medical care, and locating additional resources. Other responsibilities include maintaining client records, adjusting treatment plans when necessary, monitoring progress, and advocating for clients.
- Median Salary: $39,990, according to the BLS
- Currently Employed: 84,800
- Projected Job Growth: 2% (2022-2032)
Professional Organizations for Careers in School Counseling
Counseling professionals conduct ongoing research, which leads to new theories and innovations in the field. They may benefit from membership with professional organizations, which allow professionals to stay current on cutting-edge research and practices. Additionally, membership organizations allow both emerging and seasoned professionals to collaborate at national and global levels.
American School Counselor Association
The ASCA prioritizes students' learning and success both academically and developmentally. The ASCA strives to support professionals in the field by providing cutting-edge resources, statistical data, annual conferences, and professional development.
Counseling Academic and Professional Honor Society International
Established in 1985, Chi Sigma Iota international honor society supports both academic and professional excellence in counseling. Memberships include networking opportunities, mentorship, online resources, leadership development, research opportunities, and fellowships.
National Association of College Admission Counseling
The NACAC supports higher education learners entering the field by connecting them with seasoned professionals. Members can participate in webinars, job fairs, collaborative networking events, and national conferences
Association for Multicultural Counseling and Development
The AMCD strives to foster professional growth and educational opportunities for counselors from diverse cultural backgrounds. AMCD membership provides leadership development, networking opportunities, growth workshops, mentorship, and a 25-state division network.
Association for Child and Adolescent Counseling
The ACAC supports all counselors working with children and adolescents. Organizational goals include promoting advocacy and advancing developmental prevention and intervention. Members access networking opportunities, a biannual journal, research grants, and presentations.
How to Pay for a Master's in School Counseling Degree
Earning a master's in school counseling requires a significant financial commitment, and many students cannot pay out-of-pocket. These learners should explore other options, such as federal funding, scholarships, fellowships, and paid internships. The section below expands on each funding method.
Federal Financial Aid
Students should complete a FAFSA to see if they qualify for funding. The FAFSA is free for students, and funding availability varies depending on students' income. Grants do not require repayment, but loans both need repaid and collect interest.
Scholarships
Scholarships do not require repayment. Foundations and multiple organizations in the private sector provide scholarships, often to support low-income students, specific cultural backgrounds, or students with disabilities. Some scholarships target students with excellent academic backgrounds or who want to study a particular subject.
Fellowships
Graduate students qualify for fellowship opportunities. Fellowships operate similarly to internships, allowing students to receive funding for labor. However, they often require a minimum GPA, and recipients gain access to mentorship and potential employment opportunities. Job duties may require students to conduct research relevant to the field.
Paid Internships
School counseling students can apply for paid internships. Unlike scholarships, internships rarely include stipulations, allowing students to use the money as needed. Interns often work with seasoned professionals, which can lead to mentorship opportunities or future employment. Some employers may even offer additional contracts to further offset students' tuition.
Frequently Asked Questions About Online Master's in School Counseling Programs
What are the licensing requirements for school counselors after completing a master's program?
Each state has its own requirements for school counselor licensing, but typical licensing requirements include passing an examination and completing supervised experience.
How can you determine if a master's in school counseling program is accredited?
You can determine if an on-campus or online master's in school counseling program is accredited by checking the site, or looking up programs in the Council for Accreditation of Counseling & Related Educational Programs (CACREP) directory. All programs listed on this page are accredited.
Are there practicum or internship requirements in a master's in school counseling program?
Like other counseling programs, master's in school counseling programs require practicum and internship hours. Most programs require approximately 700-800 hours of fieldwork.
What types of settings can graduates of a master's in school counseling program work in?
Most graduates of master's in school counseling programs work in primary or secondary schools. They may also work in colleges and universities, other educational programs, or nonprofit organizations.
All rankings and school descriptions on this page were created and reviewed independently by the ASO Rankings Team.