Best Online Bachelor’s in Counseling Programs 2024
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2024A 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, OH- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- In-State$10,099
- Out-of-state$25,433
- In-State$13,224
- Out-of-state$24,966
- Retention Rate87%
- Acceptance Rate85%
- Students Enrolled40,329
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment66%
- AccreditationYes
East Central University
- Ada, OK
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- In-State$5,791
- Out-of-state$15,151
- In-State$4,402
- Out-of-state$10,792
- Retention Rate57%
- Acceptance Rate65%
- Students Enrolled3,350
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment78%
- AccreditationYes
University of Massachusetts Global
- Irvine, CA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- In-State$12,000
- Out-of-state$12,000
- In-State$12,240
- Out-of-state$12,240
- Retention Rate19%
- Acceptance Rate93%
- Students Enrolled9,798
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment99%
- AccreditationYes
How We Rank Schools
To create this ranking, BestColleges sourced the most recent data available from the National Center for Education Statistics and the U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. We then ranked each school according to the top variables college students selected in our College Choice and Admissions Survey. To learn more, check out our full rankings methodology or read the summary below.
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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