Best Affordable Online Master’s in School Counseling Programs
An affordable master’s in school counseling program should have a low price as well prepare you for licensure. Check our guide to the best program for you.
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The best affordable online master’s programs in school counseling strike a balance between cost, student support services, and licensure preparation.
In this guide, we highlight some of the top online master’s in school counseling and go over the factors you should consider when choosing the right program for you. We also explain why the affordability isn’t just about tuition, but how well the program prepares you for employment after graduation.
Best Affordable Online Master’s in School Counseling
Affordability matters, but it’s not the only factor we consider. Our rankings prioritize overall value, meaning we evaluate each program based on how much students pay and what they get in return.
Along with tuition, we analyze key data points such as the percentage of students receiving financial aid, graduation rates, average earnings after graduation, and admission rates. This ensures the programs on our list are not just budget-friendly, but also deliver strong results for students.
How We Rank Schools
Auburn University
- Auburn, AL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Why We Chose It: Best Program for Personalized Study
Auburn University's 60-credit M.Ed. in school counseling integrates practicums and internships with online coursework, preparing its graduates for careers as school counselors. You'll take courses in common core areas while gaining hands-on experience in your focus area. The program offers electives to customize your course of study.
Why Attend Auburn Online
- Double Accreditation: This program is accredited by the CAEP and the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP).
- Tuition Discounts: Alabama residents may be eligible for special tuition discounts when enrolled in this program.
- Flexible Options: You can pursue this program as a full-time or part-time student.
Know Before You Go
- To be considered for admission, you'll be required to submit your fingerprint for an Alabama background check.
- Applicants must submit a resume, a statement of intent, and a cultural statement.
45%
$10,692
95%
$32,076
- Acceptance Rate
- 46%
- Students Enrolled
- 34,145
- Institution Type
- Public
Citadel Military College of South Carolina
- Charleston, SC
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Why We Chose It: Best for Military Veterans and Service Members
At The Citadel, you can complete an M.Ed. in counselor education with a focus in school counseling, elementary, or secondary education. The 60-credit program includes studies in education issues in a multicultural society, assessing abnormal behavior, and applied measurement techniques. While this program is offered by a military school, military service is not required to participate.
Why Attend The Citadel Online
- Tuition Assistance: If you're an active-duty service member, you can qualify for up to $250 per credit hour in tuition grants.
- Support Services: Through the Student Veterans Association, veteran students have access to resources that help them transition from a service member to a student and beyond.
- No GRE Required: You won't be required to submit GRE scores to be considered for admission into this program.
Know Before You Go
- Despite available discounts for some students, this program has a higher per-credit hour tuition rate than many others on our list, at $720.
- Though this program is 100% online, you must complete required internships in person.
35%
$12,540
86%
$18,390
- Acceptance Rate
- 93%
- Students Enrolled
- 3,793
- Institution Type
- Public
East Carolina University
- Greenville, NC
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Why We Chose It: Best for Securing Counseling Jobs
East Carolina University's MS in counseling program boasts excellent career outcomes for its graduates. According to the institution, 100% of the program's 2023-2024 grads secured employment in their field.
Why Attend ECU Online
- Ready for Licensure: Upon completion of this program, you'll be eligible to sit for the National Counselor’s Examination (NCE) and apply for a license with the North Carolina Board of Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselors.
- Industry Accreditation: This program is CACREP-accredited.
Know Before You Go
- At more than $1,072 per credit hour, this program has a higher out-of-state tuition rate compared to other schools on our list.
- The program takes work experience into consideration for admission.
72%
$ 4,749
83%
$17,898
- Acceptance Rate
- 89%
- Students Enrolled
- 26,940
- Institution Type
- Public
North Carolina State University
- Raleigh, NC
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Why We Chose It: Best Program for Exploring Multiple Fields of Counseling Education
North Carolina State University's online master's in school counseling program fully prepares students for licensure in K-12 schools. It allows students to study different interventions and counseling theories. Students in the school counseling discipline can also take courses in the college's other counseling education tracks, including clinical mental health counseling and college counseling.
Why Attend NC State Online
- Study Different Counseling Education Theories: School counseling students can take classes outside the discipline, including crisis counseling and group counseling.
- Hands-On Training: You'll participate in school counseling experiences at a K-12 school through a 100-hour practicum and 600-hour internship.
- Ready for Licensure: Counseling students will graduate meeting the requirements to pursue state licensure as a licensed clinical mental health counselor associate (LCMHCA).
Know Before You Go
- This three-year program requires you to be on campus for weekend classes in the final year.
- You must complete practicum and internships in North Carolina.
44%
$ 9,459
93%
$29,433
- Acceptance Rate
- 42%
- Students Enrolled
- 38,464
- Institution Type
- Public
Oregon State University
- Corvallis, OR
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Why We Chose It: Best Program for Local Working Professionals
At Oregon State University, you can pursue a master's in counseling while specializing in school counseling. The 90-credit program includes asynchronous online classes, making it great for local working professionals looking to advance their education. Half of all classes take place online, and the remaining classes take place in person on weekends at the Corvallis campus.
Why Attend OSU Online
- Reputable Programming: This program is accredited by two respected agencies, including the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP).
- Diverse Skillset: OSU equips you to guide students from low-income families on how to prepare for college.
- Easy Return to College: OSU only requires a bachelor's degree in any major as a prerequisite.
Know Before You Go
- This program is only for residents of Oregon and Washington.
- In-person classes are required on weekends.
58%
$13,446
88%
$29,349
- Acceptance Rate
- 77%
- Students Enrolled
- 37,163
- Institution Type
- Public
Truman State University
- Kirksville, MO
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Why We Chose It: Best Program for Enhanced Collaboration and Outcomes
Truman State University's online MA in counseling offers a concentration in school counseling for those who want to work in a K-12 setting. The degree consists of 60 credits of coursework, nine of which are dedicated to a practicum and internship. Unlike most other programs on this list, students at Truman will work alongside each other in a cohort model, making this a great option for team players and collaborators who want to create community.
Why Attend Truman Online
- No Added Fees: Online students are not required to pay additional online course or special program fees.
- Ready for Licensure: Graduates of this program will be prepared to obtain their initial counseling licenses.
- Learn From Experts: All faculty in the program are experienced licensed counselors.
Know Before You Go
- To be considered for admission, the GRE is required for applicants with an undergraduate GPA below 3.0. Alternatively, you'll need to submit a GRE score or have earned a master’s degree with a graduate GPA of 3.0 or above.
- This program has just two start dates each year, which could be a challenge for students seeking more flexibility.
52%
$11,712
85%
$11,712
- Acceptance Rate
- 84%
- Students Enrolled
- 3,664
- Institution Type
- Public
University of Missouri
- Columbia, MO
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Why We Chose It: Best School Counseling Program for Triple-Layered Accreditation Confidence
Future school counselors can earn a master of education (M.Ed.) in educational, school, and counseling psychology at Mizzou Online. You can complete this 60-credit, three-year degree program 100% online. It is accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP). Courses are taught in eight-week blocks, so you can focus on one course at a time. It's also recognized by the American Psychological Association, the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education, and the American Counselor Association.
Why Attend Mizzou Online
- Triple Accreditation: This program has three layers of accreditation, including recognition by the CAEP.
- No GRE Required: Unlike some other programs on our list, Mizzou Online does not require you to submit GRE scores for consideration.
- Manageable Schedule: Take one eight-week course at a time.
Know Before You Go
- If you don't already have a K-12 teaching certification, you must take an additional six credits in teacher preparation coursework.
- In this program, you can only take one course at a time, which can delay the process of earning your degree.
53%
$12,000
93%
$30,000
- Acceptance Rate
- 78%
- Students Enrolled
- 31,559
- Institution Type
- Public
University of Nebraska at Kearney
- Kearney, NE
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Why We Chose It: Best Counseling Degree for Its Per-Credit Price
At the University of Nebraska at Kearney's 43-credit master of science (MS) in education program, you can complete your degree across seven semesters, including two summer sessions. In-state residents pay just $354 per credit, while out-of-state residents pay $567 per credit. As an online student, you'll also pay an additional $35 per credit distance education fee.
Why Attend UNK Online
- Non-Education Bachelor's Degrees Allowed: Students who have non-education degrees can still qualify to participate in this program; they'll just need to take additional courses.
- Flexible Scheduling: Working students can combine evening and blended/online courses, clinical summer campus residency courses, and fieldwork.
- Ready for Licensure: Graduates of this program will be ready to meet the licensing/certification standards to practice in Nebraska.
Know Before You Go
- Despite its low sticker price, this program has added library, technology, and distance education fees.
- Out-of-state graduates may not meet the standards for licensure in their home state after completing this program.
71%
$ 6,432
80%
$14,136
- Acceptance Rate
- 89%
- Students Enrolled
- 5,882
- Institution Type
- Public
University of North Dakota
- Grand Forks, ND
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Why We Chose It: Best Program for Part-Time Learners
The University of North Dakota's master of arts (MA) in counseling program offers a part-time online specialization in K-12 school counseling. The primarily asynchronous, flexible program requires just 60-66 credits, takes 2-3 years to complete, and offers three different start dates. You can access this program from anywhere as it does not require campus visits.
Why Attend UND Online
- Real Feedback: Even as an online student, you'll have access to feedback from your professors, peers, and industry experts.
- Academic Support: Students can get free, one-on-one online tutoring and unlimited academic coaching.
- Networking Opportunities: You'll get to participate in online events and activities to keep you connected to your online peers.
Know Before You Go
- At more than $877 per credit, this program has a higher tuition rate than others on our list.
69%
$11,963
84%
$17,944
- Acceptance Rate
- 77%
- Students Enrolled
- 15,019
- Institution Type
- Public
William & Mary
- Williamsburg, VA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Why We Chose It: Best for Social Justice and Equity in Counseling Practices
As part of William & Mary's 60-credit master's in school counseling, you'll develop career-ready school counseling skills through a socially conscious lens. During the three-year program, students get hands-on training where they learn how to become culturally responsible counselors and value social justice in transforming education.
Why Attend William & Mary Online
- Real-World Practice: Through an internship and practicum, you'll get to put your skills to the test in real K-12 classrooms.
- Small Class Sizes: The average class is just 14 students, leaving room for personalized feedback and attention.
- Ready for Licensure: Upon completion, you'll be eligible to apply for counseling licensure.
Know Before You Go
- This program requires you to participate in a 100-hour practicum and a 600-hour internship.
- At $825 per credit hour, this program is pricier than some others on our list.
14%
$10,905
95%
$29,352
- Acceptance Rate
- 34%
- Students Enrolled
- 9,818
- Institution Type
- Public
How We Highlight What Schools Do Best
We compiled this list prioritizing factors such as the percentage of students receiving financial aid, graduation rates, average earnings after graduation, and admission rates.
These data points are obtained through trusted sources, including the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), the U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard, and Peterson’s Data.
We verified these schools’ facts in August 2025.
What Makes a School Counseling Master’s “Affordable”?
What makes a school counseling master’s program “affordable” isn’t a low per-credit price — it’s the total cost after financial aid. That total includes tuition, fees, and living expenses, all of which can vary by program.
For example, you might compare two programs: one costs $10,000 per year and the other $15,000. At first glance, the cheaper option seems like the better deal. But after grants and scholarships, the $15,000 program could end up costing the same — or even less.
That’s because financial aid isn’t the same at every school. Some colleges have larger aid budgets or more flexibility in how they award grants, which can significantly reduce what you actually pay.
How to Choose the Right Program for You
The “best program” isn’t the same for everyone. It depends on what you value most, whether that’s cost, student services, or flexibility.
These five steps can help you compare your options and choose the right one for you.
1. Eliminate Programs That Don’t Meet Licensure Requirement
Start by narrowing your list to programs that meet your state’s licensure requirements. This is key because, even if an online program is available to students nationwide, it may not meet specific requirements for the state you want to practice in.
Before applying, check each program’s website to confirm which states it meets licensure requirements for. You can also contact the school to verify.
2. Check For Accreditation
Make sure your master’s program is accredited by a reputable, federally recognized accrediting body. This helps ensure the program you choose meets academic standards and can prepare you for licensure.
For school counseling programs, the two most widely known accreditors are the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Education Programs(CACREP) and the American School Counselor Association (ASCA).
Ask an Expert: How Important Is School Counseling Programmatic Accreditation?
“The educational requirements to work as a school counselor are determined by the state you will work in, which may be different from the state your program is in. Proper accreditation helps to ensure that you are attending a reputable program, but you should always check your state board requirements.”
3. Compare Total Cost (Not Just Tuition)
Tuition is only one part of what you’ll pay. You should also factor in fees, books, and any living expenses while enrolled.
To estimate your total cost, use each school’s net price calculator. This tool uses your financial and academic information to show what you’re likely to pay after financial aid. You can find net price calculators directly on each school’s website or through the U.S. Department of Education net price calculator center.
Keep in mind that federal student aid can significantly reduce a program’s sticker price. With this in mind, remember to file the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to potentially qualify for grants and scholarships, which you don’t have to pay back.
4. Evaluate Program Format and Flexibility
Online programs vary in format and flexibility with most falling into two categories: asynchronous and synchronous.
Asynchronous programs let you complete coursework on your own schedule, while synchronous programs require you to log in at set times for lectures and group work. The right fit depends on your availability, especially if you’re balancing work and school.
Keep in mind that school counseling programs typically require in-person clinical hours, even if coursework is fully online. You’ll need to complete supervised fieldwork—often at a local school, which can require a set number of hours each week.
5. Assess Student Support Services
Strong student support can make a big difference in your experience, especially in an online program.
Start by asking how the school handles practicum and internship placements. Some programs help place you at a local site, while others expect you to find your own. Understanding this process can save you time and stress.
Beyond internship placement, compare the support services each program offers. Look for access to academic advising, career services, mental health resources, and technical support for online students.
6. Choose Based on Your Top Priority
Now that you know what to look for when comparing programs, focus on what matters most to you.
Start with the most essential priority: ensuring the program meets your state’s licensure requirements. From there, prioritize what fits your situation.
If flexibility is key your best option is an asynchronous program. If support matters to you, compare how schools handle internship placements and what student services they offer to help you succeed.
If cost is your top concern, look at your total price after financial aid and whether you can transfer credits to save money.
Frequently Asked Questions
The average cost of an online master’s in social sciences is around $11,000 per year after financial aid, according to 2019-20 data from the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES).
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