Online Graduate Certificate in Counseling

What Can I Expect in an Online Graduate Certificate in Counseling Program?

Graduate certificates in counseling always have a specialization p that’s why they are an option in the first place. Typical programs include addiction counseling, mental health services, family therapy, school-based service therapy, and more.

Aside from specialty courses focusing on theory and practice, you will also find some general courses. Examples include:

• Group Therapy and Treatment
• Theories of Treatment
• Interventions
• Contemporary Issues in Treatment
• Research in Human Development for Professional Counselors
• Ethical and Legal Issues in Professional Counseling
• Introduction to Clinical Counseling
• Theories of Psychotherapy and Counseling
• Counseling and Advocacy with Diverse Populations
• Crisis Intervention, Trauma Response, and Emergency Management
• Psychopathology
• Capstone Project

What Are the Graduate Certificate in Counseling Admission Requirements?

Graduate certificates usually ask for the following minimum entry requirements:

• A bachelor’s degree in counseling or another relevant subject (like psychology); some grad certificates may require a master’s degree
• A minimum GPA. The range of minimum entry varies from 2.5 to 3.5
• A short essay explaining how your career would benefit from the counseling graduate certificate
• Employer or academic (preferred) recommendation letters
• International students should convert their existing qualifications through an officially recognized method
• International students must also prove English proficiency. Most majority English language countries are exempt, but those who come from elsewhere will be expected to prove a high level of communication through TOEFL, IELTS, and any others specified

What Is the Length of a Graduate Certificate in Counseling?

A graduate certificate typically takes around a year, spread out over two to three semesters, to complete full-time. The curriculum typically consists of roughly four courses of 20-30 credits. In some cases, part-time study may be permitted.

It’s important to note that most colleges allow you to use graduate certificate credits toward a full master's degree. However, this is often only permissible if you enroll in the master's program at the same college/university.

How Much Does a Graduate Certificate in Counseling Cost?

There is no standard charge for a graduate certificate. Some are charged per credit (much like bachelor's and associate's degrees) while others are charged a total for the program.

Elements that impact the total cost depending on demand for the program, quality, and school prestige. In 2024, the typical cost is between $15,500 and $26,500 for the whole program. In-state and out-of-state resident costs also vary.

For those worried about costs, there are a number of loans available – both government and private. They help spread the cost over many years, sometimes decades.

Despite the belief that FAFSA is for undergraduate students only, funding is also available for post-graduate study. The Federal Grad PLUS Loan is another potential option to consider.

Finally, there are scholarships that are granted on specific criteria such as demographic background and identity. They rarely cover the full cost, and some are used for specific aspects of the program.

List of Counseling Graduate Certificate Programs

Find an online or campus-based graduate certificate program in Counseling today – our state-by-state listings make it easy to find a great program near you.

Are we missing your school's program or need to update information listed? Please contact us so we can make the necessary changes.

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Liz Norris, LPCC

Liz Norris is a highly skilled and compassionate Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor who has devoted her career to helping individuals achieve mental wellness and lead fulfilling lives. After receiving her master's degree in counseling, Liz worked in various clinical settings, including community mental health clinics and private practices. Throughout her career, Liz recognized the importance of providing resources and support to aspiring counselors and psychologists. This led to her involvement with CounselingPsychology.org, a website dedicated to helping individuals navigate the journey towards becoming a mental health professional. Liz is a mother of three who enjoys writing, tennis, and volunteering in her community.