Oklahoma offers a range of opportunities for students interested in pursuing counseling careers. From undergraduate foundations to advanced graduate programs, the state’s universities provide training that prepares students to support individuals, families, and communities. Whether you’re drawn to school counseling, clinical mental health, or specialized fields, Oklahoma schools can help you build the skills needed to thrive in this rewarding profession.
Undergraduate Counseling Programs in Oklahoma
Students beginning their path toward a counseling career often start with a bachelor’s degree. In Oklahoma, undergraduate programs in psychology, human services, and counseling-related studies provide the foundation needed for graduate-level training and licensure. Coursework typically covers human development, counseling theory, and basic helping skills, with opportunities for internships or fieldwork.If you’re considering this route, you may also want to explore options for an online bachelor’s degree in counseling, which can offer flexibility and accessibility for students across Oklahoma.
Here are a few schools in Oklahoma with CACREP-accredited counseling programs:
- Langston University: M.S. in Rehabilitation Counseling
- Northeastern State University: M.S. in Addiction Counseling
- M.S. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
- M.S. in School Counseling
- Oklahoma State University: M.S. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
- M.S. in School Counseling
- Southeastern Oklahoma State University: M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Click to jump to the full list of Oklahoma 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
Snapshot: Online CACREP Accredited Programs
For detailed degree information, view the guides to:
Online CACREP Accredited programs | Online MPCAC Accredited programs
Oklahoma has 25 programs available in associate’s, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral levels. Some individuals may be more effective working with couples in marriage counseling, while others work better with children in school counseling.
These are just two of the many options available to counselors. Counseling is a diverse field that serves people of all backgrounds, and there are number of different specialization tracks you can choose from at the Master’s level (as well as a General MA in Counseling degree). A specialization track can help you get direct and specific coursework and experience in a particular field of counseling.
Graduate Counseling Programs in Oklahoma
Graduate-level counseling programs give students the advanced knowledge and supervised training required for licensure and professional practice. In Oklahoma, students can find several excellent options to pursue a master’s or doctoral degree in counseling. Many of these programs meet the rigorous standards of CACREP-accredited online counseling programs, ensuring high-quality preparation for future counselors.
Prospective students may also consider flexible pathways such as an online master’s degree in counseling, an online master’s in counseling without a GRE, or even online counseling PhD programs for advanced study.
| Institution | City | Specialty | Degree |
| East Central University | Ada | Clinical Mental Health Counseling and Clinical Rehabilitation Counseling | M.S. |
| Langston University | Langston | Rehabilitation Counseling | M.S. |
| Northeastern State University | Tahlequah | Addiction Counseling | M.S. |
| Northeastern State University | Tahlequah | School Counseling | M.S. |
| Northeastern State University | Tahlequah | Clinical Mental Health Counseling | M.S. |
| Oklahoma State University | Stillwater | School Counseling | M.S. |
| Oklahoma State University | Stillwater | Clinical Mental Health Counseling | M.S. |
| University of Oklahoma | Norman | Clinical Mental Health Counseling | M.Ed. |
Top Oklahoma Schools with Counseling Programs
Choosing the “best” school for counseling ultimately depends on your personal goals, location, and the type of program you’re seeking. The following universities represent some of the strongest options in Oklahoma, but remember that the right fit will be the one that best aligns with your career path and interests. Use this list as a helpful starting point in your search.
University of Oklahoma
Featured Program: Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
The University of Oklahoma offers a 60-hour master’s program in Clinical Mental Health Counseling designed to prepare students for licensure as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Oklahoma. The program can be completed on the Norman or Tulsa campuses, through a weekend format, or fully online. Approved by the Oklahoma State Board of Behavioral Health, the curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, social justice, and multicultural competencies. Graduates go on to work in diverse settings such as hospitals, outpatient and inpatient facilities, private practice, and community organizations, serving clients across a wide range of populations.
About the University of Oklahoma
The University of Oklahoma (OU) is a public research institution located in Norman, Oklahoma, with additional campuses in Tulsa and Oklahoma City. Known for its strong academic programs and commitment to community engagement, OU offers a wide range of undergraduate, graduate, and professional degrees. Its Norman campus provides a traditional college-town setting, while the Tulsa campus expands access to professional and graduate education for students across the state.
Oklahoma State University
Featured Program: Master of Science in Counseling
Oklahoma State University offers a Master of Science in Counseling with specialty options in mental health counseling and school counseling. Both tracks are CACREP-accredited and emphasize social justice and serving underserved populations. The 60-credit-hour program includes practicum and internship experiences in OSU’s on-campus training clinics, with a thesis option available for those pursuing research. Students may complete the program at either the Stillwater or Tulsa campus. Graduates are prepared for licensure and professional roles in counseling across diverse settings such as schools, community organizations, and mental health agencies.
About Oklahoma State University
Oklahoma State University (OSU) is a public land-grant research university with its main campus in Stillwater and additional locations in Tulsa, Oklahoma City, and beyond. Known for its commitment to teaching, research, and outreach, OSU offers a wide range of academic programs across disciplines. With strong ties to the state’s communities, OSU blends a traditional campus environment in Stillwater with expanded professional and graduate opportunities at its Tulsa campus.
Northeastern State University
Featured Program: Master of Science in Counseling
Northeastern State University offers a Master of Science in Counseling with tracks in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, Addiction Counseling, and School Counseling. Each track prepares students for professional licensure, with graduates eligible to pursue credentials such as Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor (LADC), or PK–12 school counseling certification. The program follows CACREP standards and emphasizes practical preparation through defined student learning outcomes tied to key performance indicators. Courses are offered at NSU’s Tahlequah and Broken Arrow campuses, giving students flexibility in completing their degree.
About Northeastern State University
Northeastern State University (NSU) is a public university with its main campus in Tahlequah, Oklahoma, and branch campuses in Broken Arrow and Muskogee. As one of the oldest institutions of higher education in the state, NSU offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs. The university serves a diverse student body and is known for its commitment to accessibility, community engagement, and support for first-generation and minority students.
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)
How to Become a Licensed Counselor in Oklahoma
In Oklahoma, counseling licensure is overseen by the Oklahoma State Board of Behavioral Health Licensure (BBHL), which regulates LPC, LMFT, and LBP credentials statewide.
LPC Pathway — Key Steps & Oklahoma-Specific Requirements
The Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) is the most common route into professional counseling practice in Oklahoma. Here’s what the state requires:
- Earn the right graduate degree. A 60-semester-hour master’s (or 90 quarter hours) in counseling or a closely related mental-health field from a regionally accredited institution is required. The program must be a planned, sequenced mental-health curriculum. CACREP accreditation meets this criterion but is not required.
- Complete required coursework and practicum. Your transcript must cover core knowledge areas such as human development, psychopathology, assessment, counseling theories, and ethics. You must also complete at least 300 clock hours of practicum or internship in counseling.
- Apply to BBHL and clear background checks. Application materials, including transcripts and a criminal background check, must be submitted before you are authorized to test.
- Pass the required exams. Oklahoma requires (1) the National Counselor Examination (NCE) or another equivalent exam as determined by the Board, and (2) the Oklahoma Legal and Ethical Responsibilities Examination, the state’s jurisprudence/ethics test.
- Begin supervised post-degree experience (LPC Candidate). Supervised hours begin only after you’ve completed all academic requirements. You must complete 3,000 clock hours of supervised, on-the-job experience over at least 3 years. For each 1,000 hours, at least 350 must be direct client contact. Supervision must occur weekly, at a minimum of 45 minutes per 20 hours worked, with no more than half of supervision in a group format.
- Mind the timeline and minimums. You have 60 months from your first supervision approval to finish the experience requirement. Even with additional graduate coursework, Oklahoma still requires at least 1 year (1,000 hours) of supervised experience.
- Apply for full LPC. After meeting all requirements, submit your application for full licensure. You must continue to practice under supervision until fully licensed.
For broader planning, you may also want to review:
- What an LPC is and does
- Step-by-step advice on how to become an LPC
- Different pathways to become a counselor
Counseling Licensure Titles in Oklahoma
Oklahoma recognizes several counseling-related credentials, regulated by different state entities depending on the practice setting. Below are the major titles you’ll encounter and who oversees them.
Clinical & Behavioral Health (regulated by the Oklahoma State Board of Behavioral Health Licensure)
The BBHL regulates most clinical counseling roles delivered in community agencies, private practice, and healthcare settings:
- Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and LPC Candidate — Oklahoma’s primary clinical counseling license and its supervised pre-licensure status.
- Licensed Marital and Family Therapist (LMFT) and LMFT Candidate — For practitioners specializing in couple and family therapy.
- Licensed Behavioral Practitioner (LBP) and LBP Candidate — A legacy clinical license Oklahoma continues to maintain.
Substance Use Disorder Counseling (regulated by the Oklahoma State Board of Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselors)
Alcohol and drug counseling credentials are overseen by a separate board:
- Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC) — Bachelor’s-level certification for substance use counseling.
- Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor (LADC) — Master’s-level licensure for substance use disorder treatment.
- LADC/MH (Co-Occurring Disorders Credential) — An added credential for LADCs who meet co-occurring training and experience standards. This credential is not reciprocal and is valid only in Oklahoma.
School Counseling (regulated by the Oklahoma State Department of Education)
School counselors are credentialed through the education system, not BBHL:
- Standard Certificate, School Counselor — A five-year educator credential authorizing school counseling in PK–12 public schools. The OSDE’s Teacher Certification office manages applications, renewals, and alternative pathways.
Transferring a Counseling License to Oklahoma
Counselors who are licensed in another state and wish to practice in Oklahoma may be eligible for licensure through endorsement or reciprocity, depending on their credentials. The process varies depending on the type of license:
- Clinical Counselors (LPC, LMFT, LBP): The Oklahoma State Board of Behavioral Health Licensure (BBHL) reviews applications from out-of-state licensees. Applicants must demonstrate that their education, exams, and supervised experience are substantially equivalent to Oklahoma’s requirements. If there are gaps, the Board may require additional coursework, testing, or supervised hours before granting full licensure.
- Substance Use Counselors (CADC, LADC, LADC/MH): Licensure transfers are handled by the Oklahoma State Board of Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselors (OBLADC). Reciprocity is not automatic; applicants must verify that their existing license and education meet Oklahoma’s requirements.
- School Counselors: The Oklahoma State Department of Education (OSDE) manages certification for school counselors. Out-of-state educators can apply for certification through OSDE’s credentialing process, which may include a review of transcripts, prior certifications, and background checks.
Because rules and requirements can change, applicants are strongly encouraged to consult the appropriate licensing board for the most up-to-date guidance:
- Oklahoma State Board of Behavioral Health Licensure
- Oklahoma Board of Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselors
- Oklahoma State Department of Education
Counseling Scholarships and Financial Aid in Oklahoma
Pursuing a counseling degree is a valuable investment, and Oklahoma students have access to a variety of scholarships and financial aid options to help offset costs. Funding opportunities come from state programs, universities, and professional organizations.
Some common sources of support include:
- State-based financial aid: Oklahoma offers programs like the Oklahoma Tuition Aid Grant (OTAG) and the Oklahoma’s Promise scholarship for eligible students.
- University scholarships: Many colleges and universities in Oklahoma provide departmental scholarships specifically for counseling, psychology, or education majors.
- Professional organizations: Groups such as the Oklahoma Counseling Association and national bodies like the American Counseling Association (ACA) often offer scholarships, fellowships, or research grants for counseling students.
- Federal financial aid: Students should also complete the FAFSA to access federal grants, work-study programs, and loans.
Prospective students are encouraged to check with their program’s financial aid office and professional associations for the latest scholarship opportunities.
Counseling Job Outlook and Salary in Oklahoma
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 Oklahoma.
| Median Annual Wage in Oklahoma (May 2024) | Median Annual Wage Nationally (May 2024) | Projected Growth in Oklahoma (2022–2032) | Projected National Growth (2022–2032) | |
| Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors | $58,610 | $59,190 | 19.7% | 18.4% |
| Rehabilitation Counselors | $30,070 | $46,110 | 3.9% | 1.9% |
| Educational, Guidance, and Career Counselors | $51,140 | $65,140 | 6.3% | 5.4% |
| Marriage and Family Therapists | $56,450 | $63,780 | 15.6% | 14.9% |
| Counselors, Other | NA | $49,830 | NA | 17.3% |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Do I need a CACREP-accredited degree to become licensed in Oklahoma?
No, CACREP accreditation is not required, but your graduate program must meet Oklahoma’s specific coursework and practicum requirements. That said, earning a degree from a CACREP-accredited program can make it easier to transfer your license to another state in the future, since some states prefer or require CACREP credentials for licensure by endorsement.
How long does it take to become an LPC in Oklahoma?
The process typically takes at least 6–7 years: four years for a bachelor’s degree, two to three years for a master’s degree, and an additional three years to complete the required 3,000 hours of supervised post-degree experience.
Can I transfer my counseling license to Oklahoma?
Yes. Out-of-state counselors can apply for licensure through the relevant Oklahoma board, but approval depends on whether your education, experience, and exams align with Oklahoma requirements.
What exams are required for LPC licensure in Oklahoma?
Applicants must pass the National Counselor Examination (NCE) or another board-approved national exam, along with the Oklahoma Legal and Ethical Responsibilities Examination (OLERE).
Who regulates school counselors in Oklahoma?
School counseling credentials are overseen by the Oklahoma State Department of Education (OSDE), not the BBHL.
Making a Counseling Career in Oklahoma
Oklahoma offers a wide range of opportunities for individuals pursuing a counseling career. With options spanning clinical mental health, substance use treatment, school counseling, and family therapy, professionals can find meaningful work across diverse settings. The state’s need for qualified counselors continues to grow, particularly in rural and underserved areas where access to mental health services can be limited.
By completing the necessary education, supervised training, and licensure steps, you can join a dedicated community of professionals making a difference in Oklahoma. Whether you envision working in schools, private practice, hospitals, or community agencies, the state provides a strong foundation for building a long-term counseling career.
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 Oklahoma 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 Oklahoma. Keep scrolling or jump to all programs for all programs or view online CACREP accredited counseling programs.
Langston University
- CACREP Status: Accredited, 8 Year
- CACREP Accreditation Runs: 7/1/2017 to 10/31/2022
Northeastern State University
- CACREP Status: Accredited, 8 Year
- CACREP Accreditation Runs: 1/9/2014 to 10/31/2023
- CACREP Status: Accredited, 8 Year
- CACREP Accreditation Runs: 1/9/2014 to 10/31/2023
- CACREP Status: Accredited, 8 Year
- CACREP Accreditation Runs: 1/9/2014 to 10/31/2023
Oklahoma State University
- CACREP Status: Accredited, 2 Year
- CACREP Accreditation Runs: 7/9/2013 to 10/31/2021
- CACREP Status: Accredited, 2 Year
- CACREP Accreditation Runs: 1/1/2004 to 10/31/2021
Southeastern Oklahoma State University
- CACREP Status: Accredited, 8 Year
- CACREP Accreditation Runs: 1/12/2011 to 10/31/2020
All Accredited Schools with Counseling Degrees in Oklahoma
View all programs in Oklahoma below, or jump to all Oklahoma CACREP accredited counseling programs.
Langston University Oklahoma City
- M.S. in Rehabilitation Counseling
Mid-America Christian University Oklahoma City
- Bachelors - Counseling Psychology
Northeastern State University Tahlequah
- M.S. in Addiction Counseling
- M.S. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
- M.S. in School Counseling
Oklahoma Baptist University Shawnee
- Bachelors - Counseling Psychology
Oklahoma State University Stillwater
- M.S. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
- M.S. in School Counseling
Oklahoma State University-Oklahoma City Oklahoma City
- Associates - Substance Abuse and Addiction Counseling
Southeastern Oklahoma State University Durant
- M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
University of Oklahoma-Norman Campus Norman
- Doctorate - Counseling Psychology
