Alaska offers unique opportunities for students interested in counseling, with programs that reflect the state’s cultural diversity and focus on serving both urban and rural communities. From addressing the needs of Alaska Native populations to preparing professionals for work in remote areas, counseling programs in the state provide pathways for meaningful and impactful careers.
Undergraduate Counseling Programs in Alaska
Students beginning their counseling journey in Alaska can pursue undergraduate programs that build a strong foundation in psychology, human services, and counseling principles. These bachelor’s degrees prepare graduates for roles in support services or as a stepping stone toward graduate study, which is required for professional counseling licensure.
For added flexibility, many schools nationwide also offer an online bachelor’s degree in counseling, allowing students in Alaska’s rural or remote areas to access education without relocating.
Graduate Counseling Programs in Alaska
Graduate study is essential for anyone pursuing licensure as a professional counselor in Alaska. The state offers opportunities for advanced training in counseling that prepare students for clinical practice, leadership roles, and work with diverse communities. Many programs also emphasize the unique cultural and geographic needs of Alaska’s rural and indigenous populations.
Students exploring graduate study may also want to consider flexible options such as an online counseling master’s degree, an online master’s in counseling without a GRE, or even online counseling doctorate programs.
The following CACREP-accredited online counseling programs represent great options for students in Alaska.
| Institution | City | Specialty | Degree | Online Options Available? |
| University of Alaska Fairbanks | Fairbanks | Clinical Mental Health Counseling | M.Ed. | Y |
| University of Alaska Fairbanks | Fairbanks | School Counseling | M.Ed. | Y |
- University of Alaska Fairbanks: M.Ed. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
- M.Ed. in School Counseling
Click to jump to the full list of Alaska counseling programs, or consider learning more about one of the below online counseling program currently accepting applicants.
Consider a Featured Online Counseling Program
| School and Program Information | Online Program? Entry Requirements | Course Information |
|---|---|---|
| Walden University
MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
 CACREP Accredited |
✔ Online
GRE scores not required |
Mental health counselors play a valuable role in helping people cope with life’s challenges. Walden’s online MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling program can help you become the competent, compassionate counselor you know you can be. Learn More |
| Walden University
MS in School Counseling
CACREP Accredited |
✔ Online
GRE scores not required |
School counselors help students overcome obstacles and shape successful futures. Walden’s online MS in School Counseling program will give you a solid foundation in school counseling theories, approaches, and best practices while enabling you to gain hands-on experience. Learn More |
| Northwestern University
Online MA in Counseling
CACREP Accredited |
✔ Online
GRE Not Required Bachelor's Required |
Prepare to pursue licensure in as few as 18 months Learn MoreFull-time, part-time, and accelerated track options available |
| Northwestern University
Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy
COAMFTE Accredited |
✔ Online
GRE Not Required Bachelor's Required |
The COAMFTE-accredited MFT@Northwestern is offered by The Family Institute at Northwestern University. Full-time students can complete the program in as few as 21 months. No GRE is required, but applicants must hold an undergraduate degree. Full and part-time tracks available. Learn More |
| Grand Canyon University
Master's Degree in Counseling
CACREP Accredited |
✔ Online
|
Clinical Mental Health Counseling master's degree emphases include: Childhood and Adolescence Disorders, Christian Counseling, Marriage and Family Therapy, and Trauma. Designed to meet the academic requirements of the National Board for Certified Counselors for the National Certified Counselor credential, the Certified Clinical Mental Health Counselor credential and the Arizona Board of Behavioral Health Examiners. As a private university, GCU has the same in-state and out-of-state tuition. Learn More |
| Liberty University
MA: Clinical Mental Health Counseling
CACREP Accredited |
✔ Online
Online with required intensives |
Our CACREP-accredited master’s in counseling degree online can help you become an ethical, well-trained mental health counselor with the knowledge, values, and skills you need to empower others to make positive changes in their lives. Online and on campus. Training Champions for Christ since 1971. Learn More |
| National University
Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
WSCUC Accredited |
✔ Online
GRE Scores Not Required |
The Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling is focused on training highly skilled counselors to provide impactful and culturally sensitive mental health services in their communities. Learn More |
| University of Denver
Master of Arts in School Counseling
CACREP Accredited |
✔ Online
No GRE Required; Minimum GPA 2.5 Required |
Earn a Master’s degree in School Counseling online from the University of Denver. Learn from doctoral-level faculty in live classes and gain experience through mock counseling and in-field training. No GRE required. Complete in as few as 24 months. Learn More |
| Mid-America Christian University (MACU)
Master of Science (MS) in Counseling
Higher Learning Commission (HLC) |
✔ Online
100% Online |
Expand your impact with an online counseling degree rooted in faith-based practice. Mid-America Christian University offers the largest Master of Science (MS) in Counseling program in Oklahoma, with emphasis areas in addiction and substance abuse, applied behavioral science, clinical mental health counseling, and marriage and family therapy. Explore the online MS in Counseling at MACU. Learn More |
*Sponsored Counseling Programs
Top Alaska Schools with Counseling Programs
While Alaska has fewer options than many other states, the University of Alaska system plays a vital role in training future counselors. As always, the “best” program is subjective — the right school depends on a student’s individual needs, goals, and interests.
University of Alaska Fairbanks
Featured Program: Master of Education in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
The University of Alaska Fairbanks offers a CACREP-accredited Master of Education in Clinical Mental Health Counseling that blends research-based coursework with extensive field training. The program is delivered fully online through both synchronous and asynchronous formats, providing flexibility for working students. Practicum and internship experiences are central to the curriculum, giving students supervised, hands-on training in the field. Designed to prepare culturally attuned counselors, the program emphasizes serving diverse and rural populations across Alaska. Graduates are prepared to pursue licensure as professional counselors and to work in settings such as community health centers, hospitals, family service agencies, and private practice.
Featured Program: Master of Education in School Counseling
The University of Alaska Fairbanks offers a CACREP-accredited Master of Education in School Counseling that prepares students for certification as school counselors. The program combines research-based coursework with extensive field training, including a practicum and internship under the supervision of licensed professionals. Delivered fully online through synchronous and asynchronous formats, it provides flexibility for students across Alaska while maintaining a collaborative and hands-on learning environment. Emphasis is placed on preparing culturally responsive counselors who can serve the unique needs of Alaska’s rural and diverse communities.
About the University of Alaska Fairbanks
The University of Alaska Fairbanks is a public research university and the flagship campus of the University of Alaska system. Located in Fairbanks, it serves as a hub for education, research, and outreach across the state. UAF is recognized for its strengths in Arctic and environmental studies, as well as its commitment to addressing the needs of Alaska’s rural and Indigenous communities. The university offers a broad range of undergraduate and graduate programs, combining hands-on learning with strong academic resources.
How to Become a Licensed Counselor in Alaska
Becoming a licensed counselor in Alaska requires completing specific educational, training, and examination steps overseen by the Alaska Board of Professional Counselors. Below is an outline of the process:
- Earn a Graduate Degree in Counseling
- Complete a master’s or doctoral degree in counseling or a closely related field.
- Choosing a CACREP-accredited program is strongly recommended.
- Complete a master’s or doctoral degree in counseling or a closely related field.
- Complete Coursework Requirements
- Alaska requires graduate-level study in areas such as counseling theory, human development, ethics, multicultural issues, and research methods.
- Programs must also include supervised practicum and internship experiences.
- Alaska requires graduate-level study in areas such as counseling theory, human development, ethics, multicultural issues, and research methods.
- Gain Supervised Clinical Experience
- After earning your degree, you must complete 3,000 hours of post-master’s supervised experience.
- Of these, at least 1,000 hours must be direct counseling with clients under the supervision of a licensed professional.
- After earning your degree, you must complete 3,000 hours of post-master’s supervised experience.
- Apply for Licensure
- Submit an application to the Alaska Board of Professional Counselors, including official transcripts, verification of supervised experience, and exam scores.
- Submit an application to the Alaska Board of Professional Counselors, including official transcripts, verification of supervised experience, and exam scores.
- Pass the Required Examination
- Alaska accepts either the National Counselor Examination (NCE) or the National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Examination (NCMHCE), both administered by the NBCC.
- Alaska accepts either the National Counselor Examination (NCE) or the National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Examination (NCMHCE), both administered by the NBCC.
- Receive Licensure as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC)
- Once approved, you will be credentialed as an LPC, which allows independent practice in the state.
- Once approved, you will be credentialed as an LPC, which allows independent practice in the state.
For more detailed information, explore what it means to be a licensed professional counselor, review the steps on how to become a licensed professional counselor, or learn more about how to become a counselor.
For detailed degree information, view the guides to:
Online CACREP Accredited programs | Online MPCAC Accredited programs
Counseling Licensure Titles in Alaska
Alaska recognizes several counseling-related licensure pathways that allow professionals to practice at different levels of independence or in specialized areas. These credentials are overseen by the Alaska Board of Professional Counselors and related state boards.
Current and upcoming counseling licensure titles in Alaska include:
- Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) – The primary independent counseling license in Alaska. LPCs may diagnose, treat, and provide mental health counseling services without supervision.
- Licensed Associate Counselor (LAC) – A new, provisional license created under House Bill 126 and scheduled to take effect July 1, 2025. This license is intended for graduates who have completed their counseling degree but are still working toward the supervised experience required for full LPC licensure. The Board is still finalizing the regulations for this license, so details may change before implementation.
- Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) – For professionals specializing in family systems and relational therapy. This credential is overseen by the Board of Marital and Family Therapy.
- Chemical Dependency Counselor (CDC) – Credentialed through the Alaska Commission for Behavioral Health Certification, this license focuses on substance abuse and addiction treatment.
These licenses give counselors flexibility in career direction, depending on their education, supervised training, and professional goals.
Walden University - MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling (CACREP Accredited)
Walden University - MS in School Counseling (CACREP Accredited)
Northwestern University - Online MA in Counseling (CACREP Accredited)
Northwestern University - Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy (COAMFTE Accredited)
Grand Canyon University - Master's Degree in Counseling (CACREP Accredited)
Liberty University - MA: Clinical Mental Health Counseling (CACREP Accredited)
National University - Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling (WSCUC Accredited)
University of Denver - Master of Arts in School Counseling (CACREP Accredited)
Mid-America Christian University (MACU) - Master of Science (MS) in Counseling (Higher Learning Commission (HLC) Accredited)
Transferring a Counseling License to Alaska
Counselors who are licensed in another state and wish to practice in Alaska must apply for licensure through the Alaska Board of Professional Counselors. While Alaska does not currently offer full reciprocity, the Board allows out-of-state applicants to demonstrate that their education, supervised experience, and examination history meet Alaska’s standards.
Key points for transferring a license include:
- Application Review – Applicants must submit transcripts, supervised experience documentation, and verification of passing a qualifying national exam (NCE or NCMHCE).
- Education & Experience Equivalency – The Board evaluates whether an applicant’s training and supervised clinical hours meet Alaska’s requirements. If there are gaps, additional coursework or hours may be required.
- Examination – If applicants have not already passed the required national exam, they will need to complete it before approval.
- Case-by-Case Determination – Because requirements can vary from state to state, each application is reviewed individually by the Board.
For the most up-to-date information, applicants should consult the Alaska Board of Professional Counselors.
Counseling Scholarships and Financial Aid in Alaska
Pursuing a counseling degree in Alaska can be demanding, but there are both national and state-specific financial aid opportunities to help lighten the burden. Below are some helpful examples:
National Scholarships for Counseling Students
- NBCC Foundation Scholarships – Awards of $5,000–$10,000 for graduate-level counseling students committed to serving underserved or rural communities.
- Professional Association Opportunities – Scholarships through organizations such as the American Counseling Association, Mental Health America, and the Hispanic Scholarship Fund support counseling students across the country.
Alaska-Specific Scholarships & Financial Aid
- University of Alaska Foundation Scholarships – A broad pool of awards available to students at UAA, UAF, and UAS, with opportunities based on merit, need, and field of study.
- Alaska Community Foundation Scholarships – More than 60 different scholarships are offered through a single statewide application portal.
- University of Alaska Anchorage (UAA) Scholarships – Includes program-specific scholarships such as the Dove Kull Memorial Scholarship and Thorsness Family Scholarship for social work majors, as well as graduate assistantships.
Counseling Job Outlook and Salary in Alaska
Understanding the career landscape is an important step when considering a counseling degree. The data in the following table was gathered from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics in 2025 and provides insights into employment trends and average salaries for counseling professionals in Alaska.
| Median Annual Wage in Alaska (May 2024) | Median Annual Wage Nationally (May 2024) | Projected Growth in Alaska (2022–2032) | Projected National Growth (2022–2032) | |
| Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors | $79,220 | $59,190 | 10.1% | 18.4% |
| Rehabilitation Counselors | $82,400 | $46,110 | 20.0% | 1.9% |
| Educational, Guidance, and Career Counselors | $80,020 | $65,140 | 2.2% | 5.4% |
| Marriage and Family Therapists | $62,220 | $63,780 | N/A | 14.9% |
| Counselors, Other | $50,510 | $49,830 | 7.1% | 17.3% |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Do I need a master’s degree to become a licensed counselor in Alaska?
Yes. A master’s degree in counseling or a closely related field is required to become a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Alaska.
Are counseling programs available online in Alaska?
Yes. Some counseling programs in Alaska, such as those offered through the University of Alaska system, may include online or hybrid components. Many students also consider online programs from accredited universities outside the state.
How long does it take to become a counselor in Alaska?
The process typically takes 6–8 years, including undergraduate study, a graduate program, supervised experience, and the licensing exams.
Can I transfer my counseling license from another state to Alaska?
Yes, but Alaska does not have full reciprocity. Out-of-state applicants must demonstrate that their education, supervised experience, and exams meet Alaska’s standards. The Alaska Board of Professional Counselors reviews applications on a case-by-case basis.
Making a Counseling Career in Alaska
Counseling professionals in Alaska have the opportunity to make a meaningful impact across the state’s diverse communities. From urban centers like Anchorage and Fairbanks to rural villages and remote regions, counselors play a vital role in expanding access to mental health care where it is often most needed.
Graduates can build careers in schools, community mental health centers, healthcare and tribal health organizations, private practice, or substance abuse and recovery programs. Each setting offers unique challenges and rewards, particularly in serving Alaska Native communities and populations in underserved areas.
For those committed to addressing complex mental health needs, Alaska offers both challenge and purpose. With its wide geography, cultural diversity, and strong demand for services, the state provides a distinctive environment to build a counseling career that truly makes a difference.
Popular Online Counseling Programs
Walden University 🗹 Online Masters
Walden University 🗹 Online Masters
Northwestern University 🗹 Online 🗗 Masters
Northwestern University 🗹 Online 🗗 Masters
Grand Canyon University 🗹 Online
Liberty University 🗹 Online
National University 🗹 Online Courses Start Weekly
University of Denver 🗹 Online 🗗 Masters
Mid-America Christian University (MACU) 🗹 Online
The Chicago School 🗹 Online 🗗 Masters
Schools With Campus-Based CACREP Accredited Alaska Counseling Degrees
CACREP (Council for Accreditation of Counseling & Related Educational Programs) is the top accrediting board for counseling programs.
Below, you will find a list of all of the CACREP accredited counseling programs in Alaska. Keep scrolling or jump to all programs for all programs or view online CACREP accredited counseling programs.
University of Alaska Fairbanks
- CACREP Status: Accredited, 2 Year
- CACREP Accreditation Runs: 7/12/2016 to 3/31/2020
- CACREP Status: Accredited, 2 Year
- CACREP Accreditation Runs: 7/12/2016 to 3/31/2020
All Accredited Schools with Counseling Degrees in Alaska
View all programs in Alaska below, or jump to all Alaska CACREP accredited counseling programs.
Alaska Pacific University Anchorage
- Bachelors - Counseling Psychology
- Doctorate - Counseling Psychology
University of Alaska Fairbanks Fairbanks
- M.Ed. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
- M.Ed. in School Counseling
