The cheapest master's in counseling online makes it possible for aspiring mental health professionals to gain essential credentials without putting their lives on hold. These online master's programs delve into specialties like clinical mental health, school counseling, and addiction recovery.
Key Takeaways:
- Arkansas State University ranks #1 for affordability, offering a master’s in school counseling for $7,200 annually.
- City Vision University leads in graduation success, with a 100% graduation rate.
- Hobe Sound Bible College provides the most personalized support with a 6:1 student-to-faculty ratio, ranking in the top 5% nationwide.
All programs are fully online from accredited schools and ranked by manually calculated and verified tuition rates. Discover more about our process in our methodology.
2025 Most Affordable Online Master's Degrees in Counseling
| Rank | School | Location | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|---|
| Arkansas State University | Jonesboro (AR) | $7,200 | |
| Eastern New Mexico University - Main Campus | Portales (NM) | $7,479 | |
| Hobe Sound Bible College | Hobe Sound (FL) | $7,650 | |
| Lindsey Wilson University | Columbia (KY) | $7,800 | |
| Bob Jones University | Greenville (SC) | $7,875 | |
| Lamar University | Beaumont (TX) | $8,208 | |
| Evangel University | Springfield (MO) | $8,400 | |
| Delta State University | Cleveland (MS) | $8,435 | |
| Southern Arkansas University | Magnolia (AR) | $8,605 | |
| Arizona State University, Online | Tempe (AZ) (and 4 others) | $9,075 | |
| City Vision University | Kansas City (MO) | $9,612 | |
| Southeastern Oklahoma State University | Durant (OK) | $10,017 | |
| Campbellsville University | Campbellsville (KY) | $10,208 | |
| Morehead State University | Morehead (KY) | $10,260 | |
| Culver-Stockton College | Canton (MO) | $10,500 | |
| Hampton University | Hampton (VA) | $10,772 | |
| University of Missouri | Columbia (MO) | $11,236 | |
| University at Buffalo | Buffalo (NY) | $11,300 | |
| Liberty University | Lynchburg (VA) | $11,300 | |
| Adams State University | Alamosa (CO) | $11,400 | |
| Ouachita Baptist University | Arkadelphia (AR) | $11,550 | |
| Northwest Missouri State University | Maryville (MO) | $11,730 | |
| Chadron State College | Chadron (NE) | $11,760 | |
| The University of Tennessee - Martin | Martin (TN) | $11,970 | |
| Touro University Worldwide | Los Angeles (CA) | $12,000 | |
| Purdue Global | Indianapolis (IN) | $12,600 | |
| Wayland Baptist University | Plainview (TX) | $12,912 | |
| University of Maryland Global Campus | Adelphi (MD) | $13,180 | |
| Lehigh University | Bethlehem (PA) | $13,200 | |
| University of Alabama | Tuscaloosa (AL) | $13,200 |
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Online Counseling Master's Degrees You May Be Interested In
Annual Tuition: $8,475
33 Programs ( view all )
Annual Tuition: $11,124
10 Programs ( view all )
Annual Tuition: $10,573 - $26,735
2 Programs ( view all )
Overview of an Online Master's in Counseling Degree
We list the top 30 most affordable online degree options above, starting with the lowest tuition rate of $7,200. You can complete coursework for a master’s degree in counseling 100% online. However, there are significant experiential requirements for each specialization — for example, most mental health counseling students need to complete 600 supervised in-person field hours to graduate.
You should always ensure that a program is accredited. Rest assured that all schools on our site are institutionally accredited, which guarantees that they’ve met certain criteria for quality. Counseling programs may be further accredited at the program level by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling & Related Educational Programs (), which accredits online programs. Most schools who have earned this stamp of approval will mention it on their counseling program pages.
Common Counseling Concentrations and Courses
Below are some concentrations and related courses that students across various counseling master's degree programs might encounter:
Mental Health Counseling
Foundations of Mental Health Counseling
In this course, students learn the history, philosophy, and legislation behind mental health counseling. Faculty discuss the role of the counselor in treating people with emotional, psychological, and behavioral problems, along with how these professionals earn and maintain licenses to practice.
Crisis, Disaster, and Trauma
An important aspect of counseling is understanding how traumatic events shape people’s mental and physical well-being. This course teaches the best methods for helping patients process trauma. Faculty also discuss the toll that such counseling can take on the counselor, providing strategies for self-care when dealing with burnout and compassion fatigue.
Psychopathology and Diagnosis
Focusing on the classification and diagnosis of mental disorders, this course trains students to use the DSM-5 and other diagnostic tools. It emphasizes understanding the symptoms, causes, and treatments of various psychological disorders. Students learn to differentiate between different types of psychopathologies and develop skills in clinical assessment and diagnosis.
Rehabilitation Counseling
Introduction to Rehabilitation Counseling
This course gives an overview of theories, principles, and best practices for rehabilitating people with physical disabilities or mental illness. Students learn the relevant historical and legal context behind rehabilitation counseling, along with current and projected trends and challenges.
Psychiatric Rehabilitation
This course teaches how to assess people with mental illness and offer them strategies for moving forward after a diagnosis. Students read the latest research in rehabilitation theory and case management and learn how to adopt an evidence-based approach to practice. The focus is on helping people structure their lives to set them up for success after a diagnosis.
Medical and Psychosocial Aspects of Disability
Focusing on the medical, psychological, and social aspects of disability, this course covers various types of disabilities, their causes, and their impacts on individuals' lives. Students learn about the rehabilitation process, disability management, and strategies for promoting independence and quality of life for individuals with disabilities.
Substance Abuse Counseling
Introduction to Substance Abuse Counseling
Faculty cover the foundations of chemical dependency and proven methods for treating it in various populations. Faculty also cover the ethics of counseling people affected by addiction. Students should understand that religious-affiliated schools will usually approach ethics topics from the perspective of their denomination.
Psychopharmacology of Substance Abuse
This course describes the physiological effects of different addictive chemicals on the human body and brain. Faculty help students understand the physical science behind addiction so they can effectively treat its psychological effects.
Family Dynamics and Substance Abuse
This course explores the impact of substance abuse on family systems and the role of family therapy in treatment. Students learn about family dynamics, codependency, and strategies for involving family members in the recovery process. The course emphasizes the importance of a holistic approach to treatment that includes family support.
School Counseling
Introduction to School Counseling
In this survey, students learn fundamental theories and techniques for guiding students through their education. Faculty discuss common mental health issues and behavioral disorders, legislation and practice trends, and licensing standards for school counselors. Most versions of this course touch on mental and physical development through childhood and adolescence, though later courses cover this more in depth.
Human Development Across the Lifespan
This course covers emotional, physical, and behavioral development from childhood on. Students learn the major development milestones and the crucial influence played by a child’s social and family environments. Faculty emphasize what development means for a young student’s education.
Crisis Intervention in Schools
This course focuses on crisis intervention strategies for school settings. Students learn to handle situations such as bullying, suicide, violence, and natural disasters. The course emphasizes the development of crisis response plans and the role of the school counselor in supporting students and staff during emergencies.
How Much Does It Cost to Get an Online Master’s in Counseling?
Among the 25 most affordable counseling master's degrees on this page, the annual tuition ranges from $7,125 on the low end to $20,940. However, tuition is not the whole story because each school adds fees on top of the tuition rate. Most schools charge a technology fee to online students, along with other costs. Research these fees when considering programs, and use each institution’s net price calculator to get the most accurate estimate of a degree’s cost.
How Do I Get a Master’s in Counseling Paid For?
It’s unlikely that anybody will get a master’s degree without any debt obligation, but there are ways to partially fund a program. These include scholarships, grants, and employer tuition assistance. Scholarships are highly sought after because they pay part of a student’s tuition with no expectation of repayment. Like scholarships, grants are a form of funding that students don’t need to repay after graduation. Review these options for an idea of what’s available:
: For students seeking to reduce the stigma of physical disabilities (applies to rehabilitation counseling or mental health counseling)
: To support research on anxiety (applies to mental health counseling)
: For students researching gifted children (applies to school counseling)
In addition, the (ACA) has a page hosting the various federal funding options for counseling students. These include opportunities for students interested in behavioral health, opioid addiction, and suicide prevention, among other issues.
Though there are many scholarships and grants for counseling students, employer funding is more nebulous. We have little hard data about the number of employers willing to partially fund their employees’ master’s degrees in return for an agreed-upon term of service. Students who work for a college or university may be eligible for tuition discounts on classes offered by their employers but may not receive assistance to attend another institution. Employers who do fund graduate degrees usually offer up to $5,250 per year, which is the maximum tax-deductible amount. Prospective applicants should check with their employers to learn the relevant policies.
Salary and Job Outlook for Online Counseling Graduates
Below are some common careers for counseling graduates. Counseling is a wide field with several specializations, so some careers only make sense for graduates of particular programs — for example, those with an MA in School Counseling are qualified to become school counselors but not substance abuse counselors. Students should research licensure and certification for their specialty in the state where they want to practice, because standards may differ across these boundaries.
Mental Health Counselors
provide advice and support to individuals dealing with issues such as alcoholism, addictions, and depression. They evaluate clients' mental and physical health, develop treatment plans, assist in skill development for recovery, and work with clients' families to support the recovery process, often collaborating with other healthcare professionals and intervening in both crisis and noncrisis situations.
Marriage and Family Therapists
diagnose and treat cognitive, behavioral, and emotional disorders within the context of relationships, encouraging clients to discuss their emotions and experiences. They assess clients' needs, develop treatment plans, help clients adjust to difficult changes, and collaborate with other specialists to provide comprehensive care, focusing on improving family dynamics and relationships.
School and Career Advisors
help students develop academic and social skills, plan for the future, and overcome challenges. They evaluate abilities, collaborate with families, and provide guidance on educational and career options, using assessments and teaching job-search strategies. They may specialize in advising college students or providing career coaching.
Rehabilitation Counselor
help individuals with physical, mental, developmental, or emotional disabilities live independently by managing the personal, social, and psychological effects of disabilities on employment or daily life. They also assist employers in understanding the capabilities and legal rights of people with disabilities and work with clients to enhance their strengths and adapt to their limitations.
Student Reviews of Online Counseling Programs
Overall, I am very satisfied with my learning experience at the University. I do feel however some of the courses should be offered as specialty course and not a requirement. Class waivers should be easier to navigate and work experience should be taken into great consideration when making decisions to wave course.
Review Date: 5/15/2025
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
There are pros and cons to this program. It will sound in my case as if the cons greatly outweigh the pros, but many of them can be avoided or easily resolved by getting tips and tricks from a current student or recent graduate.
I'll start with the pros that keep me enrolled: I've had only excellent experiences with Student Services Coordinators. I see a lot of reviews where students had a rough time. That has not been my experience. No issues with disbursements. No issues with CACREP accredidation... Read More
Cons: The syllabi, particularly the assignment instructions, are oftentimes vage where they need to be concise and wordy to the point of being confusing and overwhelming where less words will do. Repetitive as well. Just tell me what to do! The ebooks are supplied through Bibliu. I hate it. You have to view the books by section instead of by page and it's easy to get lost. I need TTS on account of a disability and the function in Bibliu is atrocious. I usually end up buying or renting an old edition of the assigned textbook so I can use a decent TTS program and at least have a chance to comprehend the material.
I've had a couple of terrible instructors. Most of them don't hold virtual office hours or provide any lecture materials. I had one professor who decided to give me 'F' grades on 3 assignments, reassign them so I could make corrections with the hope of raising my grade to a C AT MAXIMUM, and give me 'A' grades in the end. I returned to school after a very long hiatus and have shortcomings that I did not experience in undergrad, so I did not appreciate being played with like that. I was so panicked that I would fail to turn in perfect revisions and receive 'D' grades or worse that I had a nervous breakdown and nearly quit the program. My SSC talked me down. Additionally, this instructor reassigned 7 of 8 assignments back to me. Who has time to redo nearly every major assignment while trying to meet deadlines? I've never had any other professor reassign work back to me, let alone threaten me with a MAXIMUM 'C' grade. She also gave no feedback on assignments. Ever.
Any time I make an adjustment to my schedule, it resets all courses following to a default schedule I do not want. I now set reminders for 2 weeks prior to the end of each course to ask my SSC to fix it.
As much as I appreciate Disabled Student Services, they did a terrible job of informing me of all the free resources at my disposal to further accommodate my shortcomings. For example, if I indicate that I need TTS to "read" successfully, you should tell me there's a free amazing TTS program provided by the university up front or at least make it easy to find!
I'm sorry to be one of those people, but many of the students cannot grasp basic spelling, grammar, and syntax. It is a bit irritating. I mean, it's a graduate program...I've unintentionally caught a few copy-paste discussion question posts. I'm pretty sure many of them are turning in AI-generated work. There are a few tip-offs I've caught onto.
The LopesWrite plagiarism checker is absurdly finicky. I make sure I finish assignments at least 12 hours before the deadline to ensure I have time to revise my assignment repeatedly to get it through that thing successfully.
You cannot access assignments turned in to previous classes 4 weeks after each class ends. SAVE EVERYTHING AND BACK IT UP!
Overall, I have come to appreciate the program. It's forced me to push myself to get creative and motivated to work around and with my shortcomings. If you truly apply yourself, keep procrastination to a minimim, and refrain from cheating, you can probably get through it. I was certain I wouldn't make it through countless times and I'm now much closer to graduation than I ever expected to be. I WILL complete this program despite my disabilities. Believe in yourselves, peeps.
Review Date: 10/25/2024
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
Walden University have been a pleasant surprise. I read a few reviews and worried that I wouldn't enjoy the experience. I really enjoy the the classes the rigor the professors are tough but they are flexible if you communicate.i love the Acdemic Skills lessons and I really enjoy the Skill Setter practice software. The simulations are amazing!! I highly recommend Walden University.
Review Date: 8/4/2024
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
I love Walsh University. I have learned so much from this college. I am an online student in another state, but I still felt like I was a part of the school. They helped me so much that I excelled in my internship, and I was offered a job before I even finished. The professors and students are very supportive and helpful, and I could not be more grateful.
Review Date: 8/8/2025
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
Lock Haven University's Clinical Mental Health Counseling Program is the best program I ever could have asked for. I have almost graduated, and it was the best decision I made in my career to attend this school. The quality of education is great and they really want to ensure you understand all the material and are critically thinking, not just memorizing things for useless little quizzes/etc. All the professors are amazing and truly care about their student's success and well-being. They are not... Read More
Review Date: 11/5/2023
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
I am pretty new to the M.A. in Counseling program but it’s been great so far! I have a small cohort and all of the classes are live so I really feel like I know my classmates and professors. This school seems to be on the up-and-up and it sounds like the program is growing larger every year (probably because of the CACREP accreditation). Overall I’m very happy here.
Review Date: 5/10/2021
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
Palo Alto is growing rapidly and is quickly making a larger name for itself in the field. I really enjoy my classes and the cohort model has been wonderful as I've gotten to know my classmates very well. Also, it's worth noting that PAU is affiliated with Stanford and I've been able to do research with Stanford university professors, so that's been pretty cool! This program is what you make of it, but if you are a dedicated student and have a love for the content that you're learning, you'll do great... Read More
Review Date: 3/16/2022
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
Walden is an an excellent school for someone looking for an actual professional level degree. It is NOT a degree for someone unwilling to do the work, to change and challenge themselves, or meet professional level expectations. It is a true Masters Level program, delivered 90% online, and that means the onus to get the work done and do well is on YOU. The professors in these courses are all Doctors, who are working clinically in the field, and have years of experience. They have written textbooks,... Read More
Review Date: 9/21/2022
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
I did the Masters in counseling with a PPS Credential, for school counseling program. When it said that I was getting a Master's in counseling I thought it would qualify me to continue to go on to get Licensed as a clinical counselor after the program. However that is not the case with this program! This program is great if you want only the PPS Credential. I have to take a whole other masters if I want to work specifically in mental health with students. Because schools are hiring LPCCs and MFTs... Read More
Review Date: 4/5/2022
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
I absolutely love everything about the school and highly recommend it to anyone whether they come from a faith based background or not. In 2016 I completed my BS online there in interdisciplinary studies focusing on psychology and early childhood education and I returned last year to complete my masters in Human Services Counseling- Executive Leadership. The faculty and professors have all been extremely helpful and supportive. I’ve even spoken to a couple of professors over the phone that helped... Read More
Review Date: 3/28/2022
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
As with any life experience, it is what you make it. If you commit and apply yourself, it can be great. After graduating, I was able to find an internship very easily because the agency recognized and valued Liberty University graduates. Liberty’s program prepared me for the challenges I’d face fresh out of the program and to pass the state exam.
I worked construction for 30 years prior to going to Liberty University, and now, three years after graduation, I am a licensed mental health counselor,... Read More
Review Date: 8/24/2025
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
Loved my program at Walden. COVID hit while I was a student. The university and faculty supported students and their families by allowing leniency. The student assistance program offers 3 free counseling sessions for students, their families, their roommates. You can get 3 free sessions for each stressor! They have one on one faculty support for skill development for any student who asks. They have support faculty for students who have life challenges (e.g., hurricane, death of lived one, house burned... Read More
Review Date: 2/26/2022
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
I had a great experience at Liberty. I did the masters in counseling program while I was working full-time and finished in just over two years. It was intense, but the 8 week class structure made it doable. I had some really stellar professors who went above and beyond. I also had some mediocre professors. Fortunately, my practicum and internship professors were wonderful. I learned a ton from them. You do need to know what you're signing up for with an online program. Most of your learning will... Read More
Review Date: 12/21/2021
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
Overall, I think the MA in Counseling program is wonderful! Here are my key takeaways: 1) The professors are supportive, knowledgable, and flexible, 2) classmates are encouraging, 3) curriculum is sublime and incorporates modern issues, but is very challenging, 4) be prepared to do some counseling (e.g. taking on a counselor role w/ a student), & 5) all classes overlap w/ the 90 unit licensing program. Because of this, I often felt like "the other" because I plan to pursue a career in higher ed,... Read More
Review Date: 5/1/2021
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
Bellevue U’s M.S. (CACREP accredited) clinical counseling program gives you in depth course preparation and the ability to apply what you have learned to specific case studies, before entering into counseling internship. Each course has papers, discussion boards, exams and video/audio recorded student projects that measure ability and allow for demonstration of understanding in multiple ways. From start to finish, there are many opportunities to connect “in person” with instructors and other students... Read More
Review Date: 3/14/2021
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
Regent University is an exceptional example of an institution with a Christ-focused education as well as a holistic curriculum. Although I am only one semester into my education, I am confident that the Lord led me to this university. I am currently pursuing a Master of Arts in Counseling (on the Clinical Mental Health track with a School Counseling certificate) within the School of Psychology and Counseling. Regent's counseling program is CACREP-accredited, which means that students receive the... Read More
Review Date: 12/30/2016
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
Colorado Christian University makes getting your Masters Degree online very easy. The enrollment staff and faculty are very kind and helpful. The curriculum is solid and definitely will prepare you to enter the field after graduation. Though I haven't completed my degree yet, I am very glad that I choose CCU to pursue my Masters through.
Review Date: 2/1/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
The quality of instruction in Walden's Master's Degree programs has so far been very good. The professors are responsive to student emails and questions and have been willing to clarify information for the classroom once they discover that something has been unclear. The pace of course work can be intense. Classes run for 11-12 week terms with only one week off in between. Be prepared to schedule your time well in order to have required assignments including discussions and papers turned in on time... Read More
Review Date: 2/11/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
I graduated from this program in Mental Health Counseling but the program went drastically downhill after the change in administration in 2018. During that time many long term professors left the school and they hired many adjuncts of variable quality. Some professors were g re at and some very unprofessional. The administration would not reply to the emails, especially the dean. You have to find a practicum and internship in your own state or you will not graduate. It has been a great struggle,... Read More
Review Date: 11/5/2020
Would Recommend: No
Helpful for Career: No
I enjoyed being at Walden and the online experience. However, the resident part was not my favorite. I did not like the fact that I had to pay for my airfare, room and board during this week long trip. That was not how it was initially advertised. I attempted to use my loan but that was taken up entirely on my class for the week. So I was mainly stuck to my room, because I was not prepared to pay for the extra expenses which were more than my family could handle. Everything else was actually a good... Read More
Review Date: 12/16/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No