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A career in counseling is more than sitting someone down on a couch and asking people how they feel.
Counseling is about digging deeper and having an extreme sense of empathy towards others. It’s not only helping others to deal with traumatic events but also focuses on prevention practices as well. Counselors work with a wide range of people– people of all ages from all different backgrounds. Of course, you can choose an area of specialization if you’d prefer to work with children, adolescents, or adults. If you want a career with the potential to positively impact the lives of others, a counseling degree may be just the ticket.
Top 10 Best Online Counseling Degrees
#1 | Liberty University Lynchburg, VA |
#2 | Drexel University Philadelphia, PA |
#3 | University of Cincinnati Blue Ash, OH |
#4 | Washington State University Pullman, WA |
#5 | Southwestern Assemblies of God University Waxahachie, TX |
#6 | Clarks Summit University Clarks Summit, PA |
#7 | Union College Lincoln, NE |
#8 | Toccoa Falls College Toccoa Falls, GA |
#9 | Northwestern State University of Louisiana Natchitoches, LA |
#10 | Oral Roberts University Tulsa, OK |
Accredited Online College Programs
Explore our featured online programs and find the right match for you today.
What kind of Counseling degree should you get?
There is a wide range of different counseling degrees you can get. Most bachelor’s degrees will equip you for careers in substance abuse counseling, juvenile counseling, and more. If you wish to become licensed and open your own practice, you may have to earn an advanced degree. Additionally, there are tons of specialized degrees if you’re looking to work within a specific counseling niche. From pastoral counseling to adolescent counseling and family counseling, you can earn a degree that suits your individual career goals.
Of course, you’ll also need to decide if you want to attend courses on-campus or virtually. If you’ve already earned some college credit, or you have a full-time job, you’ll want a flexible and affordable option. Luckily, more and more colleges and universities offer unique online degrees for students like you. And we’ve ranked the overall Best Online Colleges for your convenience.
How much money do people make with a Counseling degree?
Your paycheck will ultimately depend on where you work – counseling degrees don’t lead to one specific career so this can vary greatly. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, School and Career Counselors can earn upwards of $56,000 per year. Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors can earn over $44,000 annually. Of course, your salary will also depend on your level of education, the city in which you work, and a variety of other factors. A bachelor's in counseling is also a possible step toward your specialized master's in school counseling.
What can you do with a degree in Counseling?
Do you want to help children? Adults? Do you want to work in a school or have your own private practice? Do you want to work in a rehabilitation center? You can do any of these things and even more with a degree in counseling! Many doors open for those who go on to earn an advanced degree in counseling. From marriage and family counseling to educational counseling and substance abuse counseling, no matter what path you choose you’ll have an impact on many lives.
What are the requirements for a bachelor’s degree in Counseling?
Many of the below programs require no prior experience in counseling and are intended for first-time undergraduates. However, some are specifically degree-completion programs and require students to have completed a certain amount of college credits prior to applying. Most of the programs require completion of 120 credits and requirements can be fulfilled entirely online.
What are the best Counseling degrees?
Figuring out the best bachelor’s program within any industry can be an overwhelming task. Luckily, the College Choice team has compiled a list of the 25 Best Online Bachelor's degrees in Counseling just for you! These degrees provide the essential skills you’ll need to succeed in any career within this industry. Not only are the courses within these programs interesting, but they are extremely affordable as well. Having small class sizes paired with top professors? These online programs are the best money can buy. Check out our picks below!
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Liberty UniversityLocation
Lynchburg, VA
Tuition$26954
Graduation Rate50%
Overview
Liberty is a Christian university based in Virginia that offers more than 600 unique degree programs for both undergraduate and graduate students. Of those programs, over 400 are offered online for those who need a more flexible, affordable degree option. In fact, Liberty University now offers an online Bachelor of Science degree in Counseling with a specialization in Christian Counseling.
Program Features
Offered through Liberty’s School of Behavioral Sciences, this 120-credit online program can be completed in as little as three and a half years. Each course is just eight weeks long, making it easy for online students to quickly complete requirements. Required courses may include:
- Abnormal Psychology
- Psychology and Christianity
- Psychological Measurement
- Christian Counseling for Children
- Christian Counseling for Marriage and Family
Transfer students have the ability to transfer up to three-quarters of the total credits necessary to earn a degree from Liberty. Graduates of this program have gone on to pursue careers such as case managers, mental health service representatives, and more.
Notables
Liberty University offers substantial tuition discounts for those in the military, including spouses and veterans. Military students can also choose from eight different start dates each year. There are no set log in times for online coursework so students may complete this degree at their own leisure.
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Drexel UniversityLocation
Philadelphia, PA
Tuition$40977
Graduation Rate67%
Overview
Drexel University was founded in the late 1800s and is now home to mascot Mario the Magnificent dragon along with over 25,000 students. With more than 200 unique degree programs offered across its 15 schools and colleges, Drexel is a leader in higher education. Now, the university offers several degrees online including a Bachelor of Science degree in Behavioral Health Counseling.
Program Features
This online program requires no on-campus visits and students may transfer in up to 90 credits. Students will take courses during four 10-week quarters per year. All students must complete at least 180 credits to earn their degree. Online students receive a special rate of tuition and are also eligible to receive financial aid. Required courses may include:
- Child Psychopathology
- Multicultural Counseling
- Genetics and Mental Health
- Behavioral Health and Aging
- Counseling Theory and Practice
Notables
Drexel University prepares students in this program to pursue careers in addictions counseling, psychiatric rehabilitation, crisis intervention, residential services, and more. Distance learners have access to many of the same resources as those on-campus, including healthcare simulations and interactive learning activities. Drexel has been ranked as a Best Value School and Most Innovative School by the U.S. News and World Report.
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University of CincinnatiLocation
Blue Ash, OH
Tuition$21050
Graduation Rate21%
Overview
Founded in 1819, the University of Cincinnati now offers an e-Learning platform in which undergraduates can earn their degrees completely online. In fact, these flexible programs are offered at affordable rates, making college less of a financial burden. Check out the university’s online Bachelor of Science in Substance Abuse Counseling program.
Program Features
Students may start this completely online program in the fall, spring, or summer semesters. This program can also be completed on a part-time schedule. Required courses may include:
- Drugs and Behavior
- Crisis Management Skills
- Ethics in Substance Abuse Counseling
- Co-Occurring Disorders in Treatment
- Stress Management in Clinical and Community Settings
Students may meet academic requirements for licensure upon graduating, dependant upon the state in which they reside. For those who live in Ohio, graduates will meet academic requirements for licensure under the Ohio Chemical Dependency Professionals Board’s guidelines for Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor II and III.
Notables
This program at the University of Cincinnati is ideal for those who wish to work in hospitals, DUI programs, outpatient facilities, private practices, and more. While tuition is the same for all students regardless of residency, non-residents must pay a small surcharge per credit. U.S. News and World Report ranked UC among the Best Value Schools and Top Public Schools in the country.
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Washington State UniversityLocation
Pullman, WA
Tuition$17885
Graduation Rate67%
Overview
Founded in 1890, Washington State University is one of the oldest land-grant universities in the West. Home to mascot Butch T. Cougar and nearly 30,000 students, WSU offers more than 200 unique programs. Interested in earning a degree entirely online? Check out the university’s online Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology.
Program Features
This program is ideal for undergraduates looking to pursue careers in clinical counseling or psychological research. Students may choose one of three different focus areas including Neuroscience/Cognition, Social/Motivational, or Clinical/Counseling. Online learning at WSU offers many resources to make sure students are involved and active within the campus community. From the Online Psychology Student’s Resource Room to the Psychology National Honor Society Psi Chi, distance students have plenty of opportunities presented to them. Required courses may include:
- Social Psychology
- Psychology of Aging
- Biological Basis of Behavior
- Psychology Testing and Measurement
- Biopsychological Effects of Alcohol and Other Drugs
Notables
Washington State University’s Global Campus also allows online students opportunities to conduct undergraduate research. Students may also work as tutors and teacher’s assistants for more hands-on experience. WSU also offers online tech support, student services, writing workshops, and more.
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Southwestern Assemblies of God UniversityLocation
Waxahachie, TX
Tuition$24463
Overview
With just over 2,000 students enrolled, Southwestern Assemblies of God University is a private Christian university based in Waxahachie, Texas. Despite its small student body, SAGU offers tons of high-ranking degree programs. In fact, the university now has a digital division with an Online Bachelor’s Degree in Counseling (pre-professional).
Program Features
This 126-credit program can be completed entirely online with no on-campus visits required. Plus, all students pay the same rate of tuition regardless of residency. The completion of core requirements such as natural science, mathematics, and general biblical studies is expected of all undergraduate students. Many students in this major also pursue an Addictions Counseling minor. Required courses may include:
- Developmental Psychology
- Addictive Behavior and Recovery
- Cultural Issues in the Helping Professions
- Methods and Techniques in Marriage and Family Counseling
Notables
Southwestern Assemblies of God University offers a host of resources to assist online students with their studies. These include a career center, counseling center, one-on-one faculty meetings, and more. Additionally, online students may apply for financial aid, scholarships, grants, and other resources to offset the cost of tuition.
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Clarks Summit UniversityLocation
Clarks Summit, PA
Tuition$18157
Graduation Rate54%
Overview
Clarks Summit University is a small Christian college located in Pennsylvania. Despite its size, the university has a wide online reach, offering several online programs taught by CSU professors. In fact, CSU Online now offers a bachelor’s degree in Addictions Counseling with a biblical foundation for undergraduates around the globe.
Program Features
This 121-credit program can be completed entirely online in just four years. Students may transfer in up to 90 credits towards this degree program. Distance learners at CSU have the ability to complete coursework on their own schedules. Plus, students have access to tons of online resources including an online writing center, library, IT help desk, tutoring, and more. Required courses may include:
- Adult Development
- Abnormal Psychology
- Ethics and Professionalism
- Marriage and Family Dynamics
- Understanding and Treating Addictions
Notables
Clarks Summit University extends a “no hidden fees” policy to its online students in which the tuition rate includes technology and general course fees. All students pay the same rate of tuition regardless of residency as well. The university also offers a variety of online undergraduate discounts for those in the military and for those enrolled in certain internship programs.
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Union CollegeLocation
Lincoln, NE
Tuition$20051
Graduation Rate49%
Overview
Located in the small city of Barbourville, Kentucky, Union College is home to the bulldog mascot and just over 1,000 students. While the college was founded back in the 1870s, UC has progressed with the times and now offers unique online programs for distance learners. In fact, Union College has an online Bachelor of Science degree in Substance Abuse Counseling for interested students.
Program Features
This completely online program offers flexible eight-week schedules and 24/7 support. Students must complete at least 120 credits and required courses may include:
- Recovery and Relapse
- Psychology of Addiction
- Cross Cultural Psychology
- Deviance and Criminology
- Ethical Issues in Chemical Dependency
All students pay the same rate of just $225 per credit hour and there is no application fee for this program. Union College also offers an online 21-credit Chemical Dependency Counselor Certificate. This certificate may be earned in conjunction with the BS degree in Substance Abuse Counseling.
Notables
Every single student at Union College in Kentucky will receive some form of financial aid or assistance if necessary. It’s no wonder the college has been ranked among the Best Regional Universities in the South by the U.S. News and World Report. Graduates of Union College go on to pursue high-ranking careers in their chosen industries.
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Toccoa Falls CollegeLocation
Toccoa Falls, GA
Tuition$20396
Graduation Rate52%
Overview
Toccoa Falls College is a Christian liberal arts school located in northeast Georgia. Home to just over 700 students, Toccoa Falls now caters to distance learners with associate’s, bachelor’s, and certificate programs all available online. The university’s Counseling Psychology Department now offers an online Bachelor of Science degree in Counseling Psychology.
Program Features
Students in this online program will learn from licensed professional counselors, licensed psychologists, licensed marriage and family therapists, and other industry professionals. Admitted students may also wish to pursue a related minor in either Counseling, Marriage and Family Counseling, or Psychology. All students who enter this program are assigned an academic advisor. The university also offers career counseling, IT support, as well as an online librarian. Required courses in this 126-credit program may include:
- Counseling Skills
- Group Counseling
- Crisis and Trauma Therapy
- Developmental Psychology
- Premarital and Marital Counseling
Notables
Toccoa Falls College charges the same rate of tuition for all students, regardless of residency. Plus, Toccoa Falls is consistently ranked among the Top 5 Best Value Colleges in the South by U.S. News and World Report. On average, online students will take two courses every eight weeks during the fall and spring semesters and then two courses during the summer semester.
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Northwestern State University of LouisianaLocation
Natchitoches, LA
Tuition$10503
Graduation Rate38%
Overview
The Northwestern State University of Louisiana is a public university that’s part of the University of Louisiana System, making it an affordable option for many. With over 130 years of serving students from all over the globe, NSU has grown to offer several unique programs. In fact, the NSU Global Campus now offers an online Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology with a Concentration in Substance Abuse.
Program Features
Students in this program must complete 120 credit hours. Required courses may include:
- Ethics in Psychology
- Abnormal Psychology
- History of Psychology
- Theories of Personality
- Diversity Issues in Psychology
Student’s who plan on pursuing a master’s degree after completing this program will be expected to complete a biology lab course as well. Graduates of this program often go on to finish an additional certification or licensure to become a certified addiction professional.
Notables
Internet-only students at Northwestern State University of Louisiana do not pay any out-of-state fees. In addition, eligible students may apply for financial aid packages, as well as scholarships and grants through the university. NSU has been ranked among the Best Regional Universities in the South by U.S. News and World Report.
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Oral Roberts UniversityLocation
Tulsa, OK
Tuition$19744
Graduation Rate53%
Overview
Oral Roberts was founded in the 1960s as a private, Christian university and is named after its founder and evangelist. With an enrollment of nearly 4,000 students, ORU offers over 75 undergraduate majors across its six colleges. The university’s College of Theology is home to an online Bachelor of Science degree in Christian Caregiving and Counseling.
Program Features
For those who wish to find careers as counselors, chaplains, pastors, or researchers, this program is ideal. Required courses in this program may include:
- Lifespan Development
- Developing Helping Skills
- Issues/Identity of Caregiver
- Pastoral Approaches to Counseling
- Practical Application of Helping Skills
Students in this 124-credit program are encouraged to pursue a relevant minor as well.
Notables
Oral Roberts University has been ranked among the nation’s Best Colleges for Veterans, Best Value Schools, and Best Regional Universities in the West by U.S. News and World Report. Online students at ORU have access to plenty of the same resources as those on-campus. Plus, you’ll have the opportunity to interact with both professors and fellow classmates during your studies.
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Crown CollegeLocation
Saint Bonifacius, MN
Tuition$22622
Graduation Rate57%
Overview
Founded in 1916, Crown College is a private Christian college located half an hour outside of Minneapolis. With a small student-to-faculty ratio, Crown College is home to over 40 majors for its more than 1,300 students. Crown’s School of Online Studies offers a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology/Counseling with a Christian perspective.
Program Features
Students in this program will learn from a diverse counseling faculty, many of whom are also licensed counselors. All undergraduate students pay the same online tuition rate no matter what state they reside in. For those students who wish to pursue a master’s degree in counseling, Crown College offers an accelerated degree program to save you time and money while expanding your qualifications. Required courses may include:
- Abnormal Psychology
- Methods of Counseling
- Marriage and Family Counseling
- Social Science Research Methods
- Theories of Counseling and Psychotherapy
Notables
Crown College allows its distance learners to complete coursework on their own schedules, allowing busy professionals to earn a degree while continuing to meet their outside obligations. U.S. News and World Report have included Crown College on its ranking of the Top 50 Regional Colleges in the Midwest.
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Bay Path UniversityLocation
Longmeadow, MA
Tuition$18257
Graduation Rate63%
Overview
Located in the town of Longmeadow, Massachusetts, Bay Path is a private university that was founded in 1897. Home of the Wildcats and a student body of over 3,400, Bay Path University’s motto is “Carpe Diem” which is Latin for “Seize the Day.” Students can seize the opportunity to earn a degree online with Bay Path’s unique Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology with a specialization in Counseling Foundations.
Program Features
This 120-credit online program requires no application fee from prospective students. Admitted students may have to fulfill the following required courses:
- Abnormal Psychology
- Counseling Diverse Populations
- Interviewing and Counseling Skills
- Cognitive Psychology and Neuroscience
- Counseling Ethics and Professional Development
This program is offered at an accelerated pace and students can earn their degrees in as little as a year depending on transfer credits. Students may transfer in up to 90 credits towards this degree. You can also earn credit for prior learning, including military service and volunteer work.
Notables
Bay Path University offers online students six start dates throughout the year in September, November, January, February, April, and June. Graduates of this program typically pursue careers as caseworkers, court liaisons, counselors, probation officers, and more. U.S. News and World Report have included BPU on its ranking of Most Innovative Schools in the nation.
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Colorado Christian UniversityLocation
Lakewood, CO
Tuition$25198
Graduation Rate42%
Overview
Founded in 1914, Colorado Christian University is located in Lakewood, Colorado and is home to over 8,000 students. CCU offers over 100 unique degree programs for both traditional and adult students through its College of Undergraduate Studies and College of Adult and Graduate Studies. In fact, students may earn a Bachelor of Science degree in Applied Psychology entirely online.
Program Features
Students in this 120-credit online program may choose a non-emphasis degree. Or, you may choose from one of three areas of emphasis, including Biblical Studies, Clinical Counseling, and Criminal Justice. Depending on your specific course of study, required courses may include:
- Models of Personality
- Human Growth and Development
- Spiritual Formation for Counseling
- Neuroscience and Clinical Counseling
- Child and Adolescent Diagnosis and Treatment
Classes in this program are typically completed in five-week blocks and small class sizes offer plenty of one-on-one assistance. CCU also offers an optional dual degree emphasis for those who wish to continue into an accelerated master’s program. For working professionals and busy adults, this program can be completed just one course at a time.
Notables
Colorado Christian University is an affordable option because students may transfer in credits previously earned and may earn credits for life experience as well. The university also offers reduced tuition rates for military members and veterans. Grants, scholarships, educational loans, and other forms of financial aid are also available at CCU.
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Corban UniversityLocation
Salem, OR
Tuition$24444
Graduation Rate56%
Overview
Located in Salem, Oregon, Corban is a private Christian university that’s home to just over 1,200 students along with its mascot Cadmar the Warrior! With more than 50 undergraduate program offerings across its four schools, Corban University is a popular choice among distance learners. In fact, through Corban Online, undergraduates may now earn an online psychology degree.
Program Features
Students in this online program may choose from one of two areas of specialization, including Family Studies or Pre-Counseling/Clinical. Additionally, Corban offers an interdisciplinary option which allows students to combine this major with two or more areas of study. Some of the benefits of an online program at Corban include:
- A low student-faculty ratio of just 13:1
- A variety of online, multimedia resources
- Intensive, eight-week courses that save you both time and money
Additionally, undergraduate students may transfer in previous college credit towards this degree. You can also earn credit for work experience and relevant prior training.
Notables
Corban University offers the same rate of tuition for all distance learners, regardless of residency. Students may also earn a $500 scholarship simply by visiting campus. Because of the school’s affordability, Corban University has been ranked among the Best Value Colleges in the nation by U.S. News and World Report.
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Indiana Wesleyan UniversityLocation
Marion, IN
Tuition$20008
Graduation Rate63%
Overview
Home to Wesley the Wildcat, Indiana Wesleyan is a private evangelical Christian liberal arts university that was founded in 1920. The university offers more than 80 unique undergraduate degrees, many of which can be completed entirely online. IWU offers an online Bachelor of Science degree in Addictions Counseling.
Program Features
This is an online degree-completion program that can be finished in as little as 22 months. There is no need to visit campus at any point. Students are grouped into cohorts which provide a collaborative learning environment and support along the way. Required courses in this 45-credit program may include:
- Psychopharmacology
- Addictions Counseling Skills
- Psychology of Abnormal Behavior
- Addictions Programs and Professional Development
- Counseling Addicted and Dysfunctional Family Systems
Additionally, all students must complete a 350-hour practicum experience, engaging in on-site learning via an addictions-focused agency or center. The university offers multiple start-dates per year for this program, so students are encouraged to apply at any time.
Notables
Indiana Wesleyan University has been ranked among the nation’s Best Value Schools and Best Regional Universities in the Midwest by U.S. News and World Report. Online students will have access to the university’s off-campus library services, academic advisors, and more. Plus, IWU makes education affordable with grants, scholarships, tuition reimbursement, and other aid packages.
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Grace College and SeminaryLocation
Winona Lake, IN
Tuition$20324
Graduation Rate65%
Overview
Located in Winona Lake, Indiana, Grace College and Seminary is home to five unique schools which offer a variety of majors for students around the world. The college’s priorities include educational excellence and sustainable affordability. Now, interested students can earn a Bachelor of Science degree in Human Services, entirely online.
Program Features
This 45-credit degree is offered through Grace College’s GOAL program which stands for Grace Opportunities for Adult Learners. This program is intended for adults with previous college or work experience. Required courses can be completed in as little as 16 months and may include:
- Systems of Social Welfare
- Human Growth and Development
- Intervention Strategies and Technique
- Business Writing in the New Millennium
- Delivery of Human Services: Theory and Practice
Applicants should have at least 60 transferable credits prior to beginning this program. All students pay the same rate of tuition regardless of residency, and there are no additional book costs. All course materials are accessible online, free of charge.
Notables
Courses at Grace College and Seminary Online are just five weeks long and most full-time students take two classes at a time. Plus, online students will have plenty of opportunities to chat, email, and engage in discussion forums with fellow classmates and professors. Typically, graduates of this program pursue careers as case managers, addictions counselors, human services assistants, and more.
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Fort Hays State UniversityLocation
Hays, KS
Tuition$12196
Graduation Rate43%
Overview
Fort Hays State University is located in Kansas and has a history dating back to 1902. Now, FHSU is home to five colleges, including the Peter Werth College of Science, Technology, and Mathematics, as well as the College of Health and Behavioral Sciences. Interested in counseling? Check out the university’s online Bachelor of Arts/Science degree in Sociology with an Addictions Counseling track.
Program Features
Students in this 120-credit program may choose between a Bachelor of Science or a Bachelor of Arts degree in Sociology. Depending on your specific career goals, required courses may include:
- Ethics in Addictions Counseling
- Individual Counseling in Addictions
- Addictions Counseling with Families
- Pharmacology and High-Risk Medical Issues
- Group Counseling with Addiction Populations
Additionally, all undergraduates must complete a set of core sociology courses as well as general education requirements. For those in the Bachelor of Arts program, ten hours of foreign language credits are required.
Notables
Online students at Fort Hays State University will have access to the career center, academic advising, and plenty of other additional resources. Online courses during the fall and spring semesters are 16-weeks in length, while those during the summer are just eight weeks. Prospective students should note that online courses at FHSU follow the same semester schedule as those on-campus, leaving less flexibility to complete work at your own pace.
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Hobe Sound Bible CollegeLocation
Hobe Sound, FL
Tuition$9814
Graduation Rate69%
Overview
Located in Hobe Sound, Florida, this small, private Christian college was founded in 1960 and has a total undergraduate enrollment of just under 200 students. The college’s small size works to your advantage, with more personalized, one-on-one attention in the classroom. Hobe Sound Bible College now offers a variety of online degree programs, including a Bachelor of Arts in Counseling.
Program Features
This 129-credit counseling program includes general education courses, bible courses, and 36 hours within the major. Plus, all students must complete a minor. Most students complete all required coursework in four years. Required courses may include:
- Marriage Therapy
- Psychological Measurement
- Human Sexuality and Counseling
- Intervention in Addictions Counseling
- Theories and Techniques in Family Counseling
Notables
Hobe Sound Bible College is one of the most affordable colleges on this list and offers the same rate of tuition for all students, regardless of residency. Admissions at HSBC are rolling, so students are encouraged to apply at any point during the year. The application fee is just $25 for undergraduates seeking admission into this program.
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Crossroads CollegeLocation
Rochester, MN
Tuition$11914
Graduation Rate33%
Overview
Located in Rochester, Minnesota, Crossroads College is a small bible college that was founded in 1913. With a student-to-faculty ratio of just 10:1, undergraduates here will have a unique, personalized experience, equipping them with the skills needed for a successful career. Now students don’t need to be located in Minnesota to attend Crossroads. Check out the college’s online Bachelor of Science degree in Counseling.
Program Features
This 120-credit counseling program includes core courses within the major, as well as general education and elective courses. This program is ideal for working adults who may already have experience within the field and are looking to advance their skills. Many graduates go on to pursue advanced degrees and licensures to practice in their state of residency. Required classes may include:
- Abnormal Psychology
- Psychology of Counseling
- Counseling and Ethnic Diversity
- Theories of Personality and Psychotherapy
- Foundations of Marriage and Family System
Notables
Crossroads College requires applicants to have at least 45 transferable credits prior to entering this program. However, if you don’t have these credits, you may be able to make up classes or earn credit for life experiences. Students may apply for either full-time or part-time admission into this program.
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New England CollegeLocation
Henniker, NH
Tuition$27465
Graduation Rate36%
Overview
New England College was founded in 1946 and is now home to beloved mascot Patty the Pilgrim as well as nearly 3,000 students. The college boasts a student-to-faculty ratio of just 13:1 and most faculty members hold terminal degrees in their specific subject area. Undergraduate students can even earn a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology entirely online at New England College.
Program Features
This 120-credit online program is ideal for those hoping to work as social service managers, childcare center directors, and other related jobs. Undergraduates may also choose from several areas of specialization, including Addiction and Substance Abuse, Clinical Psychology, Marriage Therapy and Family Counseling, and more. Depending on your course of study, required classes may include:
- Social Psychology
- Forensic Psychology
- Overcoming Prejudice and Discrimination
- Issues in Professional Practices: Psychology
- Interpersonal Relationships and Interview Skills
There is no application fee for prospective students interested in being considered for admission into this program. Standardized test scores are not required either.
Notables
Tuition at New England College is the same for all undergraduate students, regardless of residency. The college does offer various financial aid packages, as well as grants, scholarships, and loans for eligible students. To save additional time and money, undergraduate students may transfer in up to 90 credit hours.
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The Baptist College of FloridaLocation
Graceville, FL
Tuition$8183
Graduation Rate53%
Overview
Founded in the 1940s, The Baptist College of Florida is a Christian college offering degrees at the associate, bachelor’s, and master’s levels. If you’re interested in a flexible, online bachelor’s degree, BCF may be the choice for you. In fact, it’s the most affordable college on this list. Check out the college’s 120-credit online psychology program.
Program Features
This online program includes both psychology and counseling courses to prepare students for careers in promoting emotional, mental, and behavioral health. Required courses may include:
- Physiological Psychology
- Psychological Tests and Measurement
- The Psychology of Learning and Teaching
- Theories of Counseling and Psychotherapy
- Techniques in Counseling and Psychotherapy
In addition to courses within the major, all students must complete general education requirements as well as a biblical/theological foundation. Online coursework at BCF follows the same schedule as those courses offered on-campus. Courses are typically asynchronous and students can fulfill requirements through reading assignments, tests, and online discussions.
Notables
The Baptist College of Florida charges all students the same rate of tuition, regardless of residency. Additionally, students may transfer in credits to save both time and money in earning their degree. The average age of students here is 28 and the student-to-faculty ratio is just 14:1, ensuring plenty of one-on-one assistance.
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Piedmont International UniversityLocation
Winston-Salem, NC
Overview
Located in High Point, North Carolina, John Wesley University merged into Piedmont International University in 2018. Now, students get the best of both universities including a wide variety of unique online programs. In fact, undergraduates can earn an online Bachelor of Arts in Ministry with a concentration in Christian Counseling.
Program Features
This program is perfect for those who wish to pursue careers as camp counselors, church counselors, and non-licensure private counseling. Depending on your course of study, requirements may include:
- Counseling Theory
- Counseling Methods
- Cross-Cultural Counseling
- Principles of Christian Counseling
- Psychology of Abnormal Personality
In addition, undergraduate students must complete a general education core, a Biblical studies component, and essential core courses. Prospective students may submit an online application for this program at no cost. Students may also transfer in credits towards this degree program.
Notables
The average class size at John Wesley University – Piedmont International University is ten students, ensuring everyone gets the attention they need to succeed in their professional careers. Students typically complete this program in four years on a full-time schedule. The university also offers scholarships and financial aid packages to eligible students.
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Trinity Bible College and Graduate SchoolLocation
Ellendale, ND
Tuition$20408
Overview
Trinity Bible College and Graduate School is a private college that’s based in the small city of Ellendale, North Dakota. The college offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate degree programs, including an online learning hub for distance students. Check out the college’s online Bachelor of Arts in Counseling Ministry and Bachelor of Arts in Nouthetic Counseling.
Program Features
These 120-credit online degree programs are designed for both new students and those continuing their studies. Depending on which program you choose, required courses may include:
- Fundamentals of Christian Counseling
- Introduction to Bereavement Counseling
- Introduction to Prayer and Personal Holiness
- Counseling for Emotional Problems: Anger, Worry, and Depression
- Techniques and Relationship Development for the Christian Counselor
Each online course consists of four weeks of study and students aren’t required to be online at any set time. Each course is loosely structured, giving students the resources necessary to complete assignments with the flexibility needed for a busy schedule.
Notables
Trinity Bible College and Graduate School offer low tuition rates and no additional charges for those out-of-state students. In fact, many full-time students receive grants of up to $150 a month to offset tuition costs. Online students will also have access to the Trinity Online Learning Center as well as the college’s writing center and online library.
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Hope International UniversityLocation
Fullerton, CA
Tuition$25150
Graduation Rate49%
Overview
This private Christian university, located in Fullerton, California, is home to just over 1,300 students. There are five colleges within the university, including the College of Business and Management, and the College of Psychology and Counseling. Now, students can earn an online Bachelor of Science degree in Human Development through the College of Psychology and Counseling.
Program Features
Students may choose from one of the following five concentrations including Behavioral Psychology, Family Studies, Community Mental Health and Counseling, Addiction Studies, and Graduate Studies. Depending on your specific track, required courses in this 120-credit program may include:
- Abnormal Psychology
- Community Mental Health
- Infant, Toddler Mental Health
- Statistics for the Social Sciences
- Christian Perspectives in Human Development
In addition, all undergraduate students must complete a Leadership and Ethics core. Graduates of this program have gone on to find success in careers including case manager, child advocacy, child protective services, domestic violence counselors, and more.
Notables
Hope International University has been ranked among the nation’s Top 100 Regional Universities in the West by U.S. News and World Report. All students pay the same tuition rate and the university offers flexible payment plans with no fees or interest charges. Eligible students may receive financial aid packages as well.
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Johnson UniversityLocation
Knoxville, TN
Graduation Rate67%
Overview
Located in Knoxville, Tennessee, Johnson University is a private, Christian university that was founded in the late 1800s. The university now enrolls just under 1,000 students and offers more than 50 unique degree programs. Interested in a career in counseling? Check out Johnson’s online Pastoral Care and Counseling major.
Program Features
This major is offered in both BA and BS formats. Each term consists of two seven-week long sessions and prospective students may apply to this program for fall, spring, or summer admission. Every undergraduate student in this online program is assigned an academic advisor. Additionally, each student has access to the university’s academic support center, career counseling, library services, financial aid office, and more. Required courses may include:
- Pastoral Counseling
- Encountering Cultures
- Conflict and Communication
- Biblical Teaching and Preaching
- Fundamentals of Christian Faith
Notables
Johnson University does not charge out-of-state students a higher tuition rate than those students in-state. In fact, the university’s online platform offers more affordability and flexibility than many others. Plus, all students can access a 24/7 help desk to answer any questions and/or concerns they may have.
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