Doctorate in Counseling Programs
BestColleges.com is committed to delivering content that is objective and actionable. To that end, we have built a network of industry professionals across higher education to review our content and ensure we are providing the most helpful information to our readers.
Drawing on their firsthand industry expertise, our Integrity Network members serve as an additional step in our editing process, helping us confirm our content is accurate and up to date. These contributors:
- Suggest changes to inaccurate or misleading information.
- Provide specific, corrective feedback.
- Identify critical information that writers may have missed.
Integrity Network members typically work full time in their industry profession and review content for BestColleges.com as a side project. All Integrity Network members are paid members of the Red Ventures Education Integrity Network.
A doctoral program may be the logical next step for many counselors. Beginning a doctorate in counseling and taking on more debt deserves careful consideration. But for many, the program cost is a worthy investment as graduates can expand their career options and increase their earning potential.
You can build extensive knowledge and clinical expertise to prepare for careers as clinical leaders, counseling researchers, or counseling educators. Learn more about the top doctoral in counseling programs, tuition, and potential careers.
Popular Online Doctorate Counseling Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
Best Accredited Doctorate in Counseling Programs
| Accredited University | Grad Tuition | Program Information |
|---|---|---|
| Adams State University Alamosa, CO | In State | $4,590 Out of State | $7,830 | Accreditation | Higher Learning Commission Admission Rate | 99% |
| Auburn University Auburn, AL | In State | $9,828 Out of State | $29,484 | Accreditation | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges Admission Rate | 81% |
| Ball State University Muncie, IN | In State | $8,850 Out of State | $21,954 | Accreditation | Higher Learning Commission Admission Rate | 77% |
| Louisiana Tech University Ruston, LA | In State | $6,592 Out of State | $13,333 | Accreditation | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges Admission Rate | 64% |
| Oklahoma State University Stillwater, OK | In State | $5,531 Out of State | $21,034 | Accreditation | Higher Learning Commission Admission Rate | 70% |
| Pennsylvania State University (University Park) University Park, PA | In State | $21,960 Out of State | $37,694 | Accreditation | Middle States Commission on Higher Education Admission Rate | 76% |
| Radford University Radford, VA | In State | $8,915 Out of State | $17,441 | Accreditation | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges Admission Rate | 75% |
| SUNY at Albany Albany, NY | In State | $11,310 Out of State | $23,100 | Accreditation | Middle States Commission on Higher Education Admission Rate | 54% |
| Temple University Philadelphia, PA | In State | $16,956 Out of State | $23,346 | Accreditation | Middle States Commission on Higher Education Admission Rate | 60% |
| Texas A&M University College Station, TX | In State | $6,677 Out of State | $18,700 | Accreditation | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges Admission Rate | 58% |
| Texas Tech University Lubbock, TX | In State | $5,958 Out of State | $13,428 | Accreditation | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges Admission Rate | 69% |
| Texas Woman’s University Denton, TX | In State | $4,973 Out of State | $12,569 | Accreditation | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges Admission Rate | 93% |
| University at Buffalo Buffalo, NY | In State | $11,310 Out of State | $23,100 | Accreditation | Middle States Commission on Higher Education Admission Rate | 61% |
| University of Akron Main Campus Akron, OH | In State | $8,306 Out of State | $13,812 | Accreditation | Higher Learning Commission Admission Rate | 73% |
| University of Florida Gainesville, FL | In State | $10,770 Out of State | $27,335 | Accreditation | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges Admission Rate | 37% |
| University of Georgia Athens, GA | In State | $8,878 Out of State | $25,186 | Accreditation | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges Admission Rate | 45% |
| University of Houston Houston, TX | In State | $8,370 Out of State | $17,746 | Accreditation | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges Admission Rate | 65% |
| University of Iowa Iowa City, IA | In State | $10,079 Out of State | $29,026 | Accreditation | Higher Learning Commission Admission Rate | 83% |
| University of Kansas Lawrence, KS | In State | $9,989 Out of State | $23,951 | Accreditation | Higher Learning Commission Admission Rate | 93% |
| University of Kentucky Lexington, KY | In State | $12,055 Out of State | $31,215 | Accreditation | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges Admission Rate | 96% |
| University of Memphis Memphis, TN | In State | $9,216 Out of State | $12,672 | Accreditation | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges Admission Rate | 85% |
| University of Missouri-Kansas City Kansas City, MO | In State | $9,542 Out of State | $24,636 | Accreditation | Higher Learning Commission Admission Rate | 61% |
| University of North Dakota Grand Forks, ND | In State | $10,534 Out of State | $18,434 | Accreditation | Higher Learning Commission Admission Rate | 81% |
| University of North Texas Denton, TX | In State | $5,900 Out of State | $13,496 | Accreditation | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges Admission Rate | 74% |
| University of Northern Colorado Greeley, CO | In State | $10,867 Out of State | $19,620 | Accreditation | Higher Learning Commission Admission Rate | 91% |
| University of Oklahoma Norman, OK | In State | $6,583 Out of State | $21,242 | Accreditation | Higher Learning Commission Admission Rate | 80% |
| University of Oregon Eugene, OR | In State | $14,958 Out of State | $26,811 | Accreditation | Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities Admission Rate | 82% |
| University of South Dakota Vermillion, SD | In State | $6,062 Out of State | $11,656 | Accreditation | Higher Learning Commission Admission Rate | 86% |
| University of Wisconsin-Madison Madison, WI | In State | $10,728 Out of State | $24,054 | Accreditation | Higher Learning Commission Admission Rate | 54% |
| Virginia Commonwealth University Richmond, VA | In State | $12,701 Out of State | $26,039 | Accreditation | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges Admission Rate | 87% |
| Washington State University Pullman, WA | In State | $11,493 Out of State | $25,248 | Accreditation | Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities Admission Rate | 76% |
| Wayne State University Detroit, MI | In State | $16,285 Out of State | $35,274 | Accreditation | Higher Learning Commission Admission Rate | 73% |
| West Virginia University Morgantown, WV | In State | $10,134 Out of State | $26,154 | Accreditation | Higher Learning Commission Admission Rate | 84% |
| Western Michigan University Kalamazoo, MI | In State | $10,134 Out of State | $30,432 | Accreditation | Higher Learning Commission Admission Rate | 80% |
| Accredited University | Grad Tuition | Program Information |
|---|---|---|
| Alaska Pacific University Anchorage, AK | In State | $11,700 Out of State | $11,700 | Accreditation | Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities Admission Rate | 89% |
| American International College Springfield, MA | In State | $11,579 Out of State | $11,579 | Accreditation | New England Commission on Higher Education Admission Rate | 65% |
| Andrews University Berrien Springs, MI | In State | $27,216 Out of State | $27,216 | Accreditation | Higher Learning Commission Admission Rate | 67% |
| Barry University Miami, FL | In State | $17,820 Out of State | $17,820 | Accreditation | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges Admission Rate | 51% |
| Boston College Chestnut Hill, MA | In State | $30,600 Out of State | $30,600 | Accreditation | New England Commission on Higher Education Admission Rate | 27% |
| Boston University Boston, MA | In State | $54,720 Out of State | $54,720 | Accreditation | New England Commission on Higher Education Admission Rate | 19% |
| Carlow University Pittsburgh, PA | In State | $18,766 Out of State | $18,766 | Accreditation | Middle States Commission on Higher Education Admission Rate | 92% |
| College of Saint Elizabeth Morristown, NJ | In State | $18,018 Out of State | $18,018 | Accreditation | Middle States Commission on Higher Education Admission Rate | 74% |
| Columbia University in the City of New York New York, NY | In State | $47,600 Out of State | $47,600 | Accreditation | Middle States Commission on Higher Education Admission Rate | 5% |
| Felician University Lodi, NJ | In State | $19,080 Out of State | $19,080 | Accreditation | Middle States Commission on Higher Education Admission Rate | 86% |
| Fordham University New York, NY | In State | $34,608 Out of State | $34,608 | Accreditation | Middle States Commission on Higher Education Admission Rate | 46% |
| Holy Family University Philadelphia, PA | In State | $9,000 Out of State | $9,000 | Accreditation | Middle States Commission on Higher Education Admission Rate | 73% |
| Howard University Washington, DC | In State | $31,309 Out of State | $31,309 | Accreditation | Middle States Commission on Higher Education Admission Rate | 36% |
| Lehigh University Bethlehem, PA | In State | $27,000 Out of State | $27,000 | Accreditation | Middle States Commission on Higher Education Admission Rate | 32% |
| Liberty University Lynchburg, VA | In State | $7,980 Out of State | $7,980 | Accreditation | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges Admission Rate | 51% |
| Loyola University Chicago Chicago, IL | In State | $18,594 Out of State | $18,594 | Accreditation | Higher Learning Commission Admission Rate | 67% |
| Marquette University Milwaukee, WI | In State | $21,060 Out of State | $21,060 | Accreditation | Higher Learning Commission Admission Rate | 83% |
| Mercer University Macon, GA | In State | $15,422 Out of State | $15,422 | Accreditation | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges Admission Rate | 74% |
| Mississippi College Clinton, MS | In State | $11,250 Out of State | $11,250 | Accreditation | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges Admission Rate | 42% |
| New York University New York, NY | In State | $33,408 Out of State | $33,408 | Accreditation | Middle States Commission on Higher Education Admission Rate | 16% |
| Northcentral University La Jolla, CA | In State | $16,983 Out of State | $16,983 | Accreditation | Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission Admission Rate | |
| Northeastern University Boston, MA | In State | $24,793 Out of State | $24,793 | Accreditation | New England Commission on Higher Education Admission Rate | 18% |
| Northwest University Kirkland, WA | In State | $19,101 Out of State | $19,101 | Accreditation | Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities Admission Rate | 93% |
| Northwestern University Evanson, IL | In State | $56,067 Out of State | $56,067 | Accreditation | Higher Learning Commission Admission Rate | 9% |
| Our Lady of the Lake University San Antonio, TX | In State | $16,326 Out of State | $16,326 | Accreditation | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges Admission Rate | 68% |
| Rivier University Nashua, NH | In State | $11,340 Out of State | $11,340 | Accreditation | New England Commission on Higher Education Admission Rate | 75% |
| Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota Winona, MN | In State | $9,180 Out of State | $9,180 | Accreditation | Higher Learning Commission Admission Rate | 92% |
| Seton Hall University South Orange, NJ | In State | $23,580 Out of State | $23,580 | Accreditation | Middle States Commission on Higher Education Admission Rate | 74% |
| Teachers College, Columbia University New York, NY | In State | $40,800 Out of State | $40,800 | Accreditation | Middle States Commission on Higher Education Admission Rate | |
| Texas Wesleyan University Fort Worth, TX | In State | $14,173 Out of State | $14,173 | Accreditation | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges Admission Rate | 42% |
| University of Chicago Chicago, IL | In State | $60,300 Out of State | $60,300 | Accreditation | Higher Learning Commission Admission Rate | 6% |
| University of Denver Denver, CO | In State | $51,336 Out of State | $51,336 | Accreditation | Higher Learning Commission Admission Rate | 59% |
| University of Miami Coral Gables, FL | In State | $37,800 Out of State | $37,800 | Accreditation | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges Admission Rate | 27% |
| University of St. Thomas Saint Paul, MN | In State | $24,766 Out of State | $24,766 | Accreditation | Higher Learning Commission Admission Rate | 81% |
Top Three Benefits of a Counseling Degree
- 1
Counseling Is a Growing Field
The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects that jobs for mental health counselors will grow by 19% between 2023 and 2033, much faster than the average growth for all jobs. The BLS also projects that marriage and family therapist jobs could see 16% growth during that same period. - 2
A Doctorate in Counseling Can Lead to Leadership Roles
Graduates with a doctorate in counseling have specialized knowledge and clinical skills that can help them secure managerial and leadership roles. Some of these positions include clinical counseling supervisors, directors of counseling, and clinical counseling directors. - 3
Graduates Can Expect A Wide Selection of Career Options
Graduates with a doctorate in counseling can specialize in areas including mental health counseling, addiction counseling, school counseling, and marriage and family counseling. Additionally, some professionals secure jobs in academia as postsecondary instructors and researchers.
What Can I Expect From a Doctorate in Counseling Program?
Students in a doctorate in counseling program can complete their degree in 2-4 years. Degree-seekers encounter advanced counseling theories and clinical techniques in their graduate school coursework. Some common topics covered include advanced theories of counseling, research methods in psychological sciences, and advocacy and leadership in counseling.
In addition to core academic requirements, doctoral students can specialize in substance use, mental health, educational and vocational counseling. Before graduation, counseling students typically complete a dissertation or a degree-culminating research project and fieldwork in a clinical setting.
Read More:The Student’s Guide to College Planning
| Median Graduate Degree Tuition Cost |
|
|---|---|
| Length | 2-4 years |
| Credits | 30 |
| Program Track(s) | Ph.D. |
| Example Concentrations |
|
| Example Courses |
|
What Programs Are Similar to Counseling?
What Can I Do With A Doctoral Degree in Counseling?
Students in a doctorate in counseling program can complete their degree in 2-4 years. Degree-seekers encounter advanced counseling theories and clinical techniques in their graduate school coursework. Some common topics covered include advanced theories of counseling, research methods in psychological sciences, and advocacy and leadership in counseling.
In addition to core academic requirements, doctoral students can specialize in substance use, mental health, educational and vocational counseling. Before graduation, counseling students typically complete a dissertation or a degree-culminating research project and fieldwork in a clinical setting.
| Career | Projected Job Growth (2023-2033) | Median Annual Salary | Annual Salary for the Top 10% of Earners |
|---|---|---|---|
| School and Career Counselors | 4% | $61,710 | $100,050 |
| Substance Use and Mental Health Counselor | 19% | $53,710 | $89,920 |
| Marriage and Family Therapist | 16% | $58,510 | $104,710 |
| Postsecondary Teacher | 8% | $84,380 | $182,710 |
| Community Service Managers | 8% | $77,030 | $127,550 |
Counseling Not for You? Check Out These Related Careers.
Counseling Licensing and Certification
Licensed counselors must complete all the academic and clinical requirements to qualify for licensure. Requirements vary between states, but generally, counselors must:
- Hold a master’s degree
- Pass a background check
- Pass the National Counselor Examination
- Complete at least 2,000 hours of supervised clinical experience.
You can review state-by-state requirements through the National Board for Certified Counselors.
While many individuals enrolling in a doctorate in counseling program already hold professional licensure and certification, you can enhance your skills through academic specializations and additional clinical experiences.
Should I Get a Doctorate in Counseling Online?
When choosing a program and deciding whether to attend online or on campus, prospective students should consider the differences between these two delivery options. Compare some of the pros and cons for each format to determine if an online degree is worth it.
Pros of Online Degrees
Flexibility to learn on your schedule- Learn from anywhere
- Network with people around the world
- Save time and money on commuting
- May be more affordable than on-campus programs
- Access to online tutoring and career services
Cons of Online Degrees
Requires more self-discipline- Not all programs are available online
- More technical requirements
- Potential social isolation and loneliness
- Limited or no access to on-campus resources
Pros of On-Campus Degrees
- Access to on-campus and online resources and support services
- In-person social interaction and networking
- Hands-on learning
- Classroom learning environment with fewer distractions
- Extracurricular clubs and activities
Cons of On-Campus Degrees
- May be more expensive than online programs
- Set class times with less flexibility
- Time and money commuting
How to Choose an Online Degree Program
- Cost:Comparing the Costs of Online vs. On-Campus Programs
- Program Format:Synchronous Learning vs. Asynchronous Learning
- Accreditation:How Does Online College Accreditation Work?
- Student Support:Your Guide to Online Student Services and Opportunities
Frequently Asked Questions About Doctorate in Counseling Programs
Completing a doctorate in counseling can be worth it for graduates who want to lead their field because it offers graduates the academic and clinical skills that they can convert into expanded career options and earning potential. Degree-seekers in these programs complete high-level coursework, research, and hands-on experiences.
Explore More College Resources
Best Online Doctorate in Family Counseling Programs
We’ve ranked the top online doctorate in family counseling programs. Compare schools by cost and convenience. Earn your doctorate in counseling online.
Updated November 16, 2023
Best Online Doctorate in School Counseling Programs
A doctorate in school counseling prepares graduates to conduct research and create policy. Learn more about the best programs.
Updated August 29, 2023
Online Doctorate in Psychology Programs of 2024
If you’re considering an online doctorate in psychology, this guide has everything you need to know — from choosing a program to choosing a career path.
by Meg Embry
Updated May 9, 2024