List of Counseling Degrees in Montana

Montana’s counseling programs prepare students to meet the unique mental health needs of both rural and urban communities across the state. From universities in Billings, Bozeman, and Missoula to smaller regional colleges, students can pursue training in school counseling, clinical mental health, and related specialties. With a growing emphasis on expanding access to care, Montana offers strong academic programs combined with practical training experiences that prepare graduates for meaningful careers in counseling.

Undergraduate Counseling Programs in Montana

Undergraduate programs in Montana introduce students to foundational studies in psychology, human development, and counseling-related fields. While a bachelor’s degree does not lead directly to counseling licensure, it provides the groundwork for graduate study, which is required for professional practice.

Students can pursue these degrees at public universities, private colleges, and online institutions across the state. Typical coursework includes counseling theories, research methods, abnormal psychology, and lifespan development. Graduates may pursue entry-level roles in human services or continue into a master’s program to prepare for licensure.For students who want more flexibility, an online bachelor’s degree in counseling can provide a convenient way to start preparing for a counseling career while managing work or family responsibilities.

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

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

School and Program Information	Online Program? Entry Requirements	Course Information
Walden University MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling CACREP Accredited	✔ Online GRE scores not required	Mental health counselors play a valuable role in helping people cope with life’s challenges. Walden’s online MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling program can help you become the competent, compassionate counselor you know you can be. Learn More
Walden University MS in School Counseling CACREP Accredited	✔ Online GRE scores not required	School counselors help students overcome obstacles and shape successful futures. Walden’s online MS in School Counseling program will give you a solid foundation in school counseling theories, approaches, and best practices while enabling you to gain hands-on experience. Learn More
Northwestern University Online MA in Counseling CACREP Accredited	✔ Online GRE Not Required Bachelor's Required	Prepare to pursue licensure in as few as 18 months Full-time, part-time, and accelerated track options available Learn More
Northwestern University Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy COAMFTE Accredited	✔ Online GRE Not Required Bachelor's Required	The COAMFTE-accredited MFT@Northwestern is offered by The Family Institute at Northwestern University. Full-time students can complete the program in as few as 21 months. No GRE is required, but applicants must hold an undergraduate degree. Full and part-time tracks available. Learn More
Grand Canyon University Master's Degree in Counseling 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) 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

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

Graduate Counseling Programs in Montana

Graduate education is required for those who wish to become licensed counselors in Montana. The state’s universities offer master’s and doctoral programs in counseling, including CACREP-accredited online counseling programs that meet national standards for professional training. These programs prepare students for roles in clinical mental health, school counseling, and related specialties.

In addition to in-state offerings, many students explore online master’s degree in counseling options for flexibility. Applicants who prefer not to take standardized tests may also consider online master’s in counseling with no GRE requirement. For those seeking advanced specialization, leadership, or research opportunities, online counseling doctorate programs provide additional pathways.

Top Montana Schools with Counseling Programs

When selecting a counseling program in Montana, students should consider factors such as program accreditation, specialization options, and location. The following institutions represent some of the respected choices in the state and can serve as a useful starting point.

Montana State University

Featured Program: M.S. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Montana State University offers a Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling that prepares students to address mental health and relationship challenges across diverse client populations. The program integrates counseling theory, human development, learning theory, and group dynamics with the study of mental illness and dysfunctional behavior. Students complete 700 hours of supervised clinical experience in both university and community settings, including opportunities at the on-campus Human Development Clinic. Graduates are equipped with the knowledge and applied skills necessary for professional counseling practice in a variety of mental health facilities.

About Montana State University
Montana State University is a public land-grant research university located in Bozeman, Montana. It is the state’s largest university and serves as a hub for research, innovation, and community engagement. With its setting in the Rocky Mountains, MSU combines strong academic programs with extensive opportunities for experiential learning, research, and professional development.

University of Providence

Featured Program: M.S. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
The University of Providence offers a Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling designed to prepare students for licensure as professional counselors (LPC/LCPC). Accredited by CACREP, the program emphasizes ethical, culturally competent practice and includes options to specialize in Addictions Counseling or Clinical Rehabilitation Counseling. Students complete 60 credit hours, including practicum and internship experiences available through partnerships with Providence Health & Services and other clinical sites nationwide. The program follows a cohort model, combining online coursework with required on-campus sessions, and equips graduates to sit for the National Counselor Examination (NCE).

About the University of Providence
The University of Providence is a private, Catholic university located in Great Falls, Montana. Founded by the Sisters of Providence, it is dedicated to integrating faith, academics, and service in its educational mission. Through its School of Health Professions and liberal arts programs, the university emphasizes community engagement, professional preparation, and a values-centered approach to higher education.

University of Montana

Featured Program: M.A. in School Counseling
The University of Montana offers a Master of Arts in School Counseling through its Phyllis J. Washington College of Education. This 60-credit, CACREP-accredited program prepares students for licensure as school counselors in Montana. Students complete at least 700 supervised counseling hours, with a minimum of 600 in school settings, ensuring practical experience alongside rigorous coursework. The program emphasizes counseling theory, ethics, multicultural counseling, child and adolescent development, and program evaluation, equipping graduates to meet the academic, career, and social-emotional needs of students.About the University of Montana
The University of Montana is a public research university located in Missoula, Montana. As the flagship institution of the Montana University System, UM offers a wide range of academic and professional programs. Known for its strong focus on research, community engagement, and access to Montana’s natural environment, the university provides students with both high-quality academics and opportunities for hands-on learning in a vibrant campus setting.

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) (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)

How to Become a Licensed Counselor in Montana

Counselors in Montana are regulated by the Montana Board of Behavioral Health. The primary credential is the Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC), which allows for independent practice.

Here are the general steps to becoming licensed:

1. Earn a Master’s Degree in Counseling
   
   • The program must include required coursework in counseling theories, ethics, diagnosis, and supervised practicum/internship experiences. CACREP-accredited programs are recommended.
     
2. Apply for Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor Candidate (LCPC-C) Status
   
   • This provisional credential allows graduates to begin practicing under supervision while working toward full licensure.
     
3. Complete Supervised Clinical Experience
   
   • Montana requires 3,000 hours of supervised post-master’s clinical counseling experience, including direct client contact.
     
4. Pass the National Examination
   
   • Candidates must pass the National Counselor Examination (NCE) or National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Examination (NCMHCE).
     
5. Apply for Full LCPC Licensure
   
   • Once supervised hours and examination requirements are met, candidates may apply for independent licensure as an LCPC.
     
6. Maintain Licensure
   
   • Continuing education is required for each renewal period, including coursework in ethics.
     

Helpful resources to explore:

• Learn more about the licensed professional counselor (LPC) credential and its equivalents
  
• A step-by-step guide on how to become a licensed professional counselor
  
• General overview of how to become a counselor

Counseling Licensure Titles in Montana

The Montana Board of Behavioral Health oversees counseling licensure, which includes the following titles:

• Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor Candidate (LCPC-C)
  • A provisional license that allows graduates of master’s counseling programs to practice under supervision while completing post-master’s clinical experience hours.
    
• Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC)
  • The independent counseling license in Montana. LCPCs may assess, diagnose, and provide counseling services across clinical, community, and private practice settings. They may also supervise LCPC-C counselors.
    
• Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) and Candidate (LMFT-C)
  • The LMFT license is for professionals who provide therapy to couples and families, addressing relationship dynamics and mental health issues within a family context. The LMFT-C is a supervised provisional license that allows new graduates to gain required post-master’s clinical experience before independent practice.
    
• Licensed Addiction Counselor (LAC) and Candidate (ACLC)
  • The LAC credential authorizes professionals to provide assessment, diagnosis, and treatment for substance use disorders. The ACLC is the supervised candidate license for those completing post-master’s clinical experience hours.

School Counselor Endorsement

Administered through the Montana Office of Public Instruction, this credential is required for professionals working in K–12 schools. It requires a master’s degree in school counseling and a supervised practicum or internship.

These licensure pathways allow counseling professionals in Montana to serve in clinical, educational, and community-based roles.

Transferring a Counseling License to Montana

Counselors licensed in another state may be eligible to practice in Montana through licensure by endorsement, overseen by the Montana Board of Behavioral Health.

Applicants must:

• Hold a current counseling license in good standing from another state
  
• Provide verification of licensure and exam results (such as the NCE or NCMHCE)
  
• Submit transcripts from a qualifying master’s or doctoral counseling program
  
• Document supervised clinical experience equivalent to Montana’s requirements (3,000 hours of post-master’s experience, including direct client work)
  

Montana does not offer blanket reciprocity agreements. Each application is reviewed individually to determine if the applicant’s education and professional experience are substantially equivalent to state requirements.

For the most up-to-date details, visit the Montana Board of Behavioral Health.

Counseling Scholarships and Financial Aid in Montana

Students pursuing counseling degrees in Montana can access a variety of scholarships, grants, and financial aid opportunities offered by the state, universities, and professional organizations.

Some resources to explore include:

• Montana University System Scholarships
  
  • Offers a range of merit- and need-based scholarships for students attending public universities across the state.
    
• Montana State Grant Program
  
  • Provides need-based aid to eligible Montana residents enrolled at participating institutions.
    
• University Scholarships and Assistantships
  
  • Institutions such as Montana State University, the University of Providence, and the University of Montana offer scholarships, fellowships, and graduate assistantships for counseling students.
    
• Professional Association Awards
  
  • Groups such as the Montana Counseling Association (MCA) and national organizations like the American Counseling Association (ACA) may offer scholarships, grants, or student awards.
    
• Loan Forgiveness Programs
  
  • Counselors working in underserved areas may qualify for federal Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) or Teacher Loan Forgiveness programs.
    

Students should also connect with their institution’s financial aid office for school-specific awards and application deadlines.

Counseling Job Outlook and Salary in Montana

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 Montana.

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)

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

Colorado Christian University 🗹 Online 🗗 Masters

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

CACREP Accredited

Learn More

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

All Accredited Schools with Counseling Degrees in Montana

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

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

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

What is the difference between an LCPC-C and an LCPC in Montana?
An LCPC-C (Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor Candidate) is a provisional license that allows graduates to practice under supervision while completing required hours. An LCPC is the full independent license that permits assessment, diagnosis, and treatment.

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

How long does it take to become licensed in Montana?
Most students spend about 6–7 years from starting a bachelor’s program to earning full LCPC licensure, including graduate study and 3,000 supervised hours.

Can I transfer my counseling license from another state to Montana?
Yes. Montana 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 LCPCs in Montana?
Licensed counselors must complete continuing education each renewal cycle, including coursework in ethics.

Making a Counseling Career in Montana

Montana offers counseling professionals the chance to build meaningful careers in both urban and rural settings. With its wide-open landscapes and many small communities, the state has a particular need for counselors willing to serve in areas where access to mental health services is limited. At the same time, cities like Billings, Bozeman, and Missoula provide opportunities in schools, healthcare systems, and private practice.

Some highlights of pursuing a counseling career in Montana include:

• High demand in rural regions — where access to licensed counselors is limited.
  
• Variety of practice settings — including schools, community mental health centers, hospitals, and private practice.
  
• Supportive professional community — groups like the Montana Counseling Association (MCA) provide networking, continuing education, and advocacy.
  

For those passionate about helping others, Montana offers both the academic training and career opportunities needed to thrive as a counselor.