Best Counseling Schools in Kansas
Kansas has a large population that’s struggling with addiction, trauma, poverty, family troubles, and other issues. Counselors help these and others through professional services, and knowing how to render those services requires education. If you want to become a counselor, here are the best counseling programs in Kansas.

2025 Best Master's in Counseling Programs in Kansas
Looking for the best master's in counseling programs in Kansas? counselingpsychology.org has ranked the top options to help you decide. These programs prepare students for rewarding careers in mental health. Online programs offer flexibility, making it easier to balance studies with life. Distance learning options are great for those who need to study from home. Find out how we rank these programs https://counselingpsychology.org/rankings-methodology/.
Emporia State University
Emporia, KS - Public 4-Year - emporia.edu
Master's - Master of Science in School Counseling
Online Learning - Visit Website
Emporia State University's Master of Science in School Counseling is a CACREP-accredited, 60-hour program designed for aspiring school counselors. This fully online program offers flexible synchronous and asynchronous classes, making it ideal for working professionals. It prepares graduates for dual licensure in school counseling and LPC in Kansas, with no teaching license required. The program stands out for its affordable tuition of $355 per credit, experienced faculty, and scholarships. Focused on PreK-12 counseling, it equips students with the skills to support children and adolescents effectively. No entrance exam is required for admission.
- CACREP-accredited program.
- 60-hour online curriculum.
- Dual licensure in KS.
- $355 per credit tuition.
- No teaching license required.
- Flexible class schedules.
- Experienced faculty.
- Scholarships available.
- Synchronous and asynchronous classes.
- Prepares for PreK-12 counseling.
Master's - MS, Clinical Counseling
Concentration: Clinical Mental Health Counseling - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The MS in Clinical Counseling with a concentration in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Emporia State University is a CACREP-accredited hybrid program. It combines online coursework with on-campus experiences, offering flexibility for students. The curriculum delves into integrated treatment, psychopharmacology, and relationship counseling, preparing graduates for diverse clinical settings. With options for thesis and non-thesis tracks, the program caters to individual career goals. A low student-to-faculty ratio ensures personalized attention. Admission does not require an entrance exam, making it accessible to aspiring mental health professionals.
- Nationally CACREP accredited program
- Hybrid learning format
- Comprehensive mental health curriculum
- Thesis and non-thesis options
- Low student-to-faculty ratio
Master's - Clinical Counseling
Concentration: Addictions Counseling - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Emporia State University's hybrid Clinical Counseling program with an Addictions Counseling concentration is CACREP-accredited, blending online and on-campus learning. It focuses on critical areas like psychopharmacology and co-occurring disorders treatment, preparing students for professional roles in addiction counseling. The program boasts a low student-to-faculty ratio for personalized learning and offers scholarships to eligible students. Flexible coursework accommodates working professionals. Admission is based on graduate school standards, with no entrance exam required, emphasizing accessibility for those aiming to specialize in addictions counseling.
- Hybrid program format
- CACREP accredited
- Focus on Addictions Counseling
- Low student-faculty ratio
- Scholarships available
- Includes psychopharmacology
- Covers co-occurring disorders
- Prepares for professional roles
- Personalized attention
- Flexible coursework
Wichita State University
Wichita, KS - Public 4-Year - wichita.edu
Master's - M.Ed. in Counseling, Clinical Mental Health Counseling track
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Wichita State University's M.Ed. in Counseling with a Clinical Mental Health Counseling track is a hybrid program designed for those aiming for professional licensure. This 60-credit graduate program emphasizes advanced counseling skills in areas like addiction, career, and family therapy, preparing graduates for diverse settings such as clinics and private practice. Admission requires a 3.00 GPA for the last 60 credit hours, alongside submission of professional goals, a resume, and references. The program's hybrid format offers flexibility, combining online and on-campus learning, and is CACREP accredited, ensuring a high-quality education.
- 60 graduate credit hours
- Hybrid learning format
- Prepares for LPC licensure
- Multiple counseling specialties
- Clinical internship required
- 3.00 GPA admission requirement
- Professional licensure preparation
- Diverse career opportunities
- CACREP accredited program
Master's - M.Ed. in Counseling, Clinical Mental Health Counseling track
Concentration: Addiction Counseling - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Specializing in Addiction Counseling, Wichita State University's M.Ed. in Counseling program offers a 60-credit hybrid curriculum focused on preparing students for LPC licensure with an emphasis on addiction treatment. The program covers psychopharmacology, crisis counseling, and intervention techniques, blending theory with clinical practice. Admission requires a 3.00 GPA and a criminal background check. This CACREP accredited program is ideal for those seeking careers in clinical settings, rehabilitation centers, or private practice, offering a comprehensive education in professional ethics and evidence-based counseling strategies.
- 60 graduate credit hours
- Hybrid course delivery
- Prepares for LPC licensure
- Advanced addiction counseling focus
- Clinical internship included
- 3.00 GPA admission requirement
- Criminal background check required
- CACREP accredited program
- Multiple counseling specializations
- Professional ethics coursework
Master's - M.Ed. in Counseling, Clinical Mental Health Counseling track
Concentration: Sports Counseling - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Wichita State University presents a unique M.Ed. in Counseling with a Sports Counseling concentration, blending mental health expertise with athletic performance insights. This 60-credit hybrid program prepares students for LPC licensure, covering addiction counseling, family therapy, and career development within a sports context. The curriculum includes clinical internships and emphasizes multicultural counseling and research methods. Admission requires a 3.00 GPA, with the program designed for those aiming to work in sports-related mental health settings. Its hybrid format offers flexibility, making it suitable for working professionals seeking to advance their careers in counseling.
- 60 graduate credit hours
- Hybrid learning format
- Licensure preparation track
- Multiple counseling specializations
- Clinical internship opportunities
- Professional ethics training
- Multicultural counseling focus
- Research methods included
- Career counseling components
- 3.00 GPA admission requirement
Fort Hays State University
Hays, KS - Public 4-Year - fhsu.edu
Master's - M.S. in Counseling - School Counseling
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Fort Hays State University's CACREP-accredited M.S. in Counseling - School Counseling program is designed for those aiming to become licensed school counselors in Kansas. This hybrid program, requiring 60 credit hours, merges rigorous academic coursework with hands-on practicum and internship experiences. It emphasizes the development of skills necessary to address the academic, social, and emotional needs of students across diverse educational environments. The curriculum is tailored to meet the Kansas State Department of Education's licensure requirements, covering essential areas such as counseling theories, developmental psychology, and evidence-based interventions. No entrance exam is mentioned, making it accessible to a broad range of applicants.
- CACREP-accredited program
- 60-hour hybrid format
- Prepares for Kansas licensure
- Focuses on student development
- Includes practicum and internship
- Covers counseling theories
- Emphasizes evidence-based practices
- Supports diverse educational settings
- Meets KSDE requirements
- Combines coursework with practical experience
Master's - Master of Science in Counseling-Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The Master of Science in Counseling-Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Fort Hays State University is a CACREP-accredited program that prepares students for licensure as Licensed Professional Counselors in Kansas. Offering a 60-credit hybrid format, it uniquely incorporates telemental health training to address the increasing demand for remote counseling services, particularly in underserved rural areas. The program's curriculum spans multicultural counseling, human development, and career counseling, enriched by practical experiences through practicum and internships. Admission is based on academic standards, with no specific entrance exam required. This program stands out for its focus on preparing graduates to serve diverse communities effectively.
- CACREP-accredited program
- 60-hour curriculum
- Hybrid online and on-campus
- Prepares for Kansas licensure
- Includes telemental health courses
- Focus on multicultural counseling
- Practical practicum experience
- Internship opportunities available
- Meets national and state standards
- Faculty mentorship provided
Ottawa University-Ottawa
Ottawa, KS - Private 4-year - ottawa.edu
Master's - Master of Arts in Counseling
Concentration: Gerocounseling - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Ottawa University-Ottawa offers a unique Master of Arts in Counseling with a concentration in Gerocounseling, designed for those passionate about addressing the mental health needs of the aging population. This hybrid program combines online coursework with in-person experiences, requiring no entrance exam for admission. Students will delve into specialized gerocounseling courses, complete 900 hours of field placement, and engage in professional growth seminars. The program is military-friendly and prepares graduates for state licensure, emphasizing ethical practice and advanced psychodiagnostic planning in a gerontological context.
- Marriage and Family Therapy concentration
- Prepares for state licensure
- 900 hours field placement
- Professional growth seminars
- Multiple counseling specializations
- Clinical foundations courses
- Ethical and professional training
- Advanced psychodiagnostic planning
- Supervised counseling experience
- Comprehensive exam required
Master's - Master of Arts in Counseling
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The Master of Arts in Counseling at Ottawa University-Ottawa is a hybrid program that prepares students for licensure in multiple states without the need for an entrance exam. It offers a broad curriculum with the flexibility to choose concentrations such as Expressive Arts Therapy and Trauma Treatment. With 900 clinical contact hours, students gain practical experience in diverse settings. The program is tailored for those looking to enter the rapidly growing mental health field, with a projected 23% job growth rate, and is especially welcoming to military personnel.
- Hybrid degree program format
- 39 core credit hours
- 15 concentration credit hours
- 900 clinical contact hours
- Meets licensure requirements
- Multiple concentration options
- Career growth expected 23%
Master's - Master of Science in Addiction Counseling
Online Learning - Visit Website
Ottawa University-Ottawa's Master of Science in Addiction Counseling is an online program designed for aspiring addiction counselors. It covers critical areas like ethics, treatment planning, and co-occurring disorders, and meets educational requirements for licensure in states like Arizona and California. No entrance exam is required, making it accessible for students eager to start their careers in addiction counseling. The program is accredited by CAADE and is military-friendly, offering a convenient online format for those balancing other commitments while pursuing their education.
- Online program format.
- Covers ethics, treatment planning.
- Prepares for LASAC credential.
- Accredited by CAADE.
- Meets most state licensure requirements.
Kansas State University
Manhattan, KS - Public 4-Year - k-state.edu
Master's - Master's in School Counseling
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Kansas State University offers a CACREP-accredited Master's in School Counseling, blending online and on-campus learning in a hybrid format. This program is notable for its 100% Praxis exam pass rate and the swift transition of graduates into professional roles. A distinctive feature is the Certificate in Counseling Military Connected Students and Families, enhancing the curriculum. Financial support through scholarships and assistantships is available, and no teaching license is required for admission. The program emphasizes professional development, offering opportunities for organizational memberships and conference participation, and is recognized for its diverse faculty. No entrance exam is mentioned as required.
- CACREP accredited.
- Hybrid program format.
- 100% Praxis exam pass rate.
- Quick employment post-graduation.
- Certificate in Military Counseling.
- Scholarships available.
- Assistantships offered.
- No teaching license required.
- Professional development opportunities.
- Diverse faculty.
How to Find a Counseling Program in Kansas
Counseling programs have many features to consider, including tuition, location, specialty, schedule, degree level, and other details. Take into account your financial, familial, and vocational needs as you evaluate programs, and also consider your vocational aspirations.
Counseling Degree Pathways in Kansas
Counseling degrees from Kansas schools are available at all levels of postsecondary education. Which degree is right for you depends on your current academic resume and vocational aspirations:
- Associate Degrees: Choose an associate degree if you don't have a postsecondary degree, and want a quick way to enter the field. These are two-year programs that require only a high school diploma. You'll likely be qualified for entry-level work with patients.
- Bachelor's Degrees: Choose a bachelor's degree if you haven't yet completed one, and want advancement potential. These are four-year programs that require at least a high school diploma. You'll likely be qualified for entry-level work, and have opportunities to advance after gaining some experience.
- Master's Degrees: Choose a master's degree if you have a bachelor's already, and want to become a licensed professional counselor in Kansas. These are one-year to two-year programs that require a bachelor's degree. A master's is needed for licensure.
- Doctorate Degrees: Choose a doctorate degree if you want to work in research or supervisory clinical roles. These require a bachelor's, and many competitive programs require a master's degree. Programs can last three to six (or more) years, after which you'll be qualified for high-level positions. Ph.D. degrees are research-oriented, and Psy.D. degrees are clinically oriented.
- Graduate Certificates: Choose a graduate certificate if you want to specialize, either beyond what a degree program offers or after completing a degree. These are one-year programs at most, and they require at least a bachelor's degree. They could help you distinguish yourself in a particular counseling specialty.
Choose a Counseling Specialty
Not all counselors specialize, but many choose one or two specialties. Examples of specialties that are available through counseling degree programs include:
- School counseling
- Clinical mental health counseling
- Clinical addictions counseling
- Clinical rehabilitation counseling
- Rehabilitation with autism spectrum disorder specialization
- Rehabilitation with deaf & hard of hearing specialization
- Art therapy and clinical counseling
Base any specialization choice on what population you would ultimately like to work with long-term.
Check School Accreditation
Accredited counseling degrees have been vetted by other academic institutions, and the degrees meet standard requirements. Make sure any counseling degree you enroll in is accredited.
Counseling degrees in Kansas may be accredited by the Council on Accreditation of Counseling and Related Education Programs (CACREP) and/or the American Psychological Association (APA).
Online vs. Traditional Counseling Programs
Accredited programs can be online or traditional. An online program will probably have lower tuition costs, won't require you to pay for room and board, and will have a flexible schedule. A traditional program will give you the classic college experience, and provide more interaction with professors and peers.
Base your choice between an online or traditional degree program on your current needs and future goals.
Becoming a Licensed Counselor in Kansas
To become licensed in Kansas, you must complete a 60-credit master's degree, internship, and 4,000 hours of post-graduate supervised work. You also have to pass an exam and pay a fee.
Renewing your license must be done bi-annually, and requires 30 hours of continuing education.
2025 Affordable Master's in Counseling Program Options
Finding an affordable Master's in Counseling in Kansas for 2025 is key for students. The right program balances cost and quality. Our table lists options with tuition ranges to fit different budgets. It shows program highlights to help you choose. Low-cost and cost-effective choices matter. They make education reachable without heavy debt. Kansas offers various settings, from cities to quieter areas. This variety helps students find the right fit for their studies and future careers.
School Name | Highlights | Annual Estimated Tuition & Fees |
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Emporia State University |
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Pittsburg State University |
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Washburn University |
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List of Counseling Degree Programs in Kansas
Are you searching for a counseling degree program in Kansas? Browse our comprehensive list of schools offering counseling programs, both online and on-campus, and follow the links to learn more about what each program has to offer.
Emporia, KS
Emporia State University
- Bachelor's - Rehabilitation & Disability Studies
Concentration: Addiction Counseling - Campus Based - Website
- Campus-based program
- 44 semester hours required
- Starts sophomore or junior year
- Internship in final semester
- Covers psychopharmacology
- Substance abuse counseling focus
- Case management training
- Scholarships available
- Master's - Clinical Counseling
Concentration: Addictions Counseling - Online & Campus Based - Website
- Hybrid program format
- CACREP accredited
- Focus on Addictions Counseling
- Low student-faculty ratio
- Scholarships available
- Includes psychopharmacology
- Covers co-occurring disorders
- Prepares for professional roles
- Master's - MS, Clinical Counseling
Concentration: Clinical Mental Health Counseling - Online & Campus Based - Website
- Nationally CACREP accredited program
- Hybrid learning format
- Comprehensive mental health curriculum
- Thesis and non-thesis options
- Low student-to-faculty ratio
- Master's - Master of Science in School Counseling
Online Learning - Website
- CACREP-accredited program.
- 60-hour online curriculum.
- Dual licensure in KS.
- $355 per credit tuition.
- No teaching license required.
- Flexible class schedules.
- Experienced faculty.
- Scholarships available.
Hays, KS
Fort Hays State University
- Bachelor's - Sociology - Addictions Counseling Track
Campus Based - Website
- Licensed Addictions Counselor Track
- BS and BA Options Available
- 30 Credit Hours Addiction Specific
- Two Practicum Experiences
- Comprehensive Sociological Foundation
- Works with Individuals/Groups
- Prevention and Recovery Focus
- Master's - M.S. in Counseling - School Counseling
Online & Campus Based - Website
- CACREP-accredited program
- 60-hour hybrid format
- Prepares for Kansas licensure
- Focuses on student development
- Includes practicum and internship
- Covers counseling theories
- Emphasizes evidence-based practices
- Supports diverse educational settings
- Master's - Master of Science in Counseling-Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Online & Campus Based - Website
- CACREP-accredited program
- 60-hour curriculum
- Hybrid online and on-campus
- Prepares for Kansas licensure
- Includes telemental health courses
- Focus on multicultural counseling
- Practical practicum experience
- Internship opportunities available
Leavenworth, KS
University of Saint Mary
- Master's - Master's in School Counseling
Online & Campus Based - Website
- 48 Credits.
- Finish in 2.5 Years.
- Hybrid program.
- No GRE required.
- $410 per credit hour.
- Flexible learning options.
- For teachers and non-teachers.
- KSDE accredited.
Manhattan, KS
Kansas State University
- Bachelor's - Addiction Counseling
Campus Based - Website
- Undergraduate program in Addiction Counseling
- Hands-on experiential learning
- Real-world practice focus
- Practicum experience included
- Supports vulnerable communities
- Master's - Master's in School Counseling
Online & Campus Based - Website
- CACREP accredited.
- Hybrid program format.
- 100% Praxis exam pass rate.
- Quick employment post-graduation.
- Certificate in Military Counseling.
- Scholarships available.
- Assistantships offered.
- No teaching license required.
- Doctorate - Ph.D. in Counselor Education and Supervision
Online Learning - Website
- 100% Online
- CACREP-accredited
- 96 credit hours
- Focus on counseling theories
- Includes dissertation
- Prepares for academia
- Admission requires bachelor's
- Scholarly writing sample
Olathe, KS
MidAmerica Nazarene University
- Master's - Master of Arts in Counseling, Clinical Mental Health track with Christian Faith & Counseling emphasis
Concentration: Christian Faith & Counseling - Online & Campus Based - Website
- Hybrid learning format.
- 60 credit hours required.
- Complete in 33 months.
- Prepares for licensure in multiple states.
- Focus on Christian Faith & Counseling.
- Admission requires bachelor's degree.
- Minimum GPA of 3.0 for admission.
- Includes comprehensive interviews.
- Master's - Master of Arts in Counseling, Clinical Mental Health track
Online & Campus Based - Website
- CACREP Accredited Program
- Hybrid Learning Option
- 60 Credit Hours Total
- 33-Month Completion Timeline
- Meets State Licensure Requirements
- Remote Attendance Available
- Diverse Counseling Settings Preparation
- Professional Faith Integration
Ottawa, KS
Ottawa University-Ottawa
- Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Addiction Counseling
Online Learning - Website
- 100% Online Degree Program
- Accelerated 8-week Course Terms
- Practicum/Internship Experience
- Nationally Accredited Program
- Multicultural Counseling Focus
- Comprehensive Addiction Curriculum
- Career Growth Potential
- Flexible Learning Options
- Master's - Master of Arts in Counseling
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Hybrid degree program format
- 39 core credit hours
- 15 concentration credit hours
- 900 clinical contact hours
- Meets licensure requirements
- Multiple concentration options
- Career growth expected 23%
- Master's - Master of Science in Addiction Counseling
Online Learning - Website
- Online program format.
- Covers ethics, treatment planning.
- Prepares for LASAC credential.
- Accredited by CAADE.
- Meets most state licensure requirements.
Overland Park, KS
Ottawa University-Online
- Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Addiction Counseling
Online Learning - Website
- Fully online accelerated degree
- 23% job market growth projected
- Practicum/internship experiences
- Multicultural counseling focus
- Prepares for substance abuse careers
- Master's - Master of Arts in Education - School Counseling
Online Learning - Website
- Online and campus options
- CAEP accredited program
- Meets Arizona/Kansas licensure
- 8-week accelerated terms
- Practicum in school settings
- Career outlook: 8% growth
- Comprehensive counseling model
- Multicultural counseling focus
- Master's - Master of Science in Addiction Counseling
Online Learning - Website
- Online program format
- Prepares for LASAC credential
- CAADE accredited
- Covers ethics and treatment
- Meets most state requirements
Pittsburg, KS
Pittsburg State University
- Master's - School Counseling
Online Learning - Website
- 48-hour program
- Online learning
- No GRE required
- Thesis or coursework options
- Prepares for PRAXIS II
- Affordable tuition
- Flexible for non-education majors
- Strong regional reputation
Salina, KS
Kansas Wesleyan University
- Bachelor's - Psychology
Concentration: Addiction Counseling - Campus Based - Website
- Bachelor of Arts in Psychology
- Specialized Addiction Counseling Track
- On-campus program format
- Professional ethics course included
- Internship opportunities available
- SPSS statistical software training
- Multiple career pathway options
- Research and counseling skills development
Topeka, KS
Washburn University
- Bachelor's - Family & Human Services
Concentration: Addiction Counseling - Online & Campus Based - Website
- Hybrid learning format
- NAADAC approved
- Kansas BSRB compliant
- Associate to Master's pathway
- Local internship opportunities
- Flexible scheduling
- Financial aid available
- Practical experience focus
- Master's - Master of Arts in Family & Human Services/Addiction Counseling
Concentration: Addiction Counseling - Online Learning - Website
- Fully online program.
- Prepares for Kansas licensure.
- No test scores required.
- Full-time or part-time options.
- Addiction Counseling concentration.
- Holistic, integrative approach.
- Fieldwork in your community.
- Diverse academic backgrounds welcome.
Wichita, KS
Wichita State University
- Master's - M.Ed. in Counseling, Clinical Mental Health Counseling track
Online & Campus Based - Website
- 60 graduate credit hours
- Hybrid learning format
- Prepares for LPC licensure
- Multiple counseling specialties
- Clinical internship required
- 3.00 GPA admission requirement
- Professional licensure preparation
- Diverse career opportunities
- Master's - M.Ed. in Counseling, Clinical Mental Health Counseling track
Concentration: Addiction Counseling - Online & Campus Based - Website
- 60 graduate credit hours
- Hybrid course delivery
- Prepares for LPC licensure
- Advanced addiction counseling focus
- Clinical internship included
- 3.00 GPA admission requirement
- Criminal background check required
- CACREP accredited program
- Master's - M.Ed. in Counseling, Clinical Mental Health Counseling track
Concentration: Sports Counseling - Online & Campus Based - Website
- 60 graduate credit hours
- Hybrid learning format
- Licensure preparation track
- Multiple counseling specializations
- Clinical internship opportunities
- Professional ethics training
- Multicultural counseling focus
- Research methods included
- Graduate Certificate - Clinical Mental Health Counselor to School Counselor Graduate Certificate
Online & Campus Based - Website
- 18 total credit hours
- Hybrid program format
- 3.25 minimum graduate GPA
- Licensure preparation program
- Professional counselor transition
- Kansas state licensure focus
- Two professional references required
- Internship and practicum included