Syracuse University : Master of Social Work (CSWE accredited. Standard and Advanced Standing tracks. No GRE required.)
Northwestern University : Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy (Complete your COAMFTE-accredited MFT online program in as few as 21 months. No GRE required.)
University of Southern California : Online Master of Education (ME) in School Counseling (No GRE required)
Capella University : Master's and PhD in Counseling (CACREP Accreditation. Master's and PhD options avaialble. )
Fordham University : Master of Social Work (Earn an MSW online. Traditional and advanced standing online MSW options are available. Accredited by the CSWE.)
Pepperdine University : Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology Degrees (GRE scores are not required to apply, and you can earn your degree in as few as 27 months. LPC/MFT emphases available.)
University of Southern California : Master of Social Work (Earn your MSW in under one year. No GRE required. Accredited by the CSWE. ) Pepperdine University : Master’s Clinical Psychology (Licensed Professional Counselor) (No GRE required)
NYU Steinhardt : Master of Arts in Counseling and Guidance: School and Bilingual School Counseling (Accredited by the Masters in Psychology and Counseling Accreditation Council (MPCAC) under the Masters in Counseling Accreditation Committee (MCAC) standards.)Consider a Featured Online Counseling Program
| School and Program Information | Online Program? Entry Requirements |
Course Information |
|---|---|---|
| Syracuse University
Master of Social Work
CSWE accredited |
✔ Online
No GRE Required |
Syracuse University’s CSWE-accredited online Master of Social Work program is preparing the next generation of social work leaders through an emphasis on digital innovation and social justice. Learn More |
| Northwestern University
Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy
COAMFTE Accredited |
✔ Online
GRE Not Required Bachelor's Required |
The COAMFTE-accredited [email protected] 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 |
| University of Southern California
Online Master of Education (ME) in School Counseling
Prepares you for school counseling credential |
✔ Live, online classes
No GRE requirement |
Bachelor’s degree and minimum 2.5 GPA required Learn More |
| Capella University
Master's and PhD in Counseling
 CACREP Accredited |
✔ Online
GRE Not Required |
Choose from Addictions, Clinical Mental Health Counseling, Human Behavior. Marriage and Family Therapy, or School Counseling specialties Learn More |
| Fordham University
Master of Social Work
Accredited by the CSWE. |
✔ Online
Bachelor's Degree |
Fordham’s top-ranked Graduate School of Social Service offers a future-focused online MSW program, preparing students for integrated practice with all populations. Bachelor's degree required. Learn More |
| Pepperdine University
Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology Degrees
LPC/MFT emphases available. |
✔ Online
No GRE Required. Bachelor's Degree Required. |
Choose your path at Pepperdine: pursue licensure as either an LMFT or LPC and serve diverse clients with our online master’s in clinical psychology. GRE scores are not required to apply, and you can earn your degree in as few as 27 months. Take the next step toward creating a positive social impact today. Learn More |
| University of Southern California
Master of Social Work
Accredited by the CSWE |
✔ Campus, Online
No GRE Required |
Tailor your degree with specializations in mental health, children and families, or social change and innovation. Learn More |
| Pepperdine University
Master’s Clinical Psychology (Licensed Professional Counselor)
|
✔ Online
No GRE Required Bachelor's Degree Required |
Bachelor's holders can prepare to become a licensed professional counselor online. With no GRE scores required to apply, the 24 month online MA in Clinical Psychology from Pepperdine allows you to advance your career and be a catalyst of change. Learn More |
| NYU Steinhardt
Master of Arts in Counseling and Guidance: School and Bilingual School Counseling
 MPCAC Accredited |
✔ Online
Bachelor's required. GRE scores are not required. |
Prepare to become a school counselor with NYU Steinhardt’s online master’s in Counseling and Guidance program. The online MA degree gives you the knowledge and skills to pursue certification and employment in pre-K–12 schools nationwide in as few as 18 mos. Bachelor’s required: Learn more. GRE scores are not required. Learn More |
*Sponsored Counseling Programs
Online CACREP Accredited programs | Online MPCAC Accredited programs
Syracuse University - Master of Social Work (CSWE Accredited)
Northwestern University - Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy (COAMFTE Accredited)
University of Southern California - Online Master of Education (ME) in School Counseling
Capella University - Master's and PhD in Counseling (CACREP Accredited)
Fordham University - Master of Social Work (CSWE Accredited)
Pepperdine University - Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology Degrees
University of Southern California - Master of Social Work (CSWE Accredited)
NYU Steinhardt - Master of Arts in Counseling and Guidance: School and Bilingual School CounselingBecoming a Licensed Counselor
If you find yourself searching “how long does it take to become a licensed counselor?” or similar phrases, you’re not alone. Many people are interested in entering the mental health field but are unsure about the time commitment required to earn a counseling license.
On average, it takes about seven to eight years to become a licensed counselor. This timeline includes a four-year undergraduate degree, typically in psychology, social work, or a related field, and a two- to three-year master’s degree in counseling or a related discipline. After your academic requirements are complete, you must also accrue supervised clinical experience, which usually takes one to two years.
Is a Master’s Degree Required to Become a Licensed Counselor?
Yes, a master’s degree is typically required to become a licensed counselor. This advanced degree provides the intensive training necessary to understand and address a range of mental health issues effectively. Master’s programs in counseling usually cover core topics like theories of counseling, human development, ethical issues in counseling, and specialized courses based on one’s preferred counseling focus, such as family counseling, substance abuse, or mental health. Your master’s degree will also likely include a practicum or internship requirement.
Are Accelerated Master’s in Counseling Degrees Available?
Yes, some universities do offer accelerated master’s in counseling programs. These programs allow motivated students to complete their degrees more quickly, often within 18 months to two years. They are typically intensive, with a full load of courses each semester and often during the summer as well. While this option can speed up your path to licensure, it’s essential to consider whether you can manage the fast pace and high workload.
Steps to Become a Licensed Counselor
Becoming a licensed counselor involves several key steps after obtaining a bachelor’s degree:
Earning a Master’s Degree in Counseling
The first step is to earn a master’s degree in counseling or a closely related field. This usually involves two to three years of full-time study, covering both theoretical knowledge and practical skills in counseling. Coursework typically includes areas like counseling techniques, psychological assessment, ethics, and specialized areas of counseling. You’ll want to make sure that your program is accredited, as this will simplify the process of getting your license to practice after you complete your education.
Complete Counseling Practicum or Internship
Before you can become licensed, you’ll need to complete a certain amount of supervised clinical experience, typically during a practicum or internship. The exact requirements can vary by state and specific licensure, but generally, you can expect to need between 2,000 and 4,000 hours of supervised experience. During your practicum and/or internship experience, you’ll work closely with a licensed counselor to hone your skills, preparing you to practice on your own.
Pass Counseling Licensure Exam
After you’ve completed your degree and your supervised experience, you’ll need to pass a state licensure exam. The specific exam will depend on your state and the type of counseling license you’re pursuing. Common exams include the National Counselor Examination (NCE) and the National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Examination (NCMHCE). When selecting a master’s program, it’s smart to ask about how you’ll be prepared for your licensing exams.
Apply for Licensure
Once you’ve passed your exam, you can apply for licensure in your state. The application will typically require proof of your education, supervised experience, and exam results. You may also need to undergo a background check.
Tips for Accelerating Your Counseling Licensure Process
Fast-tracking your counseling licensure process can be an enticing option, particularly for individuals eager to start their professional journey. Here are some tips to accelerate your process:
Plan Ahead
Planning is crucial for an accelerated process. Understand the licensure requirements in your state before starting your master’s program. This ensures that you’re not only meeting the academic requirements but also preparing for any required exams and supervised hours.
Accelerated Master’s Programs
Consider enrolling in an accelerated master’s program, which typically condenses a traditional two to three-year program into 18 months to two years. Be prepared for a more intense workload, though. If you choose to go this route, be sure to ask about how many hours per week you’ll need to invest in your internship or practicum in order to meet state requirements.
Maximize Practicum or Internship Hours
Some programs may allow you to accrue more than the minimum required hours of supervised experience. If you can manage the extra workload, this could help you complete your requirements more quickly.
Exam Preparation
Start preparing for your licensure exam well in advance. Regular study throughout your program, rather than cramming at the end, can help you pass your licensing on the first try.
Start the Licensure Application Early
Some states allow you to start the licensure application process before you’ve completed all requirements. Check with your state licensing board to see if this is an option.
Remember, while speeding up the process can be beneficial, it’s also essential not to rush your learning and hands-on experience. The goal is to become a competent, effective counselor who can best serve your future clients.
Becoming a licensed counselor is a journey that requires substantial time and commitment, but the reward of helping others make it well worth it. With patience, perseverance, and dedication, you can join the ranks of licensed counselors making a positive impact on their clients’ lives.
List of Programs
Syracuse University 🗹 Online 🗗 Masters
Northwestern University 🗹 Online 🗗 Masters
University of Southern California 🗹 Online 🗗 Masters
Capella University 🗹 Online 🗗 Masters 🗗 Doctorate
Fordham University 🗹 Online 🗗 Masters
Pepperdine University 🗹 Online 🗗 Masters
University of Southern California 🗹 Online 🗗 Masters
Pepperdine University 🗹 Online
NYU Steinhardt 🗹 Online 🗗 Masters
Capella University 🗹 Online Masters
Our Lady of the Lake University 🗹 Online 🗗 Masters
Pepperdine University 🗹 Online
University of Denver 🗹 Online 🗗 Masters
Liberty University 🗹 Online
Capella University 🗹 Online Masters
Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU) 🗹 Online 🗗 Bachelors
Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU) 🗹 Online 🗗 Masters
Capella University 🗹 Online Doctorate
Our Lady of the Lake University 🗹 Online 🗗 Bachelors 🗗 Masters
Pepperdine University 🗹 Online
