Top 15 Fastest Online Counseling Master’s Degrees

Updated: August 16, 2025

Looking to become a licensed counselor faster—without sacrificing quality or flexibility? Today’s top CACREP-accredited online master’s in counseling programs are designed for working professionals and career changers who want to earn their degree and pursue licensure as efficiently as possible. These accelerated online counseling degrees offer rigorous academic training in a flexible, online format, often allowing students to graduate in as little as 18 to 24 months.

In this guide, we highlight 15 of the fastest accredited online counseling degree programs, focusing on accredited options that meet state licensure standards. Whether you’re pursuing clinical mental health counseling, school counseling, or another specialty, these programs provide a faster path to a meaningful career in the helping professions.

Understanding Accelerated Online Counseling Master’s Degree Programs

Accelerated online counseling master’s programs offer a faster path to becoming a licensed counselor — ideal for career changers, working professionals, or students eager to enter the field quickly. These programs compress traditional timelines while still covering the full curriculum needed for licensure.

What Is an Accelerated Counseling Program?

An accelerated online counseling program is a graduate-level degree designed to be completed in 12 to 18 months, compared to the typical 2–3 years. These programs maintain academic rigor but use shorter terms, year-round enrollment, and intensive coursework to help students finish faster.

Accelerated programs are typically CACREP-accredited, ensuring they meet the national standards required for licensure.

Who Should Consider an Accelerated Program?

• Career changers looking to enter counseling quickly
• Current professionals in education, social work, or healthcare who want to transition into mental health or therapy
• Highly motivated students able to handle fast-paced, immersive coursework

Sample Courses in an Accelerated Counseling Program

• Foundations of Counseling and Psychotherapy
• Multicultural Counseling and Diversity Awareness
• Human Growth and Development Across the Lifespan
• Group Counseling and Dynamics
• Ethics and Legal Issues in Mental Health Counseling
• Clinical Practicum and Internship (in-person or hybrid)

How Fast Can You Graduate?

Program Type	Typical Duration	Notes
Traditional Online	2–3 years	Standard semester-based format
Accelerated Online	12–18 months	Continuous, year-round enrollment

Factors That Impact Completion Time

• Course Load per Term – Taking 2–3 courses per 8-week session accelerates progress
• Transfer Credits – Reduces time if you already have relevant graduate-level coursework
• No Breaks – Accelerated programs often run through summer and winter sessions

Why Choose an Accelerated Program?

Accelerated programs are ideal if you’re looking to:

• Enter the workforce faster in roles like LPC, LMHC, or school counselor
• Fulfill licensure requirements quickly in your state
• Maintain work/life flexibility while pursuing an advanced degree online

These programs are particularly valuable in high-demand areas like mental health counseling, marriage and family therapy, addiction counseling, and school counseling.

*Sponsored Counseling Programs

Why Students Choose Accelerated Online Counseling Programs

Accelerated counseling programs are becoming a top choice for prospective graduate students — especially those who want to advance quickly in the mental health or education fields. These fast-paced programs offer a unique combination of speed, cost savings, and flexibility, making them ideal for professionals looking to transition into counseling or move up in their careers.

1. Faster Career Advancement

One of the biggest reasons students pursue accelerated master’s in counseling programs is to enter the workforce sooner. Rather than spending 2–3 years in a traditional program, students can often graduate in 12 to 18 months, helping them:

• Qualify for licensure earlier
• Begin earning a professional salary faster
• Gain work experience while peers are still in school

This can be especially advantageous for career changers, educators, or human services professionals seeking to make a timely transition into counseling roles.

2. Cost Efficiency

Accelerated programs may offer lower overall costs compared to longer programs:

• Fewer semesters = less tuition and fees
• Reduced living and commuting expenses
• Faster path to income can offset educational costs sooner

By graduating quickly, students may recoup their investment in education earlier than those enrolled in traditional timelines.

3. Flexibility for Working Professionals

Most accelerated counseling programs are delivered online, providing flexibility to:

• Balance coursework with full-time or part-time jobs
• Maintain family or personal responsibilities
• Complete assignments asynchronously — often on evenings or weekends

This self-paced structure attracts working professionals who can’t afford to leave their jobs but still want to earn an advanced counseling degree.

How Schools Structure Accelerated Counseling Programs

Colleges and universities have developed intentional program designs to maintain academic rigor while allowing for a quicker completion timeline. Key design elements include:

Intensive Course Schedules

Courses are condensed into shorter terms — such as 6- to 8-week blocks — instead of full 16-week semesters. Students often take multiple accelerated courses per term, requiring strong time management skills.

Year-Round Enrollment

To keep students on track, many programs run classes year-round, including summer and winter sessions. This helps eliminate delays and keep up momentum.

Online Learning Tools

Programs use robust online platforms that include:

• Video lectures and live webinars
• Interactive discussion boards
• Virtual simulations and telehealth practice
• Mobile-friendly access for learning on the go

These tools ensure students receive a high-quality education, even within a shorter timeframe.

Final Takeaway

Accelerated online master’s programs in counseling are a strategic choice for those seeking a flexible, fast, and affordable path to becoming a licensed counselor. By understanding the benefits and structure of these programs, you can choose the right option to align with your timeline, budget, and career goals.

Accreditation for Online Counseling Programs

Accreditation is one of the most important factors to consider when choosing an online counseling master’s degree program. It serves as a signal of academic quality, professional credibility, and future licensure eligibility. Accredited programs meet rigorous standards that ensure you’re receiving a comprehensive, ethical, and effective education in counseling.

Why Accreditation Matters for Counseling Degrees

Accreditation directly impacts your ability to:

• Meet state licensure requirements
• Qualify for national certifications
• Secure employment in clinical and educational settings
• Transfer credits to other institutions or programs

Choosing a program without proper accreditation can limit your professional options and delay your counseling career.

Programmatic Accreditation: CACREP and MPCAC

Two key program-level accrediting bodies evaluate counseling master’s programs:

• CACREP (Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs):
  The gold standard in counseling accreditation. CACREP-accredited programs are recognized by most state licensure boards and the National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC). If your goal is to become a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) or National Certified Counselor (NCC), CACREP is the preferred credential.
• MPCAC (Masters in Psychology and Counseling Accreditation Council):
  This agency accredits high-quality master’s programs focused on the scientific and evidence-based practice of psychology and counseling. While not as universally accepted for LPC licensure as CACREP, MPCAC-accredited programs are still highly respected—especially in academic and research settings.

Institutional Accreditation

In addition to programmatic accreditation, make sure the college or university itself is accredited by a regional accrediting body. These include:

• Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
• Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
• Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC)

Some counseling programs may also be affiliated with the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP), especially if they’re housed within schools of education.

Tip: Always verify that both the program and the institution are accredited through agencies recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.

How Accreditation Affects Licensure and Career Opportunities

Accreditation plays a critical role in your post-graduation options:

• Licensure Eligibility: Most state boards require a CACREP-accredited degree to sit for licensure exams such as the NCE (National Counselor Examination).
• Certification: Credentials like the NCC or CRC (Certified Rehabilitation Counselor) often require graduation from an accredited program.
• Employer Preference: Many clinical and healthcare employers explicitly prefer or require degrees from CACREP-accredited programs.

Highlighting 15 of the Fastest Online Counseling Master’s Programs

Looking for speed and credibility? Many accelerated online counseling master’s programs offer CACREP or MPCAC accreditation—so you don’t have to compromise quality for convenience.

1. Arkansas State University
Jonesboro, AR

Type: Public

Degree/Program: Master of Science in Education in School Counseling

Accreditation: CAEP

Shortest Timeframe: 24 months

2. Campbellsville University
Campbellsville, KY

Type: Private Non-Profit

Degree/Program: Master of Arts in Education in School Counseling

Accreditation: CAEP

Shortest Timeframe: 18 months

3. Chaminade University of Honolulu
Honolulu, HI

Type: Private Non-Profit

Degree/Program: M.S. in Counseling Psychology

Accreditation: WASC

Shortest Timeframe: 30 months

4. Commonwealth University of Pennsylvania
Bloomsburg, PA

Type: Public

Degree/Program: Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling

Accreditation: CACREP

Shortest Timeframe: 30 months

5. National University
San Diego, CA

Type: For-Profit

Degree/Program: Master of Arts Degree in Counseling Psychology (California)

Accreditation: WASC

Shortest Timeframe: 22 months

6. New York University
New York, NY

Type: Private Non-Profit

Degree/Program: MA in Mental Health Counseling

Accreditation: MPCAC

Shortest Timeframe: 21 months

7. Northwestern University
Evanston, IL

Type: Private Non-Profit
Degree/Program: MA in Counseling

Accreditation: CACREP
Shortest Timeframe: 18 months

8. Palo Alto University
Palo Alto, CA

Type: Private Non-Profit

Degree/Program: Master of Arts Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling

Accreditation: CACREP

Shortest Timeframe: 24 months

9. Pepperdine University
Los Angeles, CA

Type: Private Non-Profit

Degree/Program: MA in Clinical Psychology

Accreditation: WASC

Shortest Timeframe: 27 months

10. Point Loma Nazarene University
San Diego, CA

Type: Private Non-Profit

Degree/Program: Master’s in School Counseling

Accreditation: WASC

Shortest Timeframe: 16 months

11. Spalding University
Louisville, KY

Type: Private Non-Profit

Degree/Program: Master of Arts in School Counseling

Accreditation: CAEP

Shortest Timeframe: 12 months

12. The College of New Jersey
Ewing, NJ

Type: Public

Degree/Program: Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling

Accreditation: CACREP

Shortest Timeframe: 24 months

13. University of Denver
Denver, CO

Type: Private Non-Profit

Degree/Program: Master of Arts in School Counseling

Accreditation: CACREP

Shortest Timeframe: 24 months

14. University of Massachusetts Boston
Boston, MA

Type: Public

Degree/Program: Master of Education in Counseling

Accreditation: MPCAC

Shortest Timeframe: 24 months

15. West Coast University
Los Angeles, CA

Type: For-Profit

Degree/Program: Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling

Accreditation: WASC

Shortest Timeframe: 29 months

Tips for Choosing the Right Online Counseling Master’s Program

Selecting the best-fit online counseling master’s degree program is a big step—and your choice can shape your future career in mental health care, school counseling, or private practice. Whether you’re a working professional, career changer, or recent graduate, the tips below will help you evaluate your options with clarity and confidence.

1. Prioritize Accreditation

Why it matters:
Accreditation ensures your degree meets national quality standards—and it’s often required for licensure and certification.

• Look for CACREP-accredited programs (Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs), which are widely accepted by state boards and the NBCC.
• MPCAC accreditation (Masters in Psychology and Counseling Accreditation Council) is also respected, especially in programs emphasizing scientific practice and applied counseling psychology.

2. Review the Curriculum and Specializations

Why it matters:
Your coursework should align with your desired career path—whether that’s clinical mental health counseling, marriage and family therapy, or school counseling.

• Ensure the core curriculum covers essential areas like counseling theories, ethics, group counseling, and multicultural competence.
• Check for elective options or specializations in your areas of interest.

3. Assess Program Flexibility

Why it matters:
Balancing your degree with work or personal responsibilities requires a format that fits your life.

• Asynchronous courses let you complete assignments on your own time.
• Synchronous sessions may offer live interaction but require set availability.
• Confirm whether there are on-campus residencies or in-person requirements—some programs have them.

4. Examine Student Support Services

Why it matters:
Even in online programs, support can make or break your success.

• Look for programs offering academic advising, tech support, tutoring, career coaching, and access to virtual libraries or mental health resources.

5. Understand Financial Aid and Costs

Why it matters:
Online programs vary in cost—and understanding your options up front can save you stress later.

• Research scholarships, grants, and employer tuition reimbursement options.
• Look at total tuition, fees, and how long the program will take to complete.

6. Ask About Practicum and Internship Support

Why it matters:
Field experience is essential for licensure and real-world readiness.

• Ensure the program includes supervised practicum and internship hours.
• Ask whether the school helps with placement support in your local area.

7. Research Student Reviews and Outcomes

Why it matters:
Past students can offer honest insights into the program experience.

• Read student testimonials, browse third-party reviews, and search social media or forums.
• Pay attention to outcomes: licensure pass rates, graduation rates, and job placement.

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Don’t Let “Fastest” Be the Only Factor

While accelerated online counseling master’s programs can help you earn your degree more quickly, speed shouldn’t come at the expense of quality.

• Make sure your program provides adequate time for skills development, field experience, and licensure prep.
• Your goal is to be fully prepared to support clients and meet your state’s counseling requirements.

Pro Tip: The best online counseling programs combine flexibility, accreditation, strong faculty, real-world practice, and supportive services—not just fast timelines.

Job Outlook and Salary for Master’s-Level Counselors

Earning a master’s degree in counseling can lead to a meaningful career in mental health, education, rehabilitation, and human services. With growing demand for licensed professionals, strong salary potential, and diverse work settings, a counseling degree is a solid investment for those seeking to help others professionally.

Career Opportunities for Counseling Graduates

A master’s in counseling qualifies you for a variety of roles in clinical, school, and community settings. Depending on your chosen specialization and licensure path, you may work in:

• Private practices
• Schools and universities
• Hospitals and healthcare clinics
• Community mental health agencies
• Substance use treatment centers
• Rehabilitation and disability services

Common job titles include:

• Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC)
• School Counselor
• Clinical Mental Health Counselor
• Marriage and Family Therapist (MFT)
• Substance Abuse Counselor
• Rehabilitation Counselor

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Salary Expectations for Counselors

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS, 2025), median annual salaries vary by specialization:

Counseling Role	Median Annual Salary
Mental Health, Substance Abuse & Behavioral Counselors	$59,190
School & Career Counselors and Advisors	$65,140
Marriage and Family Therapists (MFTs)	$63,780
Rehabilitation Counselors	$46,110

Note: Salaries can vary based on location, experience, education level, and work setting.

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Job Growth Outlook: 2023–2033

The counseling field is growing rapidly, especially in mental health and addiction services. BLS projections indicate:

Counseling Field	Projected Growth Rate
Substance Abuse & Mental Health Counselors	+19% (Much faster than average)
Marriage and Family Therapists	+16% (Much faster than average)
School and Career Counselors	+4%
Rehabilitation Counselors	+2%

Mental health services are in high demand due to increased public awareness, expanded insurance coverage, and rising stress and addiction-related challenges.

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Factors That Influence Counseling Salaries & Careers

• Location: Urban and coastal regions often offer higher pay and more job openings than rural areas.
• Experience & Licensure: Professionals with more experience or advanced licensure (e.g., LPC, LMFT) typically command higher salaries.
• Specialization: Niche expertise in areas like trauma counseling, addiction treatment, or bilingual counseling can boost earning potential.
• Work Setting: Private practice or hospital-based roles may offer higher salaries than nonprofit or school-based positions.

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Why a Master’s in Counseling Is Worth It

• Licensure Eligibility: Most states require a master’s degree for professional licensure.
• Higher Salary Potential: Graduate-level counselors consistently earn more than those with only a bachelor’s degree.
• Credibility & Recognition: Completing a CACREP- or MPCAC-accredited program signals quality training to employers and licensing boards.
• Career Versatility: A master’s degree opens doors across multiple counseling disciplines.

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Bottom Line:
Master’s-level counseling careers offer strong job prospects, meaningful work, and solid salary potential—especially for those who pursue licensure and specialization. By understanding employment trends and salary expectations, you can confidently invest in a program that aligns with your goals.

Frequently Asked Questions About Accelerated Online Counseling Master’s Programs

What is an Accelerated Online Counseling Master’s Program?

An accelerated online counseling master’s program is a graduate-level degree designed to be completed faster than traditional programs—often in 12 to 24 months. These programs use intensive coursework, year-round schedules, and online flexibility to help students earn their degree quickly while preparing for licensure.

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How Fast Can I Finish an Accelerated Counseling Master’s Program?

Most accelerated programs can be completed in as little as 12 to 18 months, depending on:

• Course load and intensity
• Transfer credits
• Whether the program runs year-round (no summer breaks)
• Student availability to study full-time

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Are Accelerated Counseling Programs Legitimate and Accredited?

Yes. Many accelerated online counseling programs are accredited by respected organizations like:

• CACREP (Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs)
• MPCAC (Masters in Psychology and Counseling Accreditation Council)
• Regional accreditors like HLC, MSCHE, or WASC

Accreditation ensures the program meets standards required for licensure and future employment.

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Will I Still Be Eligible for Licensure With an Accelerated Program?

Absolutely—if the program is properly accredited and meets your state’s requirements. Accelerated doesn’t mean lower quality—it simply means the coursework is more condensed. You’ll still need to:

• Complete required practicum and internship hours
• Meet post-graduation supervised experience requirements
• Pass a licensure exam (e.g., NCE or NCMHCE)

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What Are the Pros and Cons of an Accelerated Counseling Degree?

Pros:

• Enter the workforce sooner
• Save money by finishing quicker
• Maintain flexibility with online learning

Cons:

• Heavier workload and faster pace
• May be harder to balance with full-time employment
• Less time for reflection or networking compared to traditional programs

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What Types of Counseling Specializations Are Available in Accelerated Programs?

Many accelerated programs offer the same specializations as traditional ones, such as:

• Clinical Mental Health Counseling
• School Counseling
• Marriage and Family Therapy
• Substance Abuse Counseling
• Rehabilitation Counseling

Be sure to confirm your desired track is available before applying.

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Can I Work While Completing an Accelerated Counseling Program?

It’s possible—but challenging. The faster pace of accelerated programs often requires full-time focus. Some students manage part-time work, especially if the program is asynchronous. Carefully assess your bandwidth before enrolling.

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Are Online Accelerated Counseling Degrees Respected by Employers?

Yes—as long as the program is accredited and prepares you for licensure. Employers care more about:

• Your clinical training and licensure status
• Accreditation of your degree
• Your ability to demonstrate competency and professionalism

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What Should I Look for in an Accelerated Online Counseling Program?

Key factors include:

• Accreditation (CACREP, MPCAC, Regional)
• Quality of faculty and supervision
• Support for practicum/internship placement
• Relevant specialization tracks
• Student support services
• Clear tuition and financial aid options
• Flexible course delivery (asynchronous, hybrid, etc.)

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Do Accelerated Programs Cost More or Less Than Traditional Programs?

Often, accelerated programs cost less overall because you spend less time in school. However, per-credit tuition may be the same as a traditional program. The cost savings come from:

• Fewer semesters enrolled
• Entering the workforce sooner
• Potential reduction in housing/commuting costs (if online)

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Can I Transfer Into an Accelerated Program With Previous Credits?

Many accelerated programs allow transfer of eligible graduate-level credits, which can shorten your completion time even further. Contact admissions to evaluate your transcript before applying.

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How Competitive Are Accelerated Online Counseling Programs?

Some are highly competitive due to limited spots and fast-paced nature. Programs may look for:

• A strong academic record (often 3.0+ GPA)
• Letters of recommendation
• A clear personal statement and career goals
• Experience in human services or psychology (not always required)

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What Happens After I Finish an Accelerated Program?

Graduates typically go on to:

1. Complete supervised hours (post-master’s, e.g., 2,000–3,000 hours)
2. Take the licensure exam (e.g., NCE, NCMHCE)
3. Apply for state licensure
4. Begin working in clinical, school, or organizational settings

Final Thoughts on Choosing the Right Accelerated Online Counseling Program

Choosing the right accelerated online master’s in counseling is a crucial step in launching or advancing your counseling career. With so many programs available, it’s important to look beyond just speed and evaluate which programs align with your professional goals, learning style, and licensure needs.

Look for accredited programs that offer a curriculum tailored to your specialization of interest, whether it’s clinical mental health, school counseling, or marriage and family therapy. Make sure the program structure — including timelines, practicum opportunities, and support services — fits your personal and professional responsibilities.

By doing your research and selecting a program that offers the right combination of flexibility, accreditation, and career preparation, you can fast-track your path to becoming a licensed counselor and start making a difference in the lives of others — sooner.

List of Programs