CACREP-accredited online master’s programs offer a comprehensive and flexible path for those pursuing careers in counseling. These programs adhere to the high standards of the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP), ensuring a rigorous curriculum that meets professional and ethical counseling guidelines. Students gain expertise in various fields, such as clinical mental health, school counseling, marriage and family therapy, and addiction counseling. With a strong emphasis on practical experience, CACREP-accredited programs typically include supervised clinical training, preparing graduates for licensure and impactful careers. Offering flexibility for working professionals, these programs provide a supportive learning environment through online formats, allowing students to balance their education with personal and professional commitments. This page explores the CACREP accredited online masters, highlighting its potential for career advancement, enhanced expertise, and increased earning potential.
Several universities provide CACREP-accredited online master’s programs, each offering distinct advantages for those pursuing careers in counseling. Choosing the right program involves evaluating factors such as accreditation, curriculum structure, faculty expertise, and institutional reputation. These elements are crucial in professional development, licensure eligibility, and long-term career growth. The following list highlights top institutions that offer flexible, accredited online counseling programs designed to prepare students for success in various counseling specializations:
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National University, a private nonprofit institution headquartered in San Diego, California, was founded in 1971 to serve adult learners through flexible education. It offers degree programs online and at campuses across California and Nevada. The university focuses on career advancement and provides accelerated courses and asynchronous learning options. National University offers CACREP-accredited programs, including the Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, designed to prepare students for licensure and professional practice. Its commitment to accessible education supports working professionals seeking academic and career growth.
South New Hampshire University, a private institution in Manchester and Hooksett, New Hampshire, is known for its commitment to accessible education. Established in 1932 as a business-focused school, SNHU has evolved into one of the fastest-growing universities in the country, serving over 135,000 online students. With a strong emphasis on career readiness, SNHU offers flexible degree options, including CACREP-accredited programs like the Master’s in Counseling Online. The university continues to expand, integrating innovative learning solutions to support students’ professional and academic goals.
The USC Rossier School of Education, part of the University of Southern California, is a leader in graduate education, focusing on urban education and leadership. Established in 1918, Rossier offers a range of master’s and doctoral programs, including online options designed for working professionals. Its commitment to innovation is evident in programs like USC Rossier Online, which expands access to high-quality education. The school offers CACREP-accredited programs, such as the online Master of Education in School Counseling, equipping graduates for impactful careers in diverse educational settings.
Wake Forest University, a private research institution in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, was founded in 1834. Initially located in Wake Forest, it relocated to its current campus in 1956. The university comprises several schools, including business, law, medicine, and divinity, and maintains global academic campuses. Known for its selective admissions and high research activity, Wake Forest spent $191 million on research in 2018. The Demon Deacons compete in NCAA Division I sports. Wake Forest also offers CACREP-accredited programs, including the Online Master’s in Counseling, preparing students for professional practice.
The University of Denver, a private research institution founded in 1864, is classified as an R1 university with very high research activity. Its 125-acre main campus, designated as an arboretum, is in Denver’s University Neighborhood. DU offers undergraduate and graduate programs, including business, law, and performing arts. The university is known for its historic architecture, commitment to ethical leadership, and national recognition in various disciplines. DU also offers CACREP-accredited programs, including the Online Master of Arts in School Counseling.
Capella University, a private for-profit online institution based in Minneapolis, Minnesota, offers 47 degree programs with over 1,600 online courses. Founded in 1993 as The Graduate School of America, it received regional accreditation in 1997 and became part of Strategic Education, Inc. in 2018. Capella is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, with specialized accreditations from CACREP, CCNE, ABET, and ACBSP. The university offers CACREP-accredited programs, including the Online Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and the APA-accredited MS in Clinical Psychology.
Texas Tech University, a public research institution in Lubbock, Texas, was established in 1923 as Texas Technological College. It offers over 150 degree programs across 13 colleges and hosts 55 research centers. With an enrollment of nearly 41,000 students, TTU is designated a Hispanic-Serving Institution. Recognized for high research activity, TTU excels in cybersecurity, One Health, and atmospheric sciences. The university’s CACREP-accredited programs include the online Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. TTU’s Red Raiders compete in the Big 12 Conference, boasting strong athletic achievements.
The University of the Cumberlands, a private Christian university in Williamsburg, Kentucky, enrolls over 20,000 students. Founded in 1889 as Williamsburg Institute, it became Cumberland College in 1913 and later a university. Accredited by SACS, it offers undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs, including the online Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, which holds CACREP accreditation. The university emphasizes Christian values and has expanded its graduate offerings significantly since the 1980s. Known for its flexible online programs, it provides education in diverse fields, including education, business, and healthcare.
Kent State University, a public research university in Kent, Ohio, operates seven regional campuses and international facilities. Founded in 1910 as a regular school, it expanded to offer over 300 degree programs, including the online Master of Education in Educational Psychology, accredited by CACREP. With more than 34,000 students, it ranks among Ohio’s most prominent universities. Recognized for high research activity, KSU gained historical significance for student activism during the Vietnam War era. The university continues to lead in education, research, and global engagement.
The University of Alabama (UA), established in 1820, is the oldest and largest public university in Alabama. Located in Tuscaloosa, UA offers programs in 12 academic divisions, including doctoral degrees in unique fields like anthropology and social work. It is classified as an “R1: Doctoral University – Very High Research Activity” and is home to the only public law school in the state. The university also offers CACREP-accredited programs like the online Master of Arts in Rehabilitation Counseling. UA is renowned for its academic excellence and historic significance.
The University of Phoenix (UoPX), founded in 1976, is a private for-profit institution headquartered in Phoenix, Arizona. It offers a range of degrees, from certificates to doctoral programs, and is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. UoPX has faced controversy over enrollment practices and financial aid, with several legal settlements. Despite challenges, it remains a significant player in online education. The university offers CACREP-accredited programs, including the online Master’s in Counseling, providing flexible options for students seeking careers in Counseling and related fields.
Adams State University, located in Alamosa, Colorado, was founded in 1921 as a teacher’s college. Initially known as Adams State Normal School, it became Adams State College in 1946 and Adams State University in 2012. The university offers bachelor’s degrees in various fields, over 50 emphases, and master’s and doctoral programs. It offers CACREP-accredited programs, including the M.A. in Counseling Online. Known for its athletic teams and scenic campus, Adams State is a key educational institution in the San Luis Valley.
The University of Maryland (UMGC), established in 1947, is a public university in Adelphi, Maryland, and the largest institution in the University System of Maryland. Initially founded as the College of Special and Continuation Studies, it became UMGC in 1959 and UMGC in 2019. Offering 135 academic programs, including bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees, it provides online, hybrid, and face-to-face learning. UMGC offers CACREP-accredited programs like the Master of Science in Clinical Professional Counseling and serves students globally, including military personnel.
Palo Alto University (PAU), founded in 1975 as the Pacific Graduate School of Psychology, is a private institution focused on behavioral health disciplines, including counseling, psychology, and social work. It offers two undergraduate and five graduate programs, including a Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology and an M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. PAU follows a practitioner-scientist training model and collaborates with Stanford University. The MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling is CACREP-accredited, ensuring high mental health training and practice standards.
Northwestern University (NU), founded in 1851, is a private research university in Evanston, Illinois. It is the oldest chartered university in Illinois and a founding member of the Big Ten Conference. The university offers graduate, undergraduate, and professional programs through its 11 schools, including the Kellogg School of Management and the Feinberg School of Medicine. With a significant research focus, Northwestern has 33 Nobel laureates and is associated with notable alumni. The university also offers CACREP-accredited programs, such as the online MA in Counseling.
St. Bonaventure University is a private Franciscan university in St. Bonaventure, New York, founded in 1858. The university enrolls 2,760 undergraduate and graduate students. It was established by financier Nicholas Devereux, who partnered with the Franciscan order. The university was granted university status in 1950. Named after the theologian and Cardinal Bonaventure, it maintains strong ties to the Franciscan tradition. The university also houses the Franciscan Institute, founded in 1939. St. Bonaventure offers CACREP-accredited programs, including the online Master of Science in Education in School Counseling.
Walden University is a private, for-profit online university based in Minneapolis, Minnesota, offering bachelor’s, master’s, doctoral, and specialist degrees. Founded in 1970, it is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and is owned by Adtalem Global Education. Known for granting degrees in healthcare administration, nursing, and public health, Walden is a high-volume provider of these programs in the U.S. It also offers CACREP-accredited programs, such as the online Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling Program, which aligns with rigorous industry standards.
Sacred Heart University (SHU) is a private Roman Catholic university in Fairfield, Connecticut, founded in 1963. It was the first Catholic university in the U.S. staffed by the laity. SHU offers over 80 degree programs at the bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral levels to more than 8,500 students. The university is known for its expansion, including new academic buildings and residential dorms. SHU offers CACREP-accredited programs, including the Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, reflecting its commitment to professional and academic excellence.
Liberty University (LU), founded in 1971 by Jerry Falwell Sr., is a private evangelical Christian university in Lynchburg, Virginia. It is one of the largest Christian universities globally, offering programs across 17 colleges, including the Helms School of Government and the Rawlings School of Divinity. LU is known for its online education, with 80,000 students enrolled in 2020. The university offers CACREP-accredited programs, such as the MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling Degree Online, reflecting its commitment to professional training and academic excellence.
The University of Louisiana Monroe (ULM) originated in 1931 as Ouachita Parish Junior College and became a university in 1969. It offers diverse programs, including a renowned Atmospheric Science program and an AACSB-accredited College of Business. ULM’s College of Pharmacy is Louisiana’s only publicly supported comprehensive pharmaceutical education center. The university also provides CACREP-accredited programs such as the Master of Science in Counseling (M.S.). It reflects its commitment to high-quality education and professional development in counseling and therapy.
CACREP accreditation is important for online Master’s programs because it ensures the program meets rigorous academic and professional standards, prepares students for licensure, and enhances career opportunities. It also signifies that the program provides high-quality education in counseling-related fields, ensuring graduates are equipped for success in their careers.