Students pursuing counseling degrees in Mississippi will find options that combine strong academic foundations with hands-on training. The state’s universities and colleges emphasize preparing future counselors to address the unique needs of both rural and urban communities. Whether your interests lie in school counseling, clinical mental health, or community services, Mississippi’s programs provide opportunities to build the skills necessary for a meaningful career in the helping professions.
Undergraduate Counseling Programs in Mississippi
Undergraduate programs in Mississippi introduce students to the core concepts of psychology, human development, and counseling. While a bachelor’s degree alone does not qualify graduates for counseling licensure, it sets the stage for advanced training at the graduate level.
Students can find these programs at both public and private colleges across the state. Common coursework includes counseling theories, abnormal psychology, family systems, and research methods. Graduates often pursue entry-level roles in social services or continue to a master’s program to meet licensure requirements.For students who prefer added flexibility, an online bachelor’s degree in counseling is another way to start preparing for a counseling career while balancing work and personal responsibilities.
Graduate Counseling Programs in Mississippi
Graduate education is essential for those seeking counseling licensure in Mississippi. The state is home to universities offering master’s and doctoral degrees in counseling, including CACREP-accredited online counseling degree programs that prepare students for professional roles in clinical mental health, school counseling, and related fields.
In addition to in-state opportunities, many students look to online master’s degree in counseling programs for greater flexibility. Applicants who prefer programs without standardized test requirements may consider online master’s in counseling without a GRE. For advanced specialization in research, leadership, or clinical practice, students may also pursue online counseling PhD programs.
| Institution | City | Specialty | Degree | Online Options? |
| Delta State University | Cleveland | School Counseling | M.Ed. | |
| Delta State University | Cleveland | Clinical Mental Health Counseling | M.Ed. | |
| Jackson State University | Jackson | School Counseling | M.S.Ed. | |
| Jackson State University | Jackson | Clinical Mental Health Counseling | M.S. | |
| Jackson State University | Jackson | Rehabilitation Counseling | M.S. | |
| Mississippi College | Clinton | Marriage, Couple and Family Counseling | M.S. | |
| Mississippi College | Clinton | School Counseling | M.Ed. | |
| Mississippi College | Clinton | Clinical Mental Health Counseling | M.S. | |
| Mississippi State University | Starkville | Counselor Education and Supervision | Ph.D. | |
| Mississippi State University | Starkville | School Counseling | M.S. | Y |
| Mississippi State University | Starkville | Clinical Mental Health Counseling | M.S. | Y |
| Mississippi State University | Starkville | Rehabilitation Counseling | M.S. | Y |
| Reformed Theological Seminary | Jackson | Clinical Mental Health Counseling | M.A. | |
| University of Mississippi | University | School Counseling | M.Ed. | |
| University of Mississippi | University | Counselor Education and Supervision | Ph.D. | |
| University of Mississippi | University | Clinical Mental Health Counseling | M.Ed. |
Top Mississippi Schools with Counseling Programs
When deciding where to study counseling in Mississippi, it’s important to remember that the “best” program depends on your career goals, learning preferences, and desired specialization. The following institutions represent some of the respected options in the state and can serve as a helpful starting point for your search.
University of Mississippi
Featured Program: M.Ed. in Counselor Education
The University of Mississippi offers a Master of Education in Counselor Education with emphasis areas in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and School Counseling. The Clinical Mental Health Counseling track prepares students to become professional counselors who combine traditional psychotherapy with practical, problem-solving approaches to support diverse client needs. The 60-credit-hour program is designed to develop counseling skills, ethical awareness, and the ability to address the academic, career, and social-emotional needs of individuals in a variety of settings.
About the University of Mississippi
The University of Mississippi, commonly known as Ole Miss, is a public research university located in Oxford, Mississippi. As the state’s flagship institution, it offers a wide range of academic and professional programs and is recognized for its vibrant campus community. Its School of Education emphasizes practical training and community engagement, preparing students for careers in counseling, education, and leadership.
Mississippi State University
Featured Program: M.S. in School Counseling
Mississippi State University offers a Master of Science in School Counseling through its College of Education. Accredited by CACREP and NCATE, the program prepares graduates for licensure as school counselors in Mississippi and provides training in counseling theory, skills, assessment, and group techniques. Students gain experience through coursework, practicum, and internships in pre-K–12 settings, learning to implement comprehensive school counseling programs aligned with state and national models. Graduates are equipped to serve as advocates, leaders, and support agents for students, families, and schools.
About Mississippi State University
Mississippi State University is a public land-grant research institution located in Starkville, Mississippi. As one of the state’s largest universities, it offers a broad range of academic programs and is recognized for its commitment to research, outreach, and service. Its College of Education emphasizes applied learning and professional preparation, providing students with hands-on opportunities in both school and community settings.
Mississippi College
Featured Program: M.S. in Marriage and Family Counseling
Mississippi College offers a Master of Science in Marriage and Family Counseling designed to prepare students to work with individuals, couples, and families in a variety of settings, including healthcare, agencies, and churches. The 60-credit-hour program, accredited by CACREP, emphasizes systemic approaches to treatment and provides specialized training in theories, models, and techniques for family-focused counseling. Graduates complete supervised clinical training and are prepared to pursue licensure as professional counselors (LPC) and national counseling certification.About Mississippi College
Mississippi College is a private Christian university located in Clinton, Mississippi. Founded in 1826, it is the oldest institution of higher learning in the state and is affiliated with the Mississippi Baptist Convention. The university emphasizes faith-based education, academic excellence, and service, offering a range of undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs in a supportive community setting.
Here are a few schools in Mississippi with CACREP-accredited counseling programs:
- Delta State University: M.Ed. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
- M.Ed. in School Counseling
- Jackson State University: M.S. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
- M.S. in Rehabilitation Counseling
- M.S.Ed. in School Counseling
- Mississippi College: M.Ed. in School Counseling
- M.S. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
- M.S. in Marriage, Couple and Family Counseling
- Mississippi State University: M.S. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Click to jump to the full list of Mississippi 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
CACREP 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 |
✔ 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
CACREP Accredited |
✔ 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
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 Mississippi
Counselors in Mississippi are regulated by the Mississippi State Board of Examiners for Licensed Professional Counselors. The primary credential is the Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC).
Here are the general steps to becoming licensed:
- Earn a Master’s Degree in Counseling
- The program must include the required coursework and supervised practicum/internship. CACREP-accredited programs are highly recommended.
- The program must include the required coursework and supervised practicum/internship. CACREP-accredited programs are highly recommended.
- Apply for Provisional Licensure (P-LPC)
- After graduation, candidates apply for the Provisional Licensed Professional Counselor (P-LPC) credential, which allows them to begin supervised practice.
- After graduation, candidates apply for the Provisional Licensed Professional Counselor (P-LPC) credential, which allows them to begin supervised practice.
- Complete Supervised Clinical Experience
- Mississippi requires 3,000 hours of supervised counseling experience, with at least 1,200 hours of direct client contact.
- Mississippi requires 3,000 hours of supervised counseling experience, with at least 1,200 hours of direct client contact.
- Pass the National Counselor Examination (NCE)
- Candidates must pass this exam administered by the National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC).
- Candidates must pass this exam administered by the National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC).
- Apply for Full LPC Licensure
- Once supervised hours and exam requirements are complete, candidates may apply for full independent LPC licensure.
- Once supervised hours and exam requirements are complete, candidates may apply for full independent LPC licensure.
- Maintain Licensure
- LPCs must complete continuing education each renewal cycle, including coursework in ethics.
- LPCs must complete continuing education each renewal cycle, including coursework in ethics.
Helpful resources to explore:
- Learn more about the LPC credential
- Step-by-step guide on how to become an LPC
- General information on how to become a counselor
Counseling Licensure Titles in Mississippi
The Mississippi State Board of Examiners for Licensed Professional Counselors recognizes the following counseling licenses:
- Provisional Licensed Professional Counselor (P-LPC)
- A temporary license for counseling graduates who have completed a qualifying master’s degree. The P-LPC allows individuals to practice under supervision while completing required clinical hours.
- A temporary license for counseling graduates who have completed a qualifying master’s degree. The P-LPC allows individuals to practice under supervision while completing required clinical hours.
- Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC)
- The full independent counseling license in Mississippi. LPCs may diagnose, treat, and provide counseling services across clinical, community, and private practice settings.
- The full independent counseling license in Mississippi. LPCs may diagnose, treat, and provide counseling services across clinical, community, and private practice settings.
- Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor (LPC-S)
- An optional credential for experienced LPCs who wish to provide board-approved supervision to P-LPCs and other license candidates. Requires additional experience, training, and Board approval.
- An optional credential for experienced LPCs who wish to provide board-approved supervision to P-LPCs and other license candidates. Requires additional experience, training, and Board approval.
School Counselor License
Managed by the Mississippi Department of Education, this credential is required for those who wish to work in K–12 schools. It requires a master’s degree in school counseling and supervised practicum experience.
These licensure titles give counseling professionals in Mississippi clear pathways to practice in both clinical and educational environments.
Transferring a Counseling License to Mississippi
Counselors licensed in another state may be able to practice in Mississippi through licensure by endorsement, overseen by the Mississippi State Board of Examiners for Licensed Professional Counselors.
Applicants must:
- Hold an active counseling license in good standing from another state
- Provide official verification of licensure and exam results (such as the NCE)
- Submit transcripts from a qualifying graduate counseling program
- Document supervised clinical experience equivalent to Mississippi’s requirements (3,000 hours, including 1,200 direct client hours)
Mississippi does not have universal reciprocity with other states. Each application is reviewed individually to ensure that education, supervised experience, and examination results meet the state’s standards.
Counseling Scholarships and Financial Aid in Mississippi
Students in Mississippi pursuing counseling degrees can access a range of financial aid resources, including state programs, university-based awards, and professional association support.
Here are some opportunities to explore:
- Mississippi Tuition Assistance Grant (MTAG)
- Provides financial assistance to eligible Mississippi residents attending approved in-state colleges and universities.
- Provides financial assistance to eligible Mississippi residents attending approved in-state colleges and universities.
- Mississippi Eminent Scholars Grant (MESG)
- Awarded to high-achieving Mississippi students based on academic performance, which can be applied toward undergraduate studies.
- Awarded to high-achieving Mississippi students based on academic performance, which can be applied toward undergraduate studies.
- University Scholarships and Assistantships
- Schools such as the University of Mississippi, Mississippi State University, and Mississippi College offer scholarships, graduate assistantships, and fellowships for counseling students.
- Schools such as the University of Mississippi, Mississippi State University, and Mississippi College offer scholarships, graduate assistantships, and fellowships for counseling students.
- Professional Association Awards
- Organizations like the Mississippi Counseling Association (MCA) and national groups such as the American Counseling Association (ACA) may provide scholarships, small research grants, or student support programs.
- Organizations like the Mississippi Counseling Association (MCA) and national groups such as the American Counseling Association (ACA) may provide scholarships, small research grants, or student support programs.
- Loan Forgiveness Programs
- Counselors working in high-need areas may qualify for federal programs such as Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) or Teacher Loan Forgiveness.
- Counselors working in high-need areas may qualify for federal programs such as Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) or Teacher Loan Forgiveness.
Students should also consult their institution’s financial aid office for updated deadlines and scholarship opportunities.
Counseling Job Outlook and Salary in Mississippi
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 Mississippi.
| Median Annual Wage in Mississippi (May 2024) | Median Annual Wage Nationally (May 2024) | Projected Growth in Mississippi (2022–2032) | Projected National Growth (2022–2032) | |
| Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors | $46,810 | $59,190 | 12.1% | 18.4% |
| Rehabilitation Counselors | $45,950 | $46,110 | 6.4% | 1.9% |
| Educational, Guidance, and Career Counselors | $59,630 | $65,140 | 9.6% | 5.4% |
| Marriage and Family Therapists | $51,260 | $63,780 | N/A | 14.9% |
| Counselors, Other | $44,040 | $49,830 | 18.2% | 17.3% |
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 (CACREP Accredited)
Liberty University - MA: Clinical Mental Health Counseling (CACREP Accredited)
National University - Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling (WSCUC Accredited)
University of Denver - Master of Arts in School Counseling (CACREP Accredited)
Mid-America Christian University (MACU) - Master of Science (MS) in Counseling (Higher Learning Commission (HLC) Accredited)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Do I need a master’s degree to become a counselor in Mississippi?
Yes. A master’s degree in counseling or a closely related field is required to become licensed as a Professional Counselor in the state.
What is the difference between a P-LPC and an LPC in Mississippi?
A P-LPC (Provisional Licensed Professional Counselor) is a temporary license that allows graduates to practice under supervision. An LPC (Licensed Professional Counselor) is the independent license that allows for full clinical practice.
Are online counseling degrees accepted in Mississippi?
Yes. Online counseling programs are accepted if they are properly accredited and meet the state’s coursework and practicum requirements for licensure.
How long does it take to become licensed in Mississippi?
On average, students spend 6–7 years from beginning a bachelor’s degree to earning full LPC licensure, including graduate school and supervised clinical experience.
Can I transfer my counseling license from another state to Mississippi?
Yes. Mississippi allows licensure by endorsement if your education, supervised hours, and exam results are substantially equivalent to state standards.
What are the continuing education requirements for counselors in Mississippi?
Licensed counselors must complete continuing education each renewal cycle, including coursework in ethics and professional practice.
Making a Counseling Career in Mississippi
Mississippi offers counseling professionals the opportunity to make a meaningful impact in both urban centers and rural communities. With rising demand for mental health services across the state, counselors play an important role in schools, healthcare systems, nonprofit organizations, and private practice.
Some highlights of pursuing a counseling career in Mississippi include:
- Strong demand for services — especially in underserved rural areas where access to mental health care is limited.
- Diverse practice settings — including K–12 schools, universities, hospitals, rehabilitation centers, and community mental health agencies.
- Professional support — organizations like the Mississippi Counseling Association (MCA) provide continuing education, advocacy, and networking opportunities for professionals.
For students and professionals committed to supporting others, Mississippi provides both the academic pathways and career opportunities to thrive in the counseling profession.
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
The Chicago School 🗹 Online 🗗 Masters
Schools With Campus-Based CACREP Accredited Mississippi 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 Mississippi. Keep scrolling or jump to all programs for all programs or view online CACREP accredited counseling programs.
Delta State University
- CACREP Status: Accredited, 8 Year (Re-Accreditation In-Process)
- CACREP Accreditation Runs: 7/4/2011 to 10/31/2020
- CACREP Status: Accredited, 8 Year (Re-Accreditation In-Process)
- CACREP Accreditation Runs: 10/1/1995 to 10/31/2020
Jackson State University
- CACREP Status: Accredited, 8 Year
- CACREP Accreditation Runs: 1/9/2014 to 10/31/2023
- CACREP Status: Accredited, 8 Year
- CACREP Accreditation Runs: 7/1/2017 to 10/31/2023
- CACREP Status: Accredited, 8 Year
- CACREP Accreditation Runs: 1/16/2008 to 10/31/2023
Mississippi College
- CACREP Status: Accredited, 8 Year
- CACREP Accreditation Runs: 9/1/1999 to 10/31/2024
- CACREP Status: Accredited, 8 Year
- CACREP Accreditation Runs: 9/1/1999 to 10/31/2024
- CACREP Status: Accredited, 8 Year
- CACREP Accreditation Runs: 9/1/1999 to 10/31/2024
Mississippi State University
- CACREP Status: Accredited, 8 Year
- CACREP Accreditation Runs: 7/11/2012 to 3/31/2022
- CACREP Status: Accredited, 8 Year
- CACREP Accreditation Runs: 7/1/2017 to 10/31/2025
- CACREP Status: Accredited, 8 Year
- CACREP Accreditation Runs: 3/1/1985 to 3/31/2022
- CACREP Status: Accredited, 8 Year
- CACREP Accreditation Runs: 11/1/1989 to 3/31/2022
- CACREP Status: Accredited, 8 Year
- CACREP Accreditation Runs: 11/1/1989 to 3/31/2022
University of Mississippi
- CACREP Status: Accredited, 8 Year
- CACREP Accreditation Runs: 7/12/2016 to 10/31/2024
- CACREP Status: Accredited, 8 Year
- CACREP Accreditation Runs: 9/1/1999 to 10/31/2024
- CACREP Status: Accredited, 8 Year
- CACREP Accreditation Runs: 9/1/1999 to 10/31/2024
All Accredited Schools with Counseling Degrees in Mississippi
View all programs in Mississippi below, or jump to all Mississippi CACREP accredited counseling programs.
Delta State University Cleveland
- M.Ed. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
- M.Ed. in School Counseling
Jackson State University Jackson
- M.S. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
- M.S. in Rehabilitation Counseling
- M.S.Ed. in School Counseling
Mississippi College Clinton
- Doctorate - Counseling Psychology
- M.Ed. in School Counseling
- M.S. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
- M.S. in Marriage, Couple and Family Counseling
Mississippi State University Mississippi State
- Doctorate - School Counseling
- 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
- Ph.D. in Counselor Education and Supervision
University of Mississippi University
- Doctorate - School Counseling
- M.Ed. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
- M.Ed./Ed.S. in School Counseling
- Ph.D. in Counselor Education and Supervision
University of Southern Mississippi Hattiesburg
- Doctorate - Counseling Psychology
