South Dakota may be a small state in terms of population, but it offers valuable opportunities for students pursuing counseling degrees. With programs designed to prepare graduates for work in schools, community agencies, private practice, and healthcare settings, South Dakota provides a pathway into meaningful careers in mental health and education. Whether you’re beginning with undergraduate studies or pursuing advanced graduate-level training, South Dakota’s colleges and universities can help you take the next step toward becoming a professional counselor.
Undergraduate Counseling Programs in South Dakota
Students in South Dakota who are interested in becoming counselors typically start with undergraduate studies in psychology, human services, or related majors. These programs provide foundational knowledge in human development, counseling theory, and communication skills, often with opportunities for fieldwork or internships.For those seeking added flexibility, an online counseling bachelor’s degree may be a convenient way to prepare for the graduate study that is usually required for licensure.
Graduate Counseling Programs in South Dakota
Graduate counseling programs in South Dakota provide the advanced coursework and supervised training required for professional licensure. At the master’s and doctoral level, students can pursue specialized training in areas such as school counseling, clinical mental health counseling, and marriage and family therapy.
Several programs in the state align with national standards, including CACREP-accredited online counseling programs. Students may also explore flexible study options such as an online counseling master’s degree, an online master’s in counseling with no GRE requirement, or online counseling doctorate programs.
| Institution | City | Specialty | Degree | Online Options? |
| Northern State University | Aberdeen | Clinical Mental Health Counseling | M.S.Ed. | Y |
| Northern State University | Aberdeen | School Counseling | M.S.Ed. | Y |
| South Dakota State University | Brookings | School Counseling | M.S. | Y |
| South Dakota State University | Brookings | Student Affairs and College Counseling | M.S. | Y |
| South Dakota State University | Brookings | Clinical Mental Health Counseling | M.S. | |
| South Dakota State University | Brookings | Rehabilitation Counseling | M.S. | Y |
| South Dakota State University | Brookings | Marriage, Couple and Family Counseling | M.S. | Y |
| University of South Dakota | Vermillion | School Counseling | M.A. | |
| University of South Dakota | Vermillion | Clinical Mental Health Counseling | M.A. |
Top South Dakota Schools with Counseling Programs
The right counseling program depends on your career goals, interests, and location. The following universities represent some of South Dakota’s leading options for counseling education. Use this list as a starting point in your search:
University of South Dakota
Featured Program: M.A. in Counseling
The University of South Dakota offers a CACREP-accredited Master of Arts in Counseling with two specializations: Clinical Mental Health Counseling and School Counseling (K–12). The Clinical Mental Health track prepares students to provide therapy, crisis intervention, and advocacy across a range of settings, including private practice, hospitals, and correctional facilities. The School Counseling track equips graduates to support students’ academic, social-emotional, and career development in PreK–12 schools. Both pathways emphasize cultural awareness, ethical practice, and social responsibility, with opportunities for hands-on training in USD’s on-site Counseling & School Psychological Services Center.
About the University of South Dakota
The University of South Dakota (USD) is a public research university located in Vermillion, South Dakota. As the state’s flagship institution, USD offers a wide range of undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs. Known for its small class sizes and personalized instruction, USD provides students with access to research opportunities, community engagement, and professional training. The campus combines the resources of a comprehensive university with the feel of a close-knit academic community.
South Dakota State University
Featured Program: M.S. in Counseling and Human Resource Development – Marriage and Family Counseling Specialization
South Dakota State University (SDSU) offers a 60-credit Master of Science in Counseling and Human Resource Development with a specialization in Marriage and Family Counseling. This program is designed to meet the requirements of the South Dakota Board of Counselor Examiners, preparing graduates for licensure as Marriage and Family Therapists (MFTs) after supervised clinical experience and required examinations.
About South Dakota State University
South Dakota State University, located in Brookings, South Dakota, is the state’s largest and most comprehensive public university. With strong graduate programs in education, counseling, and health sciences, SDSU emphasizes applied learning and research that directly benefits regional and national communities. The university combines the resources of a research institution with a commitment to accessible, high-quality professional training.
Northern State University
Featured Program: Counseling Master’s Degree (M.Ed.)
Northern State University offers a 60-credit, CACREP-accredited counseling master’s with pathways in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and School Counseling. Delivered in a HyFlex format (synchronous and asynchronous online options), the program combines coursework with practicum and internship experiences and emphasizes ethical practice, cultural responsiveness, and hands-on skill development. The School Counseling pathway aligns with ASCA standards, and both pathways provide preparation for professional counseling roles across school and clinical settings.
About Northern State University
Northern State University is a public university in Aberdeen, South Dakota. It offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs and emphasizes accessible, student-centered education in a small-city setting with strong ties to regional schools and community organizations.
Here are a few schools in South Dakota with CACREP-accredited counseling programs:
- Northern State University: M.S.Ed. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
- M.S.Ed. in School Counseling
- South Dakota State University: 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
- University of South Dakota: M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
- M.A. in School Counseling
- Ph.D. in Counselor Education and Supervision
Click to jump to the full list of South Dakota 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 South Dakota
Counseling licensure in South Dakota is overseen by the South Dakota Board of Examiners for Counselors & Marriage and Family Therapists. The state recognizes three primary professional licenses:
- Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) – Entry-level counseling license.
- Licensed Professional Counselor – Mental Health (LPC-MH) – Advanced counseling license required for independent clinical mental health practice; applicants must first hold the LPC.
- Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) – License for professionals specializing in couples and family therapy.
LPC Pathway — South Dakota Requirements
- Earn the qualifying graduate degree.
Applicants must complete a master’s or doctoral degree with at least 48 graduate semester hours in counseling or a closely related field from a regionally accredited institution. Coursework must include areas such as counseling theory, human development, ethics, group counseling, research, and assessment. (For LPC-MH, a 60-credit degree is required.) - Complete supervised practicum and internship.
Graduate training must include a minimum 100-hour practicum and a 600-hour internship providing supervised, direct client counseling experience. - Apply as an LPC Supervisee.
After graduation, candidates register with the Board as an LPC Supervisee in order to begin accruing supervised post-degree hours under an approved plan. - Complete post-degree supervised experience.
- For the LPC: at least 2,000 hours of supervised counseling practice over a minimum of 2 years, including 100 hours of direct supervision.
- For the LPC-MH: at least 3,000 hours of supervised post-master’s counseling experience, with at least 2,000 of those hours in direct client contact and 200 hours of supervision from a Board-approved LPC-MH supervisor.
- For the LPC: at least 2,000 hours of supervised counseling practice over a minimum of 2 years, including 100 hours of direct supervision.
- Pass the required examinations.
- For LPC: the National Counselor Examination (NCE).
- For LPC-MH: the National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Examination (NCMHCE).
Candidates must also pass the South Dakota Professional Counseling Exam, a state-specific jurisprudence test.
- For LPC: the National Counselor Examination (NCE).
- Apply for licensure.
Once supervised experience and exams are complete, candidates may apply for full licensure through the Board. - Maintain active status.
Licensed counselors must complete 40 hours of continuing education every two years, including ethics training.
For further guidance, you may want to explore:
- What a licensed professional counselor is and does
- Guidance about how to become a licensed professional counselor
- Broader information about how to become a counselor
Counseling Licensure Titles in South Dakota
South Dakota recognizes several counseling-related credentials. The main titles include:
Clinical Counseling (regulated by the South Dakota Board of Examiners for Counselors & Marriage and Family Therapists)
- Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC): A graduate-level license allowing for professional counseling under supervision.
- Licensed Professional Counselor – Mental Health (LPC-MH): The advanced clinical counseling license required for independent practice in mental health counseling.
- Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT): A license for professionals specializing in family systems and couple therapy.
School Counseling (regulated by the South Dakota Department of Education)
- School Counselor Certificate: Required to work as a counselor in PK–12 public schools. This certification is issued by the Department of Education and is separate from clinical counseling licensure.
Substance Use Disorder Counseling (regulated by the South Dakota Board of Addiction and Prevention Professionals – SDBAPP)
- Certified Addiction Counselor (CAC): An entry-level credential for substance use treatment professionals.
- Licensed Addiction Counselor (LAC): A higher-level license requiring a bachelor’s or master’s degree plus supervised clinical experience.
- Other SUD Credentials: The SDBAPP also oversees prevention and peer support certifications.
Transferring a Counseling License to South Dakota
Counselors licensed in another state may be eligible to transfer their credentials to South Dakota, depending on the license type and the regulatory body.
- Licensed Professional Counselors (LPC) and LPC-MH: Out-of-state applicants apply for licensure by reciprocity or endorsement through the South Dakota Board of Examiners for Counselors & Marriage and Family Therapists. Applicants must demonstrate that their graduate education, supervised experience, and exams are substantially equivalent to South Dakota’s requirements. If deficiencies are identified, the Board may require additional documentation, coursework, or supervised experience.
- Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFT): Out-of-state LMFTs apply through the same Board. Endorsement is possible if prior licensure standards are comparable to South Dakota’s requirements for LMFT practice.
- School Counselors: Out-of-state applicants apply through the South Dakota Department of Education. The DOE reviews transcripts, credentials, and professional experience to determine eligibility for a South Dakota school counseling certificate.
- Substance Use Counselors: Addiction counseling credentials are managed by the South Dakota Board of Addiction and Prevention Professionals (SDBAPP). Reciprocity is not automatic and depends on whether the applicant’s credential aligns with South Dakota’s standards for Certified or Licensed Addiction Counselors.
For the most current requirements, applicants should contact the appropriate authority:
- South Dakota Board of Examiners for Counselors & MFTs – Official Website
- South Dakota Department of Education – DOE Licensure
- SDBAPP – Board of Addiction & Prevention Professionals
Counseling Scholarships and Financial Aid in South Dakota
Students pursuing counseling degrees in South Dakota have access to a variety of scholarships and financial aid opportunities. Support is available through state programs, universities, and professional organizations.
Some common options include:
- State-based financial aid: Programs like the South Dakota Opportunity Scholarship provide funding for eligible in-state students pursuing higher education.
- University scholarships: Colleges such as the University of South Dakota and South Dakota State University offer scholarships and assistantships specifically for graduate students in counseling, psychology, or education programs.
- Professional associations: Groups like the South Dakota Counseling Association and national organizations such as the American Counseling Association (ACA) provide information, scholarships, fellowships, and student awards.
- Federal financial aid: By completing the FAFSA, students can access federal grants, work-study programs, and loans to help fund their degree.
Students are encouraged to work with their university’s financial aid office and explore association websites for the most up-to-date scholarship opportunities.
Counseling Job Outlook and Salary in South Dakota
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 South Dakota.
| Median Annual Wage in South Dakota (May 2024) | Median Annual Wage Nationally (May 2024) | Projected Growth in South Dakota (2022–2032) | Projected National Growth (2022–2032) | |
| Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors | $53,400 | $59,190 | 14.5% | 18.4% |
| Rehabilitation Counselors | $48,950 | $46,110 | 3.2% | 1.9% |
| Educational, Guidance, and Career Counselors | $52,450 | $65,140 | 10.0% | 5.4% |
| Marriage and Family Therapists | $51,190 | $63,780 | 0.0% | 14.9% |
| Counselors, Other | NA | $49,830 | 9.1% | 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 CACREP-accredited degree to become licensed in South Dakota?
CACREP accreditation is not required, but your graduate program must meet South Dakota’s coursework and practicum/internship requirements. Choosing a CACREP-accredited program can make the licensure process smoother and may help with license portability to other states.
How long does it take to become an LPC or LPC-MH in South Dakota?
The process generally takes 6–8 years: four years for a bachelor’s degree, two to three years for a master’s degree, and at least two additional years to complete the supervised post-graduate experience (2,000 hours for LPC, 3,000 hours for LPC-MH).
What exams are required for licensure in South Dakota?
LPC candidates must pass the National Counselor Examination (NCE), while LPC-MH candidates must pass the National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Examination (NCMHCE). All applicants must also pass South Dakota’s jurisprudence exam on laws and ethics.
Can I transfer my counseling license to South Dakota?
Yes. Out-of-state applicants may apply for licensure by reciprocity or endorsement if their education, supervision, and exams are substantially equivalent to South Dakota’s requirements.
Who regulates school counselors in South Dakota?
School counselor certification is overseen by the South Dakota Department of Education, not the Board of Examiners for Counselors.
Making a Counseling Career in South Dakota
South Dakota offers rewarding opportunities for those entering the counseling profession. Licensed counselors are needed in a variety of settings, including schools, hospitals, community mental health centers, addiction treatment facilities, and private practice. The demand for mental health and substance use professionals is particularly strong in rural and underserved areas, where access to services can be limited.
By completing the education, supervision, and licensure steps, you can join a growing network of professionals dedicated to supporting individuals and families across the state. Whether your interests lie in clinical mental health counseling, school counseling, marriage and family therapy, or addiction services, South Dakota provides multiple pathways to a meaningful and impactful 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
The Chicago School 🗹 Online 🗗 Masters
Schools With Campus-Based CACREP Accredited South Dakota 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 South Dakota. Keep scrolling or jump to all programs for all programs or view online CACREP accredited counseling programs.
Northern State University
- CACREP Status: Accredited, 8 Year
- CACREP Accreditation Runs: 1/13/2016 to 10/31/2025
- CACREP Status: Accredited, 8 Year
- CACREP Accreditation Runs: 1/13/2016 to 10/31/2025
South Dakota State University
- CACREP Status: Accredited, 8 Year
- CACREP Accreditation Runs: 7/5/2015 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: 5/1/1993 to 10/31/2023
- CACREP Status: Accredited, 8 Year
- CACREP Accreditation Runs: 5/1/1993 to 10/31/2023
University of South Dakota
- CACREP Status: Accredited, 8 Year
- CACREP Accreditation Runs: 7/14/2014 to 3/31/2024
- CACREP Status: Accredited, 8 Year
- CACREP Accreditation Runs: 9/1/1991 to 3/31/2024
- CACREP Status: Accredited, 8 Year
- CACREP Accreditation Runs: 9/1/1991 to 3/31/2024
All Accredited Schools with Counseling Degrees in South Dakota
View all programs in South Dakota below, or jump to all South Dakota CACREP accredited counseling programs.
Kilian Community College Sioux Falls
- Associates - Substance Abuse and Addiction Counseling
Northern State University Aberdeen
- M.S.Ed. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
- M.S.Ed. in School Counseling
Oglala Lakota College Kyle
- Associates - Substance Abuse and Addiction Counseling
Sinte Gleska University Mission
- Associates - Mental Health Counseling
- Bachelors - Mental Health Counseling
- Bachelors - Substance Abuse and Addiction Counseling
Sisseton Wahpeton College Sisseton
- Associates - Substance Abuse and Addiction Counseling
South Dakota State University Brookings
- 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
University of South Dakota Vermillion
- Bachelors - Substance Abuse and Addiction Counseling
- Doctorate - School Counseling
- M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
- M.A. in School Counseling
- Ph.D. in Counselor Education and Supervision
