Best Online Bachelor’s in Counseling Programs 2024
A counseling career lets you help others improve their lives. Learn more about bachelor’s degree in counseling online programs.
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At BestColleges.com, we believe in providing accurate and actionable information for students. Our writers, editors, and reporters are constantly asking themselves the question, ”What information is vital to students right now?” Answering this question is what drives us. Our mission is to inform students through straightforward, factual content informed by the latest data and trends.
The freelance Integrity Network at BestColleges is comprised of seasoned professionals who bring their expertise to almost every subject relevant to college students, including admissions, college majors, financial aid, and student mental health. Network members review and author content, pulling from their first-hand industry experience and ensuring content is as accurate and up-to-date as possible.
If you're interested in joining our Integrity Network, contact us at media@bestcolleges.com. Integrity Network members typically have a graduate or terminal degree and several years of relevant professional experience.
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A quick internet search reveals many bachelor’s degree in counseling online programs. BestColleges helps you find the best with our complex research methodology and strict editorial policy. We use surveys and data reports to educate readers on the latest news and trends in higher education.
Consider a bachelor’s degree in psychology or counseling if you want to work as a substance abuse counselor. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects the need for these professionals to grow by 19% between 2023-2033. Related positions you can apply for with a bachelor’s also feature a higher-than-average median salary.
Featured Online Counseling Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
Why University of Cincinnati Ranks No. 1 This Year
BestColleges chose UC’s BS in substance abuse counseling as the best online counseling program for 2024 due to the program’s high retention and graduation rates, affordability, and low federal student loan default rate. UC also features many online bachelor’s programs for learners who want to keep their options open.
UC’s online counseling degree uses an asynchronous curriculum. This flexible learning style lets you earn a degree while working. The program also offers full- and part-time tracks. Students with significant transfer credit can graduate in just two years.
UC makes college affordable through institutional scholarships. You can submit your FAFSA and other forms to apply. You can reduce student debt by applying for outside scholarships and developing a college savings plan.
Top Online Bachelor’s in Counseling Programs of 2024
University of Cincinnati-Main Campus
Cincinnati, OH4 yearCampus + Online
$10,099
$25,433
85%
66%
$13,224
$24,966
87%
40,329
Public
Yes
$10,099
$25,433
Cincinnati, OH4 yearCampus + Online
$10,099
$25,433
85%
66%
$13,224
$24,966
87%
40,329
Public
Yes
East Central University
Ada, OK4 yearCampus + Online
$5,791
$15,151
65%
78%
$4,402
$10,792
57%
3,350
Public
Yes
$5,791
$15,151
Ada, OK4 yearCampus + Online
$5,791
$15,151
65%
78%
$4,402
$10,792
57%
3,350
Public
Yes
University of Massachusetts Global
Irvine, CA4 yearCampus + Online
$12,000
$12,000
93%
99%
$12,240
$12,240
19%
9,798
Private
Yes
$12,000
$12,000
Irvine, CA4 yearCampus + Online
$12,000
$12,000
93%
99%
$12,240
$12,240
19%
9,798
Private
Yes
More Bachelor’s in Counseling Programs
Look beyond the #1 online counseling degree when picking the right college. Other great counseling degree programs for 2024 include East Central University. ECU counseling students benefit from hands-on learning experiences and coursework in human behavior, psychology, and sociology.
The University of Massachusetts Global features an excellent BA in psychology program. Students can choose a concentration in counseling and complete coursework in family systems and dynamics, community mental health, and issues in aging. All students also pay the same per-credit tuition rate.
Is an Online Counseling Degree Worth It?
A bachelor’s degree in counseling online program features many pros and cons. Consider these and other factors when choosing a school and major.
Pros
A bachelor’s degree in counseling qualifies graduates to enroll in a master’s in counseling program.- Counselors make a positive impact on people’s lives.
- You can train to work with a specific group or niche, such as families or veterans.
Cons
Counselors experience burnout at a high rate.- Many counselors struggle to maintain a healthy work-life balance.
- Maintaining a license requires completing many professional development classes.
There are alternatives to online counseling degrees for those wanting to switch majors or study a broader field. Social work or psychology may better fit your personality and career goals.
What to Consider Before Choosing a Counseling Program
You should review factors such as cost when comparing counseling degree programs. Here are three additional considerations:
- 1
Choose between a private, public, or community college.
Private colleges often charge a much higher per-credit tuition rate than public colleges. You can also save money on your online counseling degree by starting your education at a local community college and then transferring to a four-year program. - 2
Consider online programs.
Although online programs can make learning more convenient, research any in-person requirements before applying. These experiences may restrict applicants to those living within a college’s commuting distance. You should also check whether schools on your shortlist hold proper accreditation. - 3
Research the program format.
Flexibility and program length affect your academic experience significantly. Synchronous classes use set meeting times, while asynchronous classes let you complete coursework around your schedule. You may also benefit from a part-time degree if you plan to work while in school.
Note: The insights on this page — excluding school descriptions — were reviewed by an independent third party compensated for their time by BestColleges. Page last reviewed June 21, 2024.
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