Anyone who wants to be a counselor knows that CACREP accreditation represents the gold standard for master’s programs. It is there to ensure that any program you apply to meets rigorous national standards, because counseling, as a role, is pretty sensitive; you will be responsible for counseling students, some as young as pre-schoolers, in some cases. Only the best programs will do. With the CACREP standards, you are covered in all aspects of study, including curriculum, faculty qualifications, and supervised clinical experiences.
Furthermore, graduates of CACREP-accredited programs usually satisfy the educational requirements for licensure in most states. In fact, some states, such as Ohio, North Carolina, and Utah, require CACREP graduation for professional counselor licensure. So if you want to study in any of these states, you must have graduated from an accredited school.
To help with your search for accredited and quality schools, we have shortlisted the top 20 CACREP accredited schools to study school counseling programs in 2026. Check them out below.
Quick Facts
- There are currently 279 CACREP-accredited school counseling graduate programs in the United States.
- CACREP school counseling programs require a minimum of 100 clock hours of practicum (including 40 direct service hours) and 600 clock hours of internship (including 240 direct service hours).
- Programs typically require 48-60 semester hours of graduate coursework.
- Eleven state counselor licensing boards require CACREP accreditation or equivalent, including California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Hawaii, Maryland, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, South Dakota, and Utah.
- School counseling programs emphasize the American School Counseling Association National Model, which provides a framework for addressing diverse student needs.
How Did We Determine The Best CACREP School Counseling Programs?
There are 279 school counseling programs, so it is no small feat to fish out the best of the best. Firstly, if the school is accredited, it is likely of high quality for studies. However, not every school will fit the needs of every student. Some programs have an extra factor that makes them better than the rest.
For this article, our rankings prioritize programs that are highly proficient in preparing future school counselors for K-12 (kindergarten to grade 12) settings. Some of our key evaluation criteria include:
Accreditation Status: Obviously, the most important criterion is that all programs hold current CACREP accreditation in School Counseling. As such, they comply with national standards.
Program Focus: The programs we have shortlisted emphasize integration with the ASCA National Model and K-12 developmental approaches.
Access and Flexibility: Many students put flexibility at the top of their list when searching for a program, so we did that too. So we have put into consideration the availability of multiple delivery formats like online, hybrid, and on-campus, No-GRE options, and accommodations for working students who are seeking career transitions.
Fieldwork Support: Another important factor is the quality of practicum and internship placement assistance.
Employment Outcomes: Is there a high chance of getting employed when you attend the school? We check the numbers and shortlist the best. Cost and Value: Total program cost, including tuition, fees, and estimated completion time, alongside availability of financial aid, assistantships, and in-state tuition options.
20 Best CACREP School Counseling Programs
ON-Campus and Hybrid Programs
William & Mary (College of William and Mary)
- Williamsburg, VA
- Online + Hybrid
Degree: M.Ed. in School Counseling
Format: Hybrid (Online + Two 3-Day Residencies)
Credits: 48
Why We Ranked This Program #1: We ranked William & Mary’s Online M.Ed. in Counseling, School Counseling Concentration #1 because it combines Public Ivy credibility with a mission-driven focus on social justice and student impact.
The program features a unique Social Justice Dashboard, which is an innovative digital tool that tracks students’ development of multicultural and social justice counseling competencies throughout the curriculum.
With a 98% career improvement rate and 94% student recommendation rate—among the highest in the nation—graduates are exceptionally well-positioned to leverage their training for career advancement. In a field where skilled, culturally responsive counselors are urgently needed, this program offers the strongest, most proven pathway into the profession.
Program Highlights:
- Average class size of 15 students for personalized faculty interaction
- Preparation for both the Virginia licensure and the National Certified Counselor credential
- 24/7 technical support for online learners
Estimated Total Cost: $38,000-$85,000 (in-state/out-of-state)
GRE Requirement: Required
North Carolina State University at Raleigh
- Raleigh, NC
- 3 years
- Online
Degree: M.Ed. in Counselor Education (School Counseling Track)
Format: Online with NC-based clinical placements
Credits: 60
Why We Ranked This Program #2: We ranked NC State #2 because it delivers exceptional value through a public research university with deep roots in North Carolina’s educational landscape. Founded in 1946, the program’s commitment to multiculturalism is evident in its evolution from less than 5% to nearly 20% culturally diverse students, reflecting a genuine institutional dedication to preparing counselors who serve all communities.
For professionals seeking to become licensed school counselors in North Carolina while working full-time, this program provides an accessible, proven pathway backed by nearly 80 years of excellence in counselor education.
Program Highlights:
- Cohort model with a three-year part-time timeline, including summers
- Same tuition rate for online and on-campus students
- No GRE requirement
- Curriculum emphasizes crisis intervention, family counseling, and gender issues
- Strong North Carolina public school placement network
- 93% retention rate reflects high student satisfaction
Clinical Experience: 100-hour practicum + 600 hours internship (two semesters) in approved NC K-12 schools
Estimated Total Cost: $18,000-$32,000 (in-state/out-of-state)
GRE Requirement: Not required
Butler University
- Indianapolis, IN
- 2.5-3 years
- Online
Degree: M.S. in School Counseling
Format: Online with immersive experiences
Credits: 60
Why We Ranked This Program #3: Butler University is #3 because it combines private university quality with public university affordability and unparalleled access to Indianapolis-area school placements. Butler’s deep partnerships with Indianapolis Public Schools, including a recent $100,000 grant to expand comprehensive school counseling programming across IPS, ensure students gain hands-on experience in diverse, real-world settings addressing critical student mental health needs.
Program Highlights:
- Complete in 2.5-3 years online
- Accepts up to 12 transfer credits from previous graduate work
- Affordable private university tuition (same rate in-state/out-of-state)
- Strong Indianapolis-area school partnerships
Clinical Experience: 100-hour practicum + 600-hour internship with support for local placement arrangements
Estimated Total Cost: $42,000-$45,000
GRE Requirement: Optional
Auburn University
- Auburn, AL
- 2-3+ years
- Online + Campus
Degree: M.Ed. in School Counseling
Format: Online and On-campus options
Credits: 60
Why We Ranked This Program #4: We ranked Auburn University #4 because its graduates achieve exceptional employment outcomes, with 83% employed in school counseling positions upon graduation. Auburn’s outstanding 10:1 student-to-faculty ratio ensures personalized mentoring and support throughout the program, whether students choose the online or on-campus format.
Program Highlights:
- 83% of graduates are employed in school counseling upon graduation
- Excellent 10:1 student-to-faculty ratio
- Flexible full-time (2 years) or part-time (3+ years) completion
- Extensive Alabama public school placement network
- Affordable in-state tuition for Alabama residents
Clinical Experience: Repeatable practicum + 600-hour supervised internship at the student’s chosen location
Estimated Total Cost: $26,000-$52,000 (in-state/out-of-state)
GRE Requirement: Required
Bradley University
- Peoria, IL
- Online
Degree: M.A. in Counseling – Professional School Counseling
Format: Online with virtual residencies
Credits: 48
Why We Ranked This Program #5: Bradley’s program offers an innovative curriculum that includes a distinctive neurocounseling course using simulations to demonstrate brain-based counseling approaches. This neuroscience-informed perspective gives graduates advanced understanding of how trauma, stress, and development impact the developing brain, enhancing their effectiveness with diverse student populations.
Program Highlights:
- Innovative neurocounseling course using simulations demonstrating brain-based counseling
- Work-friendly format allowing degree completion while maintaining employment
- Courses in trauma, crisis, grief counseling, and culturally diverse populations
- Direct path to Illinois Professional Educator License (School Counselor endorsement)
Clinical Experience: Supervised practicum + internship in students’ local communities with university support
Estimated Total Cost: $42,000-$48,000
GRE Requirement: Required
University of Missouri-Columbia (Mizzou)
- Columbia, MO
- 8 weeks
- Online
Degree: M.Ed. in Educational, School, and Counseling Psychology
Format: Online (no campus visits required for coursework)
Credits: Variable based on certification level
Why We Ranked This Program #6: We ranked University of Missouri-Columbia #6 because it offers exceptional flexibility for working professionals through its unique one-course-at-a-time structure in eight-week blocks.
This pace allows students to focus deeply on each subject while balancing work and personal commitments, making it one of the most accommodating programs for busy adults. Mizzou’s curriculum emphasizes evidence-based psychotherapies and group counseling approaches, preparing graduates with current, research-supported skills.
Program Highlights:
- One course at a time in eight-week blocks
- Evidence-based psychotherapies and group counseling emphasize
- Option for all-level (P-12) licensure with additional practicum
- Preparation for Missouri DESE certification requirements
Clinical Experience: Two in-person practicums required; additional practicum for K-12 (all levels) licensure
Estimated Total Cost: $23,000-$40,000 (in-state/out-of-state)
GRE Requirement: Not required; minimum 3.0 GPA required
University of Denver
- Denver, CO
- Online + Campus
Degree: M.A. in School Counseling
Format: Online with optional Denver campus immersion
Credits: 60
Why We Ranked This Program #7: We ranked University of Denver’s Online M.A. in School Counseling #7 because it’s housed in CU Denver’s School of Education and Human Development, which is ranked among U.S. News & World Report’s “Best Graduate Schools” The recognition reflects the program’s academic rigor and strong reputation. The curriculum includes specialized courses in gender and sexuality, career counseling, and activity-based counseling, addressing contemporary issues that school counselors encounter daily.
Program Highlights:
- Flexible program accepting transfer credits
- Courses in gender and sexuality, career counseling, and activity-based counseling
- Mock counseling sessions with peers for skills practice
- Optional immersion experience on the Denver campus
- Graduates qualify for Colorado school counselor licensure
Clinical Experience: 100-hour practicum + 600-hour internship at schools within the student’s community
Estimated Total Cost: $75,000-$80,000
GRE Requirement: Not required
Seton Hall University
- South Orange, NJ
- 2.5-3 years
- Online
Degree: M.A. in School Counseling
Format: Online with two weekend residencies
Credits: 48
Why We Ranked This Program #8: We ranked Seton Hall University #8 because it offers remarkable accessibility with no prerequisites or prior counseling experience required, rolling admissions throughout the year, and completion in fewer than 3 years.
This open-door approach makes graduate education in school counseling available to career-changers and those without traditional counseling backgrounds, while maintaining CACREP standards through rigorous coursework and extensive clinical training..
Program Highlights:
- Complete in fewer than 3 years (2.5 years typical)
- No prerequisites or prior counseling experience required
- Two required weekend residencies for community-building and skills practice
- Three-semester clinical component with extensive supervision
- Rolling admissions throughout the year
Clinical Experience: Practicum + three-semester internship in New Jersey school settings
Estimated Total Cost: $48,000-$50,000
GRE Requirement: Not required; minimum 3.0 GPA recommended
Creighton University
- Omaha, NE
- 2 years
- Online
Degree: M.S. in School Counseling
Format: Online
Credits: 36
Why We Ranked This Program #9: Creighton University offers an exceptionally efficient 36-credit program which has significantly fewer credits than the typical 48-60, allowing completion in just two years while still meeting all CACREP standards for comprehensive counselor preparation. This streamlined approach saves students both time and money .
Program Highlights:
- You can choose a specialization: Elementary, Secondary, or P-12 guidance counseling
- Two-year completion timeline
- A teaching license is not required for admission
- Approved by the Nebraska Department of Education
Clinical Experience: 600-hour internship (additional credits and practicum for non-licensed applicants)
Estimated Total Cost: $30,000-$32,000
GRE Requirement: Not required; minimum 3.0 GPA required
Gwynedd Mercy University
- Gwynedd Valley, PA
- Online
Degree: M.S. in School Counseling
Format: Online (asynchronous, 7-week blocks)
Credits: 48
Why We Ranked This Program #10: Gwynedd Mercy delivers maximum flexibility through asynchronous online delivery in 7-week blocks, making it one of the most accommodating programs for busy professionals at an affordable $27,000-$30,000 total cost.
The program requires no teaching license for admission but still qualifies graduates for Pennsylvania school counselor licensure, with a three-day on-campus residency for essential community building and skills practice.
Program Highlights:
- Asynchronously delivered for maximum flexibility
- No teaching license required for admission
- Three-day on-campus residency for community building
- Qualifies for Pennsylvania school counselor licensure
Clinical Experience: 100-hour practicum + 600-hour supervised internship (both in-person)
Estimated Total Cost: $27,000-$30,000
GRE Requirement: Not required (psychology prerequisites mandatory)
Fully Online Programs
Fort Hays State University
- Hays, KS
- Online
Degree: M.S. in School Counseling
Format: Fully Online (asynchronous)
Credits: 48
Why We Ranked This Program #11: FHSU is the only CACREP-accredited program in Kansas with the “Online” distinction, offering fully asynchronous delivery with an established track record.
Program Highlights:
- Fully online asynchronous delivery – no campus visits required for coursework
- Self-paced progression within a structured course schedule
- 100% online program with an established track record
Clinical Experience: 100-hour practicum + 600-hour internship with university assistance for placement near the student’s home
Estimated Total Cost: $18,500-$22,000 (all students)
GRE Requirement: Not required
Capella University
- Minneapolis, MN
- Online
Location: Minneapolis, MN (Online institution)
Degree: M.S. in School Counseling
Format: Fully Online
Credits: 60
Why We Ranked This Program #12: Capella offers unparalleled flexibility with eight annual start dates throughout the year and both traditional term and self-paced options, allowing students to begin and progress according to their individual schedules.
Program Highlights:
- Year-round start dates (8 annual starts)
- Traditional term or self-paced options
- Extensive online student support services with 24/7 tech support
Clinical Experience: 100-hour practicum + 600-hour internship with the backing for nationwide placement coordination
Estimated Total Cost: $35,000-$45,000
GRE Requirement: Not required
Campbellsville University
- Campbellsville, KY
- Online
Degree: M.Ed. in School Counseling
Format: Online (8-week terms)
Credits: 48
Why We Ranked This Program #13: Campbellsville combines exceptional affordability at $18,000-$20,000 total cost with six start dates annually (spring, summer, fall flexibility) and reduced tuition for active military members..
Program Highlights:
- Reduced tuition for active military members
- Six start dates annually (spring, summer, fall flexibility)
- Eight-week term structure allowing focused study
- Three internship opportunities providing diverse supervised experience
- Christian principles integrated with professional counseling standards
Clinical Experience: Three internship opportunities in supervised school counseling settings
Estimated Total Cost: $18,000-$20,000
GRE Requirement: Not required
Texas A&M University-Commerce
- Commerce, TX
- Online + Hybrid
Degree: M.S. in School Counseling
Format: Hybrid, Online, Full-time, Part-time options
Credits: 48
Why We Ranked This Program #14: Texas A&M-Commerce has a mentorship program connecting students with experienced school counselors and practicum placements arranged in students’ local schools provide strong professional development and networking opportunities throughout Texas.
Program Highlights:
- Multiple format options: hybrid, online, full-time, part-time
- Mentorship program connecting students with experienced school counselors
- Practicum placements arranged in students’ local schools near their residences
Clinical Experience: Minimum 100-hour practicum, including 40 direct clinical hours in Texas-accredited school settings
Estimated Total Cost: $9,000-$26,000 (in-state/out-of-state)
GRE Requirement: Not required
Eastern New Mexico University-Main Campus
- Portales, NM
- Online
Degree: M.Ed. in School Counseling
Format: Online
Credits: 48
Why We Ranked This Program #15: ENMU provides exceptional value while offering psychology seniors the opportunity to apply for 12 credits toward both bachelor’s and master’s degrees, creating an accelerated pathway.
Program Highlights:
- Psychology seniors can apply 12 credits toward both degrees
- Online students have access to the same support as on-campus students
- Online students are eligible for ENMU Foundation scholarships
- Prepares for K-12 school counselor certification in New Mexico and other states
Clinical Experience: 300-hour internship completed at an elementary, middle, or high school
Estimated Total Cost: $14,000-$18,000
GRE Requirement: Not required
University of Tennessee-Martin
- Martin, TN
- Online
Degree: M.S. in School Counseling
Format: Online with 3-day residency
Credits: 60
Why We Ranked This Program #16: UT-Martin boasts a 100% pass rate on the Praxis Professional School Counselor exam, demonstrating exceptional preparation and academic rigor that ensures graduates are well-equipped for licensure.
Program Highlights:
- 100% pass rate on Praxis Professional School Counselor exam
- No GRE requirement
- Required 3-day on-campus residency for community building
- Specialized training in counseling children/adolescents with psychological conditions
Clinical Experience: 100-hour practicum + 600-hour internship (must pass Praxis before beginning field placements)
Estimated Total Cost: $22,000-$38,000 (in-state/out-of-state)
GRE Requirement: Not required
University of West Alabama
- Livingston, AL
- Online
Degree: M.Ed. in School Counseling
Format: Online (asynchronous + synchronous mix)
Credits: 60
Why We Ranked This Program #17: With 80% of students receiving some type of financial aid and a four-day on-campus residency requirement, the program meets academic requirements for Alabama-licensed school counselors while providing accessible, well-supported education.
Program Highlights:
- Mix of asynchronous and synchronous courses for flexibility and connection
- 80% of students receive some type of financial aid
- Four-day on-campus residency requirement
- Meets academic requirements for an Alabama-licensed school counselor
Clinical Experience: 100-hour practicum + 600-hour internship near the student’s residence in diverse settings
Estimated Total Cost: $16,000-$32,000 (in-state/out-of-state)
GRE Requirement: Not specified
Spalding University
- Louisville, KY
- 12-14 months
- Online
Degree: M.A. in School Counseling
Format: Online
Credits: 33
Why We Ranked This Program #18: Spalding stands out for its remarkably fast completion timeline of just 12-14 months and efficient 33-credit program structure, making it the quickest path to graduation on this list. As one of Kentucky’s most affordable private institutions for online programs at $23,000-$25,000, the program includes two separate practicum experiences ensuring extensive hands-on learning in diverse school settings.
Program Highlights:
- Remarkably fast completion: 12-14 months possible
- Efficient 33-credit program (lower than the typical 48-60 credits)
- Two separate practicum experiences for extensive hands-on learning
- One of Kentucky’s most affordable private institutions for online programs
Clinical Experience: 10 hours per course + two practicum experiences (50% of clinical hours in diverse school settings)
Estimated Total Cost: $23,000-$25,000
GRE Requirement: Not required
Adams State University
- Alamosa, CO
- Online + Campus
Degree: M.A. in School Counseling
Format: Online and On-campus options
Credits: 48
Why We Ranked This Program #19: Adams State serves as a Hispanic-Serving Institution (HSI) with a cultural competency emphasis and a unique focus on rural school counseling challenges and strengths, preparing counselors to serve southwestern Colorado communities effectively.
Program Highlights:
- HSI (Hispanic-Serving Institution) with cultural competency emphasis
- Focus on rural school counseling challenges and strengths
- Serves southwestern Colorado communities
- Preparation for Colorado school counselor licensure
Clinical Experience: 100-hour practicum + 600-hour internship in Colorado schools
Estimated Total Cost: $20,000-$35,000 (in-state/out-of-state)
GRE Requirement: Optional
Evangel University
- Springfield, MO
- Online + Hybrid
Degree: M.S. in School Counseling
Format: Hybrid and Online options
Credits: 48
Why We Ranked This Program #20: Evangel provides a faith-integrated approach to professional school counseling with both hybrid and online options, appealing to students who want to combine their spiritual values with evidence-based counseling practices.
Program Highlights:
- Faith-integrated approach to professional school counseling
- There is hybrid and online options for flexibility
- There is a Missouri certification route
Clinical Experience: 100-hour practicum + 600-hour internship in Missouri school settings
Estimated Total Cost: $32,000-$36,000
GRE Requirement: Not required
CACREP School Counseling Programs at a glance
| S/N | School | Format | Credits | Est. Total Cost | Practicum + Internship | GRE | ASCA |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | William & Mary | Hybrid | 48 | $38K-$85K | 100 + 600 hrs | Required | Strong |
| 2 | NC State University | Online/Hybrid | 60 | $18K-$32K | 100 + 600 hrs | Not required | Strong |
| 3 | Butler University | Online | 60 | $42K-$45K | 100 + 600 hrs | Optional | Moderate |
| 4 | Auburn University | Online/Campus | 60 | $26K-$52K | Repeatable + 600 hrs | Required | Moderate |
| 5 | Bradley University | Online | 48 | $42K-$48K | Practicum + Internship | Required | Strong |
| 6 | University of Missouri | Online | Variable | $23K-$40K | 2 practicums | Not required | Moderate |
| 7 | University of Denver | Online | 60 | $75K-$80K | 100 + 600 hrs | Not required | Strong |
| 8 | Seton Hall University | Online | 48 | $48K-$50K | 3-semester clinical | Not required | Strong |
| 9 | Creighton University | Online | 36 | $30K-$32K | 600 hrs | Not required | Strong |
| 10 | Gwynedd Mercy. | Online | 48 | $27K-$30K | 100 + 600 hrs | Not required | Strong |
| 11 | Fort Hays State Univ. | Fully Online | 48 | $18.5K-$22K | 100 + 600 hrs | Not required | Strong |
| 12 | Capella University | Fully Online | 60 | $35K-$45K | 100 + 600 hrs | Not required | Moderate |
| 13 | Campbellsville Univ. | Online | 48 | $18K-$20K | 3 internships | Not required | Moderate |
| 14 | Texas A&M-Commerce | Hybrid/Online | 48 | $9K-$26K | 100-hr practicum | Not required | Strong |
| 15 | Eastern NM University | Online | 48 | $14K-$18K | 300-hr internship | Not required | Strong |
| 16 | UT-Martin | Online | 60 | $22K-$38K | 100 + 600 hrs | Not required | Strong |
| 17 | University of West AL | Online | 60 | $16K-$32K | 100 + 600 hrs | Not specified | Moderate |
| 18 | Spalding University | Online | 33 | $23K-$25K | 2 practicums | Not required | Moderate |
| 19 | Adams State University | Hybrid/Online | 48 | $20K-$35K | 100 + 600 hrs | Optional | Strong |
| 20 | Evangel University | Hybrid/Online | 48 | $32K-$36K | 100 + 600 hrs | Not required | Strong |
Costs are estimates based on 2025-2026 tuition rates and may vary. All programs follow CACREP requirements for minimum practicum and internship hours. “Strong” ASCA integration indicates explicit, comprehensive curriculum coverage; “Moderate” indicates ASCA principles covered within a broader counseling framework.
Admission Requirements & “No-GRE” Options
Getting into a CACREP school counseling program is more accessible than you might think. Most programs look for a bachelor’s degree from any field, a 3.0 GPA, a compelling personal statement about why you want to become a school counselor, and 2-3 strong letters of recommendation.
You’ll also need official transcripts and a resume highlighting your experience working with kids or teens, and you’ll likely participate in an interview where you can share your passion for supporting students. Since you’ll be working in schools, a criminal background check is required, and some programs require prerequisite courses such as intro to psychology or statistics. If you’re eyeing online programs, make sure you have reliable internet and basic tech equipment, such as a webcam and microphone.
However, 75% of top CACREP programs no longer require the GRE. The shift is due to the fact that GRE scores do not really predict counseling success. You cannot tell for sure that someone will be a great counselor just from their score. Also, it removes the $220 exam fee that would otherwise affect underrepresented students. Of the 20 programs in our guide, 15 have ditched the GRE entirely, 2 make it optional, and only 3 still require it.
Programs from Our List with No-GRE or GRE-Optional Admission
No GRE Required:
- Fort Hays State University
- Capella University
- Campbellsville University
- Evangel University
- North Carolina State University
- University of Denver
- Texas A&M-Commerce
- Eastern New Mexico University
- University of Tennessee-Martin
- Spalding University
- Seton Hall University
- Gwynedd Mercy University
- Creighton University
- University of Missouri
GRE Optional/Waived with Conditions:
- Butler University (optional)
- Adams State University (optional)
GRE Currently Required:
- William & Mary
- Auburn University
- Bradley University
Practicum & Internship in K–12 Schools
Think of your clinical fieldwork as where theory meets reality. CACREP ensures you get plenty of real-world practice. Every accredited program requires 700 total hours of hands-on experience in actual K-12 schools.
The breakdown is as follows:
- 100-hour practicum (including 40 hours working directly with students)
- 600-hour internship (with 240 direct service hours).
Your practicum typically happens after your first year of coursework and gives you a taste of school counseling across one semester. You’ll need to work across multiple grade levels (elementary, middle, and high school) to find your sweet spot with different age groups.
The CACREP fieldwork has a dual supervision structure: you receive weekly one-on-one guidance from a certified school counselor at your placement site (your mentor in the trenches), plus weekly group supervision with university faculty (where you process experiences with classmates). Now, if you are currently teaching and eyeing a career change, many programs offer flexibility to support this.
Online & Hybrid CACREP School Counseling Programs
Online CACREP programs come in different forms. Fully online asynchronous programs (like Fort Hays State and Capella) are completely flexible. You can watch lectures and complete assignments on your own schedule.
Synchronous online programs have set times when you log in for live classes so you can still interact with professors and classmates while skipping the commute. The set time is usually on weekends or in the evenings.
Hybrid/low-residency options (like William & Mary and Seton Hall) is a combination of online work and a few campus visits yearly. The visits are usually 2-4 intensive weekends or week-long sessions.
The perks of online learning are hard to beat; however, you will need reliable high-speed internet, a decent computer with webcam and microphone, and a quiet space for video conferences and mock counseling sessions. The challenge is that online learning demands serious self-discipline.
How to Choose the Right CACREP School Counseling Program (Checklist)
Document this checklist if you can, and make sure you tick enough of it before you commit to a particular school.
Accreditation & Licensure
- Check that the CACREP accreditation status is verified
- Does your state board go for the online format
- Ensure practicum/internship hours meet state requirements
Clinical Experience & Placement Support
- Check for close access to elementary, middle, and high school sites
- Check out the support for out-of-area placement assistance
- Ensure site supervisors are licensed school counselors with 2+ years of experience
Program Format & Schedule
- On-campus, fully online or hybrid?
- Would you rather commit to asynchronous or synchronous?
- Check if there are evening/weekend courses for people who are working
Cost & Financial Aid
- What is your total investment? Ensure you cover tuition, books, technology, and exam fees.
- Look at the in-state vs. out-of-state tuition
- Look for ASCA scholarships, veterans benefits, and loan forgiveness programs
ASCA National Model Emphasis
- Verify the ASCA curriculum integration
- Check if there is a course on school counseling programs
- Ensure coverage of all four ASCA components: Foundation, Management, Delivery, Accountability
Program Quality
- What are the job placement rates in the school
- Find out about the student support
- Check program reputation among school districts in your target area
Action Steps
- Go for virtual information sessions to meet faculty
- Have conversations with current students and graduates
- Review the complete curriculum and course descriptions
- Visit campus if considering an on-campus or hybrid program
- Get written confirmation from your state board that the program meets certification requirements
Frequently Asked Questions
Do all states require a master’s degree to be a school counselor?
Yes, all 50 states and the District of Columbia require a master’s degree in school counseling or a closely related field for school counselor certification. This is one of the most consistent requirements across states.
Is CACREP accreditation required for school counselor licensure?
CACREP accreditation is required or strongly preferred in an increasing number of states, and it provides significant advantages even in states where it’s not technically mandated. Here are some states where it is compulsory:
- California
- Colorado
- Connecticut
- Delaware
- Florida (for Licensed Mental Health Counselors)
- Hawaii
- Kentucky
- Maryland
- North Carolina
- Ohio
- Oklahoma
- South Dakota
- Utah
What’s the difference between M.Ed., M.A., and M.S. in School Counseling?
The letters after your degree don’t matter for your career because all three prepare you for the exact same job as a K-12 school counselor. The differences mainly concern academic tradition and where the program is located on campus. An M.Ed is what most teachers go for because it emphasizes school systems. An M.A. is based in arts and sciences with a liberal arts route. Lastly, an M.S. is under a psychology or counseling department and has a scientific focus.
They all cover the same counseling focus and require the same 700 clinical hours. The only time it might matter is if you’re eyeing doctoral programs down the road, but even then, most Ph.D. programs accept all three types from CACREP schools. Focus on finding the program that works for your career goals.
