Counseling programs teach you how to support people through life challenges, mental health issues, and personal growth, while equipping you with skills that are in demand across schools, clinics, workplaces, and community settings.
Pursuing a counseling degree online adds another layer of convenience. Online programs give you the flexibility to learn at your own pace, balance work or family responsibilities, and still gain a quality education without being tied to a physical campus. But not all programs are created equal, and where you study really matters. The right school can shape the skills you develop, the opportunities you have, and even how employers view your degree.
To make your choice easier, we’ve put together a list of the 10 best online counseling programs for 2025. These programs were selected based on key factors like course quality, program flexibility, accreditation, tuition affordability, and how well they prepare you for a counseling career. Take your time, explore the options, and see which program fits your goals and lifestyle best.
Top Online Counseling Degree Programs
1. University of Cincinnati
The University of Cincinnati offers one of the best online counseling programs you can find. This program is designed to give you a thorough understanding of mental health counseling, substance abuse, and marriage and family therapy, preparing you for real-world challenges in the field. It typically requires 60 credit hours to complete, and depending on your pace, you can finish it in about 2 to 3 years.
Tuition is approximately $1,000 per credit hour, making it a solid investment in your career. The program is also regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, ensuring that your degree is recognized and respected nationwide.
2. Arizona State University
Arizona State University’s online Bachelor of Science in Psychology program is for students interested in understanding human behavior and mental processes. The curriculum includes courses in cognitive psychology, social psychology, and statistical methods.
Students have the flexibility to complete the program at their own pace, with full-time students typically finishing in about four years. The program requires 120 credit hours and offers a range of elective courses to tailor the degree to individual interests. The program is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, ensuring quality education.
3. The University of Phoenix
The University of Phoenix offers an online Bachelor of Science in Psychology that’s designed to be flexible and practical for busy students. You’ll dive into topics like lifespan development, abnormal psychology, and research methods, learning how to apply what you study in real-world settings.
The program usually takes about four years for full-time students to complete, requiring 120 credit hours. There are also a variety of specializations to help you focus on the areas that match your career goals.
4. Purdue University Global
Purdue University Global offers an online Bachelor of Science in Psychology program designed for students seeking a comprehensive understanding of psychological principles. The curriculum includes courses in research methods, abnormal psychology, and human development.
Students can complete the program at their own pace, with full-time students typically finishing in about four years. The program requires 180 quarter credit hours and offers various specializations to tailor the degree to individual interests.
5. Southern New Hampshire University
Southern New Hampshire University offers an online Bachelor of Arts in Psychology program that provides students with a broad understanding of psychological concepts. The curriculum includes courses in research methods, social psychology, and abnormal psychology.
Students can complete the program at their own pace, with full-time students typically finishing in about four years. The program requires 120 credit hours and offers various specializations to suit individual career goals.
The program is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education, ensuring academic quality.
6. University of Southern California
The University of Southern California offers an online counselling program designed for students seeking advanced knowledge in psychology. The curriculum includes courses in organizational psychology, consumer behavior, and research methods.
Students can complete the program in about two years, requiring 32 credit units. The program is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges, ensuring quality education.
7. Northwestern University
Northwestern University offers an online Counseling program that prepares students for licensure as professional counselors. The curriculum includes courses in clinical mental health counseling, multicultural counseling, and research methods.
Students can complete the program in about two years, requiring 72 quarter credit hours. Tuition is competitive, and financial aid is available. The program is accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP), ensuring high academic standards.
8. Wake Forest University
Wake Forest University offers an online Counseling program designed for students seeking to become licensed professional counselors. The curriculum includes courses in counseling theories, ethics, and research methods. Students can complete the program in about two years, requiring 60 credit hours. Tuition is competitive, and financial aid is available.
The program is accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP), ensuring quality education.
9. University of Denver
The University of Denver offers an online Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling program that prepares students for licensure as professional counselors. The curriculum includes courses in counseling theories, human development, and research methods. Students can complete the program in about two years, requiring 90 quarter credit hours. Tuition is competitive, and financial aid is available.
The program is accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP), ensuring high academic standards.
10. University of Denver – Online Bachelor of Science in Psychology
Adams State University offers an online program Clinical Mental Health Counseling program designed for students seeking to become licensed professional counselors.
The curriculum includes courses in counseling theories, ethics, and research methods. Students can complete the program in about two years, requiring 60 credit hours. Tuition is affordable, and financial aid options are available. The program is accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP), ensuring quality education.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What can I do with an online counseling degree?
An online counseling degree opens doors to a variety of careers, including school counselor, mental health counselor, career advisor, and rehabilitation counselor. With further training, you can also pursue licensure to practice independently or specialize in areas like marriage and family therapy, substance abuse counseling, or career guidance.
2. Are online counseling degrees respected by employers?
Yes! As long as the program is accredited—especially by reputable bodies like the Higher Learning Commission or CACREP—employers recognize online degrees just like traditional ones. Accreditation ensures the program meets professional and academic standards.
3. Can I work while pursuing an online counseling degree?
Absolutely. That’s one of the main advantages of online programs. Many schools offer asynchronous classes, meaning you can watch lectures, submit assignments, and participate in discussions at times that fit your schedule. Part-time options make it even easier to balance work, family, and school.
4. How long does it take to earn an online counseling degree?
It depends on the program and whether you study full-time or part-time. Most bachelor’s programs take about 3–4 years to complete, while associate or accelerated programs can take less. Some schools also offer flexible pacing so you can speed up or slow down based on your schedule.
5. What are the costs of online counseling degree programs?
Tuition varies widely depending on the school and program type. On average, online programs can cost anywhere from $300 to $1,500 per credit hour. Many schools also provide financial aid, scholarships, and the ability to transfer credits, which can make earning your degree more affordable.
6. Are there practical or hands-on components in online counseling degrees?
Yes. Even online programs usually include fieldwork, internships, or practicum experiences. These are designed to give you real-world counseling experience while still accommodating a remote learning schedule.
7. What should I consider when choosing an online counseling program?
Key factors include accreditation, tuition, program length, course offerings, flexibility, and any specializations offered. It’s also important to think about your career goals, some programs focus more on mental health counseling, while others emphasize school counseling, research, or applied psychology.