If you want to enter the counseling field quickly and flexibly, an accelerated online master’s in counseling is an excellent option. These programs prepare graduates for roles such as mental health or substance abuse counselors, with a median salary of $53,170 in 2023, and school counselors, earning a median salary of $61,170 the same year. With a focus on providing comprehensive training in a condensed format, these degrees can be completed in just 18 to 24 months, allowing you to kick-start your career faster than traditional programs.
How to Choose an Accelerated Online Master’s in Counseling Program
Choose your area of study
Before you begin your research, take some time to decide on a potential specialization for this degree. This will help you narrow down your options more effectively so you can focus on selecting programs that align with your career goals and professional interests.
For example, students seeking to support K-12 students in their academic and professional development may enjoy specializing in school counseling. At the same time, those more interested in relational dynamics and conflict resolution may prefer marriage and family therapy. Even further, individuals passionate about assisting others as they overcome addiction may opt for substance abuse counseling.
Research schools and programs
Once you’ve chosen a specialization, you can turn your attention to researching schools and programs. Consider using the following questions to guide your research:
- Does a recognized counseling accreditation body accredit the program?
- What are the faculty’s qualifications and areas of interest, and how do they align with mine?
- Are there opportunities for internships or practicum placements in my area?
Most of this information will be readily available on program websites, but many students benefit from contacting admissions offices or attending an information session. You might also consider utilizing sites like LinkedIn and Reddit to get an idea of past and current students’ experiences.
Prepare for tests and applications
After narrowing down your shortlist of programs, start preparing for tests and applications. While some admissions requirements may vary, typical criteria include:
- A bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
- Transcripts from all previous academic work
- Letters of recommendation
- A statement of purpose or personal essay
- A resume or CV detailing relevant experience
- GRE scores, if required
Enrolling in a test prep program can significantly boost GRE scores, improving your application’s competitiveness and increasing your chance of acceptance into top programs.
Select your program
When acceptance letters arrive, revisit your initial research criteria and evaluate how each program performs in the areas most important to you. This may include curriculum relevance, specialization availability, and the faculty you’ll learn from. Then, assess the total cost of attendance and compare it to any financial aid offers to better understand the financial commitment involved.
Determine how you’ll pay for your degree
To determine how to finance your degree, complete the FAFSA to access federal financial aid options. Then, seek scholarships and grants from different sources, like professional organizations and community foundations. Explore assistantships offered by your program, which can provide resume-boosting work experience and financial support.
While federal loans are available to many students, it’s important to only use them for bridging financial gaps. Be sure to use these sparingly to avoid taking on a debt burden.
Best 50 Accelerated Online Master’s in Counseling Programs
How we rank schools
This list features some of the best online accelerated master’s in counseling programs in the country. Each school featured is a nonprofit, accredited institution, either public or private, with a high standard of academic quality for postsecondary education.
We evaluated each school’s program on admission, retention, and graduation rates as well as tuition costs, faculty, and reputation. Then, we calculated the Intelligent Score on a scale of 0 to 100. Read more about our ranking methodology.
Next, we compared this comprehensive list of the best online accelerated master’s in counseling programs to a list of aggregated college rankings from reputable publications, such as U.S. News & World Report, to simplify a student’s college search. We pored through these rankings so students don’t have to.
What Can You Expect From an Accelerated Online Master’s in Counseling Program?
An accelerated online master’s in counseling program is designed for students eager to fast-track their careers while maintaining flexible schedules. These programs typically cover fundamental components like counseling theories, ethical practices, human development, multicultural counseling, and clinical skills. As a student, you can expect comprehensive coursework that includes theoretical foundation and practical applications, often culminating in supervised clinical practicums or internships.
A significant component of these programs is the development of effective counseling techniques and the ability to address client needs. You’ll learn about assessment and diagnosis, research methods, and personal and professional growth strategies. Many programs emphasize evidence-based practices, preparing graduates to apply the latest research in their work with clients.
These programs can be completed in as little as 18 to 24 months, depending on your pace and the program’s specific requirements.
Potential courses you’ll take in an accelerated online master’s in counseling program
- Counseling Theories: Often one of the first courses you’ll take, this course explores various foundational and contemporary counseling theories, such as cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, psychodynamic, and systemic approaches. Students learn to apply these theories in practice, developing skills in creating treatment plans and interventions customized to individual client needs.
- Counseling Issues and Ethics: Another fundamental course, this class thoroughly examines the ethical standards and legal issues counselors will likely experience. Participants will learn about the American Counseling Association (ACA) Code of Ethics, confidentiality, informed consent, and professional boundaries.
- Mental Health Diagnosis: Typically considered an upper-level class, this course focuses on different assessment tools and diagnostic criteria used in counseling. Students will gain proficiency in administering, scoring, and interpreting psychological assessments, such as standardized tests and diagnostic interviews.
What Can I Do With a Master’s in Counseling Degree?
The career outlook for graduates with a master’s in counseling is positive, with the field expected to add thousands of new jobs annually over the next decade and consistently offering median salaries that exceed the national median of $48,060.
Career outlook
- Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) — LPCs work in private practices, mental health clinics, hospitals, and community agencies. They provide individual, group, and family therapy, helping clients manage mental health issues, emotional difficulties, and life challenges.
- Median annual salary: $53,710
- Projected employment growth (through 2032): 18%
- New jobs projected: 42,000
- Marriage and Family Therapist (MFT) — MFTs work with couples and families to address relationship issues, improve communication, and resolve conflicts. They often work in private practice, family therapy centers, and community agencies.
- Median annual salary: $58,510
- Projected employment growth (through 2032): 15%
- New jobs projected: 5,900
- School Counselor — School counselors provide counseling services, implement prevention programs, and collaborate with teachers, parents, and administrators to create a supportive educational environment.
- Median annual salary: $61,710
- Projected employment growth (through 2032): 5%
- New jobs projected: 26,600
Accelerated Online Master’s in Counseling Degree Frequently Asked Questions
How do accelerated degree programs work?
Accelerated online master’s in counseling programs condense the same curriculum into a tighter schedule by offering intensive courses, shorter academic terms, and a year-round calendar. This allows students to complete their degrees faster without compromising the quality of education.
To learn more about these accelerated programs and determine if they’re the right fit for you, visit our page that breaks down the pros and cons.
How long does it take to earn an accelerated online master's in counseling degree?
Compared to the traditional two to three years, these degrees can take 18 to 24 months to complete. That said, credit requirements can still vary by program — making it especially important to double-check these requirements to get a more accurate picture of how long it’ll take to complete your degree.
How much does an accelerated online master's in counseling degree cost?
The average annual cost of graduate school tuition is $20,513. However, it’s important to note that tuition doesn’t necessarily cover all expenses. In addition to tuition, you should budget for technology feeds, textbooks, and course materials — as these expenses can add up over time, making your educational pursuit more expensive.