Becoming a licensed counselor is an educational journey. Earning your degree in one of many counseling programs can help you take your career to the next step.
Whether you are interested in completing your M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling or your Ph.D. in Counselor Education and Supervision, there are plenty of options across the country.
Find out more about CACREP-accredited counseling programs and what it takes to get started.
What Is CACREP?
CACREP accreditation shows that a graduate counseling program meets established standards for curriculum, faculty, clinical training, and student support. CACREP accredits individual degree programs rather than entire colleges or departments.
The Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs currently accredits more than 969 master’s and doctoral programs at 483 colleges and universities.
Why Does CACREP Accreditation Matter?
A CACREP-accredited degree can make it easier to demonstrate that you meet a state’s educational requirements for counselor licensure. CACREP is referenced in the licensing laws or regulations of most states, although applicants must still meet state-specific requirements for examinations, supervised experience, and other criteria.
Accreditation also provides:
- Standardized graduate-level counseling coursework
- Required supervised clinical preparation
- Potentially greater portability when applying for licensure in another state
- Eligibility for certain employment opportunities that require a CACREP-accredited degree
CACREP accreditation is voluntary. Programs seeking accreditation complete a self-study and peer-review process to demonstrate that they meet CACREP standards.
What Is an Online CACREP-Accredited Counseling Program?
An online CACREP-accredited counseling program delivers graduate-level counseling coursework remotely while meeting the same accreditation standards as an on-campus program. Students complete academic work online but must still fulfill required practicum and internship experiences in approved clinical settings.
CACREP evaluates online and campus-based programs using the same standards for curriculum, faculty qualifications, student support, and clinical preparation.
Common benefits of an online program include:
- Flexibility: Coursework may be easier to fit around work and family responsibilities.
- Accessibility: Students can consider programs outside their immediate geographic area.
- Consistent standards: Accreditation confirms that the program meets CACREP requirements regardless of delivery format.
Online delivery does not eliminate in-person clinical requirements. Prospective students should confirm that a program can support approved practicum and internship placements in their state.
Should You Choose a CACREP- or Non-CACREP-Accredited Program?
A CACREP-accredited program is generally the safer choice for students pursuing professional counselor licensure. A non-CACREP program may still qualify, but applicants may face additional coursework reviews or restrictions depending on the state.
| CACREP-Accredited Program | Non-CACREP Program | |
| Educational standards | Meets nationally established counseling standards | Standards vary by program and accreditor |
| State licensure | Meets the educational requirements in most states | May qualify if coursework meets state rules |
| Application review | Often receives a more streamlined educational review | May require course descriptions, syllabi, or other documentation |
| License portability | May make moving between states easier | Differences in coursework can create added requirements |
| Clinical preparation | Includes standardized practicum and internship requirements | Clinical requirements vary |
| Best suited for | Students seeking the clearest path to counselor licensure | Students who have verified eligibility with their state board |
When Does CACREP Accreditation Matter by State?
Counselor licensure requirements are set by individual states. CACREP identifies graduation from an accredited program as a requirement for licensure in Florida, Kentucky, North Carolina, and Ohio, while many other states recognize CACREP coursework or use similar educational standards.
Before enrolling, confirm that the specific program—not merely the university—is CACREP accredited and meets the requirements of the state where you plan to practice. Online students should also review the program’s state authorization and licensure disclosures.
A non-CACREP program may be a reasonable option when the relevant state licensing board confirms that its curriculum, credit hours, and clinical training meet current requirements. Students who may relocate should compare the rules in both their current state and likely future states before choosing a program.
What Types of CACREP-Accredited Counseling Degrees Are Available?
CACREP accredits graduate counseling programs at the master’s and doctoral levels. The right option depends on whether you want to enter professional practice, specialize in a particular population, or pursue leadership, research, or teaching roles.
Master’s Degree Programs
A master’s degree is the standard educational path for most aspiring licensed counselors. These programs typically take two to three years and combine coursework with supervised clinical experience.
Common degree titles include:
- Master of Arts (MA) in Counseling
- Master of Science (MS) in Counseling
- Master of Education (MEd) in Counseling
- Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
- Master of Arts in School Counseling
Doctoral Degree Programs
Doctoral programs are designed for counselors pursuing advanced clinical work, research, leadership, supervision, or college-level teaching. Common options include a PhD in Counselor Education and Supervision or an EdD in a counseling-related field.
Counseling Specializations
CACREP-accredited programs may prepare students for specialties such as:
- Addiction counseling
- Career counseling
- Clinical mental health counseling
- College counseling and student affairs
- Marriage, couple, and family counseling
- Rehabilitation counseling
- School counseling
Program titles and available concentrations vary by institution. Prospective students should confirm that the specific specialization aligns with their intended license and career path.
What Courses and Clinical Requirements Should You Expect?
CACREP-accredited master’s programs combine foundational counseling coursework with supervised clinical experience. Entry-level programs generally require at least 60 semester credits or 90 quarter credits.
Core coursework typically covers:
- Counseling theories and helping relationships
- Professional ethics and counselor identity
- Social and cultural diversity
- Human growth and development
- Group counseling
- Career development
- Assessment and diagnostic processes
- Research and program evaluation
Students must also complete a supervised practicum followed by a 600-hour internship. These experiences allow students to apply counseling skills with clients in settings relevant to their specialization.
Admission requirements vary by school but may include:
- A bachelor’s degree
- Undergraduate transcripts
- Letters of recommendation
- A resume or statement of purpose
- An interview
- A minimum GPA
Some schools may also request standardized test scores. Applicants should review each program’s admission standards and confirm that local clinical placements are available.
How Long Does an Online CACREP-Accredited Program Take?
Most online CACREP-accredited master’s programs take about two to three years of full-time study. Part-time students may need three to five years, depending on course availability and clinical placement timing.
Doctoral programs often require three to four years of coursework and research, with additional time sometimes needed for a dissertation.
Program length may also depend on:
- Full-time or part-time enrollment
- Transfer credits
- Accelerated course options
- Practicum and internship scheduling
- Dissertation requirements for doctoral students
CACREP-accredited entry-level programs require supervised practicum and internship experiences. Under the current standards, the internship must include at least 600 hours and follow successful completion of the practicum.
How Much Does an Online Counseling Program Cost?
An online master’s in counseling may cost roughly $20,000 to $65,000 or more in tuition. Some private programs exceed that range, while public universities and schools offering reduced online rates may cost less.
Because CACREP-accredited master’s programs generally require at least 60 credits, the per-credit rate has a major effect on the total:
| Tuition per credit | Estimated tuition for 60 credits |
| $400 | $24,000 |
| $700 | $42,000 |
| $1,000 | $60,000 |
These estimates do not include additional expenses. Students may also pay for:
- Technology and university fees
- Books and course materials
- Background checks and liability insurance
- Travel or lodging for campus residencies
- Transportation to clinical placements
- Licensing exams and state applications
Online study can reduce relocation and commuting expenses, but it is not automatically cheaper than attending on campus. Compare each program’s total required credits, mandatory fees, residency requirements, and financial aid rather than relying only on the advertised per-credit rate.
Scholarships, employer tuition assistance, military benefits, payment plans, and federal financial aid may reduce out-of-pocket costs. Students should use the school’s current tuition and cost-of-attendance information to calculate the full price before enrolling.
What Student Support Services Should You Look For?
Strong online counseling programs provide support for both academic progress and required clinical training. At minimum, students should look for clear advising, clinical placement guidance, and reliable access to faculty and technical help.
Useful support services may include:
- Academic advising: Help with course planning, graduation requirements, and enrollment decisions
- Clinical placement support: Guidance identifying approved practicum and internship sites
- Career services: Resume help, interview preparation, and job-search resources
- Technical support: Assistance with learning platforms, software, and virtual classrooms
- Online library access: Research databases, journals, e-books, and librarian support
- Mental health and wellness resources: Counseling, peer support, or wellness programming
- Networking opportunities: Virtual student organizations, mentorship, and professional events
Clinical placement support is especially important for online students. Before enrolling, ask whether the school finds placements, provides a list of approved sites, or expects students to secure their own opportunities.
How Do LPC, LMHC, and LCSW Licenses Compare?
LPCs and LMHCs follow the professional counseling path, while LCSWs are trained in social work. All three may provide mental health services, but degree requirements, training models, and license titles vary by state.
| License | Typical graduate degree | Primary training focus | Common career settings |
| LPC | Master’s in counseling | Counseling theory, assessment, diagnosis, and treatment | Private practices, clinics, hospitals, community agencies |
| LMHC | Master’s in counseling or clinical mental health counseling | Clinical assessment and mental health treatment | Private practices, behavioral health centers, hospitals |
| LCSW | Master of Social Work (MSW) | Clinical treatment within broader social, family, and community systems | Healthcare, social service agencies, schools, private practices |
LPC and LMHC are often different state titles for comparable professional counseling licenses. The exact scope of practice, examination, and supervised-experience requirements depend on the state. Counselor licensure may require the National Counselor Examination, the National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Examination, or both.
An LCSW follows a separate social work licensure pathway, typically requiring an MSW, supervised clinical experience, and a state-approved licensing examination. Social work license categories and practice permissions also vary by jurisdiction.
An LPC or LMHC may be the more direct fit for students primarily interested in counseling and psychotherapy. An LCSW may be preferable for those who want clinical practice combined with training in healthcare systems, community resources, advocacy, and social services.
Counseling vs. Social Work: Which Career Path Is Right for You?
Counseling and social work can both lead to careers supporting people with mental health, behavioral, and life challenges. Counseling usually focuses more directly on assessment and therapy, while social work also emphasizes social systems, community resources, advocacy, and case management.
| Counseling | Social Work | |
| Typical graduate degree | Master’s in counseling | Master of Social Work |
| Main training focus | Counseling theory, diagnosis, treatment, and therapeutic techniques | Clinical care, social systems, policy, advocacy, and resource coordination |
| Common licenses | LPC, LMHC, or similar state title | LCSW or another state social work license |
| Common work settings | Private practices, counseling centers, schools, hospitals | Hospitals, social service agencies, schools, nonprofits, private practices |
| Best fit for | Students primarily interested in therapy and counseling | Students seeking clinical flexibility plus broader systems-based work |
A counseling degree may be the stronger fit for students who want most of their training centered on psychotherapy and client treatment. An MSW may offer a broader path that combines clinical practice with work in healthcare, public agencies, community programs, policy, or administration.
Both paths can lead to independent clinical practice, depending on state licensing rules. Prospective students should compare the curriculum, supervised-experience requirements, and scope of practice for the license they intend to pursue.
How Do You Become a Licensed Counselor?
Becoming a licensed counselor typically requires a relevant bachelor’s degree, a master’s degree in counseling, supervised clinical experience, and a state-approved examination. Exact requirements vary by state and by license type.
The general process includes:
- Earn a bachelor’s degree. Common fields include psychology, counseling, sociology, or another behavioral or social science.
- Complete a qualifying master’s program. Most professional counselor licenses require a graduate degree in counseling or a closely related field. A CACREP-accredited program meets the educational requirements in most states, but students should verify the rules where they plan to practice.
- Complete supervised clinical training. Students complete practicum and internship requirements during graduate school. Many states also require additional supervised experience after graduation.
- Pass the required examination. States may require the National Counselor Examination, the National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Examination, or both. Examination rules vary by jurisdiction.
- Apply to the state licensing board. Applicants generally submit transcripts, supervised-experience records, examination results, a background check, and required fees.
- Maintain the license. Licensed counselors typically must renew their credentials and complete continuing education on a recurring schedule.
Before choosing a program, review the licensing board requirements in the state where you intend to work. This is especially important for online students and anyone who may relocate after graduation.
Which Licensing Exams May Be Required?
Counselor licensure commonly requires the National Counselor Examination (NCE), the National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Examination (NCMHCE), or both. The required exam depends on the state and license type.
| Exam | What it evaluates | Where it may apply |
| NCE | Broad counseling knowledge, skills, and professional practice | Required for counselor licensure in many states |
| NCMHCE | Application of clinical knowledge, assessment, diagnosis, and treatment planning | Required for clinical mental health counselor licensure in many states |
The NCE is a 200-item multiple-choice exam. The NCMHCE places greater emphasis on applying clinical judgment to realistic counseling scenarios.
Some states also require a jurisprudence, law and ethics, or other state-specific examination. Because states may require one national exam, both exams, or allow applicants to choose, students should confirm current requirements with the licensing board where they plan to practice.
Program pass rates can provide useful context, but they should not be evaluated alone. Consider cohort size, first-attempt versus overall pass rates, exam preparation support, and how recently the data were reported.
What Careers Can Counseling Graduates Pursue?
Counseling graduates may work in mental health treatment, addiction services, rehabilitation, schools, career development, and other community settings. Salary and job growth vary by specialty, location, experience, and employer.
| Career | What they do | 2024 median annual pay | Projected growth, 2024–2034 |
| Substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors | Help clients manage addiction, behavioral concerns, and mental health conditions | $59,190 | 17% |
| Rehabilitation counselors | Help people with disabilities pursue employment, independence, and personal goals | $46,110 | 1% |
| School and career counselors and advisors | Support students’ academic and social development or help clients make career decisions | $65,140 | 4% |
The strongest projected growth is for substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects about 48,300 openings in this category each year, on average, over the decade.
These figures represent national medians rather than starting salaries or guaranteed earnings. Compensation may differ substantially by state, work setting, license level, and whether a counselor works in private practice.
What Are the Benefits of an Online CACREP-Accredited Program?
An online CACREP-accredited program combines flexible delivery with a curriculum that meets recognized counseling education standards. It can be especially useful for students balancing school with work, family, or geographic constraints.
Key benefits include:
- Flexible scheduling: Online coursework may make it easier to continue working while completing a degree.
- Broader program access: Students can consider schools outside their local area without relocating.
- Consistent academic standards: CACREP-accredited online programs must meet the same standards as campus-based programs.
- Access to faculty and peers: Virtual classes, discussion boards, and office hours support interaction and collaboration.
- Licensure preparation: Accredited programs are designed around coursework and clinical training that align with many state licensure requirements.
Online learning still requires strong time management and active participation. Students should also confirm how the program handles clinical placements, required residencies, and state authorization before enrolling.
How Can You Stand Out as an Online Counseling Student?
Online counseling students can stand out by participating actively, building professional relationships, and preparing early for clinical training. Strong communication and time-management skills are especially important in a remote program.
Helpful strategies include:
- Engage in discussions: Contribute thoughtful responses in virtual classes, discussion boards, and group projects.
- Connect with faculty: Use office hours and email to build relationships that may lead to mentorship or recommendations.
- Prepare for clinical placements early: Research local sites, meet deadlines, and use any placement support the program provides.
- Join professional organizations: Groups such as the American Counseling Association or National Board for Certified Counselors can offer networking and career resources.
- Pursue leadership opportunities: Student organizations, honor societies, and volunteer roles can strengthen your resume.
- Develop specialized skills: Additional training in areas such as trauma, addiction, or grief counseling may support your career goals.
- Manage your time consistently: A regular study schedule can help you balance coursework, work, and personal responsibilities.
The strongest online students treat the program as a professional environment. Consistent participation, clear communication, and early career planning can help you build credibility before graduation.
Notable Online CACREP-Accredited Programs
The following schools offer examples of well-regarded online CACREP-accredited counseling programs. This list is not comprehensive and is intended only to highlight several strong options so prospective students can better understand the types of programs available.
| Auburn University | |
| Program | Master of Education in Clinical Mental Health Counseling |
| Program Overview | This CACREP-accredited, practice-based program prepares counselors for work in inpatient, outpatient, nonprofit, private-practice, community-agency, governmental, and educational settings. It is available both on campus and online. Students must complete all coursework, practicum experiences, and internships in the United States. New cohorts begin in the fall semester. |
| About the School | Auburn University is a public research university in Auburn, Alabama. The program is offered through the College of Education’s Department of Special Education, Rehabilitation, and Counseling. |
| Bradley University | |
| Program | Master of Arts in Counseling – Clinical Mental Health |
| Program Overview | This 60-credit online program can be completed in about 40 months and includes one practicum and two internships that students complete locally. The CACREP-accredited curriculum covers counseling theory, diagnosis and treatment, substance use, trauma and grief, family counseling, diverse populations, assessment, and neurocounseling. It is designed to prepare graduates for the National Counselor Examination and provide a path toward professional licensure. |
| About the School | Bradley University is a private university in Peoria, Illinois. The institution offers undergraduate and graduate programs across business, engineering, education, health sciences, liberal arts, and related fields. |
| John Carroll University | |
| Program | Online M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling |
| Program Overview | This CACREP-accredited online program can be completed in two years and mirrors John Carroll’s on-campus counseling curriculum. Students complete more than 700 hours of clinical experience at approved sites near them and attend two on-campus weekend residencies. The program prepares graduates to pursue initial licensure as a Licensed Professional Counselor or Mental Health Counselor, with an optional substance use disorder concentration that may support an additional license. |
| About the School | John Carroll University is a private Jesuit university in University Heights, Ohio, near Cleveland. The program is offered through its College of Health and Department of Counseling. |
| Marquette University | |
| Program | Online Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling |
| Program Overview | This 60-credit, CACREP-accredited online program can be completed in as few as three years and offers both a general track and a child and adolescent counseling specialization. Most coursework is asynchronous, with synchronous sessions for counseling skill development. Students complete 100 hours of practicum experience and 600 internship hours, with support identifying clinical placement sites. The curriculum emphasizes counseling theory, assessment, diagnosis, intervention, multiculturalism, trauma, social justice, and preparation for state licensure. |
| About the School | Marquette University is a private Jesuit research university in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Its academic mission emphasizes service, ethical leadership, and social justice. |
| Messiah University | |
| Program | Master of Arts in Counseling |
| Program Overview | This 60-credit, CACREP-accredited online program can be completed in two years, with courses beginning every eight weeks. Students can choose from tracks in clinical mental health counseling; marriage, couple and family counseling; or school counseling. The curriculum integrates faith, professional practice, leadership, and personal development while preparing graduates for relevant certification or licensure. |
| About the School | Messiah University is a private Christian university in Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania. Its programs emphasize the integration of academic study, Christian faith, service, and professional preparation. |
| North Carolina State University | |
| Program | M.Ed. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling |
| Program Overview | This online, three-year, part-time cohort program combines clinical counseling theory and practice with developmental, preventive, and multicultural approaches. Students complete individualized field experiences, including practicum and internship work, within North Carolina. The curriculum meets the course requirements for professional licensure in North Carolina, and students may take relevant licensing exams during their final semester. |
| About the School | North Carolina State University is a public research university in Raleigh, North Carolina. The program is offered through its College of Education and delivered through NC State’s Online and Distance Education division. |
| Northwestern University | |
| Program | Online Master’s in Counseling |
| Program Overview | This CACREP-accredited online MA in Counseling prepares students to pursue clinical mental health counseling licensure. Students complete 24 courses in the Standard Program or 27 courses through the Bridge to Counseling Program, along with a 200-hour practicum, a 600-hour internship, and two in-person immersion experiences. Accelerated, traditional, and part-time tracks allow completion in approximately 18 months to three years. An optional Child and Adolescent Specialization provides additional training in youth development and mental health treatment. |
| About the School | Northwestern University is a private research university based in Evanston, Illinois, near Chicago. The counseling program is offered through The Family Institute at Northwestern University. |
| Seattle University | |
| Program | Clinical Mental Health Counseling, Online, MAEd |
| Program Overview | This CACREP-accredited, 90-credit online program can be completed in three years and prepares graduates to pursue professional counselor licensure. The first two years use asynchronous online coursework, while the third year includes synchronous courses and in-person practicum and internship experiences at approved local sites. Students also attend two four-day summer residencies and complete the educational requirements for Washington State Substance Use Disorder Certification. |
| About the School | Seattle University is a private university located in Seattle, Washington. The program is offered through its College of Education. |
| Wake Forest University | |
| Program | Online Master of Arts in Counseling |
| Program Overview | The online master’s program offers two tracks: Clinical Mental Health and School Counseling. The Clinical Mental Health track develops skills for working with people experiencing mental health, substance use, family, and marriage-related concerns. The School Counseling track prepares students to collaborate with educators and families to support children’s well-being and academic success. Both the online and on-campus programs are accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP). |
| About the School | Wake Forest University is a private university located in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. It is known for its liberal arts curriculum and offers both on-campus and online programs. |
| William & Mary | |
| Program | Online M.Ed. in Counseling |
| Program Overview | This CACREP-accredited online counseling program emphasizes social justice, cultural responsiveness, faculty mentorship, and experiential learning through supervised practica and internships. Students can choose a concentration in Clinical Mental Health Counseling or School Counseling, with an additional Military and Veterans Counseling specialization available within the clinical mental health track. The curriculum is designed to prepare graduates for licensing examinations and counseling work with diverse populations. |
| About the School | William & Mary is a public research university in Williamsburg, Virginia, and is one of the oldest institutions of higher education in the United States. Its School of Education offers graduate programs focused on teaching, counseling, leadership, and related fields. |
Frequently Asked Questions About CACREP-Accredited Programs
Are there fully online CACREP-accredited programs?
Yes. Some CACREP-accredited counseling programs offer coursework fully online, although students must still complete supervised practicum and internship experiences in approved settings.
Does a CACREP-accredited degree automatically make you a licensed counselor?
No. Graduation from a CACREP-accredited program may satisfy the educational portion of licensure, but candidates must also meet state requirements for supervised experience, examinations, applications, and fees.
Is CACREP the only accreditor for counseling programs?
No. Other forms of institutional and programmatic accreditation exist, but CACREP is the primary specialized accreditor for graduate counseling programs in the United States.
How long does CACREP accreditation last?
CACREP commonly grants accreditation for an eight-year period. Some programs may receive a shorter term when additional reporting or review is required.
Are CACREP-accredited programs more expensive?
Not necessarily. Tuition varies by institution, residency status, delivery format, and financial aid rather than accreditation alone. Students should compare total program cost, not just tuition per credit.
Is a CACREP-accredited degree worth it?
It may be worthwhile for students seeking a clearer path to counselor licensure and greater flexibility when moving between states. Its value depends on the licensing rules, career goals, cost, and location relevant to the student.
What should you look for in an online CACREP-accredited program?
Consider:
- State licensure eligibility
- Clinical placement support
- Total tuition and fees
- Program length and pacing
- Faculty access
- Available specializations
- Graduation and exam pass rates
- Required campus visits
The best program is one that is accredited, affordable, available in your state, and aligned with the license and career path you intend to pursue.