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Best Online Counseling Psychology Degree Programs for 2025

Imed Bouchrika, Phd

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

What can I expect from online counseling psychology programs?

Online counseling psychology programs offer foundational training in mental health, behavior, and communication through a fully remote format. Coursework typically includes subjects like developmental psychology, counseling theory, and group dynamics, with a clear focus on understanding diverse populations and ethical practice in human services.

Expect consistent interaction with emotionally complex material. Many courses involve reflective writing, case analysis, or roleplay-based discussions. These activities develop the self-awareness and empathy essential to the field, even in a virtual setting.

Some programs include service-learning or community-based assignments, where students apply classroom knowledge to real scenarios. These may involve interviews, observation reports, or field-based reflection, even without formal clinical placements at the undergraduate level.

The best online programs also prepare students for graduate study. They emphasize writing, APA-style documentation, and psychological research, all of which are core to future licensure pathways. Support services often include academic coaching and career planning tailored to counseling-related fields.

Where can I work with online counseling psychology programs?

While many roles require graduate study for licensure, a bachelor’s degree in counseling psychology can lead to entry-level work in sectors that value mental health training and behavioral insight. These programs prepare students to contribute in settings where communication, empathy, and applied psychology are essential.

These are the most common settings where this degree is both relevant and valued:

  • Community-Based Organizations: Nonprofits, youth programs, and outreach services that address behavioral and emotional wellness.
  • Healthcare Systems: Hospitals, clinics, and wellness centers that offer support roles in patient care and behavioral health coordination.
  • Schools and Educational Services: K–12 settings and academic support programs focused on student development and behavioral needs.
  • Social Services and Government Agencies: Public programs related to housing, corrections, child welfare, or disability services.
  • Human Resources and Workplace Wellness: Corporate offices and employee assistance programs focused on mental health and performance.
  • Rehabilitation and Recovery Programs: Centers that support addiction treatment, trauma recovery, and reintegration services.

Well-designed programs help graduates enter these fields prepared, with the foundational knowledge and credibility that top employers increasingly expect.

How much can I make with online counseling psychology programs?

Graduates with a bachelor’s degree in counseling psychology typically enter support roles in behavioral health, education, or community-based services. While salaries at this level vary by setting and responsibility, they tend to reflect early-career, non-licensed positions.

The most recent data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) shows:

  • Community and Social Services: Median annual wage is $57,530, with most bachelor’s-level roles falling between $40,000–$52,000 (BLS, 2024).
  • Substance Abuse and Mental Health Support: Counselors in recovery and treatment services earn a median wage of $59,190 (BLS, 2024).
  • Social Work and Related Services: Median pay for social workers is $61,330, with many entering the field after completing a bachelor’s degree and pursuing licensure (BLS, 2024).
  • School and Career Counseling (Graduate-level): Licensed counselors earn a median of $65,140 (BLS, 2024).
  • Marriage and Family Therapy (Graduate-level): Licensed professionals in this area earn a median salary of $63,780 (BLS, 2024).

Earning potential is moderate at the start, but the best programs position students well for graduate study, where the financial and professional returns grow substantially.

Table of Contents

List of Online Counseling Psychology Degree Programs for 2025

1. Arizona State University

Arizona State University recently introduced the Bachelor of Science in Counseling and Applied Psychological Science as a unique, research-based online counseling program distinguished for its practical focus and academic depth. Students complete a 135-hour supervised capstone and can pursue specialized pathways in areas such as veteran support and performance psychology, making it a strong choice for those preparing for clinical roles or graduate study.

  • Program Length: Approximately 4 years full-time
  • Tracks/concentrations: Counseling for Military Members and Veterans; Sport and Performance Counseling
  • Cost per Credit: Ranges from approximately $561 to $1,343, depending on course load and other factors
  • Required Credits to Graduate: 120
  • Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)

2. Maryville University

Maryville University delivers an online Bachelor of Arts in Psychology that builds a strong foundation in human behavior and psychological theory, supported by an applied research capstone and faculty mentoring. The program stands out for its APA-aligned curriculum and Early Access option, which allows eligible students to begin graduate-level coursework in their senior year.

  • Program Length: Typically 4 years, potentially less with transfer credits or full-time pace
  • Tracks/concentrations: Core psychology curriculum with opportunities for applied research and experiential learning
  • Cost per Credit: $575
  • Required Credits to Graduate: 120
  • Accreditation: HLC

3. Methodist University

Methodist University offers a 100% online Bachelor of Science in Psychology that emphasizes applied training in behavioral science and mental health support. Students can transfer up to 93 credit hours and complete courses in accelerated eight-week terms. A research-informed curriculum and focused upper-level coursework make it a strong option for those pursuing graduate study or entry into clinical fields.

  • Program Length: Approximately 3.5 years full-time
  • Tracks/concentrations: Counseling/Clinical Psychology; Human Performance Psychology
  • Cost per Credit: $435 ($250 for military)
  • Required Credits to Graduate: 124
  • Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)

4. Concordia University - Saint Paul

Concordia University – Saint Paul delivers an online Bachelor of Arts in Psychology designed for flexibility, professional readiness, and broad exposure to human behavior and applied research. Students benefit from expert faculty and opportunities to tailor coursework toward individual goals through electives and an applied learning component. With a strong emphasis on career preparation and graduate study pathways, this program consistently ranks among the most transfer-friendly and career-focused options available online.

  • Program Length: As few as 18 months with transfer credits
  • Tracks/concentrations: General Psychology with career-aligned electives
  • Cost per Credit: $420
  • Required Credits to Graduate: 120
  • Accreditation: HLC

5. East Central University

East Central University features an online Bachelor of Science in Psychology tailored for students planning careers in behavioral health and human services. The curriculum stands out for integrating applied psychology with policy-focused coursework and offering one of the region’s most transfer-friendly structures, accepting up to 90 credit hours. Graduates are well-positioned for case management, crisis response, and entry into clinical graduate programs.

  • Program Length: Approximately 2–4 years
  • Tracks/concentrations: Behavioral Health
  • Cost per Credit: $321.80 (Oklahoma residents); $638.80 (non-residents)
  • Required Credits to Graduate: 120
  • Accreditation: HLC

6. University of West Alabama

University of West Alabama presents an online Bachelor of Arts/Bachelor of Science in Psychology that emphasizes experimental methodology, research training, and student mentorship. The program supports undergraduate research with opportunities to present at regional and national conferences, helping graduates build a competitive foundation for counseling, social services, or advanced study.

  • Program Length: Approximately 3–4 years
  • Tracks/concentrations: General Psychology (BA/BS options)
  • Cost per Credit: $325
  • Required Credits to Graduate: Approximately 123
  • Accreditation: HLC

7. University of Texas Permian Basin

The University of Texas Permian Basin features an online Bachelor of Arts in Psychology that combines research-based learning with personalized instruction in writing, analysis, and behavioral science. With multiple start dates and eight-week terms, the program provides one of the most flexible and affordable pathways among public Texas universities. UTPB also offers a fully online MS in Clinical Psychology, creating a streamlined path for continued graduate study.

  • Program Length: Approximately 4 years full-time
  • Tracks/concentrations: Optional focus in Clinical, Developmental, Forensic, or Health Psychology
  • Cost per Credit: $362.34 (additional fees may apply)
  • Required Credits to Graduate: 120
  • Accreditation: HLC

8. Our Lady of the Lake University

Our Lady of the Lake University delivers a fully online Master of Arts in Counseling with a Clinical Mental Health Counseling specialization, designed to prepare students for licensure through a CACREP-aligned curriculum and over 700 hours of supervised clinical experience. The program emphasizes mentorship from licensed faculty, small class sizes, and military-friendly benefits, including a 10% tuition discount and Yellow Ribbon School status for veterans and active-duty personnel.

  • Program Length: Approximately 40 months
  • Tracks/concentrations: Clinical Mental Health Counseling; Clinical Rehabilitation Counseling; School Counseling
  • Cost per Credit: $991
  • Required Credits to Graduate: 60
  • Accreditation: SACSCOC

9. University of New Haven

University of New Haven presents a fully online Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling structured around trauma-informed, culturally responsive practice. The program includes 60 credits of coursework aligned with CACREP standards and integrates practicum and internship requirements into a supportive virtual format. Designed for working professionals, it offers three start dates per year and prepares graduates for licensure in most U.S. states.

  • Program Length: 3 years part-time
  • Tracks/concentrations: Trauma-informed clinical mental health counseling
  • Cost per Credit: $785
  • Required Credits to Graduate: 60
  • Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)

10. University of Massachusetts Global

University of Massachusetts Global features two fully online graduate programs in counseling: the MA in Professional Clinical Counseling and a dual-degree option in Marriage and Family Therapy with Clinical Counseling. Both programs offer CACREP-aligned coursework and are designed to meet California licensure requirements. Students benefit from asynchronous online learning, practicum coordination support, and curriculum that allows them to pursue one or both licensure pathways through a flexible structure.

  • Program Length: 2–2.5 years
  • Tracks/concentrations: MA in Clinical Counseling; MA in Marriage and Family Therapy and Clinical Counseling (dual track)
  • Cost per Credit: $750
  • Required Credits to Graduate: 63 for MA in Clinical Counseling; 69 for dual track
  • Accreditation: WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)

How long does it take to complete online counseling psychology programs?

Just as earning a masters in engineering management online can vary in duration depending on prior credits and program structure, online counseling psychology programs are offered in multiple formats and credential levels, each with its own timeline. Factors like transfer credit, course load, and program structure can significantly influence how long it takes to finish.

Here are the typical timelines for each program type:

  • Standard Bachelor’s Degree: A traditional 120-credit BA in counseling psychology is usually completed in four years of full-time study.
  • Accelerated Bachelor’s Degree: Fast-track formats with continuous eight-week terms allow students to complete the same 120 credits in approximately three years.
  • Part-Time Certificate Programs: Undergraduate-level certificates in counseling foundations or behavioral science topics typically take 6–12 months to complete.
  • Competency-Based Bachelor’s Path: These self-paced programs allow students to progress upon mastering each subject area, with many finishing in 14–27 months.
  • Master’s Degree Programs: Online MA or MS programs in counseling psychology generally require 30–60 credits and can be completed in 18–24 months with full-time enrollment; some of the fastest online master's in school counseling programs fall near the lower end of this range.

These pacing options help students align their academic progress with their personal goals and work schedules, while still receiving a rigorous and structured education.

How do online counseling psychology programs compare to on-campus programs?

Counseling psychology relies heavily on communication, empathy, and applied interaction. While online learning removes the physical classroom, strong programs compensate through intentional design. Course structures often include live video sessions, guided roleplay, and recorded assignments where students practice therapeutic dialogue in real time.

What sets this field apart is how core skills like reflective listening, cultural awareness, and case-based reasoning can still be developed through structured remote instruction. Faculty feedback is integrated into discussion-based evaluations, video submissions, and mock counseling exercises. Some programs include optional in-person intensives, adding direct practice without requiring full relocation.

The best online counseling psychology programs do more than translate lectures to a screen. They are built to replicate the key interpersonal dynamics of in-person study while offering the pacing, flexibility, and accessibility that online formats make possible.

This is especially true of accelerated counselor education online programs, which emphasize both speed and depth in preparing students for applied counseling work. When designed well, the gap between online and on-campus narrows significantly, both in outcomes and in day-to-day student experience.

The growing credibility of online counseling programs is reflected in rising enrollment. The following chart shows a growing number of students now participating in distance learning.

What is the average cost of online counseling psychology programs?

Just as tuition can vary widely for an online MBA general business degree, the cost of online counseling psychology programs depends on credential level, delivery model, and whether students qualify for in-state tuition, fee waivers, or need-based aid. The range between the most affordable certificate and the full cost of a bachelor’s degree can span tens of thousands of dollars.

Here’s what you can expect across program types:

  • Certificate Programs: Individual courses or short certificates start at around $49 for single-module training. Graduate-level certificates range up to $11,100 for a 12-credit sequence, with per-credit costs averaging between $500 and $925.
  • Standard Bachelor’s Degree: Online bachelor’s programs in counseling or psychology typically charge $300–$450 per credit. A full 120-credit degree often costs between $36,000 and $54,000 before aid. Some public institutions report average net prices near $9,000 after grants.
  • Accelerated Bachelor’s Degree: Per-credit costs are similar to traditional tracks, but continuous eight-week terms and generous transfer credit policies can reduce total tuition by eliminating one or more semesters.
  • Master’s Degree Programs: Most affordable options list tuition between $19,000 and $30,000, with per-credit rates ranging from $420 to $730. Some in-state programs offer complete master’s degrees for as low as $9,000, especially for students not yet pursuing the difference between PhD and PsyD in clinical psychology.

These figures highlight the importance of comparing total degree costs instead of only per-credit pricing, especially when weighing long-term value across different levels of training.

What are the financial aid options for students enrolling in online counseling psychology programs?

Students pursuing counseling psychology online can access a range of financial aid opportunities. In addition to standard federal support, there are several field-specific scholarships and awards that are open to online learners.

Here are some of the most relevant funding sources:

  • Federal Aid Packages: FAFSA-based assistance, including Pell Grants, Direct Loans, and Work-Study programs, remains the core funding route for both undergraduate and graduate students.
  • NBCC Foundation Scholarships: The National Board for Certified Counselors Foundation supports counseling students with merit-based scholarships and training awards, particularly for those committed to underserved communities.
  • NBCC Minority Fellowship Program (MFP): This federally funded initiative offers over 400 fellowships annually to diverse graduate students pursuing mental health careers in high-need populations.
  • Division 17 Counseling Psychology Grants: The American Psychological Foundation and Division 17 fund several $1,500–$3,500 grants for research and professional development in counseling psychology.
  • American Counseling Association Awards: The ACA supports graduate students through essay-based scholarships and competitions like the Tomorrow’s Counselors Award.
  • Chi Sigma Iota Scholarships: Through its Individual Awards Program, CSI offers $1,200–$3,000 to students in counselor education for academic achievement and leadership potential.
  • Psi Chi Undergraduate Scholarships: Psi Chi provides eight $3,000 awards to high-performing undergraduate psychology students, including those in fully online programs.

For students committed to careers in mental health and counseling, these competitive awards help reduce tuition costs while also recognizing service, scholarship, and leadership in the field.

clinical and counseling psychology demand

What are the prerequisites for enrolling in online counseling psychology programs?

Admissions criteria for online counseling psychology programs are designed to ensure that students enter the field with a strong academic base, ethical readiness, and the communication skills essential to counseling practice. Much like an online masters in higher education, this pathway requires specific foundational experiences and coursework to prepare students for advanced, people-centered careers.

While exact requirements vary by institution and degree level, most programs share the following expectations:

  • Educational Background: Applicants to bachelor’s programs must have a high school diploma or GED. Master’s applicants need a regionally accredited bachelor’s degree, typically in psychology or a related discipline, with a minimum GPA of 3.0.
  • Foundational Coursework: Undergraduate applicants may be expected to have completed general psychology and introductory statistics. Master’s programs often require coursework in abnormal, developmental, and social psychology.
  • Practicum Eligibility: Some schools prefer applicants who have volunteer or work experience in human services or behavioral health settings to demonstrate familiarity with the counseling environment.
  • Technical Requirements: Students must have consistent high-speed internet, webcam-enabled devices, and the ability to use learning management systems and secure video platforms for synchronous coursework and supervised counseling simulations.
  • Communication Assessment: Schools may request written statements, essays, or recorded interviews to evaluate interpersonal insight, empathy, and clarity in expression.
  • Background and Health Clearances: Graduate-level fieldwork often requires a criminal background check, tuberculosis screening, and proof of professional liability insurance.

These requirements reflect the discipline’s emphasis on both academic preparedness and professional integrity, forming the baseline for a successful transition into advanced coursework and eventual field placements.

What courses are typically in online counseling psychology programs?

Online counseling psychology programs combine foundational theory with the applied skills needed for professional readiness in diverse counseling environments. Much like an online master's in clinical mental health counseling, these programs balance academic coursework with experiential training to prepare students for both licensure and advanced practice.

The following courses are commonly included in these programs:

  • Foundations in Counseling Theories: Introduces major theoretical models such as psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral, and person-centered approaches, with emphasis on clinical application.
  • Human Growth and Development: Examines developmental milestones across the lifespan, focusing on individual, cultural, and contextual differences.
  • Abnormal Psychology and Psychopathology: Covers mental health disorders, diagnostic criteria, and evidence-based treatment methods.
  • Research Methods and Statistics: Teaches data collection, analysis, and ethical considerations in psychological research.
  • Multicultural Counseling and Diversity: Builds cultural competence and prepares students to work with diverse and historically underserved populations.
  • Professional Ethics and Legal Issues: Reviews ethical standards, confidentiality, mandated reporting, and legal responsibilities.
  • Group Counseling Techniques: Focuses on group dynamics, facilitation strategies, and treatment planning.
  • Practicum and Internship Seminar: Offers supervised training alongside structured academic reflection, often in preparation for licensure or to answer questions such as “Can you practice clinical psychology with a master’s?”

Electives often include topics like trauma-informed care, addiction counseling, or child and adolescent therapy, allowing students to shape their focus areas.

highest paying state for clinical and counseling psychologists

What types of specializations are available in online counseling psychology programs?

Specialization tracks give students the chance to align their education with client populations or service settings they are most passionate about. Many of the best online programs offer focused training in areas with growing demand.

Here are some of the most common concentrations available:

  • Addiction Counseling: Emphasizes assessment, treatment planning, and recovery support for individuals facing substance use challenges.
  • Marriage and Family Therapy: Trains students in relational systems theory and techniques for working with couples and families.
  • School Counseling: Prepares future counselors to support students’ academic, emotional, and career development in K–12 settings.
  • Trauma and Crisis Counseling: Equips students to respond to acute psychological stress, post-trauma recovery, and crisis stabilization.
  • Career Counseling: Focuses on career development theory, assessment tools, and job transition strategies for diverse populations.
  • Multicultural Counseling: Builds capacity for culturally competent practice, advocacy, and work with marginalized communities.
  • Rehabilitation Counseling: Provides tools to support individuals with disabilities in achieving personal, social, and vocational goals.
  • Child and Adolescent Counseling: Centers on developmentally appropriate interventions for children, teens, and families.

Some students may also explore advanced or niche pathways through related degrees, such as the best online PsyD programs in neuropsychology, depending on long-term licensure and clinical goals.

Specializations also open pathways to higher pays. In the chart below, you’ll see the median annual wages for clinical and counseling psychologists, as well as psychologists, compared with other related specializations.

How to choose the best online counseling psychology programs?

Selecting the right program means looking beyond marketing claims and focusing on criteria that affect academic rigor, licensure eligibility, and long-term value.

Use the checklist below when comparing schools:

  • Verify Accreditation: Confirm that the school has regional accreditation and, if possible, programmatic accreditation from CACREP to ensure it meets national training standards.
  • Examine Curriculum Depth: Review required coursework and practicum components to confirm they match your state’s licensure requirements and preferred specialty area.
  • Compare Faculty Credentials: Prioritize faculty with active counseling licenses, clinical experience, and current research contributions in the field.
  • Assess Practicum Support: Ask about placement services, supervisor vetting, and telehealth-compatible training options designed for online learners.
  • Check Licensure Pass Rates: Review data on how often graduates pass licensing exams such as the NCE or state-specific equivalents.
  • Evaluate Technology and Support Services: A strong online program should offer user-friendly platforms, secure teletherapy simulations, and access to technical and academic support.
  • Analyze True Cost: Consider total program cost, including tuition, fees, and travel for residencies, while accounting for available scholarships and aid.
  • Prioritize Flexibility: Look for features like accelerated terms, year-round enrollment, and generous transfer policies without compromising educational quality.

Programs that meet these criteria are more likely to support licensure goals, clinical confidence, and long-term career advancement.

What career paths are available for graduates of online counseling psychology programs?

Well-structured online counseling psychology programs support a range of professional outcomes, from entry-level support roles to licensable practice in specialized settings. Many graduates build early experience through supervised work while progressing toward advanced credentials.

These are some of the most common roles available to graduates:

  • Mental Health Counselor: Delivers therapy for individuals and groups in community clinics, private practices, and integrated healthcare teams.
  • Marriage and Family Therapist: Works with couples and families to address relational dynamics, often using systemic and evidence-based approaches.
  • School or Career Counselor: Supports academic, emotional, and career development in K–12 schools or postsecondary institutions.
  • Substance-Use and Behavioral Disorder Counselor: Provides intervention, relapse prevention, and family education in residential or outpatient programs.
  • Rehabilitation Counselor: Assists individuals with disabilities in achieving independence and employment through agency-based or clinical support.
  • Clinical Case Manager: Coordinates care plans and connects high-need clients with mental health, housing, and medical services.
  • Behavioral Health Technician or Intake Specialist: Bachelor-level roles that involve client monitoring, intake assessments, and treatment team support.
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP) Counselor: Offers short-term counseling and crisis response to employees dealing with personal or work-related concerns.
  • Program Developer or Community Services Manager: Designs and oversees mental health initiatives within nonprofit or public sector organizations.

Graduates pursuing an accelerated online master’s degree in clinical mental health counseling can often qualify for licensure faster and gain earlier access to advanced counseling roles.

What challenges do students face in online counseling psychology programs?

Students may encounter hurdles such as adapting to self-directed study, establishing effective communication with peers and instructors, and managing limited hands-on experiences that are more accessible in traditional settings. Navigating technology requirements and ensuring program quality amid varied accreditation standards can also be challenging. Careful evaluation of student support services and the integration of practical experiences—such as internships and community projects—can help mitigate these issues while keeping costs competitive, as seen in our article on affordable online psychology degrees.

What is the job market for graduates of online counseling psychology programs?

Counseling professionals continue to be in high demand, with job growth across sectors reflecting increased awareness of mental health and broader access to care. This trend extends across public, private, and nonprofit settings, offering graduates a wide range of employment options.

One of the fastest-growing fields is substance-use and mental health counseling, which is projected to grow 19% from 2023 to 2033, adding about 42,000 openings each year. This is significantly faster than the national average and reflects the ongoing need for licensed clinical support in both inpatient and outpatient programs.

School and career counselors can expect 4% growth during the same period, with approximately 29,100 annual openings. Much of this demand is driven by growing student populations and expanded efforts to support academic and career readiness at all levels of education.

Social and community service managers are projected to see 8% growth, especially in organizations that coordinate and supervise counseling programs for underserved groups. Community and social service occupations overall are forecasted to grow faster than average, encompassing a wide range of mental health and behavioral support roles.

Entry-level positions such as psychiatric technicians and intake specialists remain in demand as mental health clinics expand services and seek support staff who are comfortable with direct care and administrative responsibilities.

As far as job outlook goes, clinical and counseling psychologists are projected to grow steadily. The chart below presents the forecasted employment growth for this field in the following years.

Here’s What Graduates Have to Say About Their Online Counseling Psychology Degrees

  • Hayden: "As a veteran, transitioning back to civilian life wasn’t easy. This degree gave me both structure and purpose. I now work as a peer counselor for fellow veterans and use what I learned every day. Being able to study online made the transition much smoother."
  • Kristopher: "I appreciated how the online program emphasized practical application through case studies and simulated client sessions. I didn’t just memorize terms, I learned how to think critically in real-life scenarios. That helped me secure an internship in a behavioral health center, which turned into a full-time role."
  • Levi: "After ten years in education, I wanted to transition into school counseling. The online MA in counseling psychology helped me build the foundation I needed while continuing to teach. I now serve as a full-time school counselor in my district, and I’ve never been more fulfilled in my work."

Other Things You Should Know About Online Counseling Psychology Programs

How do licensing requirements vary by state for counseling psychology graduates?

Graduates must meet the specific licensure standards of the state where they intend to practice. Most states require a master’s or doctoral degree from a regionally accredited program, often with CACREP-aligned coursework.

Post-degree supervised experience typically ranges from 2,000 to 4,000 hours. Most states require the NCE or NCMHCE exams, though scoring criteria and retake policies vary. Additional requirements may include background checks and training in ethics, telehealth, or mandated reporting.

Programs that offer licensure planning and meet multi-state standards can help streamline the process for graduates pursuing professional credentials.

Can a bachelor’s in counseling psychology lead to a master’s in clinical mental health counseling?

A bachelor’s in counseling psychology is a common and appropriate pathway into a master’s program in clinical mental health counseling. Most programs accept students with this background, as long as they meet GPA and prerequisite coursework requirements.

Some schools offer accelerated or dual-degree pathways that allow qualified students to begin graduate coursework during their undergraduate studies. These programs can reduce time to completion and overall tuition costs.

To stay on track for licensure, applicants should choose CACREP-accredited master’s programs and ensure they meet their target state’s educational and clinical training requirements.

How do online counseling psychology programs handle practicum placements?

Students are usually responsible for finding their own in-person practicum sites, which must be reviewed and approved by the school. These placements must meet licensure requirements and be supervised by qualified professionals.

Most programs provide structured support during this process. This may include faculty review of proposed sites, help with documentation, and approval of site supervisors. Telehealth placements may be allowed in some cases, depending on institutional policy and state regulations.

What do employers think of online counseling psychology degrees?

Employers generally view online counseling psychology degrees positively, as long as the program is accredited and meets licensure requirements. Hiring decisions focus more on whether the degree came from a regionally accredited institution and if the applicant completed supervised clinical training aligned with state standards.

In behavioral health, demonstrated competence in direct care, cultural responsiveness, and ethical practice often carries more weight than the format of the degree. Employers also value applicants who show familiarity with telehealth platforms and digital documentation systems, which many online programs integrate into their training.

Reputable online programs that align with licensure pathways and offer strong practicum support are seen as credible preparation for entry-level roles in counseling, case management, and community mental health.

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