Students in Alaska who want to become licensed counselors need to begin with the right graduate program. This page highlights Alaska CACREP-accredited counseling programs, which represent the most direct route to licensure in the state.
CACREP accreditation matters because it ensures a program meets national standards in counselor education. For students in Alaska, that means their coursework and clinical training align with the requirements of the Alaska Board of Professional Counselors. Whether you’re planning to work in Anchorage, Fairbanks, or a rural community, graduating from a CACREP (Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs)-accredited program gives you confidence that your degree will count when it’s time to apply for licensure.
Quick Facts: CACREP Counseling Programs in Alaska
- CACREP-Accredited Counseling Programs in Alaska: 1
- Degree Level: Master’s (minimum 60 credits)
- Program Formats: On-campus with some hybrid flexibility
- Average Program Length: 2–3 years full-time
- Tuition Range (per credit): $600–$900
Alaska CACREP-Accredited Counseling Programs
University of Alaska Fairbanks (UAF)
- Location
- 2–3 years
- Campus + Online + Hybrid
Program Name: M.Ed. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling; M.Ed. in School Counseling
Modality: Primarily on-campus in Fairbanks, with some hybrid/online course options
Length: 60 credits; typically completed in 2–3 years full-time
GRE Required: No
Tuition: $630 per credit for residents; $1,230 per credit for non-residents
Program Overview:
The University of Alaska Fairbanks offers CACREP-accredited master’s programs in both Clinical Mental Health Counseling and School Counseling. These programs prepare graduates for licensure as professional counselors in Alaska and meet the educational requirements for certification as school counselors. The curriculum combines coursework in counseling theory, ethics, and multicultural practice with supervised clinical experiences.
Key Highlights:
- Only CACREP-accredited counseling programs in Alaska
- Two distinct pathways: Clinical Mental Health Counseling and School Counseling
- Strong emphasis on serving rural and Alaska Native communities
- Field placements available across diverse regions of the state
Additional Consideration:
Because Alaska has unique geographical challenges, students may need to arrange practicums and internships in rural or remote communities. Hybrid options provide some flexibility, but in-person commitments are required.
Accreditation: CACREP
CACREP Options Beyond Alaska
Since the University of Alaska Fairbanks currently offers the only CACREP-accredited counseling programs in the state, many students also look to online or nearby out-of-state options. Accredited programs in Washington, Oregon, and other western states provide additional choices, often with flexible formats such as fully online or hybrid delivery.
For students in rural Alaska or those seeking specific specializations not offered at UAF, exploring these alternatives can open more doors. Online CACREP programs, in particular, allow students to remain in their communities while completing coursework, with clinical placements arranged locally.
Why CACREP Accreditation Matters for Alaska Counselors
In Alaska, choosing a CACREP-accredited counseling program is the surest way to meet licensure requirements and begin practicing as a professional counselor. CACREP sets national standards for counselor education, ensuring that graduates are well prepared to work with individuals, families, and communities.
For students in Alaska, this matters in a very practical way. The Alaska Board of Professional Counselors requires graduate-level training that aligns with CACREP standards for licensure. By completing a CACREP program, students can feel confident that their coursework and clinical experiences will count toward state licensure requirements.
Accreditation also offers long-term benefits. Graduates of CACREP programs are eligible to sit for national counseling exams, making it easier to apply for licensure in other states. Employers also recognize CACREP as a sign of quality training, which can give job applicants an advantage in competitive fields. For Alaska students, CACREP accreditation means less uncertainty and more opportunities, both at home and beyond.
Career Outlook for Graduates of CACREP Programs in Alaska
The need for licensed counselors in Alaska continues to grow, especially as mental health services expand in schools, healthcare systems, and community agencies. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics states that employment for mental health, substance use, and behavioral disorder counselors will increase much faster than average nationwide. In Alaska, this trend is even more significant because of high demand in rural and underserved areas.
Counselors in Alaska can expect salaries that range from $55,000 to $70,000 annually, depending on location, specialization, and level of experience. School counselors often earn salaries aligned with district pay scales, while clinical mental health counselors may see higher earnings in private practice or healthcare settings.
Graduates of Alaska CACREP programs also benefit from strong job mobility. Because their training meets national standards, they can more easily pursue licensure outside of Alaska if their career path takes them elsewhere. Whether staying in the state or looking beyond, counselors trained in CACREP programs are well-positioned for long-term career success.
Counseling Licensure Requirements in Alaska
To become a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Alaska, applicants must meet education, supervised experience, and examination requirements set by the Alaska Board of Professional Counselors. The typical pathway includes:
- Education: Earn a master’s or doctoral degree in counseling or a closely related field. A CACREP-accredited program ensures your coursework automatically aligns with the state’s requirements.
- Practicum and Internship: Complete at least 100 hours of practicum and 600 hours of internship experience during your degree program.
- Post-Graduate Supervised Experience: Accumulate a minimum of 3,000 hours of supervised clinical practice after graduation. At least 1,000 of these hours must be direct client contact, and supervision must be provided by a board-approved professional.
- Examination: Pass a national counseling exam such as the National Counselor Examination (NCE) or the National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Examination (NCMHCE).
- Application Process: Submit official transcripts, verification of supervised hours, exam results, professional references, and required fees to the Alaska Board of Professional Counselors.
Meeting these steps qualifies candidates for licensure, allowing them to practice independently as professional counselors throughout Alaska.
FAQs: Alaska CACREP Counseling Programs
Why must the program be CACREP-accredited for licensure in Alaska?
The Alaska Board of Professional Counselors requires graduate-level coursework and clinical training that align with national standards. CACREP-accredited programs guarantee that your degree meets these requirements, reducing barriers when applying for licensure.
How many CACREP-accredited counseling programs are in Alaska?
Currently, the University of Alaska Fairbanks offers the only CACREP-accredited master’s programs in the state, with tracks in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and School Counseling.
Are there online CACREP programs available to Alaska residents?
Yes. While UAF is the only in-state CACREP option, fully online CACREP programs from other universities accept Alaska students. These allow you to complete coursework remotely while arranging local practicum and internship placements.
How many supervised hours are required for licensure in Alaska?
Graduate students complete at least 100 hours of practicum and 600 internship hours. After graduation, the state requires 3,000 hours of supervised practice, including 1,000 direct client hours.
Can I practice in rural Alaska with a CACREP degree?
Yes. In fact, there is strong demand for licensed counselors in rural and remote communities. Many graduates arrange clinical placements in these areas during their training.
What’s the difference between an MA, MS, and M.Ed. in counseling?
In Alaska, most CACREP-accredited counseling degrees are offered as M.Ed. programs. While the title may differ from an MA or MS, the curriculum still covers the CACREP-required core areas and qualifies you for licensure.
Steps on How to Choose & Apply to Your Program
Applying to a CACREP-accredited counseling program in Alaska is straightforward once you know the steps. Here’s a simple guide to help you through the process:
- Confirm Accreditation – Start by verifying the program in the official CACREP directory. This ensures your degree will meet Alaska’s licensure requirements.
- Review Program Format – Decide whether an on-campus program at the University of Alaska Fairbanks works for you, or if you’d prefer to explore online CACREP programs that accept Alaska students.
- Check Specializations – Choose the path that matches your goals: Clinical Mental Health Counseling, School Counseling, or another specialty.
- Compare Tuition and Aid – Review current tuition rates, fees, and financial aid options to plan your budget.
- Prepare Application Materials – Gather transcripts, recommendation letters, and a personal statement. Most programs in Alaska do not require the GRE, but always confirm.
- Understand the Licensure Path – Keep in mind Alaska’s post-graduate requirements: 3,000 supervised hours and a passing score on a national exam before full LPC licensure.
Following these steps ensures you’re organized and ready to apply to a program that fits your needs and prepares you for licensure in Alaska.
Conclusion & Next Action
For students in Alaska, completing a CACREP-accredited program is the most direct path to becoming a licensed counselor. With national accreditation, your degree will meet state licensure standards, prepare you for exams, and open doors to career opportunities both within Alaska and beyond.
The University of Alaska Fairbanks currently offers the state’s CACREP-accredited options, with tracks in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and School Counseling. Students seeking additional choices may also consider online CACREP programs or nearby states.
Next Step: Review the Alaska CACREP programs above, explore admissions details, and reach out directly to request more information. Starting with a CACREP-accredited degree ensures your hard work will count toward licensure and a rewarding counseling career.
