List of Counseling Degrees in Missouri

From major cities like St. Louis and Kansas City to small towns across the Midwest, Missouri offers a range of counseling degree opportunities. Students can pursue programs at large public universities, private colleges, and online institutions, preparing for careers in school counseling, clinical mental health, marriage and family therapy, and more. With a growing demand for mental health professionals, Missouri’s counseling programs provide both the academic foundation and practical experience needed to enter the field.

Undergraduate Counseling Programs in Missouri

Undergraduate programs in Missouri give students a strong foundation in psychology, counseling theories, and human development. While a bachelor’s degree does not qualify graduates for licensure, it is an essential first step toward graduate study in counseling.

Students can pursue counseling-related programs at Missouri’s public universities, private colleges, and online institutions. Coursework often covers developmental psychology, research methods, abnormal psychology, and introductory counseling skills. Graduates may enter human services roles or continue into master’s programs to pursue licensure.For those seeking flexibility, an online bachelor’s degree in counseling can be a convenient way to begin preparing for a counseling career while balancing work or family responsibilities.

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 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

Graduate Counseling Programs in Missouri

Graduate education is required for those pursuing counseling licensure in Missouri. The state is home to several universities offering master’s and doctoral programs in counseling, including CACREP-accredited counseling programs that meet national standards for training. These programs prepare students for careers in school counseling, clinical mental health counseling, marriage and family therapy, and other specialties.

In addition to in-state programs, many students explore online master’s degree in counseling options for added flexibility. Some institutions also offer online master’s in counseling with no GRE, which can simplify the admissions process. For advanced study in research, leadership, or teaching, students may also consider online counseling PhD programs.

Top Missouri Schools with Counseling Programs

Choosing the right counseling program depends on your career goals, personal interests, and preferred learning style. The following institutions represent some of the respected options in Missouri and can serve as a strong starting point for your search.

Truman State University

Featured Program: M.A. in Counseling: Mental Health Counseling
Truman State University offers an online Master of Arts in Counseling with a concentration in Mental Health Counseling. The program combines best practices in counselor education with the flexibility of online learning, while still emphasizing essential personal interaction and clinical training. Designed to prepare graduates for professional licensure, the program equips future counselors with the skills to support clients in navigating personal challenges, developing positive habits, and making meaningful life changes.

About Truman State University
Truman State University is a public liberal arts and sciences university located in Kirksville, Missouri. Known as the state’s only public liberal arts and sciences institution, it emphasizes small classes, rigorous academics, and close student-faculty engagement. Truman fosters a supportive learning environment while offering both undergraduate and graduate programs grounded in a tradition of academic excellence and community service.

Evangel University

Featured Program: M.S. in School Counseling (Online)
Evangel University offers an online Master of Science in School Counseling designed to prepare graduates to deliver comprehensive, faith-integrated counseling services in school settings. Accredited by CACREP through 2027, the program blends theoretical and practical training with hands-on field experiences. Students are equipped to pursue licensure and certification exams, including the National Counselor Exam (NCE) and the Missouri Content Assessment (MOCA). The degree can be completed in as few as seven semesters through an accelerated track or in nine semesters on the standard plan.

About Evangel University
Evangel University is a private Christian liberal arts institution located in Springfield, Missouri. Affiliated with the Assemblies of God, the university offers more than 70 academic programs that integrate faith, learning, and professional preparation. Known for its supportive, values-centered community, Evangel combines rigorous academics with a commitment to spiritual growth and service.

Missouri State University

Featured Program: M.S. in Counseling
Missouri State University offers a Master of Science in Counseling with two CACREP-accredited tracks: Clinical Mental Health Counseling and School Counseling. The program, housed in the McQueary College of Health and Human Services, prepares students to become licensed counselors in Missouri. With a focus on both theory and practice, students gain skills in areas such as human development, multicultural counseling, assessment, and program evaluation, supported by practicum and internship experiences. Graduates are equipped to provide ethical, culturally responsive care in diverse clinical and educational settings.About Missouri State University
Missouri State University is a public university located in Springfield, Missouri, with additional campuses in West Plains and through international partnerships in China. As the second-largest university in the state, it offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs. The university emphasizes public affairs, community engagement, and hands-on learning, providing students with opportunities to apply their studies in real-world contexts.

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

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

*Sponsored Counseling Programs

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

How to Become a Licensed Counselor in Missouri

Counselors in Missouri are regulated by the Committee for Professional Counselors, part of the Missouri Division of Professional Registration. The state’s main credential is the Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), with graduates first earning a Provisional Licensed Professional Counselor (PLPC) designation.

Here are the general steps:

1. Earn a Master’s Degree in Counseling
   
   • The program must include required coursework in counseling theory, ethics, human development, and clinical practice, along with supervised practicum/internship.
     
2. Apply for Provisional Licensure (PLPC)
   
   • After graduation, candidates apply for PLPC status, which allows them to practice under supervision while completing post-master’s requirements.
     
3. Complete Supervised Clinical Experience
   
   • Missouri requires 3,000 hours of supervised counseling experience, including at least 1,200 direct client contact hours.
     
4. Pass the Required Examination
   
   • Candidates must pass the National Counselor Examination (NCE).
     
5. Apply for Full LPC Licensure
   
   • Once supervision and exam requirements are complete, counselors may apply for full independent LPC licensure.
     
6. Maintain Licensure
   
   • LPCs must complete continuing education credits for each renewal period, 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 overview of how to become a counselor

Counseling Licensure Titles in Missouri

The Committee for Professional Counselors oversees most counseling licensure in Missouri, which includes the following titles:

• Provisional Licensed Professional Counselor (PLPC)
  
  • An entry-level license for graduates of master’s counseling programs. PLPCs may practice under supervision while completing required post-master’s clinical hours.
    
• Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC)
  
  • The full independent counseling license in Missouri. LPCs may diagnose, treat, and provide counseling services across a variety of settings. They may also supervise PLPCs.
    

School Counselor Certification

• Managed by the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education, this credential is required for professionals who wish to work in K–12 schools. It requires a graduate degree in school counseling, along with supervised fieldwork.
  

These licensure options allow counseling professionals in Missouri to pursue careers in both clinical and educational 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 (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)

Transferring a Counseling License to Missouri

Counselors licensed in another state may be able to practice in Missouri through licensure by reciprocity or endorsement, overseen by the Committee for Professional Counselors.

Applicants must:

• Hold an active counseling license in good standing from another state
  
• Provide verification of current licensure and NCE exam results (such as the NCE or NCMHCE)
  
• Submit official transcripts from a qualifying graduate counseling program
  
• Document supervised clinical experience equivalent to Missouri’s requirement of 3,000 hours (including 1,200 direct client hours)
  

Missouri does not have blanket reciprocity agreements. Each application is reviewed individually to ensure that prior education, exams, and supervised experience meet Missouri’s standards.

For the most up-to-date details, visit the Missouri Committee for Professional Counselors.

Counseling Scholarships and Financial Aid in Missouri

Students pursuing counseling degrees in Missouri can access a variety of financial aid resources, including state programs, institutional scholarships, and professional association opportunities.

Some options to consider include:

• Access Missouri Financial Assistance Program
  
  • A need-based grant program available to eligible Missouri residents attending approved institutions.
    
• Bright Flight Program
  
  • A merit-based scholarship for Missouri students who score in the top 3% on the ACT or SAT.
    
• University Scholarships and Assistantships
  
  • Institutions such as Truman State University, Evangel University, and Missouri State University offer scholarships, fellowships, and graduate assistantships for counseling students.
    
• Professional Association Awards
  
  • The Missouri Counseling Association (MCA) and national organizations such as the American Counseling Association (ACA) may offer scholarships, grants, or recognition awards for counseling students.
    
• Loan Forgiveness Programs
  
  • Counselors working in underserved areas may qualify for federal Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) or Teacher Loan Forgiveness programs.
    

Students are encouraged to explore their school’s financial aid office for institution-specific opportunities and application deadlines.

Counseling Job Outlook and Salary in Missouri

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 Missouri.

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

CACREP Accredited

Learn More

Liberty University 🗹 Online

MA: Clinical Mental Health Counseling

CACREP Accredited

Learn More

National University 🗹 Online Courses Start Weekly

Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling

WSCUC Accredited

Learn More

University of Denver 🗹 Online 🗗 Masters

Master of Arts in School Counseling

CACREP Accredited

Learn More

Mid-America Christian University (MACU) 🗹 Online

Master of Science (MS) in Counseling

Higher Learning Commission (HLC) Accredited

Learn More

The Chicago School 🗹 Online 🗗 Masters

M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling

CACREP Accredited

Learn More

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

All Accredited Schools with Counseling Degrees in Missouri

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

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Do I need a master’s degree to become a counselor in Missouri?
Yes. Missouri requires at least a master’s degree in counseling or a closely related field to qualify for licensure.

What is the difference between a PLPC and an LPC in Missouri?
A PLPC (Provisional Licensed Professional Counselor) is the initial license that allows graduates to practice under supervision. An LPC (Licensed Professional Counselor) is the full license that allows independent practice, including diagnosis and treatment.

Are online counseling degrees accepted in Missouri?
Yes. Online counseling programs are accepted if they are properly accredited and meet Missouri’s coursework and supervised practicum requirements.

How long does it take to become licensed in Missouri?
Most students spend about 6–7 years from starting a bachelor’s program to earning LPC licensure, including graduate school and supervised experience.

Can I transfer my counseling license from another state to Missouri?
Yes. Missouri allows licensure by reciprocity/endorsement if your education, supervised hours, and exam results are substantially equivalent to state standards.

What are the continuing education requirements for LPCs in Missouri?
Licensed Professional Counselors must complete continuing education each renewal cycle, including ethics training.

Making a Counseling Career in Missouri

Missouri offers a diverse range of opportunities for aspiring counselors, from urban practice in cities like St. Louis and Kansas City to rural communities where access to mental health care is limited. Counselors in the state play vital roles in schools, hospitals, community organizations, and private practice.

Some highlights of pursuing a counseling career in Missouri include:

• High demand for services — particularly in underserved rural and urban areas.
  
• Varied career pathways — including school counseling, clinical mental health, marriage and family therapy, and substance use treatment.
  
• Supportive professional networks — organizations such as the Missouri Counseling Association (MCA) offer continuing education, advocacy, and networking opportunities.
  

For those dedicated to helping others, Missouri provides both the educational programs and professional opportunities needed to build a rewarding career in counseling.