List of Counseling Degrees in Arkansas

Arkansas offers a range of opportunities for students interested in pursuing counseling careers. With programs that prepare graduates to serve both rural communities and larger cities like Little Rock and Fayetteville, the state provides meaningful pathways to enter the counseling profession. Students can find programs designed to meet local workforce needs while also preparing for national licensure standards.

Undergraduate Counseling Programs in Arkansas

Students beginning their counseling journey in Arkansas can pursue undergraduate programs that introduce key concepts in psychology, human development, and human services. These bachelor’s degrees provide a strong foundation for entry-level roles in social services, education, and support programs. They also serve as the first step toward graduate study, which is required for professional counseling licensure.

For students seeking flexibility, many schools across the country offer an online bachelor’s degree in counseling, making it easier for Arkansas students to balance education with work or family responsibilities.

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

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

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 Full-time, part-time, and accelerated track options available Learn More
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 HLC and NASAC 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

Graduate Counseling Programs in Arkansas

Graduate study is essential for those pursuing licensure as a professional counselor in Arkansas. The state’s universities offer programs that combine rigorous academic coursework with practical training, preparing graduates for clinical practice, leadership, and research. Many programs also emphasize serving rural populations and addressing the mental health needs of diverse communities.

Students considering graduate study may also want to explore flexible online options, including an online master’s degree in counseling, an online master’s in counseling with no GRE, or even online counseling PhD programs.

The following CACREP-accredited counseling programs offer a wide range of options for prospective counselors:

Snapshot: Online CACREP Accredited Programs

Walden University

MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling

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. Click for admissions info.

CACREP Accredited

✔ Online

Top Arkansas Schools with Counseling Programs

Arkansas is home to several strong institutions that offer counseling programs. While the idea of the “best” school is subjective — depending on each student’s needs, goals, and interests — the following universities represent excellent starting points for exploring counseling education in the state.

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 ( Accredited)

Mid-America Christian University (MACU) - Master of Science (MS) in Counseling (Higher Learning Commission (HLC) Accredited)

Harding University

Featured Program: Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Harding University offers a 60-credit-hour, CACREP-accredited Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling designed to prepare students for professional counseling practice. The program follows a hybrid format and can typically be completed in two years. Students gain practical experience through supervised practicum and internship placements while developing competencies in areas such as crisis intervention, psychotherapy, and wellness promotion. Graduates are eligible to pursue licensure as Licensed Professional Counselors and Clinical Mental Health Counselors and may work in settings including schools, community agencies, private practice, and ministry.

About Harding University
Harding University is a private Christian university located in Searcy, Arkansas. Affiliated with the Churches of Christ, the institution emphasizes integrating faith and learning across its academic programs. Harding offers a range of undergraduate, graduate, and professional degrees, with a focus on preparing students for service-oriented careers in education, health, business, and ministry.

University of Arkansas

Featured Program: Master of Science in Counseling – School Counseling
The University of Arkansas offers a CACREP-accredited Master of Science in Counseling with an emphasis in School Counseling. This program prepares students to promote the academic, career, and personal/social development of P–12 students through data-informed school counseling programs. In addition to core counseling coursework, students in this track develop skills in consulting with teachers and parents, planning and evaluating counseling services, and providing both individual and group counseling. The course of study may lead to certification as an elementary or secondary school counselor in Arkansas, equipping graduates to serve effectively in diverse educational settings.

About the University of Arkansas
The University of Arkansas, located in Fayetteville, is a public research university and the flagship campus of the University of Arkansas System. Founded in 1871, it offers a wide range of undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs. Known for its research activity and strong ties to the state’s economic and educational development, the university serves students from across the nation and around the world while fostering innovation, scholarship, and community engagement.

John Brown University

Featured Program: Master of Science in Counseling
John Brown University offers a CACREP-accredited Master of Science in Counseling that prepares students for licensure as Licensed Professional Counselors (LPC) or Licensed Mental Health Counselors (LMHC). The 60-credit program combines flexibility with hands-on clinical training, allowing students to complete over 70% of coursework through online or weekend classes before moving into practicum and internship experiences. Students complete a practicum at one of JBU’s Community Counseling Clinics, followed by a supervised internship at an external agency. The program also offers emphases in Marriage and Family Therapy, Play Therapy, and Adventure Therapy, giving students the opportunity to tailor their training.

About John Brown University
John Brown University is a private Christian university located in Siloam Springs, Arkansas, with additional counseling clinics in Little Rock. Established in 1919, JBU is known for integrating faith and learning across its academic programs. The university serves students from across the U.S. and around the world, offering undergraduate and graduate degrees in fields such as business, education, counseling, and engineering. With a focus on service, academic excellence, and Christian values, JBU provides a supportive learning environment grounded in both scholarship and practice.

How to Become a Licensed Counselor in Arkansas

Becoming a licensed counselor in Arkansas involves meeting specific educational, clinical, and examination requirements set by the Arkansas Board of Examiners in Counseling. Below are the main steps:

1. Earn a Graduate Degree in Counseling
   
   • Complete a master’s or doctoral degree in counseling or a closely related field from an accredited institution.
     
2. Complete Coursework Requirements
   
   • Graduate programs must include core areas such as counseling theories, human growth and development, assessment, ethics, multicultural counseling, and research methods.
     
   • A supervised practicum and internship are also required.
     
3. Accumulate Supervised Clinical Experience
   
   • After graduation, complete at least 3,000 hours of supervised counseling experience, including direct client contact, under the supervision of a Board-approved professional.
     
4. Apply to the Arkansas Board of Examiners in Counseling
   
   • Submit an application with official transcripts, supervised experience documentation, and exam eligibility approval.
     
5. Pass the Required Examinations
   
   • Successfully complete the National Counselor Examination (NCE) or the National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Examination (NCMHCE).
     
   • Pass the Arkansas Jurisprudence Exam, which covers state laws and ethical standards.
     
6. Obtain Licensure as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC)
   
   • Once all requirements are met, the Board issues LPC licensure, allowing independent practice.
     

For more guidance, students may wish to learn more about what it means to be an LPC, review the steps on how to become an LPC, and explore general pathways to become a counselor.

Counseling Licensure Titles in Arkansas

Arkansas recognizes several counseling-related licenses that reflect different stages of professional development and areas of specialization. These titles are overseen by the Arkansas Board of Examiners in Counseling.

• Licensed Associate Counselor (LAC) – A provisional license for graduates who have completed a master’s degree in counseling but are still working toward supervised experience requirements. LACs must practice under supervision.
  
• Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) – The independent counseling license in Arkansas. LPCs may provide counseling services, diagnose, and treat mental health concerns without supervision.
  
• Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) – For professionals specializing in family systems and relational therapy. This license allows independent practice in Arkansas.
  

These pathways give counselors flexibility to build careers that match their training, interests, and long-term goals.

Transferring a Counseling License to Arkansas

Counselors licensed in another state who wish to practice in Arkansas must apply through the Arkansas Board of Examiners in Counseling. While Arkansas does not have automatic reciprocity, the Board does provide a pathway for licensure by endorsement for those who meet comparable standards.

Key points for transferring a license include:

• Application Submission – Out-of-state applicants must complete the Arkansas licensure application and provide official transcripts, verification of licensure, and documentation of supervised experience.
  
• Comparable Standards – The Board reviews whether the applicant’s education, supervised hours, and exams are substantially equivalent to Arkansas requirements. Additional coursework or supervised practice may be required if gaps are identified.
  
• Examinations – Applicants must have passed a qualifying national exam (NCE or NCMHCE). They must also complete the Arkansas Jurisprudence Exam before licensure is granted.
  
• Case-by-Case Review – Since requirements vary between states, each application is evaluated individually by the Board.
  

For detailed requirements and application forms, applicants should consult the Arkansas Board of Examiners in Counseling.

Counseling Scholarships and Financial Aid in Arkansas

Students pursuing counseling degrees in Arkansas have access to financial aid through a combination of university, state, and national programs. These resources can help reduce the cost of tuition and support students on their way to professional practice.

National Opportunities

• NBCC Foundation Scholarships – Competitive awards for graduate counseling students who commit to serving underserved communities.
  
• American Counseling Association Scholarships – Essay-based awards and diversity-focused scholarships for counseling students nationwide.
  

Arkansas-Based Opportunities

• Arkansas Academic Challenge Scholarship – A state-funded award available to qualifying Arkansas residents pursuing higher education.
  
• University of Arkansas Scholarships – Both undergraduate and graduate students in counseling-related programs may qualify for merit-based and need-based awards through the university’s scholarship office.
  
• Harding University Financial Aid – Offers a range of institutional scholarships and assistantships to support counseling and mental health graduate students.
  
• Arkansas Department of Higher Education Programs – Provides aid initiatives such as loan repayment assistance for mental health professionals serving in shortage areas.

Counseling Job Outlook and Salary in Arkansas

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 Arkansas.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Do I need a master’s degree to become a licensed counselor in Arkansas?
Yes. A master’s degree in counseling or a closely related field is required for licensure as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC).

What is the difference between an LAC and an LPC in Arkansas?
A Licensed Associate Counselor (LAC) is a provisional license for graduates who are still completing supervised hours. A Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) is a full license that allows independent counseling practice.

How long does it take to become a Licensed Professional Counselor in Arkansas?
Most students take between 6–8 years, including time to complete a bachelor’s degree, master’s degree, supervised clinical hours, and required exams.

Can I transfer my counseling license from another state to Arkansas?
Yes. Arkansas allows out-of-state counselors to apply for licensure by endorsement if their credentials meet the state’s requirements. Each application is reviewed by the Arkansas Board of Examiners in Counseling on a case-by-case basis.

Making a Counseling Career in Arkansas

Arkansas provides a wide range of career opportunities for counseling professionals, from small rural towns to larger metropolitan areas such as Little Rock, Fayetteville, and Fort Smith. The demand for counselors is particularly strong in school settings, community mental health, and substance abuse treatment, where professionals play a critical role in supporting individuals and families.

Graduates can pursue careers in K–12 schools and universities, hospitals and healthcare systems, community mental health centers, private practice, or specialized substance abuse programs. Each pathway offers unique ways to address the state’s pressing behavioral health needs while building a meaningful professional career.

With its blend of rural and urban environments, Arkansas offers flexibility for counselors to shape their work around personal interests and community needs. For those committed to serving diverse populations and addressing mental health challenges, the state provides a rewarding landscape to grow as a counseling professional.

Popular Online Counseling Programs

Walden University 🗹 Online Masters

MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling

CACREP Accredited

Learn More

Walden University 🗹 Online Masters

MS in School Counseling

CACREP Accredited

Learn More

Northwestern University 🗹 Online 🗗 Masters

Online MA in Counseling

CACREP Accredited

Learn More

Northwestern University 🗹 Online 🗗 Masters

Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy

COAMFTE Accredited

Learn More

Grand Canyon University 🗹 Online

Master's Degree in Counseling

NASAC Accredited

Learn More

Liberty University 🗹 Online

MA: Clinical Mental Health Counseling (CACREP Accredited)

CACREP Accredited

Learn More

National University 🗹 Online Courses Start Weekly

Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling

WSCUC Accredited

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University of Denver 🗹 Online 🗗 Masters

Master of Arts in School Counseling

Accredited

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Mid-America Christian University (MACU) 🗹 Online

Master of Science (MS) in Counseling

Higher Learning Commission (HLC) Accredited

Learn More

Colorado Christian University 🗹 Online 🗗 Masters

Clinical Mental Health Counseling, M.A. - Online Curriculum

CACREP Accredited

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Schools With Campus-Based CACREP Accredited Arkansas 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 Arkansas. Keep scrolling or jump to all programs for all programs or view online CACREP accredited counseling programs.

All Accredited Schools with Counseling Degrees in Arkansas

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