Fastest Online Master's in School Counseling Programs for 2025
Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist
With 90% of counselors reporting that delivering tailored guidance is one of their greatest challenges, it’s clear that schools need more qualified professionals to meet the changing student needs (YouScience, 2025).
If you're ready to step into a role where you can make a lasting impact on students' academic and emotional well-being, an online Master's in School Counseling offers a flexible and fast path forward. These programs are designed for aspiring school counselors, educators, or career advisors who want to make a meaningful impact in K–12 settings and beyond.
As a career planning and education expert, I, along with my team, have extensively researched the fastest online school counseling programs. In this guide, I’ll walk you through program requirements, licensure steps, career paths, and how to choose the best accelerated option for your goals.
What are the benefits of opting for fast degrees in an Online Master's in School Counseling?
- According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (2023), employment for school and career counselors is projected to grow by 4% from 2023 to 2033, with approximately 29,100 job openings expected during that period.
- The median annual salary for school counselors is $65,140 as of the BLS 2024 report, offering a stable and rewarding career path.
- Earning your degree online allows you to study from anywhere, maintain a job, and complete coursework on your schedule. Plus, accelerated programs can help you enter the workforce sooner, reducing time and tuition while still meeting licensure and training requirements.
What can I expect from an accelerated online Master's in School Counseling?
In an accelerated online Master’s in School Counseling, you can expect a fast-paced but comprehensive curriculum focused on preparing you for licensure and real-world practice. Programs typically combine online coursework with local field experiences, such as practicums and internships, and are designed to be completed in 12–18 months.
You’ll study topics like child and adolescent development, counseling theories, multicultural counseling, ethics, and crisis intervention—often through flexible, asynchronous formats. Though condensed, these programs meet the same academic and clinical standards as traditional formats.
Where can I work with an accelerated online Master's in School Counseling?
Graduates of accelerated online school counseling programs are qualified for a range of roles in educational and counseling settings. These programs prepare students to support academic, emotional, and social growth in various environments. Common workplaces include:
- Public K–12 Schools
- Private and Charter Schools
- Vocational and Technical Schools
- Community Colleges
- Online Virtual Schools
The abovementioned aside, graduates can also work in career centers, alternative education programs, or community-based youth organizations.
With additional credentials or experience, some professionals move into district-level support roles, academic advising, or private practice counseling (where permitted by state licensing boards).
How much can I make with an accelerated online Master's in School Counseling?
Salary for professionals with an accelerated online Master’s in School Counseling can vary based on experience level, geographic location, and school district funding. Those new to the field typically start at a lower pay grade, but earnings increase steadily with each additional year of experience and advanced responsibilities.
To give you a more concrete idea of how much you can earn as a school counselor, here's the latest data from Salary.com (2025):
- Entry to Intermediate Level: $59,542 - $60,274
- Senior Level: $61,756
- Specialist: $62,052
- Expert Level: $62,250
Other factors like state licensure, certifications, and specialization areas can also influence overall compensation and career advancement opportunities.
Table of Contents
- List of the Fastest Online Master's in School Counseling Programs for 2025
- What is the fastest way to become a licensed school counselor?
- What is the average cost of an Online Master's in School counseling program?
- Do I need a background in education or a teaching license to enroll in the Online Master's in School Counseling program?
- Can I enroll in an Online Master's in School Counseling program with a bachelor’s degree in a different field?
- Do the fastest Online Master's in School Counseling programs still include practicum and internship hours?
- What types of specializations are available in Online Master's in School Counseling programs?
- What student support services are available in online Master’s in School Counseling programs?
- Can supplemental certifications boost my career in school counseling?
- Will a fast-track online degree qualify me for school counselor licensure in my state?
- How can I further accelerate my Online Master's in School Counseling degree completion?
- What career paths are available for graduates of an Online Master's in School counseling programs?
- What is the job market for graduates with an Online Master's in School Counseling?
- Other Things To Know About The Fastest Online Master's in School Counseling
List of the Fastest Online Master's in School Counseling Programs for 2025
Kick off your school-counseling journey with our 2025 lineup of the fastest online master’s in school counseling programs—many follow the same fast pacing as accelerated artificial intelligence certification courses online, condensing rigorous coursework and practicum into intensive, efficient terms.
How do we rank schools?
We understand that pursuing a graduate degree is a significant financial and personal investment, which is why our rankings are designed to help students make informed, confident decisions. This list was carefully prepared by Research.com’s team of experts using a data-driven, transparent methodology.
We evaluated programs based on affordability, program length, accreditation, and graduation outcomes. Our data sources include the IPEDS database, Peterson’s database, College Scorecard, and the National Center for Education Statistics.
1. University of Denver
The University of Denver offers a Master of Arts in School Counseling that prepares students to support K–12 learners in diverse educational settings. The program blends online coursework with in-person field experiences and emphasizes culturally responsive counseling practices. Students typically complete the program in 2 years.
- Program Length: 2 years
- Tracks/Concentrations: General School Counseling
- Cost per Credit: $1,383
- Required Credits to Graduate: 72
- Accreditation: Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP)
2. University of West Alabama
The University of West Alabama offers a fast-paced M.Ed. in School Counseling designed for educators who want to quickly transition into school counseling roles. This flexible, fully online program can be completed in as little as 1 year. It focuses on mental health strategies, career guidance, and developmental support.
- Program Length: 1 year
- Tracks/Concentrations: General School Counseling
- Cost per Credit: $429
- Required Credits to Graduate: 48
- Accreditation: Continuing Agency Education Program (CAEP)
3. Campbellsville University
Campbellsville University’s online MA in Education in School Guidance Counseling (P-12) equips students to serve in both elementary and secondary school settings. The program can be completed in about 18 months and includes two practicum placements. It is designed with working adults in mind and offers Christian-centered training.
- Program Length: 18 months
- Tracks/Concentrations: P–12 School Counseling
- Cost per Credit: $319
- Required Credits to Graduate: 48
- Accreditation: CAEP
4. Sacred Heart University
Sacred Heart University offers a comprehensive MA in School Counseling with a focus on ethical leadership, student advocacy, and mental health. Designed to be completed in 2.5 years, the program includes intensive fieldwork and professional development. Courses are delivered online with flexible pacing for busy professionals.
- Program Length: 30 months
- Tracks/Concentrations: General School Counseling
- Cost per Credit: $665
- Required Credits to Graduate: 60
- Accreditation: NECHE
5. Winthrop University
Winthrop University’s M.Ed. in Counseling and Development features a school counseling concentration tailored for K–12 career readiness, behavioral interventions, and emotional support. This 100% online program can be completed in 2 years and includes practicum and internship experiences. It’s ideal for educators seeking CACREP-accredited licensure pathways.
- Program Length: 2 years
- Tracks/Concentrations: School Counseling
- Cost per Credit: $629
- Required Credits to Graduate: 60
- Accreditation: CACREP
6. USC Rossier School of Education
The University of Southern California’s Rossier School offers a highly respected M.Ed. in School Counseling delivered in a 20-month online format. The program emphasizes trauma-informed care, college and career readiness, and equity in education. Live online classes are combined with local field placements for real-world training.
- Program Length: 20 months
- Tracks/Concentrations: General School Counseling
- Cost per Credit: $2,137
- Required Credits to Graduate: 49
- Accreditation: WASC
7. University of Nebraska at Kearney
University of Nebraska at Kearney offers an online MAE in School Counseling with the option to specialize in either Elementary (PK–8) or Secondary (7–12) levels. This two-year program includes a mix of synchronous and asynchronous coursework, plus local internship placements. It is structured for working educators seeking Nebraska certification.
- Program Length: 2 years
- Tracks/Concentrations: PK–8, 7–12
- Cost per Credit: $345 (in-state), $617 (out-of-state)
- Required Credits to Graduate: 48
- Accreditation: NCATE
8. Truman State University
Truman State’s online MA in Counseling with a school counseling emphasis prepares students to support academic and social-emotional growth across K–12 settings. The program follows a cohort model and includes 700+ hours of field experience. Completion time is typically 2 years for full-time students.
- Program Length: 2 years
- Tracks/Concentrations: School Counseling
- Cost per Credit: $400
- Required Credits to Graduate: 60
- Accreditation: CACREP
9. Citadel Military College of South Carolina
The Citadel Military College of South Carolina’s M.Ed. in Counselor Education offers a school counseling track focused on leadership, advocacy, and systemic change in schools. The 2-year program is mostly online with some synchronous components and intensive fieldwork. It supports licensure pathways across several southeastern states.
- Program Length: 2 years
- Tracks/Concentrations: School Counseling
- Cost per Credit: $595
- Required Credits to Graduate: 60
- Accreditation: CACREP
10. National University
National University’s MS in Educational Counseling is a flexible, online program designed for students seeking a Pupil Personnel Services (PPS) credential in California. The curriculum includes mental health counseling, academic planning, and career guidance. The degree is structured for completion in approximately 2 years.
- Program Length: 2 years
- Tracks/Concentrations: School Counseling with PPS Credential (CA)
- Cost per Credit: $442
- Required Credits to Graduate: 54
- Accreditation: WSCUC
What is the fastest way to become a licensed school counselor?
The fastest way to become a licensed school counselor is to follow an accelerated, fully online master’s program designed for quick completion, usually in 12 to 18 months—unlike an accelerated Microsoft Azure dual certification boot camp online (which focuses on tech), these counseling tracks bundle theory and 600–700 practicum hours into short course terms with year-round enrollment.
Here’s a streamlined path:
- Earn a bachelor’s degree. The first step toward becoming a school counselor is completing a bachelor’s degree. Most states require this before you can apply to a graduate-level counseling program. Your undergraduate studies lay the groundwork for advanced coursework in counseling theory, development, and education systems.
- Enroll in an accelerated online master’s program. Next, apply to an accelerated online Master’s in School Counseling program. These programs are designed to be completed in 12 to 18 months, with short course terms, flexible scheduling, and year-round enrollment.
- Complete coursework and field experience. During the program, you’ll take courses in topics such as counseling techniques, ethics, multicultural counseling, and crisis intervention. You’ll also complete 600 to 700 hours of supervised practicum and internship, typically in a local K–12 school setting. These experiences are required for graduation and licensure.
- Pass the State Licensing Exam. After graduation, you must take and pass your state’s required licensing exam, which is often the Praxis II: School Counseling. Some states may have additional tests or assessments, so it’s essential to check specific state board requirements.
- Apply for State Licensure. Submit your licensure application to your state’s department of education or licensing board. This typically includes your transcripts, proof of completed practicum hours, exam scores, and a background check. Once approved, you’ll be officially licensed to work as a school counselor.
The data reveals that 55% of schools lack enough mental health staff to manage caseloads, 54% report inadequate funding, and 49% struggle with access to licensed mental health professionals (National Center for Education Statistics, 2025). These challenges limit students’ access to critical mental health services and place increased strain on existing school counselors.
Pursuing a fast-track online Master’s in School Counseling can help address this urgent need by quickly preparing more qualified professionals to enter the field.
What is the average cost of an Online Master's in School counseling program?
Unlike the top online graduate counseling certificate programs, the average cost of an online Master’s in School Counseling program is more expensive due to its longer duration and comprehensive licensure preparation.
They typically range from $20,000 to $40,000 in total tuition. This estimate is based on an average cost per credit of $400 to $700, with most programs requiring 48 to 60 credits for graduation. While tuition varies by institution, it usually includes access to virtual classroom platforms, academic advising, library resources, and sometimes career support services.
In most cases, tuition covers online course delivery, faculty instruction, and technology support. Some programs may also include licensure exam prep materials or field placement coordination as part of the cost. However, students should budget separately for textbooks, application fees, background checks, and potential travel expenses related to practicum or internship placements.
To reduce costs, look for the cheapest online counseling degree, specializing in school counseling. Many students apply for federal financial aid, grants, scholarships, or employer tuition assistance programs.
Do I need a background in education or a teaching license to enroll in the Online Master's in School Counseling program?
No, a background in education or a teaching license is not always required to enroll in an online Master’s in School Counseling program, though it can be helpful. So, if you are a substance abuse counselor or a rehabilitation counselor, you may already possess transferable skills that align well with the responsibilities of a school counselor.
Your professional experience in supporting individuals' mental and emotional well-being can give you a strong foundation as you transition into the academic setting.
Many programs are designed to accommodate students from various academic and professional backgrounds. While some universities may prefer applicants with experience in education or child-related fields, they often accept candidates who demonstrate a strong interest in school counseling and meet the academic prerequisites.
If you don’t have a teaching license, some programs may require additional coursework or training in areas like classroom management or educational systems.
It's also important to check your state’s licensure requirements, as a few states may require a teaching certificate for school counselor certification. However, the majority allow individuals to pursue school counseling licensure directly through a master's program without prior teaching experience.
Can I enroll in an Online Master's in School Counseling program with a bachelor’s degree in a different field?
Yes, you can enroll in an online Master’s in School Counseling program even if your bachelor’s degree is in an unrelated field. Most programs accept students with a wide range of undergraduate majors, including psychology, communications, business, or liberal arts.
Just as a fast track public safety degree online provides accelerated pathways for students from various backgrounds to enter public safety roles, many school counseling programs are designed to accommodate career changers.
A degree in social work can also be advantageous for this field due to its similarities with psychology. If you want more information on how the two disciplines differ, you can take a look at this guide on psychology vs social work.
Admissions committees typically look for applicants who have a clear motivation to enter the counseling profession, strong interpersonal skills, and the academic potential to succeed in graduate-level work.
In addition to a bachelor’s degree, here are some of the requirements that schools will look for:
- Minimum GPA Requirement. Most programs require a minimum undergraduate GPA, typically 2.75 to 3.0 on a 4.0 scale. Some schools may offer conditional admission for lower GPAs with strong professional experience or test scores.
- Official Transcripts. Applicants must submit official transcripts from all previously attended colleges or universities, demonstrating completion of coursework and academic readiness.
- Letters of Recommendation. Typically, two to three letters are required from academic instructors, employers, or supervisors who can speak to your academic ability, character, or work ethic—ideally in educational or counseling-related settings.
- Statement of Purpose or Personal Essay. A written statement outlining your goals, interest in school counseling, and reasons for pursuing the degree is commonly required. This helps admissions committees evaluate your commitment and fit for the profession.
- Resume or CV. Applicants often need to provide a current resume or curriculum vitae highlighting educational background, work experience, volunteer activities, and relevant skills.
- Background Check and/or Fingerprinting. Some programs, especially those leading to licensure, require a background check before participating in practicum or internship placements.
- Interview (Virtual or In-Person). Some programs conduct an interview—either live or recorded—as part of the admissions process. This is used to assess communication skills, professionalism, and motivation for entering the field.
- Prerequisite Coursework (Varies by Program). Although not always required, some schools prefer or require prior coursework in psychology, child development, or statistics. If not completed during undergrad, these may need to be taken before or during the master’s program.
Do the fastest Online Master's in School Counseling programs still include practicum and internship hours?
Similar to the cheapest online masters in mental health counseling, the fastest online Master’s in School Counseling programs also include practicum and internship hours. That’s because they are part of the licensure requirements. These supervised field experiences are essential for state licensure and help students develop real-world counseling skills in school settings.
Regardless of the program’s pace, students must complete a minimum of 600–700 hours of clinical training, which usually includes a 100-hour practicum and a 500+ hour internship. Most programs assist students in arranging placements at K–12 schools within their local communities.
In addition to practicum and internship, students will also need to pass various courses, including:
- Foundations of School Counseling. This course provides an overview of the school counseling profession, including its history, roles, ethical standards, and the counselor’s function within educational systems.
- Counseling Theories and Techniques. Students explore major counseling theories, such as cognitive-behavioral, person-centered, and solution-focused approaches, and learn how to apply them in school settings.
- Child and Adolescent Development. This course examines the psychological, emotional, and social development of children and adolescents.
- Multicultural Counseling. Focusing on cultural competence, this course teaches students how to work effectively with diverse student populations.
- Career Development and College Readiness. Students learn theories of career development and practical tools for guiding students through academic planning, college admissions, and workforce preparation.
What types of specializations are available in Online Master's in School Counseling programs?
While not all online Master’s in School Counseling programs offer formal specializations, some provide concentration tracks or elective pathways that allow students to tailor their training to specific populations—similar to how accelerated sustainability bachelor's degree online programs let undergraduates focus on areas like policy, development, or ethics.
Here are some of the most common specializations or focus areas:
- Elementary or Secondary School Counseling. Students may focus on working with specific age groups—PK–8 (elementary) or 7–12 (secondary)—to develop age-appropriate counseling strategies for academic, emotional, and social development.
- College and Career Counseling. This track emphasizes preparing students for post-secondary planning, including college admissions, vocational training, and career readiness. It’s ideal for those who want to guide high school students into future opportunities.
- Multicultural or Urban School Counseling. Focuses on working with diverse, underserved, or high-need student populations, particularly in urban or low-income school districts. Training includes equity-based practices and cultural competency.
- Trauma and Crisis Counseling. Prepares counselors to support students dealing with grief, abuse, bullying, school violence, or community trauma. It’s especially useful for roles in schools with limited access to mental health professionals.
- Behavioral and Special Education Support. This focus trains school counselors to collaborate with special education teams, manage behavior interventions, and support students with emotional or developmental disabilities.
Specializations in school counseling offer future counselors the opportunity to develop focused expertise in supporting specific student populations, such as those in elementary, middle, or high school.
By tailoring their training through specialized tracks—like K–12 or elementary school counseling—graduates are better prepared to address age-specific academic, emotional, and developmental challenges that directly impact student success.
This is especially important when considering that 69.4% of schools with K–12 school counselors report graduation rates greater than 90%, compared to only 45.8% in schools without elementary school counselors (ASCA, 2023).
These figures highlight how specialized training not only equips counselors to meet diverse student needs but also contributes to measurable improvements in school-wide outcomes, such as graduation rates.
What student support services are available in online Master’s in School Counseling programs?
A robust online Master’s in School Counseling program offers comprehensive student support services designed to facilitate academic success and professional development. Many programs provide dedicated academic advising, technical assistance for virtual learning platforms, and access to expert faculty support. Specialized mentoring, career counseling, and networking opportunities help streamline the transition from coursework to field placements and licensure exams, while digital libraries, interactive webinars, and online tutoring enhance the overall learning experience. These support services are integral to ensuring a smooth journey through your degree and achieving professional goals, similar to the guidance provided by the most affordable online psychology degree programs.
Can supplemental certifications boost my career in school counseling?
Pursuing additional certifications can broaden your expertise and enhance your competitive edge in specialized student support. For instance, a certification in behavior analysis equips professionals with targeted strategies for managing and intervening in challenging behaviors, thereby complementing the core counseling skills developed in a master’s program. This focused credential can open opportunities in settings that require expertise in behavioral interventions without duplicating the comprehensive curriculum of your degree. Consider reviewing the cheapest BCBA online programs as a cost-effective pathway to gain these specialized skills.
Will a fast-track online degree qualify me for school counselor licensure in my state?
Yes, a fast-track online degree can qualify you for school counselor licensure, as long as the program is properly accredited and meets your state’s specific licensure requirements. Most states require a master’s degree from CACREP accredited programs or CAEP-accredited programs.
Programs like fast track MFT online master's programs can also provide a pathway for those interested in combining family therapy expertise with school counseling credentials.
Students must also submit documentation verifying completion of core counseling coursework, a 100-hour practicum, a 500–700 hour internship, and a passing score on a state-recognized licensure exam, such as the Praxis II: School Counseling.
However, licensure rules vary by state. For example, according to the Texas Education Agency, candidates must hold a valid teaching certificate and have two years of classroom teaching experience before they can be certified as a school counselor in Texas.
In contrast, California does not require prior teaching experience but mandates completion of a program approved for the Pupil Personnel Services (PPS) Credential in School Counseling.
These variations make it crucial to check with your state’s Department of Education or licensure board before applying to any program. Many fast-track online degrees offer state-specific licensure pathways or provide support to help out-of-state students meet local requirements.
If you are looking for the best place to work as a school counselor, states like California, Washington, and Massachusetts offer some of the highest earning potential in the field. Much like how they offer opportunities for those who complete fast-track medical billing and coding certificate online programs.
According to the data below, school counselors in California earn an average of $85,820, followed by $81,280 in Washington and $79,670 in Massachusetts. These states not only offer competitive salaries but are also likely to have higher demand for mental health and academic support services in schools.
How can I further accelerate my Online Master's in School Counseling degree completion?
If you’re aiming to complete your degree as quickly as possible, there are several ways to accelerate your progress without compromising the quality of your training. Similar to strategies used in fast track sustainability master’s programs online, you can shorten your timeline by carefully planning your course load and leveraging flexible program structures.
- Choose a program with short terms and year-round enrollment. Select a school that offers 6- to 8-week courses and allows you to take classes year-round without extended breaks. This format enables continuous progress through the curriculum.
- Maximize your course load. If allowed, take the maximum number of credits per term to shorten your timeline. Be realistic about your availability. Balancing coursework, field hours, and personal responsibilities is key.
- Transfer credits. Some programs accept graduate-level transfer credits from prior coursework, which can reduce the number of credits you need to complete.
- Apply for credit based on work experience or prior learning. In rare cases, schools may award academic credit for relevant professional experience or certifications through a Prior Learning Assessment (PLA).
- Begin fieldwork early. Ask if you can begin practicum or internship hours earlier in the program, or work on them concurrently with coursework to avoid delays.
- Stay organized and committed. Treat your studies like a full-time job. Use a planner, set weekly goals, and stay connected with academic advisors to make sure you’re on track for timely graduation.
What career paths are available for graduates of an Online Master's in School counseling programs?
Graduates of online Master’s in School Counseling programs are qualified for a variety of roles in educational and counseling settings, primarily focused on supporting students' academic, emotional, and social development. Here are some popular paths:
- K–12 School Counselor. This role involves working within elementary, middle, or high schools, focusing on assisting students with their academic challenges, emotional difficulties, peer interactions, and planning for their future educational or career paths.
- College and Career Counselor. In this capacity, the counselor plays a crucial role in guiding high school students through the college admissions process, helping them navigate scholarship applications and vocational training options, or supporting college students as they select majors and career opportunities.
- Academic Advisor. Operating within higher education institutions, this position centers on helping students with course selection, strategic degree planning, and developing effective academic success strategies tailored to individual needs.
- Behavior Intervention Specialist. This specialist offers support to students facing behavioral or emotional challenges, often working closely with special education teams to create and implement tailored intervention strategies designed for each student.
- Youth Program Counselor or Nonprofit Advocate. Engaging with community-based organizations, this individual focuses on youth development initiatives, mental health education, and providing vital family support services to enhance the well-being of young people.
- Mental Health Counselor (with additional licensure). After obtaining additional training and clinical experience, this counselor seeks licensure as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and works in either private practice or mental health centers, addressing clients' psychological and emotional needs.
Each of these roles benefits from the counseling, communication, and problem-solving skills developed during the master’s program, offering a rewarding and versatile career path. Much like graduates of a fast track online nutrition degree find specialized opportunities in health and wellness sectors, school counseling graduates can leverage their expertise to secure positions across a variety of educational and community settings.
According to the data below, the majority of educational, guidance, and career counselors work in elementary and secondary schools, which employ approximately 162,610 professionals, making it the most common industry for this career path (BLS, 2025).
Other notable employment sectors include colleges, universities, and junior colleges, with 25,790 positions, followed by vocational rehabilitation services (8,180) and individual and family services (6,640).
These figures highlight the versatility of a master’s in school counseling, especially for those completing fast-track programs, as it opens doors to various roles across both educational institutions and community-based settings.
What is the job market for graduates with an Online Master's in School Counseling?
The job market for graduates with an online Master’s in School Counseling is strong and growing, driven by the increasing demand for qualified mental health and academic support professionals in schools. Much like professionals who pursue a fast track master's in nutrition online to meet growing demand in the health and wellness sector, school counseling graduates are entering a field with expanding opportunities.
Although the American School Counselor Association (ASCA) recommends a 250-to-1 student-to-counselor ratio, the national average remains much higher at 376-to-1 for the 2023–2024 school year. This gap highlights the urgent need for more licensed school counselors across the U.S., especially in underserved districts, making now an opportune time to enter the field.
In addition to traditional K–12 roles, graduates interested in career readiness and postsecondary planning can pursue positions as Career Education Counselors. The global career education counseling market is experiencing robust growth, with an estimated value of $2.81 billion in 2024 and a projected rise to $5.64 billion by 2033, expanding at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 8.03% (Business Research Insights, 2024).
These trends reflect a broader recognition of the value school and career counselors bring in guiding students through academic and life transitions.
Other Things To Know About Online Master's in School Counseling
What’s the highest degree in counseling?
The highest degree in counseling is typically a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Counseling or a Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) in Counselor Education and Supervision. These degrees are suited for professionals interested in research, teaching, or leadership roles in mental health and academic settings.
Which counseling degree pays the most?
Counseling salaries vary based on education, licensure, and work setting. Professionals with a master’s or doctoral degree in clinical mental health counseling or psychology who gain licensure often earn higher incomes. Those in private practice or specialized fields like healthcare or organizational consulting tend to earn the most. According to ZipRecruiter (2025), top-earning licensed professional counselors (LPCs) make around $100,000 per year.
Will an Online Master’s in School Counseling prepare me for both school settings and private practice?
Primarily, this degree prepares you for K–12 school environments and is aligned with state licensure for school counselors.
To work in private practice, you’ll typically need a different track, such as a Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, along with additional clinical hours and licensure as an LPC or equivalent.
Can I work while completing an accelerated online Master’s in School Counseling?
Yes, many students continue working while enrolled in online programs thanks to flexible schedules and asynchronous coursework. However, you’ll need to plan for in-person practicum and internship hours, which may require adjusting your work hours during certain terms.
References:
- American School Counselor Association. (2023). Student-to-school counselor ratios & student outcomes infographic. https://www.schoolcounselor.org/getmedia/a07648aa-5e94-4601-8341-9824ad782985/Ratios-Student-Outcomes-Infographic.pdf
- Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2024). Occupational outlook handbook: School and career counselors and advisors. U.S. Department of Labor. https://www.bls.gov/ooh/community-and-social-service/school-and-career-counselors.htm
- Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2024). Occupational employment and wage statistics: Educational, guidance, and career counselors and advisors. U.S. Department of Labor. https://www.bls.gov/oes/2023/may/oes211012.htm
- National Center for Education Statistics. (2025). School Pulse Panel: Interactive results. U.S. Department of Education. https://nces.ed.gov/surveys/spp/results.asp
- Salary.com. (2024). School counselor salary. https://www.salary.com/research/salary/benchmark/school-counselor-salary
- YouScience. (2025). The state of the school counselor profession report. https://resources.youscience.com/rs/806-BFU-539/images/2025_SchoolCounselorReport.pdf
- ZipRecruiter. (2024). LPC salary. https://www.ziprecruiter.com/Salaries/Lpc-Salary
