Colorado offers excellent opportunities for students interested in counseling, with programs designed to prepare professionals to meet the mental health needs of both urban and rural communities. With a growing population, an emphasis on wellness, and a demand for licensed counselors, the state provides strong pathways for those pursuing careers in the field.
Undergraduate Counseling Programs in Colorado
Students beginning their counseling journey in Colorado can pursue undergraduate programs that introduce foundational knowledge in psychology, human development, and counseling principles. These degrees prepare graduates for entry-level roles in social services, education, and support programs, while also serving as the first step toward graduate study — which is required for counseling licensure.For added flexibility, students may also consider an online bachelor’s degree in counseling, an option that works well for those balancing work or family responsibilities.
- Adams State University: M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
- M.A. in School Counseling
- Ph.D. in Counselor Education and Supervision
- Colorado State University: M.A. in Career Counseling
- M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
- M.A. in School Counseling
- M.Ed. in Student Affairs and College Counseling
- Denver Seminary: M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
- Regis University: M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Click to jump to the full list of Colorado 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
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 |
| University of Denver
Master of Social Work
CSWE accredited. |
✔ Campus, Online
No GRE Required Minimum GPA 2.5 |
Earn your CSWE-accredited MSW online from Denver's GSSW, a top-15 school of social work. Gain a strong foundation for social work practice with a concentration in Mental Health and Trauma or Health, Equity and Wellness. GRE scores are not required. Students with a BSW can earn their MSW in as few as 12 months in the online advanced-standing track; students without a BSW can earn an MSW in as few as 21 months. Learn More |
*Sponsored Counseling Programs
Graduate Counseling Programs in Colorado
Graduate education is required for those seeking counseling licensure in Colorado. The state’s universities offer master’s and doctoral programs in counseling and related fields, including CACREP-accredited online counseling degree programs. These programs emphasize clinical training, ethical practice, and cultural competence, preparing graduates to work across diverse communities and practice settings.
Students may also want to consider flexible online options, such as an online master’s degree in counseling, an online master’s in counseling without a GRE, or even online counseling PhD programs
| Institution | City | Specialty | Degree | Online Options Available? |
| Adams State University | Alamosa | Clinical Mental Health Counseling | M.A. | Y |
| Adams State University | Alamosa | School Counseling | M.A. | Y |
| Adams State University | Alamosa | Counselor Education and Supervision | Ph.D. | Y |
| Colorado Christian University | Lakewood | Clinical Mental Health Counseling | M.A. | Y |
| Colorado State University | Fort Collins | Career Counseling | M.A. | |
| Colorado State University | Fort Collins | School Counseling | M.A. | |
| Colorado State University | Fort Collins | Clinical Mental Health Counseling | M.A. | |
| Denver Seminary | Littleton | Clinical Mental Health Counseling | M.A. | |
| Denver Seminary | Littleton | School Counseling | M.A. | |
| Regis University | Denver | Clinical Mental Health Counseling | M.A. | |
| University of Colorado at Colorado Springs | Colorado Springs | School Counseling | M.A. | |
| University of Colorado at Colorado Springs | Colorado Springs | Clinical Mental Health Counseling | M.A. | |
| University of Colorado at Denver | Denver | School Counseling | M.A. | |
| University of Colorado at Denver | Denver | Clinical Mental Health Counseling | M.A. | |
| University of Denver | Denver | School Counseling | M.A. | Y |
| University of Northern Colorado, College of Education and Behavioral Sciences | Greeley | Marriage, Couple and Family Counseling | M.A. | |
| University of Northern Colorado, College of Education and Behavioral Sciences | Greeley | Clinical Mental Health Counseling | M.A. | |
| University of Northern Colorado, College of Education and Behavioral Sciences | Greeley | Counselor Education and Supervision | Ph.D. | |
| University of Northern Colorado, College of Education and Behavioral Sciences | Greeley | School Counseling | M.S. | |
| University of Northern Colorado, College of Natural and Health Sciences | Greeley | Rehabilitation Counseling | M.A. |
Top Colorado Schools with Counseling Programs
Colorado is home to several strong universities that offer counseling degree programs. While the “best” program depends on each student’s personal needs and career goals, the following institutions represent excellent starting points for exploring counseling education in the state.
University of Denver
Featured Program: Master of Arts in School Counseling
The University of Denver’s Morgridge College of Education offers a CACREP-accredited Master of Arts in School Counseling through its online SchoolCounseling@Denver program. Designed to prepare culturally responsive and socially conscious counselors, the program trains students to serve the academic, career, and social-emotional needs of P–12 students. Coursework includes mock counseling sessions, skill-building activities, and research-based approaches, while fieldwork requirements include a 100-hour practicum and two 300-hour internships in schools within the student’s community. The degree can be completed in as few as 22 months for full-time students, with part-time options available, and graduates are eligible for Colorado school counselor credentialing and licensure in other states.
About the University of Denver
The University of Denver is a private research university located in Denver, Colorado. Founded in 1864, it is the oldest independent university in the Rocky Mountain region. DU is known for its strong emphasis on experiential learning, global engagement, and professional preparation. The Morgridge College of Education exemplifies this commitment by preparing educators, counselors, and leaders to create positive change in schools and communities.
Colorado State University
Featured Program: Master of Arts in Counseling and Career Development
Colorado State University offers a CACREP-accredited Master of Arts in Counseling and Career Development with three specialization options: Career Counseling, Clinical Mental Health Counseling, and School Counseling. The 60-credit program includes core counseling coursework, specialization-specific classes, a 100-hour practicum, and a 600-hour internship. Graduates are eligible for professional counseling licensure in Colorado and can also pursue national certification as a counselor. The School Counseling specialization, in particular, prepares students to serve in K–12 educational settings, supporting academic, social-emotional, and career development while addressing barriers to equitable education through culturally responsive, data-informed practices.
About Colorado State University
Colorado State University is a public land-grant research university located in Fort Collins, Colorado. Founded in 1870, CSU is known for its commitment to sustainability, innovation, and community engagement. The university offers a broad range of academic programs and emphasizes experiential learning, research opportunities, and outreach. With its strong academic reputation and vibrant campus culture, CSU serves as a hub for education and research in the Rocky Mountain region.
Regis University
Featured Program: Master of Arts in Counseling: Clinical Mental Health Counseling Regis University offers a 60-credit Master of Arts in Counseling with a concentration in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, designed to prepare students for licensure as Licensed Professional Counselors in Colorado. The program combines academic coursework with experiential learning through Regis’s onsite counseling training clinic and community internship sites. Students gain skills in diagnosis, treatment planning, trauma response, and social justice advocacy, with opportunities to pursue certificates in areas such as Counseling Children and Adolescents or Marriage and Family Therapy. With an emphasis on hands-on training and service, graduates are prepared to work in diverse settings, including community agencies, nonprofit organizations, private practice, and schools.
About Regis University
Regis University is a private Jesuit Catholic institution located in Denver, Colorado. Founded in 1877, the university emphasizes a values-based education rooted in service, leadership, and social justice. Regis offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs across the liberal arts, health sciences, business, and professional fields. With small class sizes and a focus on applied learning, Regis provides students with both academic rigor and a supportive community dedicated to personal and professional growth.
Snapshot: Online CACREP Accredited Programs
For detailed degree information, view the guides to:
Online CACREP Accredited programs | Online MPCAC Accredited programs
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 Social Work (CSWE Accredited)
How to Become a Licensed Counselor in Colorado
Licensure as a counselor in Colorado requires meeting educational, supervised practice, and examination standards set by the Colorado State Board of Licensed Professional Counselor Examiners. The process typically follows these steps:
- Earn a Graduate Degree in Counseling
- Complete a master’s or doctoral degree in counseling or a closely related field from a regionally accredited institution.
- CACREP-accredited programs are strongly recommended.
- Complete a master’s or doctoral degree in counseling or a closely related field from a regionally accredited institution.
- Apply for a Provisional License (LPCC)
- After graduation, apply for the Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate (LPCC) credential, which allows you to begin post-degree supervised practice.
- After graduation, apply for the Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate (LPCC) credential, which allows you to begin post-degree supervised practice.
- Complete Supervised Clinical Experience
- Accumulate at least 2,000 hours of post-master’s supervised experience, including 1,500 hours of direct client contact.
- Supervision must be provided by a qualified licensed professional.
- Accumulate at least 2,000 hours of post-master’s supervised experience, including 1,500 hours of direct client contact.
- Pass the Required Examination
- Successfully complete the National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Examination (NCMHCE).
- You must also pass the Colorado Mental Health Jurisprudence Examination, which covers state laws and professional standards.
- Apply for Full Licensure
- Submit proof of supervised hours, exam results, and application materials to the Board.
- Submit proof of supervised hours, exam results, and application materials to the Board.
- Obtain Licensure as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC)
- Once approved, you receive the LPC credential, which allows independent counseling practice in Colorado.
- Once approved, you receive the LPC credential, which allows independent counseling practice in Colorado.
For more guidance, students may wish to explore what it means to be an LPC, review the steps on how to become an LPC, and learn more about how to become a counselor.
Counseling Licensure Titles in Colorado
Colorado recognizes several counseling-related licensure titles, each representing a different stage of professional development or area of specialization. These are overseen by the Colorado State Board of Licensed Professional Counselor Examiners and related boards.
- Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate (LPCC) – A provisional license that allows graduates to complete supervised post-degree experience while working toward independent licensure.
- Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) – The independent counseling license in Colorado, permitting counselors to diagnose, treat, and provide services without supervision.
- Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) – For counselors specializing in family systems and relational therapy.
- Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) – While distinct from counseling licensure, many LCSWs provide similar mental health services in clinical and community settings.
- School Counselor Endorsement – Issued through the Colorado Department of Education, required to work as a counselor in K–12 schools.
These titles allow professionals to choose the career path that best aligns with their education, training, and interests.
Transferring a Counseling License to Colorado
Counselors licensed in another state who wish to practice in Colorado must apply for licensure through the Colorado State Board of Licensed Professional Counselor Examiners. While Colorado does not have automatic reciprocity, the Board provides a pathway for licensure by endorsement if an applicant’s credentials meet the state’s requirements.
Key points for transferring a license include:
- Education Requirements – Applicants must hold a graduate degree in counseling or a related field that aligns with Colorado’s standards. Additional coursework may be required if gaps exist.
- Supervised Experience – Out-of-state supervised hours may be accepted if they meet Colorado’s requirements. Verification and documentation must be submitted.
- Examinations – Applicants must have passed either the NCE or NCMHCE. If these have not been completed, they must be taken before licensure.
- Jurisprudence Exam – All applicants must pass the Colorado jurisprudence exam covering state laws and professional standards.
- Case-by-Case Review – The Board evaluates each application individually to ensure compliance with state standards.
For full details and application materials, visit the Colorado State Board of Licensed Professional Counselor Examiners.
Counseling Scholarships and Financial Aid in Colorado
Students pursuing counseling degrees in Colorado can take advantage of scholarships, grants, and financial aid options offered at the state, university, and national levels. These resources help reduce the cost of education and support students on their path to licensure.
National Opportunities
- NBCC Foundation Scholarships – Awards for graduate counseling students who commit to serving underserved or rural populations.
- American Counseling Association Scholarships – Essay-based and diversity-focused awards for counseling students nationwide.
Colorado-Based Opportunities
- College Opportunity Fund (COF) – Provides tuition stipends to eligible Colorado residents attending in-state public colleges and universities.
- Colorado State University Scholarships – Offers a wide range of scholarships for undergraduate and graduate students, including those in counseling and psychology programs.
- University of Denver Financial Aid – Provides merit-based and need-based aid, as well as graduate assistantships for counseling students.
- Regis University Scholarships – Includes institutional aid and program-specific scholarships for graduate counseling students.
- Behavioral Health Workforce Loan Repayment Program – A Colorado program designed to provide loan repayment assistance to mental health professionals, including licensed counselors, who commit to working in underserved areas.
Counseling Job Outlook and Salary in Colorado
When considering a counseling career in Colorado, it’s helpful to understand the employment outlook and salary expectations. The data in the following table was gathered from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics in 2025 and provides insights into job trends and average wages for counseling professionals in the state.
| Median Annual Wage in Colorado (May 2024) | Median Annual Wage Nationally (May 2024) | Projected Growth in Colorado (2022–2032) | Projected National Growth (2022–2032) | |
| Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors | $59,190 | $59,190 | 27.9% | 18.4% |
| Rehabilitation Counselors | $50,290 | $46,110 | 8.9% | 1.9% |
| Educational, Guidance, and Career Counselors | $63,900 | $65,140 | 18.3% | 5.4% |
| Marriage and Family Therapists | $69,990 | $63,780 | 20.8% | 14.9% |
| Counselors, Other | $68,310 | $49,830 | 25.0% | 17.3% |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Do I need a master’s degree to become a licensed counselor in Colorado?
Yes. A master’s degree in counseling or a closely related field is required to qualify for licensure as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC).
What is the difference between an LPCC and an LPC in Colorado?
An LPCC (Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate) is a provisional license that allows graduates to gain supervised experience. An LPC is the full, independent license that permits counselors to practice without supervision.
Are counseling programs in Colorado available online?
Some universities in Colorado offer hybrid or online components, though many still require in-person coursework and clinical training. Students may also consider accredited online counseling programs offered by universities in other states.
How long does it take to become an LPC in Colorado?
Most students take 6–8 years, including time to complete a bachelor’s degree, a master’s program, supervised practice hours, and the required examinations.
Can I transfer my counseling license from another state to Colorado?
Yes, but Colorado does not have automatic reciprocity. Out-of-state applicants must demonstrate that their education, supervised experience, and exams meet Colorado’s requirements. All applicants must also pass the Colorado jurisprudence exam.
Making a Counseling Career in Colorado
Colorado provides strong opportunities for counseling professionals, with demand spanning both metropolitan areas and rural communities. From Denver and Colorado Springs to mountain towns and agricultural regions, counselors play an essential role in promoting mental health and wellness across the state.
Counselors can build careers in schools and universities, hospitals and healthcare facilities, community mental health centers, private practice, or substance abuse treatment programs. Each setting offers unique ways to serve diverse populations and respond to the state’s growing need for qualified mental health professionals.
With its balance of urban and rural environments, Colorado allows counselors to shape careers that reflect their professional interests and personal goals. Whether supporting students, addressing addiction, or providing care in underserved areas, the state offers a rewarding landscape for building a meaningful 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
University of Denver 🗹 Online 🗗 Masters
Mid-America Christian University (MACU) 🗹 Online
Schools With Campus-Based CACREP Accredited Colorado 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 Colorado. Keep scrolling or jump to all programs for all programs or view online CACREP accredited counseling programs.
Adams State University
- CACREP Status: Accredited, 2 Year
- CACREP Accreditation Runs: 7/15/2009 to 3/31/2027
- CACREP Status: Accredited, 2 Year
- CACREP Accreditation Runs: 4/1/1994 to 3/31/2027
- CACREP Status: Accredited, 2 Year
- CACREP Accreditation Runs: 1/13/2016 to 3/31/2027
Colorado State University
- CACREP Status: Accredited, 8 Year
- CACREP Accreditation Runs: 10/1/1995 to 3/31/2028
- CACREP Status: Accredited, 8 Year
- CACREP Accreditation Runs: 7/18/2018 to 3/31/2028
- CACREP Status: Accredited, 8 Year
- CACREP Accreditation Runs: 10/1/1995 to 3/31/2028
- CACREP Status: Accredited, 8 Year
- CACREP Accreditation Runs: 7/4/2011 to 3/31/2020
Denver Seminary
- CACREP Status: Accredited, 8 Year (Re-Accreditation In-Process)
- CACREP Accreditation Runs: 1/15/2011 to 10/31/2020
Regis University
- CACREP Status: Accredited, 8 Year
- CACREP Accreditation Runs: 1/9/2014 to 3/31/2023
University of Colorado at Colorado Springs
- CACREP Status: Accredited, 2 Year
- CACREP Accreditation Runs: 7/9/2013 to 10/31/2020
- CACREP Status: Accredited, 2 Year
- CACREP Accreditation Runs: 9/1/1999 to 10/31/2020
University of Colorado at Denver
- CACREP Status: Accredited, 8 Year
- CACREP Accreditation Runs: 1/10/2013 to 10/31/2021
- CACREP Status: Accredited, 8 Year
- CACREP Accreditation Runs: 10/1/1989 to 10/31/2021
- CACREP Status: Accredited, 8 Year
- CACREP Accreditation Runs: 10/1/1989 to 10/31/2021
University of Northern Colorado
- CACREP Status: Accredited, 8 Year
- CACREP Accreditation Runs: 7/14/2011 to 10/31/2019
- CACREP Status: Accredited, 8 Year
- CACREP Accreditation Runs: 9/1/1992 to 10/31/2019
- CACREP Status: Accredited, 8 Year (Re-Accreditation In-Process)
- CACREP Accreditation Runs: 7/1/2017 to 2/26/2021
- CACREP Status: Accredited, 8 Year
- CACREP Accreditation Runs: 3/1/1982 to 10/31/2019
All Accredited Schools with Counseling Degrees in Colorado
View all programs in Colorado below, or jump to all Colorado CACREP accredited counseling programs.
Adams State University Alamosa
- M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
- M.A. in School Counseling
- Ph.D. in Counselor Education and Supervision
Colorado State University Ft. Collins
- M.A. in Career Counseling
- M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
- M.A. in School Counseling
- M.Ed. in Student Affairs and College Counseling
Community College of Denver Denver
- Associates - Mental Health Counseling
Denver Seminary Littleton
- M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Regis University Thornton
- M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Trinidad State Junior College Trinidad
- Associates - Counseling Psychology
University of Colorado at Colorado Springs Colorado Springs
- M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
- M.A. in School Counseling
University of Colorado at Denver Denver
- M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
- M.A. in Marriage, Couple and Family Counseling
- M.A. in School Counseling
University of Northern Colorado Greeley
- Doctorate - Counseling Psychology
- Doctorate - School Counseling
- M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
- M.A. in Marriage, Couple and Family Counseling
- M.A. in Rehabilitation Counseling
- M.A. in School Counseling
