Utah offers a variety of counseling degree programs designed to prepare students for careers in mental health, school counseling, marriage and family therapy, and addiction services. With options available at major universities and smaller colleges, as well as flexible online programs, students in Utah can pursue undergraduate and graduate-level training that leads to professional licensure. The state’s focus on expanding mental health services makes it an encouraging place to begin or advance a counseling career.
Undergraduate Counseling Programs in Utah
Many students in Utah begin their counseling journey with undergraduate studies in psychology, human development, or related fields. These programs provide a foundation in areas such as counseling theory, communication skills, and research methods. Some also include internship or fieldwork opportunities that allow students to gain early experience in the profession.For students who prefer flexible learning formats, an online counseling bachelor’s degree can be a convenient way to complete the academic groundwork needed for graduate study and eventual licensure.
Graduate Counseling Programs in Utah
Graduate programs in Utah prepare students for advanced practice in counseling, combining coursework with supervised clinical training. At the master’s and doctoral levels, students can specialize in clinical mental health counseling, school counseling, marriage and family therapy, or substance use counseling.
Several universities in Utah offer programs that align with professional standards, including CACREP-accredited online counseling programs. Students may also explore flexible options such as an online counseling master’s degree, an online master’s in counseling with no GRE requirement, or online counseling doctorate programs.
The following schools represent some of the strongest graduate counseling program options in Utah.
| Institution | City | Specialty | Degree |
| Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions | Provo | Clinical Mental Health Counseling | M.S. |
| Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions | Provo | School Counseling | M.S. |
| Utah State University | Logan | Rehabilitation Counseling | MRC |
| Westminster University | Salt Lake City | Clinical Mental Health Counseling | M.S. |
Top Utah Schools with Counseling Programs
The best counseling program is the one that matches your career goals, interests, and circumstances. The following universities represent some of Utah’s leading options for counseling education. Use this list as a starting point in your search:
Westminster University
Featured Program: Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Westminster University’s Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling is a CACREP-accredited, three-year program that prepares students for licensure and professional practice in a variety of mental health settings. The 61-credit curriculum integrates coursework in ethics, multicultural counseling, assessment, trauma treatment, and group counseling with practicum and internship placements across more than two dozen clinical sites. Emphasizing both theory and applied skills, the program follows a scientist-practitioner model and supports student development through small cohorts, faculty mentorship, and community-based training. Graduates are eligible for licensure in Utah as Clinical Mental Health Counselors and benefit from strong professional networks and high placement rates.
About Westminster University
Westminster University is a private, independent institution located in Salt Lake City, Utah. Known for its close-knit community and personalized learning environment, Westminster emphasizes experiential education and faculty-student collaboration. Its location in the heart of Salt Lake City offers students access to cultural, professional, and outdoor opportunities, supporting both academic and personal growth.
Utah State University
Featured Program: Master of Rehabilitation Counseling (MRC)
Utah State University’s Master of Rehabilitation Counseling is a CACREP-accredited, fully online program ranked #6 nationally by U.S. News & World Report. Designed to prepare students to support individuals with disabilities in achieving independence and meaningful employment, the program emphasizes ethical practice, multicultural competence, and applied clinical training. Students complete a 100-hour practicum and a 600-hour internship in community-based rehabilitation settings, gaining direct client experience. Graduates are eligible to sit for the Certified Rehabilitation Counselor (CRC) exam, as well as the National Counselor Exam (NCE) and National Clinical Mental Health Counselor Exam (NCMHCE), positioning them for licensure and certification. The program boasts a 94% first-time CRC exam pass rate and nearly 100% employment among graduates.
About Utah State University
Founded in 1888, Utah State University is a public land-grant research institution with its main campus in Logan, Utah, and a robust statewide system of regional campuses and online programs. USU is recognized for its top-ranked College of Education and Human Services and its strong commitment to accessibility in higher education. With nationally ranked graduate programs and research opportunities, USU provides students with practical training, cutting-edge knowledge, and connections to professional networks across Utah and beyond.
Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions
Featured Program: Master of Science in Counseling (MSCO)
Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions offers a 60-credit Master of Science in Counseling, designed to prepare students for diverse counseling roles in clinical, educational, and community settings. Courses are delivered primarily through evening Zoom classes with three short on-campus immersion experiences in Provo, Utah, allowing students to connect with faculty and peers while gaining intensive, hands-on training.The Clinical Mental Health Counseling and School Counseling master’s degree programs are accredited by CACREP.
About Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions
Established in 1998 in Provo, Utah, Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions (RMU) is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU). RMU specializes in graduate-level health sciences education, offering flexible, student-centered programs that integrate evidence-based practice, professional mentorship, and clinical partnerships. Its mission is to advance healthcare through innovation, service, and the preparation of highly skilled professionals who serve diverse communities.
Here are a few schools in Utah with CACREP-accredited counseling programs:
- University of Phoenix - Utah: M.S. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
- Utah State University: MRC in Rehabilitation Counseling
- Westminster College: M.S. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Click to jump to the full list of Utah 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)
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
Designed to adhere to CACREP standards |
✔ 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
How to Become a Licensed Counselor in Utah
Counseling licensure in Utah is overseen by the Utah Division of Professional Licensing (DOPL). The state’s primary credential for independent clinical practice is the Clinical Mental Health Counselor (CMHC).
CMHC Pathway
- Earn the qualifying graduate degree.
Applicants must complete a master’s or doctoral degree in clinical mental health counseling or a closely related field from a regionally accredited institution. The program must include at least 60 semester hours of graduate-level coursework in areas such as counseling theory, assessment, ethics, human development, multicultural counseling, and research. - Complete practicum and internship.
Graduate training must include at least 700 clock hours of supervised fieldwork, with a minimum of 280 hours of direct client contact. - Apply as an Associate Clinical Mental Health Counselor (ACMHC).
After earning the qualifying degree, candidates apply for licensure as an ACMHC to begin accruing the post-graduate supervised hours required for full licensure.
- In some cases, applicants who are within 12 credits of completing their degree may qualify for an Associate Clinical Mental Health Counselor Extern license, which allows limited supervised practice while finishing coursework.
- In some cases, applicants who are within 12 credits of completing their degree may qualify for an Associate Clinical Mental Health Counselor Extern license, which allows limited supervised practice while finishing coursework.
- Complete supervised post-degree experience.
ACMHCs must complete 4,000 hours of supervised clinical practice over a minimum of two years, including at least 1,000 hours of direct client contact. Supervision must include at least 100 hours provided by a Board-approved CMHC or equivalent supervisor. - Pass the required examinations.
Utah requires candidates to pass two national exams:
- The National Counselor Examination (NCE)
- The National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Examination (NCMHCE)
In addition, candidates must pass the Utah Professional Counseling Law and Ethics Exam (jurisprudence).
- Apply for full CMHC licensure.
Once education, supervision, and exam requirements are complete, candidates may apply for full CMHC licensure. To maintain active status, CMHCs must complete 40 hours of continuing education every two years, including 6 hours in ethics.
For additional planning, you can review:
- What a licensed professional counselor is and does
- Steps for how to become a licensed professional counselor
- Guidance about how to become a counselor
Counseling Licensure Titles in Utah
Utah recognizes several counseling-related credentials, regulated by different state agencies depending on the scope of practice. The main titles include:
Clinical Counseling (regulated by Utah Division of Professional Licensing – DOPL)
- Clinical Mental Health Counselor (CMHC): The full license for independent clinical mental health counseling practice in Utah.
- Associate Clinical Mental Health Counselor (ACMHC): A pre-licensure status for graduates completing supervised hours before securing full CMHC licensure.
- Associate Clinical Mental Health Counselor Extern: A temporary license for candidates who have completed their degree but are deficient by up to 12 credit hours, allowing limited supervised practice while completing missing coursework.
- Retired Volunteer Healthcare Practitioner: A special status for licensed professionals who no longer actively practice but maintain a credential.
Marriage and Family Therapy (regulated by DOPL)
- Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT): For professionals specializing in couple and family therapy.
- Associate Marriage and Family Therapist (AMFT): A pre-licensure status for LMFT candidates accruing supervised experience.
School Counseling (regulated by Utah State Board of Education – USBE)
- School Counselor License: Required for counselors in K–12 public schools. Issued by the USBE, not DOPL, and based on completion of a master’s degree in school counseling and educator preparation standards.
Substance Use Disorder Counseling (regulated by DOPL)
- Certified Advanced Substance Use Disorder Counselor (CASUDC): A credential requiring a bachelor’s degree plus supervised clinical training.
- Licensed Substance Use Disorder Counselor (LSUDC): A master’s-level license for professionals providing advanced substance use treatment services.
- Other Credentials: Utah also recognizes entry-level roles such as Substance Use Disorder Counselor in Training (SUDC-I).
Transferring a Counseling License to Utah
Counselors licensed in another state may be able to transfer their credentials to Utah, but the process depends on the type of license and the regulatory body.
- Clinical Mental Health Counselors (CMHCs): Out-of-state counselors may apply for licensure by endorsement through the Utah Division of Professional Licensing (DOPL). To qualify, applicants must show that their graduate education, supervised experience, and exams are substantially equivalent to Utah’s standards. If deficiencies are identified, the Board may require additional coursework, testing, or supervised practice before granting full licensure.
- Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFTs): Out-of-state LMFTs also apply through DOPL. Endorsement is possible if prior training, supervised experience, and exams are substantially equivalent to Utah’s requirements.
- School Counselors: Applicants licensed in other states must apply through the Utah State Board of Education (USBE). The USBE reviews transcripts, previous certification, and professional experience to determine eligibility for a Utah school counseling license.
- Substance Use Disorder Counselors (SUDC, CASUDC, LSUDC): These licenses are overseen by DOPL. Reciprocity depends on whether the applicant’s existing credential aligns with Utah’s tiered system for substance use disorder counselors. Additional supervised hours or coursework may be required.
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, applicants should consult the appropriate agency:
- DOPL – CMHC, LMFT, and SUD Licenses: Utah Division of Professional Licensing
- USBE – School Counseling Licenses: Utah State Board of Education
Counseling Scholarships and Financial Aid in Utah
Students pursuing counseling degrees in Utah can take advantage of state, university, and professional association resources to help finance their education.
Some common options include:
- State-based financial aid: Utah offers programs such as the Regents’ Scholarship and the Utah Promise Scholarship, which provide support for eligible students attending in-state institutions.
- University scholarships: Many Utah universities, including Utah State University and Westminster University, provide scholarships and assistantships for graduate students in counseling, psychology, and education-related programs.
- Professional associations: The Utah Mental Health Counseling Association and national organizations such as the American Counseling Association (ACA) offer information, scholarships, research grants, and student awards.
- Federal financial aid: Completing the FAFSA allows students to access federal grants, loans, and work-study opportunities to support their degree.
Students should check with their school’s financial aid office and professional association websites for the latest opportunities.
Counseling Job Outlook and Salary in Utah
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 Utah.
| Median Annual Wage in Utah (May 2024) | Median Annual Wage Nationally (May 2024) | Projected Growth in Utah (2022–2032) | Projected National Growth (2022–2032) | |
| Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors | $65,920 | $59,190 | 56.1% | 18.4% |
| Rehabilitation Counselors | $46,700 | $46,110 | 7.9% | 1.9% |
| Educational, Guidance, and Career Counselors | $62,500 | $65,140 | 29.2% | 5.4% |
| Marriage and Family Therapists | $81,170 | $63,780 | 46.5% | 14.9% |
| Counselors, Other | $36,590 | $49,830 | 27.1% | 17.3% |
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 (NASAC Accredited)
Liberty University - MA: Clinical Mental Health Counseling (CACREP Accredited) (CACREP Accredited)
National University - Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling (WSCUC Accredited)
University of Denver - Master of Arts in School Counseling
Mid-America Christian University (MACU) - Master of Science (MS) in Counseling (Higher Learning Commission (HLC) Accredited)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Do I need a CACREP-accredited degree to become licensed in Utah?
No. CACREP accreditation is not mandatory, but your graduate program must meet Utah’s 60-credit requirement and include the specified coursework, practicum, and internship experiences. Choosing a CACREP-accredited program can simplify the process and improve portability if you move to another state.
How long does it take to become a Clinical Mental Health Counselor (CMHC) in Utah?
The process typically takes 7–9 years: about four years to complete a bachelor’s degree, two to three years for a qualifying master’s program, and at least two years to finish the 4,000 hours of supervised post-graduate clinical practice required for licensure.
What exams are required for CMHC licensure in Utah?
Utah requires candidates to successfully pass two national examinations: the National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Examination (NCMHCE) and the National Counselor Examination (NCE). Both exams are processed through NBCC. Plus, the candidate must pass the Utah Professional Counseling Law & Ethics Exam (jurisprudence).
Can I transfer my counseling license to Utah?
Yes. Utah allows licensure by endorsement if your education, exams, and supervised experience are substantially equivalent to Utah’s requirements. Additional steps may be required if gaps are identified.
Who regulates school counselors in Utah?
School counseling credentials are issued by the Utah State Board of Education (USBE), not by DOPL.
Making a Counseling Career in Utah
Utah is an excellent place to build a counseling career, with opportunities in schools, hospitals, community agencies, private practice, and substance use treatment programs. The state is especially focused on increasing access to mental health care, particularly in rural and underserved areas. This creates strong demand for well-trained and licensed professionals.
By completing the necessary education, supervised experience, and licensure requirements, counselors in Utah can enter a supportive professional community that values mental health services. Whether you aim to become a clinical mental health counselor, school counselor, marriage and family therapist, or substance use disorder specialist, Utah provides a solid foundation for a rewarding and impactful 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
Colorado Christian University 🗹 Online 🗗 Masters
Schools With Campus-Based CACREP Accredited Utah 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 Utah. Keep scrolling or jump to all programs for all programs or view online CACREP accredited counseling programs.
University of Phoenix - Utah
- CACREP Status: Accredited, 2 Year
- CACREP Accreditation Runs: 9/1/1999 to 3/14/2020
Utah State University
- CACREP Status: Accredited, 8 Year (Re-Accreditation In-Process)
- CACREP Accreditation Runs: 7/1/2017 to 10/31/2020
Westminster College
- CACREP Status: Accredited, 8 Year
- CACREP Accreditation Runs: 1/14/2017 to 10/31/2026
All Accredited Schools with Counseling Degrees in Utah
View all programs in Utah below, or jump to all Utah CACREP accredited counseling programs.
Brigham Young University-Provo Provo
- Doctorate - Marriage and Family Therapy
University of Phoenix - Utah Salt Lake City
- M.S. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Utah State University Logan
- MRC in Rehabilitation Counseling
Westminster College Salt Lake City
- M.S. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
