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2026 Most Affordable Online Counseling Degrees

Browse our handpicked, cost-effective online bachelor's programs in counseling, ranked by affordability and independently verified.

Want an online degree that's:

  • Affordable
  • Popular
  • Highly Rated
  • Military-friendly

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Why Trust Us?

  • 90,000+ Verified Student Reviews
  • Manually Researched Tuition
  • 200+ Expert Interviews
  • 1,800+ jmcomics
  • 30,000+ Online Degrees

Find the most affordable online counseling degrees from our list of accredited schools below. 

Key Takeaways:

  • Flat-rate tuition is universal across the list. Every school charges the same tuition for in-state and out-of-state counseling students studying online.
  • Waldorf and Capella set the floor at $10,200-$10,680/year. 

We manually collect and separately verify tuition costs so the rankings we provide are both accurate and up-to-date.

Want an online degree that's:

  • Affordable
  • Popular
  • Highly Rated
  • Military-friendly

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How We Rank "Most Affordable" Schools

%%YEAR%% Most Affordable Online %%LEVEL_NAME%% in %%PROGRAM_NAME%% Badge

The OnlineU research team manually collects and verifies tuition data for every school on our lists, ensuring you see accurate, up-to-date costs whether you're pursuing an associate, bachelor's, master's, or doctoral program. To qualify, schools must offer fully online degrees, hold institutional accreditation, and have verifiable enrollment data through the National Center for Education Statistics. While some of our rankings include partner schools, every school is evaluated using the exact same criteria.

We prioritize schools that offer a consistent tuition rate across programs at the same degree level, so you're not caught off guard by unexpected price differences between majors, and for graduate programs we go a step further by individually calculating program costs since credit requirements and fees vary widely.

All tuition numbers were manually collected and verified
Only verified student reviews informed our overall ratings and recommendation rates
Rank School Annual In-State Tuition Annual Out-of-State Tuition Recommendation Median Salary
# 1 #1 Waldorf University $10,200 $10,200 95% N/A
# 2 #2 Capella University $10,680 $10,680 63% N/A
# 3 #3 Nicholls State University $11,250 $11,250 94% N/A
# 4 #4 Liberty University $11,700 $11,700 57% N/A
# 5 #5 Colorado Christian University $14,820 $14,820 64% N/A
# 6 #6 UMass Global $15,000 $15,000 56% N/A
# 7 #7 Florida Tech - Online $16,200 $16,200 66% N/A
# 8 #8 Arizona State University, Online $17,400 $17,400 90% N/A
#1
Annual In-State Tuition: $10,200
Annual Out-of-State Tuition: $10,200
Average Program Length: 4 years
4.5 / 5
Overall Rating
95%
Recommend
84%
Helpful for Career

Online Degree:

What Sets This Program Apart:

  • Walforf boasts the #1 most affordable counseling degree online at $10,200/year for both in-state and out-of-state students. It also has the #1 recommendation rate from students, with 95% saying they would recommend the school to others.
  • Student reviews we've collected repeatedly describe APA-heavy writing, discussion posts, draft revisions, and major projects completed in accelerated eight-week terms. This demonstrates sustained independent communication and writing practice that mirrors the documentation-heavy nature of human services work. Reviews suggest the strongest outcomes come from highly self-directed adults.

AI Student Review Summary: Reviewers describe Waldorf University as an affordable, convenient online option with attentive support. Included textbooks, flexible transfer credit policies, smooth admissions, and helpful financial aid staff ease enrollment. Responsive advisors and approachable instructors—some offering draft reviews and same-day replies—are frequently praised. Eight-week terms allow working adults to focus on one or two courses at a time in a well-organized format. Coursework is demanding, with weekly papers, discussion posts, APA requirements, and final projects that self-directed learners find manageable and career-relevant. Drawbacks include roughly 20–25 hours of weekly effort, occasionally limited professor interaction, and weak post-graduation career guidance.

This is an AI-generated overview of real student feedback submitted to OnlineU, highlighting common themes and insights. The summary was reviewed for accuracy.
  • Undergraduate Online: 1,247 enrolled
  • Median Earnings: N/A
  • Avg. Grad. Rate: 29%
  • Retention Rate: 52%
#2
Annual In-State Tuition: $10,680
Annual Out-of-State Tuition: $10,680
Average Program Length: 4 years
3.36 / 5
Overall Rating
63%
Recommend
81%
Helpful for Career

Online Degree:

What Sets This Program Apart:

  • CU builds three master’s-level courses into the undergraduate program, with potential application toward CU graduate programs in counseling or marriage and family therapy, so it's especially relevant for students who already know they may need a master’s degree for counseling licensure and want to test graduate-level expectations early.
  • The program accepts up to 135 quarter credits in transfer, includes no-cost general education options through Sophia Learning, and advertises a $15,000 Progress Reward scholarship opportunity.

AI Student Review Summary: Reviews praise its flexible, self-paced online format suited to working adults, parents, and military learners. Rigorous coursework, strong writing and research expectations, transfer credit flexibility, competency-based options, and practical career relevance are frequently highlighted. The experience is seen as best suited to highly self-directed, time-disciplined learners. However, negative reviews are specific and often severe—billing disputes, unexpected balances, financial aid confusion, collection activity, and a perceived focus on revenue over support are common grievances. Instructional quality varies widely, with some praising engaged faculty while others cite vague rubrics and outdated systems. Some graduates also question employer perception, licensure fit, and overall return on investment.

This is an AI-generated overview of real student feedback submitted to OnlineU, highlighting common themes and insights. The summary was reviewed for accuracy.
  • Undergraduate Online: 18,366 enrolled
  • Median Earnings: N/A
  • Avg. Grad. Rate: 33%
  • Retention Rate: 23%
#3
Annual In-State Tuition: $11,250
Annual Out-of-State Tuition: $11,250
Average Program Length: 4 years
4.21 / 5
Overall Rating
94%
Recommend
91%
Helpful for Career

Online Degree:

What Sets This Program Apart:

  • Nicholls’ online bachelor’s in psychology with a pre-counseling concentration builds in more than 75 hours of service learning across courses, followed by a 360-hour senior internship in social services or a related agency setting. That means students can graduate with more than 435 hours of structured applied experience.
  • Courses such as Helping Individuals and Families, Changing Home and Family, Parenting, Families in Crisis, Families and Addiction, and Multicultural Concepts point toward family systems, community support, and lifespan service work.
  • The Title IV-E Child Welfare Scholar Stipend Program is an opportunity for eligible junior pre-counseling students to compete for a $7,500 stipend tied to a DCFS-supervised internship and a post-graduation child welfare work.

AI Student Review Summary: Reviews are overwhelmingly positive, with students consistently praising its close-knit environment and exceptional personal support from faculty, advisors, and staff. Being known by name rather than treated as a number is a recurring theme, with approachable professors offering guidance on academics, careers, and major changes. Small-to-moderate class sizes enhance mentorship, communication, and individualized feedback. Hands-on learning, internships, clinical work, and career-aligned instruction leave graduates feeling workplace-ready. Affordability, scholarship opportunities, flexible formats for working adults, and a welcoming, family-oriented campus culture further strengthen satisfaction. Criticisms are limited—a few mention insufficient real-world alignment, inconsistent teaching styles, lengthy sessions, and a desire for more advanced academic offerings.

This is an AI-generated overview of real student feedback submitted to OnlineU, highlighting common themes and insights. The summary was reviewed for accuracy.
  • Undergraduate Online: 993 enrolled
  • Median Earnings: N/A
  • Avg. Grad. Rate: 54%
  • Retention Rate: 77%
#4
Annual In-State Tuition: $11,700
Annual Out-of-State Tuition: $11,700
Average Program Length: 4 years
3.11 / 5
Overall Rating
57%
Recommend
79%
Helpful for Career

Online Degree:

What Sets This Program Apart:

  • This is an online biblical counseling degree housed in a divinity school, with courses, such as Theological Basis for Biblical Counseling and Biblical Counseling and the Psychologies, that examine the field of counseling through a Christian ministry lens.
  • LU is likely a strong fit for students who want counseling-adjacent ministry roles, church-based support work, or preparation for further study in biblical counseling.

8 Student Reviews for Bachelor's in Counseling Degrees

Clydro, Graduated
Overall Rating: 3.5/5

Overall, I feel as though I have gained a lot of valuable knowledge. However, preparing for graduate school, I feel I may have difficulties in programs outside of Liberty University. While the majority of courses in my major have provided valuable information,... Read More

Tiffanie James, Graduated 2015
Overall Rating: 5/5

I really love how the online courses are structured and the level of interaction between the students. The coursework is intense but not overwhelming.

Ebony Millner, Graduated 2014
Overall Rating: 5/5

This program is a excellent program it has high moral and academic values. It is amazing to attend a program where the professor have a strong desire to see you be successful. They are there for you throughout the whole way. Not every program can say... Read More

AI Student Review Summary: Many praise the flexible online format, organized eight-week terms, and accelerated completion for working adults, military families, and parents. Veteran support, tuition discounts, transfer credit options, and a faith-based environment are recurring strengths. Responsive professors and curriculum that builds writing, research, and discipline are also valued, with some feeling well prepared for licensure or career advancement. However, administrative inconsistency is the most common complaint—financial aid, billing, advising, transcript processing, and accommodations draw criticism for long waits, conflicting answers, and unexplained fees. Teaching quality varies, with some courses feeling self-directed and feedback generic. The experience works best for self-motivated learners who embrace strong Christian integration.

This is an AI-generated overview of real student feedback submitted to OnlineU, highlighting common themes and insights. The summary was reviewed for accuracy.
  • Undergraduate Online: 39,156 enrolled
  • Median Earnings: N/A
  • Avg. Grad. Rate: 63%
  • Retention Rate: 79%
#5
Annual In-State Tuition: $14,820
Annual Out-of-State Tuition: $14,820
Average Program Length: 4 years
3.04 / 5
Overall Rating
64%
Recommend
79%
Helpful for Career

Online Degree:

What Sets This Program Apart:

  • This counseling program has a somewhat broader counseling and human-services orientation than purely ministry-centered biblical counseling programs, but it is a psychology degree taught through a distinctly Christian worldview.
  • The Clinical Counseling emphasis embeds five graduate-level counseling courses directly into the bachelor’s, leaving students with only 48 of the required 60 credits remaining in CCU’s master’s in clinical mental health counseling.
  • Rather than juggling four or five classes simultaneously, students typically move through one psychology course at a time in five-week blocks.

AI Student Review Summary: Reviews reveal a clear divide between academic satisfaction and administrative frustration. Many praise the faith-centered environment, with consistent biblical integration valued by those seeking a Christian worldview. Professors are described as caring, responsive, and knowledgeable, with small classes and strong faculty interaction in both online and campus settings. Flexible, accelerated formats suit working adults balancing jobs and family. However, financial aid delays, unclear billing, transfer credit issues, and poor communication are recurring concerns—some students relied on credit cards or costly bookstore options while awaiting refunds. A few report disorganized programs, limited post-graduation support, lack of diversity, and feeling unsupported during personal hardship.

This is an AI-generated overview of real student feedback submitted to OnlineU, highlighting common themes and insights. The summary was reviewed for accuracy.
  • Undergraduate Online: 4,593 enrolled
  • Median Earnings: N/A
  • Avg. Grad. Rate: 55%
  • Retention Rate: 79%

A Closer Look at the Most Affordable Counseling Bachelor’s Degrees Online: Comparing and Contrasting Programs

An online bachelor’s degree in counseling is typically designed as a pre-licensure pathway. It's the credential you need in order to move into graduate counseling, social services, or psychology-adjacent roles. 

Affordability is usually everyone's first concern, so that's where the list of degrees above begins. We start with only including institutionally accredited schools, which narrows it down to a high quality list of options to choose from. Then we order those by in-state, yearly tuition. Below, we want to delve a little deeper into what some of these counseling programs entail and what the data and student reviews can tell us about the programs. 

Some counseling programs emphasize early preparation for graduate study overtly. For example, CU and CCU embed graduate-level counseling coursework directly into the bachelor’s, allowing you to shorten time (and cost) if you plan to pursue a master’s in counseling or MFT at some point down the line. 

Others, like Nicholls and ASU Online, prioritize hands-on experience and require extensive service learning or supervised internships that give you a glimpse into real community mental health settings. These are really terrific features that give you helpful experience at the bachelor's level, especially for online degrees.

Now, let's delve into how these institutions compare and contrast using available federal data we brought together in one place to help you easily analyze all the information to make the best choice possible for your needs.

If you want to approach your search from a different perspective, we also have a list of the best online counseling degrees overall. Schools are ordered by online enrollment to reflect the strength of their virtual learning infrastructure, with tuition included to help you weigh cost.

Affordability: The First Step in Smart Decision-Making for Online Counseling Majors

OnlineU features the most affordable online degrees based on manually collected tuition data that's collected from the school website and then verified separately by the OnlineU research team. Because these programs charge the same tuition for in-state and out-of-state online students, budgeting is more straightforward and predictable no matter where you live. 

On this list of the most affordable counseling bachelor's degrees, the yearly tuition goes from $10,200 at Waldorf University to $17,400 at ASU Online. To put this in perspective, that's a difference of $7,200 per year, or nearly $29,000 over four years, before financial aid

The graph below can help you visualize these differences: 

Several well-known schools — WU, CU, NSU, and LU — also keep annual tuition under $12,000, offering counseling bachelor’s degrees at costs more often associated with community colleges than four-year institutions.

Faith-Based vs. Professional Licensure Paths: What’s Right for You?

Within this ranking, counseling bachelor’s degrees generally fall into two distinct pathways: faith-integrated counseling education (e.g., online Christian counseling degrees) and professional preparation for graduate licensure. 

Understanding this difference is critical, because most counseling careers require a master’s degree, and not every bachelor’s program is designed with the same end goal in mind.

LU’s online biblical counseling degree includes theological study and positions the program as a non-licensure track. While this can be ideal for pastoral counseling or community support roles, it may not align with state licensure requirements. 

CCU similarly frames psychology and counseling through faith integration in its online BS in Applied Psychology - Clinical Counseling. However, they do allow students to accelerate into graduate counseling coursework if they plan to pursue licensure at a later date. 

Counseling programs at WU, CU, NSU, UMass Global, FIT, CCU, and ASU Online are structured as pre-professional pathways for students planning to continue into graduate counseling or marriage and family therapy programs. Several schools reinforce this intention directly. 

For online students, this distinction is especially important. Because licensure requirements vary by state and hands-on experience can be harder to coordinate remotely, choosing a program that clearly signals whether it is designed for ministry-based counseling or graduate licensure preparation can help you avoid misalignment — and costly course corrections — later on.

NSU and ASU Online offer supervised service learning and internships. This gives you documented applied experience that strengthens graduate school readiness. 

UMass Global and FIT focus on counseling psychology courses that are aligned with community mental health and advocacy roles.

Why does this matter for online students? Unlike in-person students who may have access to local internships and networking opportunities, online learners need to ensure their program provides clear pathways to certification and licensure in their state. Without this, they may struggle to turn their counseling degree into a viable career.

What Recommendation Rates Reveal About Student Experience

Student reviews offer a powerful lens into how students feel about their online counseling programs after enrolling.

We collect this data because it shows firsthand experience and whether graduates at these schools would encourage others to choose the same school based on factors like instructional quality, advising support, workload clarity, and overall online experience.

Across this ranking, recommendation rates vary — from 67% to 96% — showing the real differences in student satisfaction even among similarly affordable programs

NSU and WU stand out at the top, with 96% and 95% recommendation rates, suggesting that students consistently feel supported and confident in the value of their education. ASU also performs strongly at 93%, reinforcing that its large-scale online operation does not come at the expense of student experience.



NSU and WU stand out at the top, with 96% and 95% recommendation rates, suggesting that students consistently feel supported and confident in the value of their education.


Mid-range recommendation rates at CU, UMass Global, FIT, and LU also point to generally positive outcomes, though with more variation in perceived fit or expectations. CCU’s lower recommendation rate highlights why affordability is a helpful starting point but it's really student feedback that adds crucial context when weighing the nitty gritty, like program structure, pacing, and instructional approach, especially for a program as intensive as counseling. 

Expert Advice for Online Counseling Students

Navigating a Counseling Degree Online: Guidance from Clint Kreider, LMFT

Headshot of Clint Kreider

LMFT

Clint Kreider is an experienced Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist specializing in relationship issues, men's mental health, and depression. As Clinical Director at Zoe Behavioral Health and a private practitioner at CK Therapy, he provides therapy for individuals, couples, and families. With a Master of Science in Clinical Psychology from Vanguard University, he integrates attachment-based, CBT, and emotionally focused therapy approaches to support clients.

Clint Kreider, a licensed therapist, highlights the growing accessibility of online counseling education while acknowledging both its strengths and challenges. 

While his own master’s in clinical psychology was earned in a traditional setting, he has seen online programs empower those who need flexibility. “The biggest advantage? Flexibility to integrate learning with real life,” he explains, sharing how one colleague completed an online degree while navigating sobriety, allowing her to prioritize therapy sessions alongside academics. However, he notes that online students must be proactive in seeking deeper engagement: 



The biggest challenge was replicating the spontaneity of in-person case discussions. Online students must be proactive — joining virtual peer groups or seeking mentorship to bridge that gap.


Clint stresses that empathy and curiosity are fundamental, even beyond technical qualifications. “In counseling, empathy and curiosity are your bedrock skills — no degree teaches those, but they’re honed through practice,” he says. 

He advises students to pursue diverse internships in addiction centers, schools, or private practices to build practical experience. Additionally, for those focusing on child development, he underscores the importance of trauma-informed care: “A certification in play therapy or ACEs (Adverse Childhood Experiences) can set you apart.” 

His insights highlight that while credentials are critical, transformative learning often comes from real-world interactions, as he reflects, “One of my most transformative lessons came from a teen in rehab who taught me more about resilience than any textbook.”

For those pursuing an online counseling degree, Clint advises selecting accredited programs (COAMFTE or CACREP) to ensure rigorous training and sufficient clinical hours. He urges students to treat their coursework like professional client hours by scheduling structured study time and simulating case discussions over Zoom. With the field shifting toward telehealth, he believes adaptability will be an asset. 

Most importantly, he reminds future counselors that therapy is not just a profession, but a calling: “This work demands you confront your own biases and wounds. Therapy isn’t a career — it’s a calling that requires you to grow as fiercely as your clients.” 

To sustain their passion, he warns against burnout and stresses the need to establish healthy professional boundaries early. His ultimate message? Success in counseling is not just about knowledge, but about the commitment to showing up, listening, and growing alongside clients in an ever-changing field.

Choosing the Best Fit for Your Career Goals

Choosing a budget-friendly online counseling program, like the programs listed above, involves balancing affordability with academic quality, support services, and long-term career potential. Whether prioritizing a faith-based approach, practical training, or flexible learning schedules, each of these counseling programs offers distinct advantages. 

Ultimately, the right program is not just a financial investment but a strategic step toward a fulfilling career in counseling.

Want an online degree that's:

  • Affordable
  • Popular
  • Highly Rated
  • Military-friendly

We've got them. Let's get started.

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FAQs for Affordable Online Counseling Bachelor’s Programs

Can I Get an Affordable Counseling Degree Online?


Yes, students today have access to a wide range of online bachelor's programs in counseling, psychology, sociology, and related fields, some of which are posted at affordable price points. 

If you're considering a career in counseling, earning a bachelor's degree — whether online or in-person — is often only the first step toward achieving your professional goals. Most professional counseling positions also require a master's degree in counseling for state licensure.

Online programs follow the same curriculum and degree path as campus-based programs. Many students prefer to take online classes due to their convenience, flexibility, and affordability. Some online programs include livestreaming classes held at set times, while others allow students to watch prerecorded lectures on their own time. Also, online classes are often available as accelerated part-time or full-time courses of study. Lastly, online degrees appeal to many students because they can be significantly more affordable.

Some bachelor's programs offer specializations, such as addiction counseling and substance use, marriage and family, Christian counseling, offender rehabilitation, and victim advocacy. These options prepare students to meet the unique needs of specific populations in a counseling setting. 

An online degree in counseling is an excellent choice for those who want a fulfilling career in the social services sector. A bachelor’s program in counseling is an introductory degree that can explore substance abuse counseling, psychology, ethics, and family studies. 

While graduates of this online degree can obtain entry-level positions, many pursue further education. After completing a bachelor’s degree in counseling online, graduates have the knowledge and skill needed to pursue a master’s degree in counseling or a PhD in counseling. However, for those who are uninterested in advanced studies, careers like case managers, program directors, or counseling assistants typically accept a bachelor’s degree in counseling.

All the programs listed on this page are offered through accredited colleges and universities. Accreditation ensures colleges and universities are held to universal academic standards and indicates to schools/employers that graduates have received a quality education. Students interested in pursuing a counseling degree online should always seek an accredited program.

What Are Some Career Paths for Counseling Degrees?


Individuals holding a bachelor's degree in counseling or related fields have access to several career paths, each with distinct roles, salary prospects, and job outlooks. 

One such role is that of a substance abuse, behavioral disorder, or mental health counselor. Substance use and addiction counselors work with individuals to help them overcome reliance on drugs, alcohol, and other substances that negatively impact their health and well-being. While a master's degree is typically required for mental health counselors, positions focusing on substance abuse and behavioral disorders may be available to those with a bachelor's degree. The median annual wage for these counselors is , with employment projected to grow by 17% through the next decade, a rate much faster than the average for all occupations. 

Another viable career is that of a rehabilitation counselor, who assists clients in overcoming physical, mental, developmental, or emotional disabilities to achieve personal and professional goals. While many positions require a master's degree, some entry-level roles are open to bachelor's degree holders. The median annual wage for rehabilitation counselors stood at . 

Credit counseling is an additional field where a bachelor's degree is often sufficient. Credit counselors advise individuals on managing debt and improving financial standing. The median annual wage for credit counselors was , and employment in this sector is projected to grow by 3% through the next decade. 

It's important to note that while these roles may be accessible with a bachelor's degree, obtaining relevant certifications or licenses can enhance employment prospects and potential earnings.

What Are Some Common Bachelor of Counseling Courses?


Course requirements for a bachelor's in counseling differ by program but generally cover a few core subjects that prepare students to work with individuals experiencing challenges. Below are some of the most common program courses, which are intended to give students a firm foundation in the history and best ethical practices of the counseling profession.

  • Behavior Disorders of Children and Adolescents: Many counseling programs require a course sequence that covers issues that may occur across a lifespan. This course introduces theories of human development and methods for diagnosing and treating behavioral problems in youth. Students learn to examine the social contexts of their patients — including race, class, and gender — and the effects they have on their behavior.
  • Case Management: In this course, students learn the administrative side of their chosen field. The faculty teaches client assessment, treatment plan options, and the legal requirements associated with effective record keeping. Topics covered in this course may include treatment in various clinical settings, the assessment of a patient's home, and stress management related to caseloads.
  • Ethics in Counseling: This course presents a history of ethics in counseling and the currently accepted standards of ethical behavior. Professors often present hypothetical scenarios in which the correct behavior isn't immediately clear. Students focus on learning how to build trust with clients by adhering to legal mandates governing intervention, record keeping, and patient confidentiality.
  • Group Process: This course can be useful for understanding the social pressures on different client populations. Specifically, professors discuss the formation and function of various groups. The topics covered include social dynamics, leadership styles, and communication within a wider group.
  • Crisis Intervention: Students study how to assess clients who are experiencing mental health crises and apply proven techniques to improve the situation. They will be asked to consider the legal landscape and the ethical requirements of intervening in both real and hypothetical situations. Students who take this course as part of a concentration (e.g., substance abuse counseling) may be able to focus their work on scenarios related to their preferred population.
  • Pharmacology in Addictions Counseling: This course teaches the physiological basis of addiction. The aim is to better understand the brain chemistry underlying chemical dependency and the effects that various substances have on different body systems. This course may also cover prescription drug interactions and discuss how scientists design clinical trials to test the safety of drugs.

Is an Online Degree in Counseling Worth It?


When considering whether an online counseling degree is worth it, students should think about their professional and personal goals, why they're interested in the field, how much time and money they can invest in their education, and what they'll ultimately get out of it.

Professional counselors work directly with patients to help them overcome emotional, psychological, social, and physical difficulties that impact their personal life. Counselors connect people with the resources and tools they need to help them improve their overall health and well-being. If you feel compelled to work as a counselor, you'll likely need to earn a bachelor's and master's degree in order to become licensed, and an online degree is a viable option for either degree.

While a graduate degree in counseling is a requirement for licensure and certification, students do not need a bachelor's degree in counseling to enter a master's program or even the field. Those who earn their bachelor's degree in another field are still eligible to apply to a master's program in counseling, but they may need to complete additional prerequisites. There are also opportunities to work in counseling without a degree, such as through non-profits or working as a peer counselor, case manager, or an aid to a counselor.

How Much Does an Online Counseling Degree Cost?


Generally speaking, online degree programs are more affordable than campus-based programs. In this list of affordable online counseling degrees, tuition ranges from $10,200 to $17,400 per year. The degree’s cost depends on where you enroll and how many credits a program requires to graduate. 

On average, public universities are more affordable than private ones. Although, schools may offer institutional grants and scholarships to help reduce your education cost.

A degree’s cost also depends on whether you have credits from a prior college experience that you can transfer and apply toward your degree. Online programs often have flexible transfer policies that allow students to reduce the number of credits they need to finish their degree. Many attend community college to earn credits at a lower cost. Then, they can later apply these credits to their bachelor's degree (in accordance with individual school transfer policies). Alternatively, a student may decide to transfer their online college credits to an on-campus program.

What Financial Aid Is Available for Online Counseling Students?


Students earning their online bachelor's in counseling qualify for the same financial aid as campus-based students. Financial aid comes from federal and state governments, colleges/universities, and private organizations (e.g., nonprofits or businesses). 

Federal and state aid is typically in the form of grants, work-study funding, and student loans. Scholarships from your college/university, your program department, private businesses, and nonprofit organizations can also help offset the cost of tuition and other educational expenses.

More than half of employers offer tuition programs as part of their employee benefits package.

Some students may also qualify for tuition assistance through their work. Always check program eligibility requirements to make sure you qualify, as certain factors may play a role, like accreditation or funding. Contact the financial aid office at your college to make sure any financial aid you receive can be applied toward your online degree.

Students apply for most types of aid by using the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). This form determines a student’s financial need and eligibility for federal funding and additional aid from your state and university. Our comprehensive FAFSA guide describes how the application process works and some common mistakes to avoid when filling out the form.

After exhausting other financial aid options, students may take out federal or private student loans to help bridge the gap between gift aid and the cost of higher education. Federal student loans are generally preferred over private lenders due to their low fixed-interest rates and flexible repayment options.

Always be sure to check with your program department and the financial aid office at your school to find out about additional funding opportunities. 

Student Reviews of Online Counseling Programs

Rebecca, Graduated 2019

My advisor and most professors were helpful, courteous, and knowledgeable. I enrolled in my forties to complete a degree I started in the 1990s. I have attended private and public colleges and universities over the years and found SNHU's program to be different but incredibly effective. Rather than a memorize and regurgitate program, my course of study leaned heavily on the exploration of reputable, scholarly research; writing assignments; and interactive discussion to both explore the subject matter... Read More

Review Date: 11/8/2019

Overall Rating: 4/5

Experience Rating: 5/5

Instruction Rating: 4/5

Would Recommend: Yes

Helpful for Career: No

Rebecca, Graduated 2019

Michelle Luman, Graduated 2017

Once they have your money, it seems that they don't care. Some of the instructors can be brutal if you challenge their opinions, others simply don't care. They information is repetitive and very basic as well. Don't let the "Christian" background fool you.

Review Date: 3/2/2016

Overall Rating: 2/5

Experience Rating: 3/5

Instruction Rating: 2/5

Would Recommend: No

Helpful for Career: No

Michelle Luman, Graduated 2017

Roxana Bucur, Graduated 2016

Attended: Liberty University

This is a GREAT School that challenges you as a professional and as a Christian.

Review Date: 10/1/2013

Attended: Liberty University

Overall Rating: 4/5

Experience Rating: 5/5

Instruction Rating: 5/5

Would Recommend: Yes

Helpful for Career: No

Roxana Bucur, Graduated 2016

Lori Wilson, Graduated 2016

Attended: Liberty University

The pros are that it is a Christian based university which is very important to me considering I am pursuing a career as a Christian based grief counselor. The cons, I do not have any at this time.

Review Date: 8/8/2013

Attended: Liberty University

Overall Rating: 5/5

Experience Rating: 5/5

Instruction Rating: 4/5

Would Recommend: Yes

Helpful for Career: No

Lori Wilson, Graduated 2016

Joke, Graduated 2016

Attended: Post University

The financial department is crooked!! The reviews that I have read speaking of this are true. Paying out of pocket for all my books, there was loans taken out that never was shown to me til after the fact. I withdrew from Post University after being told for the mod I was in enrolled in was going to cost $2500 out of pocket. In rereturn I could not afford this, now I'm being told I owe the University back $1700 back under title IV. After getting a run around from I withdrew to late or I didn't withdraw... Read More

Review Date: 3/5/2015

Attended: Post University

Overall Rating: 2/5

Experience Rating: 1/5

Instruction Rating: 3/5

Would Recommend: No

Helpful for Career: No

Joke, Graduated 2016

Tiffanie James, Graduated 2015

Attended: Liberty University

I really love how the online courses are structured and the level of interaction between the students. The coursework is intense but not overwhelming.

Review Date: 10/10/2013

Attended: Liberty University

Overall Rating: 5/5

Experience Rating: 5/5

Instruction Rating: 5/5

Would Recommend: Yes

Helpful for Career: No

Tiffanie James, Graduated 2015

unhappy, Graduated 2015

Attended: University of Phoenix

The classes are good, so was the instructors and other students. I wanted to take out extra money out for some expenses I had and even though I was eligible for the money the financial department kept giving reasons why could not get it. I pulled out.

Review Date: 2/17/2015

Attended: University of Phoenix

Overall Rating: 2.5/5

Experience Rating: 2/5

Instruction Rating: 4/5

Would Recommend: No

Helpful for Career: No

unhappy, Graduated 2015

Cheryl Trammell, Graduated 2014

Attended: Liberty University

Pros are the ability to have both online and on campus classes available. The technology is excellent and adjunct online professors are currently working in the field. Cons include the inability to have in depth real-time conversations for online courses.

Review Date: 9/10/2013

Attended: Liberty University

Overall Rating: 4/5

Experience Rating: 5/5

Instruction Rating: 5/5

Would Recommend: Yes

Helpful for Career: No

Cheryl Trammell, Graduated 2014

Patty, Graduated 2011

Attended: Liberty University

Liberty is a great school. The professors and lectures were top notch, many were from the top of their field. The course work was challenging and informative. I loved attending Liberty, everyone was so helpful and nice.

Review Date: 4/15/2013

Attended: Liberty University

Overall Rating: 5/5

Instruction Rating: 5/5

Would Recommend: Yes

Helpful for Career: Yes

Patty, Graduated 2011

Rose Urquidi, Graduated 2018

Attended: New Mexico State University

The professors were great and very helpful. If they saw that you were trying to succeed they would help you try to reach your goals no matter how much you were struggling. The professors also help you as much as possible if you are planning on going to graduate school. They will get you all the resources you will need to apply for graduate school. As an undergrad in Counseling and community psychology there were a few of us who graduated with that degree, which I thought was great because you go... Read More

Review Date: 9/16/2019

Attended: New Mexico State University

Overall Rating: 4/5

Experience Rating: 4/5

Instruction Rating: 4/5

Would Recommend: Yes

Helpful for Career: Yes

Rose Urquidi, Graduated 2018

Leeiner Munoz, Graduated 2017

Attended: East Texas A&M University

Pros: Some professors are very open to student's ideas, views and suggestions. They also like to work with you when there are obstacles that might hinder students from continuing with the program. They are very flexible, and supportive of your ideas for dissertations and program presentations. Cons: The program is very disorganized when it comes to planning degree plans, responding emails, contacting program's advisors. A student figures things out as he or she moves through the program. Also, there... Read More

Review Date: 3/13/2015

Attended: East Texas A&M University

Overall Rating: 3/5

Experience Rating: 2.5/5

Instruction Rating: 2.5/5

Would Recommend: Yes

Helpful for Career: No

Leeiner Munoz, Graduated 2017

Lars Nowack, Graduated 1995

Attended: DePaul University

I attended the DePaul University's School of New Learning (SNL) graduating in 1995 with a degree in Counseling. This program is very well organized and helpful to working adults like myself obtaining a college degree. I worked full time and went to school full time, which was a challenge timewise, but the schools flexible class schedules and the ability for me to create my own portfolio of classes enabled me to get my degree. I was able to get credit for close to 2 years of school through my prior... Read More

Review Date: 4/8/2015

Attended: DePaul University

Overall Rating: 4.5/5

Experience Rating: 5/5

Instruction Rating: 4/5

Would Recommend: Yes

Helpful for Career: Yes

Lars Nowack, Graduated 1995

Caitlin Habowski, Graduated 2017

Attended: Mercer University

I think the top pros are the faculty themselves. Each and every faculty member is fully accredited in their field and always have an open door for their students. The only cons I have are the campus is a little bit of drive in Atlanta for me, but I do not have a choice otherwise but to commute.

Review Date: 9/8/2014

Attended: Mercer University

Overall Rating: 4/5

Experience Rating: 5/5

Instruction Rating: 5/5

Would Recommend: Yes

Helpful for Career: No

Caitlin Habowski, Graduated 2017

Amanda, Graduated 2017

Attended: University of Valley Forge

The University of Valley Forge is a great place for any man or woman who wants to be trained thoroughly in their field of interest and who want to form a strong spiritual relationship with the Lord. The Professors, Faculty and Staff pour into each student that they encounter. The academic success is evident! The University of Valley Forge is focused on helping every student succeed and grow to their fullest potential. The atmosphere is safe, peaceful, and filled with the presence of the Lord. The... Read More

Review Date: 3/14/2017

Attended: University of Valley Forge

Overall Rating: 4/5

Experience Rating: 0/5

Instruction Rating: 4/5

Would Recommend: Yes

Helpful for Career: Yes

Amanda, Graduated 2017

Rebekah Weidenaar, Graduated 2017

Attended: Central Christian College of the Bible

CCCB is a small college with a great community atmosphere. They offer a full-tuition scholarship, which enabled me to complete my college degree without going into debt. The teachers care about their students and their success, and go out of their way to help.

Review Date: 3/7/2017

Attended: Central Christian College of the Bible

Overall Rating: 4/5

Experience Rating: 0/5

Instruction Rating: 3/5

Would Recommend: Yes

Helpful for Career: No

Rebekah Weidenaar, Graduated 2017

Leslie N., Graduated 2013

Attended: University of North Texas

The quality of education that I received in the Master's of Education program at the University of North Texas was paramount! Not only are the instructors highly respected in the field of Counseling, but they truly ensure that their students thrive! I often refer back to the lessons and practices that they demonstrated. In fact, 5 years later I am still able to reach out to many of my professors, as they are more than willing to serve in a mentor capacity. Although there were many options when it... Read More

Review Date: 1/20/2018

Attended: University of North Texas

Overall Rating: 4/5

Experience Rating: 0/5

Instruction Rating: 5/5

Would Recommend: Yes

Helpful for Career: No

Leslie N., Graduated 2013

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