Counseling Degree Programs in Ohio

Ohio’s strong higher education system and growing need for mental health services make it an excellent place to pursue a counseling career. Students can choose from public universities, private colleges, and flexible online programs that prepare them for work in schools, healthcare, community agencies, or private practice. With both urban centers and rural communities seeking qualified professionals, Ohio offers meaningful opportunities for future counselors.

Undergraduate Counseling Programs in Ohio

Students in Ohio who are considering careers in counseling often begin their education with an undergraduate degree in psychology, human services, or related disciplines. While a master’s degree is required for professional licensure, a bachelor’s program provides a solid foundation in communication, behavioral science, and research.

For those seeking flexibility, an online counseling bachelor’s degree can be a convenient way to prepare for graduate-level study and eventual licensure.

Click to jump to the full list of Ohio 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	✔ 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

Graduate Counseling Programs in Ohio

Graduate-level study is the essential step toward becoming a licensed counselor in Ohio. The state is home to numerous universities offering master’s and doctoral counseling programs, many of which are CACREP-accredited to ensure they meet the highest professional training standards.

Students may also consider flexible learning options such as CACREP-accredited online counseling programs, an online counseling master’s degree, or even an online master’s in counseling with no GRE requirement. For those pursuing careers in academia or advanced practice, online counseling doctorate programs may also be available.

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

Top Ohio Schools with Counseling Programs

The following institutions represent some of the leading options in Ohio for students pursuing counseling degrees. Of course, “best” is subjective — the right school depends on your goals, finances, and preferred learning environment. Use this list as a starting point in your research.

Ohio State University

Featured Program: M.A. in Counselor Education
The Master of Arts in Counselor Education at The Ohio State University offers two CACREP-accredited specializations: Clinical Mental Health Counseling and School Counseling. Ranked among the top counseling programs in the nation by U.S. News & World Report, the program prepares graduates for licensure and practice as professional counselors through rigorous academic coursework, hands-on training, and supervised field experiences. Students benefit from 100% program completion, exam pass, and job placement rates, as well as close mentorship from nationally recognized faculty. Delivered fully in person at OSU’s Columbus campus, the program emphasizes ethical practice, cultural responsiveness, and social justice advocacy, equipping graduates to serve diverse populations in schools, mental health agencies, hospitals, and community settings.

About The Ohio State University
Founded in 1870, The Ohio State University is a leading public research university located in Columbus, Ohio. With more than 60,000 students, OSU is nationally recognized for its academic excellence, robust research enterprise, and commitment to community engagement. The College of Education and Human Ecology houses the Counselor Education programs and is a hub for advancing professional practice and social impact. OSU consistently ranks among the top public universities in the United States and provides graduates with access to a strong alumni network and extensive career opportunities.

University of Dayton

Featured Program: M.S.Ed. in School Counseling
The Master of Science in Education (M.S.Ed.) in School Counseling at the University of Dayton equips students with the knowledge, skills, and dispositions to serve as professional school counselors and advocates for PK–12 students’ academic, career, and social-emotional needs. Delivered on both the Dayton and Columbus campuses, the program blends coursework with extensive professional practice, requiring 700 hours of supervised practicum and internship experience. Faculty emphasize holistic, ethical, and innovative approaches that prepare graduates to create equitable and effective school counseling programs. The program meets licensure requirements for Ohio, including preparation for the Ohio Assessment for Educators (OAE) exam in school counseling. For licensed professional counselors (LPCs), UD also offers a flexible certificate pathway to school counseling licensure, available in-person, online, or hybrid formats.

About the University of Dayton
Founded in 1850, the University of Dayton (UD) is a Catholic, Marianist research university located in Dayton, Ohio. Known for its commitment to community engagement, leadership development, and experiential learning, UD serves more than 11,000 students across undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs. With a mission grounded in service, social justice, and innovation, UD consistently ranks among the nation’s best Catholic universities and provides students with a transformative education rooted in values and practice.

Franciscan University of Steubenville

Featured Program: Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Franciscan University of Steubenville’s Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling is a CACREP-accredited, 60-credit program that integrates the Catholic intellectual tradition with evidence-based counseling practices. Students engage in rigorous coursework alongside practicum and internship experiences that prepare them to serve in diverse settings, including community mental health centers, hospitals, schools, treatment facilities, and private practice. Faculty bring more than 100 years of combined professional experience and emphasize Catholic values, especially the dignity and worth of each person. In the past three years, 100% of Franciscan graduates who took the National Counselor Examination passed, and the program’s design ensures eligibility for licensure in Ohio and preparation for licensure in most other states. Graduates leave prepared for professional counseling practice, doctoral study, and leadership roles within the counseling field.

About Franciscan University of Steubenville
Located in Steubenville, Ohio, Franciscan University is a private Catholic university renowned for combining rigorous academics with a strong faith foundation. Guided by Franciscan values, the university fosters intellectual, professional, and spiritual development across all programs. The Counseling program reflects this mission by preparing graduates who are clinically skilled, ethically grounded, and committed to serving others with compassion and cultural humility.

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)

How to Become a Licensed Counselor in Ohio

Counseling licensure in Ohio is regulated by the Counselor, Social Worker, and Marriage and Family Therapist Board under state law. Applicants may first qualify as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and then pursue advanced licensure as a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) once additional experience requirements are met.

Steps to Licensure

• Earn a graduate degree. Candidates must complete a master’s degree in clinical mental health counseling, clinical rehabilitation counseling, or a closely related area. Programs with CACREP accreditation are automatically accepted; others must meet the Board’s coursework requirements.
  
• Complete credit and content requirements. A minimum of 60 semester hours of graduate study is required, including training in psychopathology, diagnosis, evaluation, and treatment methods.
  
• Gain supervised clinical experience. To move from LPC to LPCC status, applicants must complete at least 3,000 hours of post-master’s supervised practice over a minimum of two years, under the guidance of a Board-approved supervisor.
  
• Apply for examination. Submit an application to the Board for approval to take the National Counselor Examination (NCE) or other Board-designated exam.
  
• Pass the exam and background check. Applicants must successfully pass the required exam and complete both state (BCI) and federal (FBI) background checks.
  
• Apply for licensure. Submit all documentation, including transcripts, supervision verification, references, and fees, to obtain LPC or LPCC status.
  

For a broader look at the profession, explore how to become a counselor, learn about the LPC role, and review detailed steps on how to become an LPC.

For the most current application instructions, visit the Ohio Counselor, Social Worker, and Marriage and Family Therapist Board.

Counseling Licensure Titles in Ohio

The Counselor, Social Worker, and Marriage and Family Therapist Board regulates counseling in Ohio. The state recognizes several levels of professional counseling credentials:

• Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC): The entry-level counseling license that allows individuals to practice under supervision after completing a qualifying master’s degree and passing the required exam.
  
• Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC): The advanced counseling credential in Ohio, authorizing independent practice, including the diagnosis and treatment of mental and emotional disorders. Requires additional supervised post-degree clinical experience.
  
• Supervisor Endorsement (LPCC-S): A designation available to LPCCs who meet extra training and experience standards, permitting them to supervise other counselors and trainees.
  

Other related counseling roles in Ohio include:

• School Counselor License: Issued through the Ohio Department of Education, this credential is separate from LPC/LPCC licensure and allows practice in K–12 school settings.
  
• Chemical Dependency Counselor Licensure: Managed by the Ohio Chemical Dependency Professionals Board, these credentials focus on addiction counseling and are distinct from professional counselor licenses.
  

These titles create a structured pathway for Ohio counselors to grow from supervised practice to full independent practice, with options to specialize in supervision, education, or addiction services.

Transferring a Counseling License to Ohio

Counselors who are licensed in another state may be eligible for Ohio licensure through endorsement. The Counselor, Social Worker, and Marriage and Family Therapist Board evaluates applications to determine whether the education, supervised experience, and examination requirements completed elsewhere are substantially equivalent to Ohio standards.

Applicants are generally required to submit:

• Verification of a current, unrestricted counseling license in another state
  
• Official graduate transcripts documenting completion of a qualifying counseling degree
  
• Records of supervised clinical experience, including total hours and supervision details
  
• Proof of passing a national counseling examination, such as the NCE or NCMHCE
  
• A completed application, fees, and criminal background check
  

If the Board determines that prior requirements are not fully equivalent, applicants may need to complete additional coursework, supervised hours, or examination before receiving Ohio licensure.

For current details and application materials, visit the Ohio Counselor, Social Worker, and Marriage and Family Therapist Board.

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 Ohio 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 Ohio. Keep scrolling or jump to all programs for all programs or view online CACREP accredited counseling programs.

Counseling Scholarships and Financial Aid in Ohio

Students pursuing counseling degrees in Ohio can access a variety of scholarships and funding programs to help reduce the cost of their education.

• Ohio School Counselor Association (OSCA) Graduate Student Scholarships: Awards of $1,000 are available to graduate students enrolled in Ohio school counseling programs who meet eligibility requirements.
  
• Great Minds Fellowship: A state initiative through the Ohio Department of Higher Education that provides financial support to students preparing to join the behavioral health workforce in Ohio.
  

By combining statewide programs with university-based scholarships, counseling students in Ohio can find meaningful ways to make their education more affordable.

Counseling Job Outlook and Salary in Ohio

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 Ohio.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Do I need a master’s degree to become a licensed counselor in Ohio?
Yes. Ohio requires at least a master’s degree in counseling or a related field to qualify for licensure as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC).

What are the main counseling licenses in Ohio?
The primary licenses are the Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and the Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC). Experienced LPCCs may also earn the LPCC-S endorsement, which authorizes them to supervise other counselors.

How many supervised hours are required for full licensure?
To advance from LPC to LPCC, applicants must complete at least 3,000 hours of supervised counseling experience after their graduate degree.

Which exam is required for counselor licensure in Ohio?
Applicants must pass the National Counselor Examination (NCE) or another exam accepted by the Board.

Can I transfer my counseling license from another state?
Yes. Ohio offers licensure by endorsement for qualified counselors whose education, supervised experience, and exam results are substantially equivalent to Ohio’s requirements.

Are there online counseling degree options for Ohio students?
Yes. Ohio students may pursue accredited online counseling programs, including CACREP-accredited options, that can help them meet state licensure requirements.

Making a Counseling Career in Ohio

Ohio offers a supportive environment for those pursuing counseling careers, with strong university programs, a structured licensure process, and growing demand for professionals in both rural and urban areas. Counselors in the state work in schools, hospitals, universities, community mental health agencies, and private practice, serving individuals and families across diverse communities.

With initiatives like the Great Minds Fellowship helping to expand the behavioral health workforce, Ohio is investing in the next generation of counselors. For students who want to make a positive impact, the state provides both the training and opportunities to build a rewarding career in counseling.

All Accredited Schools with Counseling Degrees in Ohio

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