Best Online Master’s in Counseling Psychology Degree Programs

Working as a counselor can be a rewarding career path, and often, earning an online master’s degree in counseling psychology is the first step toward providing patients with the mental health care they need to live fulfilling lives. In your master’s program, you’ll learn the therapeutic techniques to understand your clients and develop plans to improve their mental health. Here, we’ll look at what you can expect to learn in your counseling psychology program and what you’ll need to consider as you begin to prepare to apply to the online counseling psychology master’s programs of your choice.

2024 - Best Online Master's Degree in Counseling Psychology Programs

The rankings published by counselingpsychology.org provide an in-depth look into the best online Master's Degree in Counseling Psychology programs. The website's methodology incorporates several factors in order to produce the most accurate rankings, including the completion rate of the program, cost of living in the area, the competitiveness level of the institution, the diversity of programs offered, and the amount of experience of the faculty. Click here for more information about the methodology.

1.

Chaminade University of Honolulu

Honolulu, HI

Chaminade University of Honolulu is a private, Catholic university located in Honolulu, Hawaii. It is home to nearly 2,500 students and offers a variety of degree programs, including an Online Master's Degree in Counseling Psychology. With its diverse student body and commitment to excellence in education, Chaminade University of Honolulu provides an ideal learning environment for students.

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2.

Azusa Pacific University

Azusa, CA

Azusa Pacific University is a private Christian university located in the San Gabriel Valley, California. With a student population of over 10,000, the university offers a variety of degree options, including an online Master's Degree in Counseling Psychology. APU is dedicated to helping students reach their highest potential in a Christ-centered learning environment.

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3.

Alaska Pacific University

Anchorage, AK

Alaska Pacific University offers an exceptional Master's program in Counseling Psychology, housed within the Department of Psychology on its scenic campus in Anchorage. The program is designed to provide students with a strong foundation in evidence-based practices and hands-on clinical experience, preparing them for careers in mental health counseling and therapy. APU's small class sizes and personalized attention from experienced faculty make it a top choice for those seeking a high-quality graduate education in the field of counseling psychology.

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What Will I Learn in an Online Counseling Psychology Master’s Degree Program?

In an online counseling psychology program, you’ll learn the techniques that you’ll use to help your clients create change in their lives. You may choose to specialize in a specific area of psychology (such as eating disorders or helping people who are living with post-traumatic stress disorder), or you may decide to take a more generalized approach. Some online programs in counseling psychology allow students to choose a focus area, while others do not. If you know you’re interested in working with a specific population, be sure to chat with the faculty or admissions staff of the programs you’re considering to ensure you’re able to get the knowledge necessary to support you in your desired career path. 

In a counseling psychology program, you’ll learn about many topics, including:

• Assessment: Your assessment courses will teach you how to use questioning and symptom identification techniques to help you better understand your clients. You’ll be able to use multiple assessments over time to learn how your interventions are helping your clients move forward. 

• Family systems: For many people, family issues are part of more significant mental health issues. Understanding how families work together and how it can help or hurt mental health is essential in helping your clients develop coping strategies and stress management techniques. 

• Research methods: To provide your clients with the highest level of care possible, you must stay on top of the latest research methods in the field. Your research methods courses will teach you how to use newly researched techniques and apply them to your clients’ needs. 

• Developmental psychology: Counselors need to understand how the brain develops over time. Courses in developmental psychology will help you understand how the minds of your clients change during their lives, allowing you to cater your therapeutic techniques to their individual needs. 

Admissions Requirements for a Master’s in Counseling Psychology

Each online master’s program for clinical psychology has unique admissions requirements, so it’s important that you take your time learning about what you’ll need to do to increase the likelihood that you’re admitted to the program of your choice. This may include completing volunteer work, going through an internship program, or participating in research with people who are already working in the field.

Typically, online master’s programs in counseling psychology require that applicants have a GPA of 2.75 or higher (this requirement can differ greatly depending on the competitiveness of the program), letters of recommendation from employers or professors, and a personal statement explaining why you’re interested in going into the field of clinical psychology. Many master’s programs also require that applicants attend an online interview with faculty members prior to gaining admission to the program.

List of Counseling Psychology Master’s Degree Programs

Find an online or campus-based master’s program in counseling psychology 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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Joel Gill

Joel Gill is a writer with a background in psychology. He earned his Bachelor's degree in psychology from the University of California, Berkeley, and has a deep interest in the human mind and behavior. Joel's writing often explores themes related to mental health, relationships, and personal growth. When he’s not writing, Joel enjoys cycling, meditation, and spending time with his family.