List of Counseling Degrees in Michigan

Michigan offers a wide range of counseling degree opportunities for students preparing to enter the profession. With large universities in cities like Ann Arbor, East Lansing, and Detroit, as well as smaller colleges across the state, Michigan provides diverse training environments. Whether you are interested in clinical mental health counseling, school counseling, or community-based practice, counseling programs in Michigan can equip you with the skills to make a difference in people’s lives.

Undergraduate Counseling Programs in Michigan

Undergraduate counseling-related programs in Michigan provide students with a strong foundation in psychology, human development, and the social sciences. While a bachelor’s degree alone does not qualify graduates for counseling licensure, it is a key first step toward graduate study and professional practice.

Students can pursue degrees at Michigan’s many public universities, private colleges, and online institutions. Coursework often includes abnormal psychology, counseling theories, research methods, and developmental psychology. Graduates may seek entry-level roles in human services or continue on to master’s programs to meet licensure requirements.For those seeking flexibility, an online bachelor’s degree in counseling can be an excellent way to begin preparing for a counseling career while balancing work and other commitments.

Consider an online counseling program: 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.


Online Counseling Programs At Walden

Here are a few schools in Michigan with CACREP-accredited counseling programs:

  • Andrews University: M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
    M.A. in School Counseling
  • Eastern Michigan University: M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
    M.A. in School Counseling
    M.A. in Student Affairs and College Counseling
  • Michigan State University: M.A. in Rehabilitation Counseling
    Ph.D. in Counselor Education and Supervision
  • Oakland University: M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
    M.A. in School Counseling

Click to jump to the full list of Michigan counseling programs, or consider learning more about one of the below online counseling program currently accepting applicants.

Snapshot: Online CACREP Accredited Programs

For detailed degree information, view the guides to:

Online CACREP Accredited programs | Online MPCAC Accredited programs

Graduate Counseling Programs in Michigan

Graduate-level training is required for those seeking counseling licensure in Michigan. The state is home to multiple universities offering master’s and doctoral programs in counseling, including CACREP-accredited counseling programs that meet national standards. These programs prepare students for careers in clinical mental health counseling, school counseling, and related specialties.

In addition to in-state programs, many students explore online master’s degree in counseling options, which allow flexibility for working professionals. Some institutions also offer online master’s in counseling with no GRE, which may make admissions more accessible. For those interested in research, teaching, or leadership roles, online counseling PhD programs are also available.

InstitutionCitySpecialtyDegreeOnline Options Available?
Andrews UniversityBerrien SpringsClinical Mental Health CounselingM.A.
Andrews UniversityBerrien SpringsSchool CounselingM.A.
Central Michigan UniversityMt. PleasantAddiction CounselingM.A.Y
Central Michigan UniversityMt. PleasantClinical Mental Health CounselingM.A.Y
Central Michigan UniversityMt. PleasantSchool CounselingM.A.Y
Eastern Michigan UniversityYpsilantiSchool CounselingM.A.
Eastern Michigan UniversityYpsilantiCollege Counseling and Student AffairsM.A.
Eastern Michigan UniversityYpsilantiClinical Mental Health CounselingM.A.
Michigan State UniversityEast LansingRehabilitation CounselingM.A.
Michigan State UniversityEast LansingCounselor Education and SupervisionPh.D.
Oakland UniversityRochesterSchool CounselingM.A.
Oakland UniversityRochesterCounselor Education and SupervisionPh.D.
Oakland UniversityRochesterClinical Mental Health CounselingM.A.
Spring Arbor UniversitySpring ArborSchool CounselingM.A.
Spring Arbor UniversitySpring ArborClinical Mental Health CounselingM.A.
University of Detroit MercyDetroitSchool CounselingM.A.
University of Detroit MercyDetroitAddiction CounselingM.A.
University of Detroit MercyDetroitClinical Mental Health CounselingM.A.
Wayne State UniversityDetroitSchool CounselingM.A.
Wayne State UniversityDetroitClinical Mental Health CounselingM.A.
Wayne State UniversityDetroitClinical Rehabilitation CounselingM.A.
Western Michigan UniversityKalamazooSchool CounselingM.A.
Western Michigan UniversityKalamazooCounselor Education and SupervisionPh.D.
Western Michigan UniversityKalamazooClinical Mental Health CounselingM.A.
Western Michigan UniversityKalamazooMarriage, Couple and Family CounselingM.A.

Top Michigan Schools with Counseling Programs

When selecting a counseling program in Michigan, it’s important to remember that the “best” school depends on your career goals, interests, and learning preferences. The following institutions are among the respected options in the state and can serve as a helpful starting point in your search.

Michigan State University

Featured Program: M.A. in Rehabilitation Counseling
Michigan State University offers a CACREP-accredited Master of Arts in Rehabilitation Counseling, designed to prepare students to serve individuals with physical, mental, emotional, developmental, and vocational needs in diverse clinical and community settings. The program emphasizes counseling, vocational rehabilitation, case management, independent living, and the social and psychological aspects of disability. Students also gain expertise in ethical practice, career development, transition from school to work, and disability management.

About Michigan State University
Founded in 1855, Michigan State University is one of the nation’s premier public research universities and a member of the Association of American Universities. Located in East Lansing, Michigan, MSU is recognized globally for academic excellence, community engagement, and research impact. The College of Education maintains a long tradition of leadership in preparing professionals across counseling, educational psychology, and special education.


University of Detroit Mercy

Featured Program: M.A. in Counseling
The University of Detroit Mercy offers a CACREP-accredited Master of Arts in Counseling with specializations in Addiction Counseling, Clinical Mental Health Counseling, and School Counseling, as well as post-graduate certificates for advanced school counseling preparation. Established in 1964, the program is among the first graduate counseling programs in Michigan and has maintained a strong tradition of preparing ethical and competent professional counselors.

About University of Detroit Mercy
Founded in 1877, the University of Detroit Mercy is Michigan’s largest Catholic university, rooted in the Jesuit and Mercy traditions. Located in the heart of Detroit, the institution emphasizes academic rigor, community engagement, and service to others. The Counseling Program reflects this mission by preparing graduates who serve diverse communities with professionalism and compassion.


Andrews University

Featured Program: M.A. in School Counseling
The Master of Arts in School Counseling at Andrews University prepares students for counseling careers in K–12 schools, equipping them with the coursework and clinical training needed for school counselor endorsement. The CACREP-accredited program follows the American School Counselor Association (ASCA) National Model, emphasizing developmental, academic, social-emotional, and career support for children and adolescents.

About Andrews University
Founded in 1874, Andrews University is a Seventh-day Adventist institution of higher education accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and the Accrediting Association of Seventh-day Adventist Schools, Colleges, and Universities. The university offers more than 70 graduate programs and maintains a commitment to preparing graduates to lead and serve in a global community.

How to Become a Licensed Counselor in Michigan

Counselors in Michigan are regulated by the Michigan Board of Counseling. The primary credential is the Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), with graduates first qualifying as a Limited Licensed Professional Counselor (LLPC) before advancing to full licensure.

Here are the general steps:

  1. Earn a Master’s Degree in Counseling
    • The program must be in counseling or a closely related field, ideally CACREP-accredited, and include required coursework and supervised practicum/internship.
  2. Apply for the LLPC License
    • This limited license allows graduates to begin practicing under supervision while accruing post-master’s hours.
  3. Complete Supervised Clinical Experience
    • Michigan requires 3,000 hours of post-master’s supervised counseling practice, including 100 hours of direct supervision.
  4. Pass the Required Examination
    • Candidates must pass the National Counselor Examination (NCE) or the National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Examination (NCMHCE).
  5. Apply for Full LPC Licensure
    • After meeting supervision and exam requirements, candidates may apply for the full LPC license.
  6. Maintain Licensure
    • LPCs must complete continuing education credits each renewal cycle, including coursework in ethics.

Helpful resources to explore:

Counseling Licensure Titles in Michigan

The Michigan Board of Counseling recognizes two main counseling credentials:

  • Limited Licensed Professional Counselor (LLPC)
    • An entry-level license for recent graduates of qualifying master’s programs. LLPCs may provide counseling services under the supervision of a fully licensed professional.
  • Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC)
    • The full independent counseling license in Michigan. LPCs may assess, diagnose, and provide counseling services without supervision, and they may also supervise LLPCs.

School Counselor License

  • Administered through the Michigan Department of Education, this credential is required for professionals who wish to provide counseling in K–12 schools. It requires a master’s degree in school counseling, along with practicum and internship experience.

These credentials provide Michigan counseling professionals with clear pathways to careers in both clinical and educational settings.

Transferring a Counseling License to Michigan

Counselors licensed in another state may be able to practice in Michigan through licensure by endorsement, overseen by the Michigan Board of Counseling. Michigan reviews each application individually and does not have universal reciprocity agreements.

Applicants must:

  • Hold a current counseling license in good standing from another U.S. state
  • Provide official verification of licensure and examination scores (such as the NCE, NCMHCE, or CRCC), submitted directly from the testing organization
  • Submit a Professional Disclosure Statement
  • Document supervised clinical experience equivalent to Michigan’s requirements (3,000 hours of supervised post-master’s practice, including 100 hours of direct supervision)

Requirements differ based on how long you have been licensed. Those licensed five or more years typically submit licensure verification, exam scores, and a Professional Disclosure Statement. Those licensed less than five years must also provide official graduate transcripts, and if their counseling program is not CACREP-accredited, show CACREP-equivalent coursework and clinical training through a formal program evaluation.

For the most current information, visit the Michigan Board of Counseling.

Counseling Scholarships and Financial Aid in Michigan

Students pursuing counseling degrees in Michigan can access a variety of scholarships, grants, and financial aid resources. These opportunities are offered through the state, universities, and professional organizations.

Some options to explore include:

  • Michigan Tuition Grant
    • Provides need-based financial aid to Michigan residents attending eligible private institutions in the state.
  • Michigan Competitive Scholarship
    • Awarded to students based on financial need and ACT/SAT performance, applicable at participating Michigan institutions.
  • University Scholarships and Assistantships
    • Institutions such as Michigan State University, the University of Detroit Mercy, and Andrews University offer scholarships, fellowships, and graduate assistantships for counseling students.
  • Professional Association Awards
    • Groups such as the Michigan Counseling Association (MCA) and national organizations like the American Counseling Association (ACA) may provide scholarships or research grants.
  • Loan Forgiveness Programs
    • Counselors working in underserved schools or communities may qualify for federal Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) or Teacher Loan Forgiveness programs.

Students should also explore financial aid offices at their universities for institution-specific awards and updated deadlines.

Counseling Job Outlook and Salary in Michigan

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 Michigan.

Median Annual Wage in Michigan (May 2024)Median Annual Wage Nationally (May 2024)Projected Growth in Michigan (2022–2032)Projected National Growth (2022–2032)
Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors$59,530$59,19017.8%18.4%
Rehabilitation Counselors$43,830$46,1101.4%1.9%
Educational, Guidance, and Career Counselors$63,240$65,1404.7%5.4%
Marriage and Family Therapists$52,890$63,78016.7%14.9%
Counselors, Other$46,780$49,83013.9%17.3%

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Do I need a master’s degree to become a counselor in Michigan?
Yes. Michigan requires at least a master’s degree in counseling or a closely related field to qualify for licensure.

What is the difference between an LLPC and an LPC in Michigan?
An LLPC (Limited Licensed Professional Counselor) is the entry-level license that allows graduates to practice under supervision. An LPC (Licensed Professional Counselor) is the full independent license, allowing counselors to diagnose, treat, and supervise others.

Are online counseling degrees accepted in Michigan?
Yes. Online degrees are accepted as long as they are properly accredited and meet Michigan’s coursework and practicum requirements.

How long does it take to become licensed in Michigan?
Most students spend about 6–7 years from starting a bachelor’s program to achieving LPC licensure, including graduate study and 3,000 supervised hours.

Can I transfer my counseling license from another state to Michigan?
Yes. Michigan allows licensure by endorsement if your education, supervised hours, and exam results are substantially equivalent to state standards.

What are the continuing education requirements for LPCs in Michigan?
Licensed counselors must complete continuing education credits for each renewal cycle, including training in ethics and professional practice.

Making a Counseling Career in Michigan

Michigan offers diverse opportunities for students and professionals pursuing careers in counseling. With major cities like Detroit, Grand Rapids, and Ann Arbor, as well as many smaller and rural communities, the state provides a wide range of practice settings. Counselors in Michigan can work in schools, hospitals, private practices, and community organizations, serving populations with varying needs.

Some highlights of pursuing a counseling career in Michigan include:

  • High demand for mental health professionals — especially in underserved rural and urban areas.
  • Variety of career options — including school counseling, clinical mental health, marriage and family counseling, and substance use treatment.
  • Supportive professional networks — organizations like the Michigan Counseling Association (MCA) and other regional groups provide advocacy, professional development, and networking opportunities.

For students and professionals committed to supporting others, Michigan provides both the academic training and career pathways to build a fulfilling future in counseling.

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Schools With Campus-Based CACREP Accredited Michigan Counseling Degrees

Council for Accreditation of Counseling & Related Educational Programs logo

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 Michigan. Keep scrolling or jump to all programs for all programs or view online CACREP accredited counseling programs.

Andrews University

Berrien Springs
M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
CACREP Accredited
  • CACREP Status: Accredited, 8 Year (Re-Accreditation In-Process)
  • CACREP Accreditation Runs: 1/15/2012 to 3/31/2026
M.A. in School Counseling
CACREP Accredited
  • CACREP Status: Accredited, 8 Year (Re-Accreditation In-Process)
  • CACREP Accreditation Runs: 9/1/1988 to 3/31/2026

Eastern Michigan University

Ypsilanti
M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
CACREP Accredited
  • CACREP Status: Accredited, 8 Year
  • CACREP Accreditation Runs: 1/15/2012 to 10/31/2021
M.A. in School Counseling
CACREP Accredited
  • CACREP Status: Accredited, 8 Year
  • CACREP Accreditation Runs: 10/1/1996 to 10/31/2021
M.A. in Student Affairs and College Counseling
CACREP Accredited
  • CACREP Status: Accredited, 8 Year
  • CACREP Accreditation Runs: 9/1/2000 to 10/31/2021

Michigan State University

East Lansing
M.A. in Rehabilitation Counseling
CACREP Accredited
  • CACREP Status: Accredited, 8 Year
  • CACREP Accreditation Runs: 7/1/2017 to 10/31/2021
Ph.D. in Counselor Education and Supervision
CACREP Accredited
  • CACREP Status: Accredited, 8 Year
  • CACREP Accreditation Runs: 1/13/2016 to 10/31/2021

Oakland University

Rochester
M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
CACREP Accredited
  • CACREP Status: Accredited, 2 Year
  • CACREP Accreditation Runs: 7/19/2017 to 3/31/2021
M.A. in School Counseling
CACREP Accredited
  • CACREP Status: Accredited, 2 Year
  • CACREP Accreditation Runs: 5/1/1993 to 3/31/2021
Ph.D. in Counselor Education and Supervision
CACREP Accredited
  • CACREP Status: Accredited, 2 Year
  • CACREP Accreditation Runs: 1/19/2006 to 3/31/2021

Spring Arbor University

Spring Arbor
M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
CACREP Accredited
  • CACREP Status: Accredited, 8 Year
  • CACREP Accreditation Runs: 1/7/2015 to 10/31/2024
M.A. in School Counseling
CACREP Accredited
  • CACREP Status: Accredited, 8 Year
  • CACREP Accreditation Runs: 1/7/2015 to 10/31/2024

University of Detroit Mercy

Detroit
M.A. in Addiction Counseling
CACREP Accredited
  • CACREP Status: Accredited, 8 Year
  • CACREP Accreditation Runs: 7/5/2015 to 10/31/2024
M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
CACREP Accredited
  • CACREP Status: Accredited, 8 Year
  • CACREP Accreditation Runs: 7/5/2015 to 10/31/2024
M.A. in School Counseling
CACREP Accredited
  • CACREP Status: Accredited, 8 Year
  • CACREP Accreditation Runs: 9/1/1999 to 10/31/2024

Wayne State University

Detroit
Ed.D./Ph.D. in Counselor Education and Supervision
CACREP Accredited
  • CACREP Status: Accredited, 8 Year
  • CACREP Accreditation Runs: 5/1/1993 to 10/31/2023
M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
CACREP Accredited
  • CACREP Status: Accredited, 8 Year
  • CACREP Accreditation Runs: 1/13/2016 to 10/31/2023
M.A. in Rehabilitation Counseling
CACREP Accredited
  • CACREP Status: Accredited, 8 Year
  • CACREP Accreditation Runs: 7/1/2017 to 10/31/2023
M.A. in School Counseling
CACREP Accredited
  • CACREP Status: Accredited, 8 Year
  • CACREP Accreditation Runs: 5/1/1993 to 10/31/2023

Western Michigan University

Kalamazoo
M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
CACREP Accredited
  • CACREP Status: Accredited, 8 Year
  • CACREP Accreditation Runs: 7/5/2015 to 10/31/2022
M.A. in Marriage, Couple and Family Counseling
CACREP Accredited
  • CACREP Status: Accredited, 8 Year
  • CACREP Accreditation Runs: 7/5/2015 to 10/31/2022
M.A. in Rehabilitation Counseling
CACREP Accredited
  • CACREP Status: Accredited, 8 Year
  • CACREP Accreditation Runs: 7/1/2017 to 10/31/2025
M.A. in School Counseling
CACREP Accredited
  • CACREP Status: Accredited, 8 Year
  • CACREP Accreditation Runs: 4/1/1982 to 10/31/2022
M.A. in Student Affairs and College Counseling
CACREP Accredited
  • CACREP Status: Accredited, 8 Year
  • CACREP Accreditation Runs: 4/1/1982 to 10/31/2022
Ph.D. in Counselor Education and Supervision
CACREP Accredited
  • CACREP Status: Accredited, 8 Year
  • CACREP Accreditation Runs: 4/1/1982 to 10/31/2022

All Accredited Schools with Counseling Degrees in Michigan

View all programs in Michigan below, or jump to all Michigan CACREP accredited counseling programs.

Andrews University Berrien Springs
  • Doctorate - Counseling Psychology
  • M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
  • M.A. in School Counseling
Eastern Michigan University Ypsilanti
  • M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
  • M.A. in School Counseling
  • M.A. in Student Affairs and College Counseling
Michigan State University East Lansing
  • M.A. in Rehabilitation Counseling
  • Ph.D. in Counselor Education and Supervision
Oakland University Rochester Hills
  • Doctorate - School Counseling
  • M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
  • M.A. in School Counseling
  • Ph.D. in Counselor Education and Supervision
Rochester College Rochester Hills
  • Bachelors - Counseling Psychology
Spring Arbor University Spring Arbor
  • M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
  • M.A. in School Counseling
University of Detroit Mercy Detroit
  • Bachelors - Substance Abuse and Addiction Counseling
  • M.A. in Addiction Counseling
  • M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
  • M.A. in School Counseling
Wayne State University Detroit
  • Doctorate - School Counseling
  • Ed.D./Ph.D. in Counselor Education and Supervision
  • M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
  • M.A. in Rehabilitation Counseling
  • M.A. in School Counseling
Western Michigan University Kalamazoo
  • Doctorate - Counseling Psychology
  • Doctorate - School Counseling
  • M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
  • M.A. in Marriage, Couple and Family Counseling
  • M.A. in Rehabilitation Counseling
  • M.A. in School Counseling
  • M.A. in Student Affairs and College Counseling
  • Ph.D. in Counselor Education and Supervision

Still Looking for a Counseling Degree?

Here are some of the most popular online counseling programs. On each page you will find a detailed write-up of the program, specific courses, and schools that offer that program that are currently accepting applicants.

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