Minnesota offers a wide selection of counseling degree programs at public universities, private colleges, and online institutions. With its mix of urban centers like Minneapolis–St. Paul and many rural communities, the state provides diverse training environments for aspiring counselors. Whether you’re interested in school counseling, clinical mental health, or community-based services, Minnesota programs prepare graduates for meaningful careers helping individuals and families thrive.
Undergraduate Counseling Programs in Minnesota
Undergraduate counseling-related programs in Minnesota provide students with a strong academic foundation in psychology, human services, and related fields. While a bachelor’s degree alone does not qualify graduates for counseling licensure, it is the first step toward graduate-level training and professional practice.
Students can pursue these programs at Minnesota’s public universities, private colleges, and online institutions. Coursework often includes abnormal psychology, counseling theories, lifespan development, and research methods. Graduates may take entry-level roles in human services or continue into master’s programs in counseling to pursue licensure.
For students who prefer flexible study options, an online counseling bachelor’s degree can be a convenient way to begin preparing for a counseling career while balancing work or personal commitments.
Graduate Counseling Programs in Minnesota
A graduate degree is required for those pursuing counseling licensure in Minnesota. The state offers multiple master’s and doctoral programs in counseling, including CACREP-accredited online counseling programs that meet national standards for education and professional training. These programs prepare students for roles in clinical practice, school counseling, marriage and family therapy, and community-based services.
For added flexibility, many students also explore online counseling master’s degree options. Applicants who prefer programs without standardized testing requirements may consider online master’s in counseling with no GRE requirement. For advanced specialization, leadership, or academic careers, online counseling doctorate programs are also available.
| Institution | City | Specialty | Degree | Online Options? |
| Adler Graduate School | Minnetonka | Addiction Counseling | M.A. | Y |
| Adler Graduate School | Minnetonka | Clinical Mental Health Counseling | M.A. | Y |
| Adler Graduate School | Minnetonka | Marriage, Couple and Family Counseling | M.A. | Y |
| Bethel University | St. Paul | Clinical Mental Health Counseling | M.A. | |
| Capella University | Minneapolis | School Counseling | M.S. | Y |
| Capella University | Minneapolis | Clinical Mental Health Counseling | M.S. | Y |
| Capella University | Minneapolis | Counselor Education and Supervision | Ph.D. | Y |
| Hazelden Betty Ford Graduate School | Center City | Addiction Counseling | M.A. | Y |
| Minnesota State University Mankato | Mankato | Counselor Education and Supervision | Ed.D. | |
| Minnesota State University Mankato | Mankato | School Counseling | M.S. | |
| Minnesota State University Mankato | Mankato | Clinical Mental Health Counseling | M.S. | |
| Minnesota State University Moorhead | Moorhead | School Counseling | M.S. | |
| Minnesota State University Moorhead | Moorhead | Clinical Mental Health Counseling | M.S. | |
| Minnesota State University Moorhead | Moorhead | Addiction Counseling | M.S. | |
| St. Cloud State University | St. Cloud | School Counseling | M.S. | |
| St. Cloud State University | St. Cloud | Clinical Mental Health Counseling | M.S. | |
| St. Cloud State University | St. Cloud | Rehabilitation Counseling | M.S. | |
| University of Minnesota | Minneapolis | Clinical Mental Health Counseling | M.A. | |
| University of Minnesota | Minneapolis | School Counseling | M.A. | |
| Walden University | Minneapolis | Marriage, Couple and Family Counseling | M.S. | Y |
| Walden University | Minneapolis | Counselor Education and Supervision | Ph.D. | Y |
| Walden University | Minneapolis | School Counseling | M.S. | Y |
| Walden University | Minneapolis | Clinical Mental Health Counseling | M.S. | Y |
| Winona State University | Winona | School Counseling | M.S. | |
| Winona State University | Winona | Clinical Mental Health Counseling | M.S. |
- Minnesota State University Mankato: Ed.D. in Counselor Education and Supervision
- M.S. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
- M.S. in Rehabilitation Counseling
- M.S. in School Counseling
- M.S. in Student Affairs and College Counseling
- Minnesota State University Moorhead: M.S. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
- M.S. in School Counseling
- M.S. in Student Affairs and College Counseling
- St. Cloud State University: M.S. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Click to jump to the full list of Minnesota 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 |
| 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
Top Minnesota Schools with Counseling Programs
When choosing a counseling program, it’s important to keep in mind that the “best” school depends on your personal goals, learning style, and career plans. The following institutions are among the respected options in Minnesota and can serve as a helpful starting point in your search.
University of Minnesota
Featured Program: M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
The University of Minnesota offers a Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling designed to prepare students for professional counseling roles in diverse settings. The program emphasizes both theoretical knowledge and applied clinical training, equipping graduates with the skills to support individuals, groups, and communities in addressing mental health challenges.
About the University of Minnesota
The University of Minnesota is a public research university located in Minneapolis, part of the Twin Cities campus system. Known for its strong academic programs and extensive research opportunities, it serves as the state’s flagship institution. Its urban setting provides students with access to community resources, professional networks, and a wide range of field experiences.
Winona State University
Featured Program: M.S. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Winona State University offers a master’s program in Clinical Mental Health Counseling that prepares students for careers as professional counselors in community settings, including mental health agencies, social services organizations, and residential care facilities. The program is accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP) and meets educational requirements for licensure as a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) in Minnesota and a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Wisconsin. Graduates are prepared for the exams and additional requirements needed to pursue these credentials.
About Winona State University
Winona State University is a public institution and the oldest member of the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities system. With campuses in both Winona and Rochester, it offers students access to a variety of academic programs and professional opportunities. The university is known for its strong focus on education, health sciences, and community engagement.
Bethel University
Featured Program: M.A. in Counseling
Bethel University’s Master of Arts in Counseling program provides students with specialized training in clinical mental health counseling. Accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP), the program emphasizes counseling theory, research, and practice while cultivating cultural competence and ethical awareness. Graduates are prepared to pursue licensure as professional counselors or professional clinical counselors in Minnesota and to work in a wide range of community and clinical settings.
About Bethel University
Bethel University is a private Christian university located in St. Paul, Minnesota. Rooted in a faith-based educational mission, the university offers undergraduate, graduate, and seminary programs across diverse fields of study. Its suburban campus fosters a close-knit learning community, and its academic approach integrates professional preparation with spiritual development.
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 Minnesota
Counselors in Minnesota are regulated by the Minnesota Board of Behavioral Health and Therapy. The state’s main counseling credential is the Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC), which allows for independent practice.
Here are the general steps:
- Earn a Master’s Degree in Counseling
- The program must include required coursework and practicum/internship experience. CACREP-accredited programs are recommended.
- The program must include required coursework and practicum/internship experience. CACREP-accredited programs are recommended.
- Apply for the Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) License
- This is the initial counseling license in Minnesota, allowing graduates to begin practicing under supervision.
- This is the initial counseling license in Minnesota, allowing graduates to begin practicing under supervision.
- Complete Supervised Clinical Experience
- To move from LPC to LPCC status, candidates must complete 4,000 hours of supervised post-master’s clinical practice, with at least 1,800 hours of direct client contact.
- To move from LPC to LPCC status, candidates must complete 4,000 hours of supervised post-master’s clinical practice, with at least 1,800 hours of direct client contact.
- Pass the Required Examination
- Candidates must pass the National Counselor Examination (NCE) or the National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Examination (NCMHCE).
- Candidates must pass the National Counselor Examination (NCE) or the National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Examination (NCMHCE).
- Apply for Full LPCC Licensure
- Once supervised hours and exam requirements are met, counselors can apply for independent LPCC licensure.
- Once supervised hours and exam requirements are met, counselors can apply for independent LPCC licensure.
- Maintain Licensure
- LPCCs must complete continuing education credits each renewal cycle, including training in ethics.
- LPCCs must complete continuing education credits each renewal cycle, including training in ethics.
Helpful resources to explore:
General overview of how to become a counselor
Counseling Licensure Titles in Minnesota
The Minnesota Board of Behavioral Health and Therapy recognizes two main counseling licenses:
- Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC)
A master’s-degree license that allows counselors to provide services under supervision. LPCs must complete at least 2,000 hours of supervised post-degree professional practice and meet coursework and exam requirements. Many LPCs later apply to become LPCCs by meeting additional clinical requirements. - Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC)
Minnesota’s independent clinical counseling license. LPCCs may diagnose, treat, and provide counseling services without supervision. This license requires a qualifying graduate degree, passing the National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Examination (NCMHCE), and at least 4,000 hours of supervised post-master’s practice, including 1,800 hours of direct client contact. LPCs may apply to convert to LPCC status once these standards are met.
School Counselor License
- Issued by the Minnesota Professional Educator Licensing and Standards Board (PELSB). This credential is required for individuals seeking to work as counselors in K–12 schools and requires a graduate degree in school counseling.
These licensure titles provide multiple pathways for counselors in Minnesota to practice in clinical, educational, and community settings.
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)
Transferring a Counseling License to Minnesota
Counselors licensed in another U.S. state may be eligible for a Minnesota counseling license through reciprocity, overseen by the Minnesota Board of Behavioral Health and Therapy (BBHT).
Applicants must:
- Hold a current counseling license in good standing from another state
- Provide official verification of licensure and examination scores
- Minnesota accepts the National Counselor Examination (NCE) for the Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) license
- The National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Examination (NCMHCE) is required for the Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) license
- Minnesota accepts the National Counselor Examination (NCE) for the Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) license
- Submit transcripts from a graduate counseling program that meets Minnesota’s educational standards
- Document supervised clinical experience equivalent to Minnesota’s requirements
- For LPCC: 4,000 post-master’s hours, including at least 1,800 hours of direct client contact
- For LPCC: 4,000 post-master’s hours, including at least 1,800 hours of direct client contact
Minnesota does not have universal reciprocity agreements. The BBHT may grant licensure if an applicant’s education, exam results, and clinical experience are substantially equivalent to Minnesota’s standards. For the most current information and application materials, visit the Minnesota Board of Behavioral Health and Therapy.
Counseling Scholarships and Financial Aid in Minnesota
Students pursuing counseling degrees in Minnesota can access a range of financial aid options to help reduce the cost of education. Opportunities come from state programs, universities, and professional organizations.
Some resources to explore include:
- Minnesota State Grant Program
- Provides need-based financial aid to Minnesota residents attending eligible institutions in the state.
- Provides need-based financial aid to Minnesota residents attending eligible institutions in the state.
- Minnesota SELF Loan Program
- A low-interest, long-term student loan program available to state residents.
- A low-interest, long-term student loan program available to state residents.
- University Scholarships and Assistantships
- Schools such as the University of Minnesota, Winona State University, and Bethel University offer scholarships, graduate assistantships, and fellowships for counseling students.
- Schools such as the University of Minnesota, Winona State University, and Bethel University offer scholarships, graduate assistantships, and fellowships for counseling students.
- Professional Association Awards
- The Minnesota Counseling Association (MnCA) and national groups like the American Counseling Association (ACA) often provide information about scholarships and research grants.
- The Minnesota Counseling Association (MnCA) and national groups like the American Counseling Association (ACA) often provide information about scholarships and research grants.
- Loan Forgiveness Programs
- Counselors working in underserved communities or schools may qualify for federal Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) or Teacher Loan Forgiveness programs.
- Counselors working in underserved communities or schools may qualify for federal Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) or Teacher Loan Forgiveness programs.
Students are encouraged to contact their school’s financial aid office for institution-specific opportunities and deadlines.
Counseling Job Outlook and Salary in Minnesota
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 Minnesota.
| Median Annual Wage in Minnesota (May 2024) | Median Annual Wage Nationally (May 2024) | Projected Growth in Minnesota (2022–2032) | Projected National Growth (2022–2032) | |
| Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors | $58,720 | $59,190 | 18.0% | 18.4% |
| Rehabilitation Counselors | $46,950 | $46,110 | 7.1% | 1.9% |
| Educational, Guidance, and Career Counselors | $63,230 | $65,140 | 6.7% | 5.4% |
| Marriage and Family Therapists | $72,370 | $63,780 | 14.8% | 14.9% |
| Counselors, Other | $52,070 | $49,830 | 17.0% | 17.3% |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Do I need a master’s degree to become a counselor in Minnesota?
Yes. Minnesota requires at least a master’s degree in counseling or a closely related field to qualify for licensure.
What is the difference between an LPC and an LPCC in Minnesota?
An LPC (Licensed Professional Counselor) is an entry-level license that allows graduates to practice under supervision. An LPCC (Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor) is the full independent license that allows for diagnosis, treatment, and supervision of others.
Are online counseling degrees accepted in Minnesota?
Yes. Online degrees are accepted as long as they are properly accredited and meet Minnesota’s coursework and practicum requirements.
How long does it take to become licensed in Minnesota?
Most students spend about 6–7 years from starting a bachelor’s degree to earning full LPCC licensure, including graduate school and supervised clinical experience.
Can I transfer my counseling license from another state to Minnesota?
Yes. Minnesota allows licensure by reciprocity or endorsement if your education, exams, and supervised hours are substantially equivalent to state standards.
What are the continuing education requirements for counselors in Minnesota?
Licensed counselors must complete continuing education credits during each renewal cycle, including coursework in ethics.
Making a Counseling Career in Minnesota
Minnesota provides a supportive environment for those pursuing counseling careers. With the Twin Cities offering urban opportunities and smaller towns and rural areas in need of mental health professionals, the state offers diverse practice settings. Counselors in Minnesota can build careers in schools, hospitals, nonprofit organizations, community clinics, and private practice.
Some highlights of pursuing a counseling career in Minnesota include:
- Strong demand for mental health professionals — especially in rural and underserved communities.
- Wide variety of career paths — including clinical mental health, school counseling, marriage and family therapy, and substance use counseling.
- Professional support networks — organizations such as the Minnesota Counseling Association (MnCA) provide advocacy, continuing education, and networking opportunities.
For students and professionals committed to helping others, Minnesota offers both the academic pathways and professional opportunities needed to create a fulfilling 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
Mid-America Christian University (MACU) 🗹 Online
Colorado Christian University 🗹 Online 🗗 Masters
Schools With Campus-Based CACREP Accredited Minnesota 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 Minnesota. Keep scrolling or jump to all programs for all programs or view online CACREP accredited counseling programs.
Minnesota State University Mankato
- CACREP Status: Accredited, 2 Year
- CACREP Accreditation Runs: 8/7/2008 to 3/31/2020
- CACREP Status: Accredited, 2 Year
- CACREP Accreditation Runs: 7/23/2007 to 3/31/2020
- CACREP Status: Accredited, 8 Year
- CACREP Accreditation Runs: 7/1/2017 to 10/31/2023
- CACREP Status: Accredited, 2 Year
- CACREP Accreditation Runs: 3/1/1985 to 3/31/2020
- CACREP Status: Accredited, 2 Year
- CACREP Accreditation Runs: 4/1/1994 to 3/31/2020
Minnesota State University Moorhead
- CACREP Status: Accredited, 2 Year
- CACREP Accreditation Runs: 1/13/2016 to 10/31/2021
- CACREP Status: Accredited, 2 Year
- CACREP Accreditation Runs: 1/19/2006 to 10/31/2021
- CACREP Status: Accredited, 2 Year
- CACREP Accreditation Runs: 7/13/2017 to 12/10/2019
St. Cloud State University
- CACREP Status: Accredited, 8 Year
- CACREP Accreditation Runs: 1/7/2015 to 10/31/2024
- CACREP Status: Accredited, 8 Year
- CACREP Accreditation Runs: 7/1/2017 to 10/31/2021
- CACREP Status: Accredited, 8 Year
- CACREP Accreditation Runs: 4/1/2000 to 10/31/2024
Walden University
- CACREP Status: Accredited, 8 Year
- CACREP Accreditation Runs: 7/5/2015 to 3/31/2025
- CACREP Status: Accredited, 8 Year
- CACREP Accreditation Runs: 7/5/2015 to 3/31/2025
- CACREP Status: Accredited, 8 Year
- CACREP Accreditation Runs: 7/11/2012 to 3/31/2025
- CACREP Status: Accredited, 8 Year
- CACREP Accreditation Runs: 7/5/2015 to 3/31/2025
- CACREP Status: Accredited, 8 Year
- CACREP Accreditation Runs: 7/11/2012 to 3/31/2025
Winona State University
- CACREP Status: Accredited, 8 Year
- CACREP Accreditation Runs: 1/13/2016 to 3/31/2025
- CACREP Status: Accredited, 8 Year
- CACREP Accreditation Runs: 4/1/2000 to 3/31/2025
All Accredited Schools with Counseling Degrees in Minnesota
View all programs in Minnesota below, or jump to all Minnesota CACREP accredited counseling programs.
Century College White Bear Lake
- Associates - Substance Abuse and Addiction Counseling
Crossroads College Rochester
- Bachelors - Counseling Psychology
Crown College Saint Bonifacius
- Bachelors - Counseling Psychology
Mesabi Range College Virginia
- Associates - Substance Abuse and Addiction Counseling
Metropolitan State University Saint Paul
- Bachelors - Substance Abuse and Addiction Counseling
Minneapolis Community and Technical College Minneapolis
- Associates - Substance Abuse and Addiction Counseling
Minnesota State University Mankato Mankato
- Ed.D. in Counselor Education and Supervision
- M.S. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
- M.S. in Rehabilitation Counseling
- M.S. in School Counseling
- M.S. in Student Affairs and College Counseling
Minnesota State University Moorhead Moorhead
- M.S. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
- M.S. in School Counseling
- M.S. in Student Affairs and College Counseling
Minnesota State University-Mankato Mankato
- Bachelors - Substance Abuse and Addiction Counseling
- Doctorate - School Counseling
North Central University Minneapolis
- Bachelors - Substance Abuse and Addiction Counseling
Rochester Community and Technical College Rochester
- Associates - Substance Abuse and Addiction Counseling
Saint Cloud State University Saint Cloud
- Bachelors - Substance Abuse and Addiction Counseling
Saint Marys University of Minnesota Winona
- Doctorate - Counseling Psychology
St. Cloud State University St. Cloud
- M.S. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
- M.S. in Rehabilitation Counseling
- M.S. in School Counseling
University of St Thomas Saint Paul
- Doctorate - Counseling Psychology
Walden University Minneapolis
- M.S. in Addiction Counseling
- M.S. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
- M.S. in Marriage, Couple and Family Counseling
- M.S. in School Counseling
- Ph.D. in Counselor Education and Supervision
Winona State University Winona
- M.S. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
- M.S. in School Counseling
