2026 Best counseling Degree Programs Ranking in Mississippi

What can I expect from counseling degree in Mississippi?

Many counseling students in Mississippi anticipate the financial commitment of pursuing their degree with a mix of hope and caution. On average, completing a counseling degree here can cost between $15, 000 and $30, 000 in tuition, depending on whether you attend a public university like the University of Mississippi or a private institution. Graduates often recall balancing part-time jobs or family responsibilities while investing in a program that demands 60 semester hours and 700 clinical fieldwork hours-a significant time and monetary dedication.

One graduate from a Mississippi public university reflected on the payoff: despite the cost, the CACREP-accredited program offered invaluable hands-on experience, making every dollar worth it when stepping into licensure exams. Another from a private college emphasized how flexible online course options allowed working parents to continue earning while studying, softening the financial strain.

This blend of practical training and adaptable learning formats transforms tuition into an investment in a fulfilling career serving others in Mississippi's communities.

Where can I work with counseling degree in Mississippi?

Graduates from counseling programs at universities like the University of Mississippi and Mississippi College often find themselves stepping into vibrant career paths that challenge the stereotype of counseling as a narrow field. With a counseling degree in Mississippi, you can work in clinical mental health settings, where you join community centers or private practices helping clients navigate complex emotional landscapes. Imagine conducting therapy sessions that truly transform lives at places such as South Mississippi Mental Health Center, a hub actively seeking counselors to support both adults and children.

Beyond traditional therapy roles, many graduates discover opportunities in government agencies or local school districts, serving as behavioral health technicians or school counselors. These roles offer the satisfaction of shaping community wellness and youth development. Some even venture into specialized fields like addiction or crisis intervention, where their work not only addresses immediate crises but builds long-term recovery.

Knowing that over 200 counseling positions are available statewide reinforces that your degree can open doors to meaningful employment across Mississippi, combining professional fulfillment with genuine impact.

How much can I make with counseling degree in Mississippi?

Graduates with counseling degrees in Mississippi often find encouraging financial outcomes, though earnings can vary widely based on the chosen career path. For example, a graduate from the University of Southern Mississippi beginning as a Rehabilitation Specialist might expect an average annual salary of $48, 430, earning about $23. 28 per hour. Community Outreach Coordinators, a common role for counseling grads, earn roughly $54, 020 yearly, offering a blend of meaningful community impact and solid income.

Those feeling drawn toward addiction counseling-often a challenging but rewarding path-can anticipate making around $60, 080 annually, translating to $28. 89 hourly. These figures resonate with students from institutions like Mississippi College, who describe the satisfaction derived from helping individuals while maintaining financial stability.

The salary data challenges any notion that counseling careers are universally low-paying in Mississippi. Many graduates balance heartfelt work with competitive compensation, making the pursuit of a counseling degree a genuinely empowering choice in this state.

How long does it take to complete counseling degree in Mississippi?

Completing a counseling degree in Mississippi isn't just about clocking classroom hours; it's a commitment that shapes your professional journey over several years. Graduates from the University of Mississippi often describe the two-year Master of Education in Counselor Education as intense yet deeply rewarding, especially when balancing full-time studies with real-world practice. The typical master's program demands around 60 semester hours, usually completed in 2 to 3 years full-time, or longer if you study part-time.

But earning the degree is just the start. The real transformation happens during the 3, 000 hours of supervised clinical experience required afterward, stretching across at least 18 months. Imagine engaging directly with clients for 1, 200 hours while receiving personal guidance from a board-approved supervisor-a process many find both challenging and exhilarating. Commonwealth University's online program shows how flexibility can help you progress efficiently, with some finishing the clinical mental health counseling track in as little as 2. 5 years.

Altogether, whether you're starting with a bachelor's degree or entering with prior credits, expect a full commitment of about 7 to 8 years from start to licensed counselor, a timeline that many graduates recall as a thrilling journey of growth and resilience.

What's the difference between online and on-campus counseling degree?

Online and on-campus counseling degrees in Mississippi differ most in how students experience the journey. Graduates from the University of Mississippi who took traditional classes recall the energizing buzz of in-person discussions and role-playing exercises that sharpened their relational skills. These moments built deep connections that some say feel irreplaceable, especially in a field centered on human interaction.

Meanwhile, graduates from Mississippi State University's online program emphasize the freedom to balance work, family, and studies without relocating. They describe the challenge of staying motivated without face-to-face accountability but appreciate video simulations and live discussions that simulate real-world scenarios. This format resonates particularly with students in rural Mississippi, where commuting is a barrier.

Mississippians embracing hybrid models find a sweet spot-periodic campus visits enrich community bonds while most coursework remains flexible. Deciding between formats often means weighing the intangible value of physical presence against the practical benefits of accessibility, a tradeoff that shapes not just education but personal growth.

Licensing and Certification Requirements for Counselors in Mississippi

Becoming a licensed professional counselor (LPC) in Mississippi requires adherence to strict educational, experiential, and examination benchmarks set by the state board. First, candidates must hold a CACREP-accredited master’s degree in counseling or a closely related field, which ensures your program meets industry standards. After graduation, you’ll need to complete a minimum of 3,360 hours of supervised clinical practice over at least two years, including 240 hours of direct client contact under a board-approved supervisor. Next, applicants must pass the National Counselor Examination (NCE) or the National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Examination (NCMHCE). These exams assess core counseling competencies, ethical decision-making, and clinical interventions. Upon successful completion, you submit your application, official transcripts, supervised experience logs, and exam scores to the Mississippi Board of Examiners for Licensed Professional Counselors, along with the required fees. Mississippi also mandates continuing education for license renewal every two years: you must earn 40 clock hours of approved CE, including six hours in ethics. CE topics can range from trauma-informed care to cultural competence, helping you stay current with evolving best practices. For counselors relocating from other states, Mississippi offers a streamlined reciprocity process if your existing license aligns with or exceeds local requirements. Be sure to review interstate agreements early in your planning to avoid delays. Aspiring counselors concerned about tuition and program affordability may also explore our Cheapest Counseling Degree Programs Ranking in Tennessee to compare cost-effective options beyond Mississippi.

What is the average cost of counseling degree in Mississippi?

The average cost of earning a counseling degree in Mississippi often surprises many prospective students. While the national conversation might highlight expensive tuition, graduates from institutions like the University of Mississippi or Mississippi State University find that the median in-state total cost is about $9, 412. This figure is considerably lower than what is often assumed, making Mississippi a compelling choice for those who want quality education without overwhelming financial burden. Those attending as out-of-state students can expect median costs around $36, 535, which can be a significant factor when deciding residency status and budgeting for education.

Several counseling graduates reflect on the balance they've found between affordable tuition and valuable hands-on clinical experience required by these programs. Beyond tuition, it's essential to anticipate costs such as clinical practicum fees, liability insurance, and living expenses, which together craft the realistic financial landscape of earning a counseling degree in Mississippi.

Comparing Mississippi counseling degree tuition and fees to national averages reveals a thoughtful investment; many students feel encouraged to pursue their passion knowing the state offers competitive pricing combined with rich academic resources. Prospective students exploring accelerated options might consider looking into a one year masters program, which can reduce total time and related costs on their pathway to becoming licensed counselors.

What financial aid is available to counseling degree students in Mississippi?

Financial aid for counseling degrees in Mississippi extends beyond the typical expectation of loans, opening doors with grants and scholarships that lighten the financial burden. Consider a graduate from the University of Mississippi who benefited from the Federal Pell Grant, receiving up to $7, 395 annually-funds that don't need repayment, creating a sense of relief and motivation to focus fully on their studies.

State-specific support further fuels this journey. Scholarships like the Mississippi Tuition Assistance Grant (MTAG) and the FAITH Scholarship offer tailored assistance based on merit and financial need, doubling as both encouragement and reward for maintaining strong academic records. For example, a former Mississippi State University counseling student recalls how this aid made the difference in staying enrolled during challenging semesters.

Those targeting education-centered counseling careers find tailored programs like the TEACH Grant, which provides up to $4, 000 annually in exchange for service in under-resourced schools, aligning financial support with impactful community work. Local programs, such as the Graduate Teacher, Counselor, School Administration Loan/Scholarship, further reinforce this commitment, connecting students' financial aid with their professional aspirations within Mississippi's public schools.

Institutional scholarships and assistantships offered by regional universities add an additional safety net, fostering a supportive environment where counseling students can thrive without the overshadowing stress of unmet tuition costs.

Paying for a Counseling Degree in Mississippi

To manage the financial aspects of pursuing a counseling degree in Mississippi, it's essential to explore all available options. Many students find that financial aid, scholarships, and grants play a significant role in making their education more accessible. For instance, looking into the cheapest counseling schools in Mississippi can help prospective students find affordable pathways to their degree. Understanding the total cost of attendance, including tuition, fees, and additional expenses like textbooks and materials, is crucial for planning. Moreover, considering the potential return on investment, such as the competitive salaries that graduates with a counseling degree in Mississippi can earn, can also help in making informed decisions about financing one's education. By carefully evaluating these factors and seeking out financial assistance when needed, students can navigate the process of paying for their counseling degree in Mississippi with greater ease.

What are the prerequisites for enrolling in counseling degree program in Mississippi?

To enroll in a counseling degree in Mississippi, you must first hold a bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited institution. It's encouraging to know this degree doesn't have to be in psychology; many graduates at universities like Delta State and the University of Southern Mississippi began with diverse academic backgrounds. However, maintaining a strong GPA-usually around 3. 0-is critical. One graduate shared how focusing on the last 60 credit hours of their undergraduate work helped meet this benchmark despite earlier challenges.

Standardized testing can feel daunting, but the GRE is often required with scores no older than five years, though some schools like Belhaven University offer waivers-proof there's flexibility if you've earned an advanced degree. Applicants also submit transcripts, three recommendation letters, a personal statement, and a current resume, which helped another graduate vividly showcase their commitment and ambitions.

Finally, timing matters: applying by the March 1 deadline maximizes your acceptance chance. These structured yet accessible prerequisites make the journey tangible, fueling hope for future counselors ready to impact Mississippi's communities.

Licensure and Certification Requirements for Counselors in Mississippi

Aspiring counselors in Mississippi must secure state licensure through the Mississippi Board of Examiners for Licensed Professional Counselors (BLEPC) to practice legally and confidently. To qualify, candidates generally follow these steps: 1. Education: Earn a CACREP-accredited master’s degree in counseling or a closely related field. Many students seeking an affordable school counseling online degree find that such programs combine rigorous coursework with flexible practicum placements. 2. Supervised Experience: Complete at least 3,000 hours of supervised clinical experience—1,200 of which must be direct client contact—under a board-approved supervisor. This hands-on training sharpens diagnostic, ethical, and crisis-intervention skills. 3. Examination: Pass the National Counselor Examination (NCE) administered by the National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC), which assesses competency in human growth, group counseling, and professional ethics. 4. Application and Fees: Submit a licensure application to BLEPC, including official transcripts, verification of supervision hours, exam scores, and a non-refundable processing fee (approximately $150). 5. Continued Competency: Complete 30 hours of board-approved continuing education every two years, ensuring you remain current with emerging counseling theories, telehealth best practices, and Mississippi’s evolving legal standards. Meeting these requirements not only guarantees compliance with state regulations but also demonstrates your commitment to professional excellence and client safety in Mississippi’s diverse counseling landscape.

What courses are typically in counseling degree programs in Mississippi?

In Mississippi, counseling degree programs typically demand rigorous coursework that goes beyond theory to shape compassionate professionals ready for real-world challenges. Graduates from universities like the University of Southern Mississippi often recall how core counseling courses-covering developmental counseling and mental health principles-felt eye-opening in preparing them for client relationships that require both empathy and skill.

Specialized courses dive deeper. For example, students have described clinical mental health counseling and family counseling theory as transformative, equipping them to support individuals through crisis and addiction, especially in communities where substance abuse is prevalent.

Clinical training is where many students experience profound growth. At institutions like William Carey University, completing 600 to 700 internship hours in substance abuse centers or community clinics builds confidence and resilience, essential for Mississippi's diverse counseling needs.

Electives offer students the freedom to tailor their expertise-courses in grief counseling or art therapy often resonate personally, opening unexpected doors to meaningful careers.

What types of specializations are available in counseling degree programs in Mississippi?

Exploring counseling degree specializations in Mississippi reveals paths that deeply resonate with real-world needs and personal growth. Graduates from universities like the University of Mississippi often share how Clinical Mental Health Counseling prepared them to navigate complex emotional challenges in community settings, fostering empathy through hands-on experiences. Meanwhile, those focusing on School Counseling report a profound sense of purpose in supporting youth development across Mississippi's K-12 schools, directly impacting dropout rates and student success.

Mississippi counseling program areas of focus extend to Marriage and Family Counseling, where students engage with relatable family dynamics, honing skills to strengthen relationships in local communities. Substance Abuse Counseling is increasingly vital here, with many graduates feeling empowered to address addiction crises facing the state. The varied specialization options provide students with tailored expertise, driving meaningful change while reflecting the state's distinct social landscape.

For those weighing their academic journey, examining what is the easiest bachelors degree to get might offer clarity when selecting a foundational path that aligns with these impactful counseling fields.

How do you choose the best counseling degree in Mississippi?

Choosing the best counseling degree programs in Mississippi isn't just about picking a school - it's about envisioning your future practice. Graduates from universities like the University of Mississippi often reflect on how their choice in specialization, such as clinical mental health or marriage and family therapy, shaped their day-to-day work with clients. It's easy to overlook how crucial CACREP accreditation is until you're deep in the licensure process, where it can mean smoother, faster approval to practice professionally.

Cost often drives decisions, but don't let sticker price alone define your path. Graduates from state universities share how exploring financial aid and assistantships relieved pressures, allowing them to focus on learning. For those seeking flexibility, programs offering hybrid or online options can fit busy lives, and searching for affordable counseling degrees Mississippi-wide can reveal unexpected gems. Discovering a low cost online master's degree can transform your education journey while maintaining quality and accreditation.

What career paths are available for counseling degree students in Mississippi?

Graduates with a counseling degree in Mississippi often find themselves stepping into transformative roles that shape both individual lives and communities. Many become Licensed Professional Counselors (LPCs), a pathway that demands a master's degree, rigorous supervised hours, and passing a licensing exam mandated by the Mississippi Board of Examiners for Licensed Professional Counselors. These LPCs practice across private clinics, schools, hospitals, and community centers-each environment offering unique challenges and rewards that many graduates from institutions like the University of Mississippi or Mississippi State University vividly recall. Such counseling career opportunities in Mississippi don't stop there.

School counseling is another deeply impactful option, especially as the Mississippi Department of Education forecasts an 8% employment increase by 2030. Graduates often describe the fulfillment found in guiding students through academic and social challenges, making a tangible difference daily. Others compelled by Mississippi's urgent public health needs pursue roles as substance abuse counselors, directly confronting addiction issues with empathy and skill. As these examples from graduates' journeys suggest, the Mississippi counseling degree job prospects offer a broad, meaningful spectrum-reminding students that their work can carry profound real-world significance.

Those contemplating these paths also consider financial aspects; tuition usually ranges from $7, 000 to $25, 000 annually, depending on the institution and residency status. Many find encouragement knowing financial aid options make accessing these programs easier. For those seeking guidance on immediate return on investment, researching quick college degrees that pay well can frame counseling in a broader economic context, blending passion with practical career planning.

What is the job market for counseling degree in Mississippi?

The job market for counseling degree graduates in Mississippi reveals a landscape ripe with meaningful opportunities but also demanding adaptability. Many graduates from well-regarded institutions such as the University of Mississippi and Mississippi State University share stories of finding fulfilling roles in rural areas where mental health resources are scarce yet desperately needed. These positions often provide a unique sense of purpose, echoing the state's emphasis on expanding access to mental health services.

Despite median wages in Mississippi being lower than the national average, this reality is balanced by a lower cost of living and competitive salaries ranging from $40, 000 to $55, 000 depending on specialization. Graduates pursuing a counseling degree job opportunities Mississippi find that licensure from the Mississippi Board of Examiners boosts their credibility and opens doors, especially in school counseling or substance abuse centers. Many who advanced in trauma counseling or family therapy report elevated job satisfaction and demand.

Tuition affordability at Mississippi public universities-between $6, 000 and $10, 000 annually-encourages prospective students to consider the state seriously. For those seeking a low cost bachelor degree online, Mississippi's options make the dream of a counseling career more tangible than ever.