Most Affordable Online Master’s in School Counseling

Becoming a school counselor is a fulfilling job but needs individuals who care deeply about their work and students. If you’ve found yourself interested in impacting thousands of lives while being an educator then a school counselor may be your profession. School counselors help students through some of their darkest times and help uplift their communities. To truly help improve students’ lives mentally, physically, and psychologically school counselors need the best education before they’re licensed.

Below we’ve compiled a list of the top ten most affordable universities to attend while achieving a master’s in school counseling. No matter the school you choose, all of the programs listed below will prepare you to help individuals to the best of your abilities. You’ll be trained by real professionals with years of experience. Along with this training, each student will have the opportunity of participating in an internship to practice their new skills. You can feel confident graduating from one of these colleges will advance you in your future career.

Methodology

All schools considered for these rankings

• Are regionally or nationally accredited
• Offer at least one fully online master’s in school counseling degree (with no more than two weeks of required in-person work)
• Were collected from official accrediting agency websites.

Schools are ranked solely by the average net price as released in the most recent IPEDs database collected in November of 2020.

2021 Most Affordable Online Colleges for Master’s in School Counseling Degrees

10 Best Affordable Colleges for Online Master’s in School Counseling Degrees

1. Capella University

Average Net Price: $7,290

School Type: For-Profit
School Accreditation: HLC
Total Graduate Enrollment: 27,356

Capella University was established in 1993 to help individuals gain an education while handling lives many responsibilities. They want to meet your everyday needs which is why it’s home to more than 38,000 students worldwide. At Capella University you’ll be driven to achieve more and become your best self.

Earning a master’s degree in school counseling at Capella University will teach you the skills you need to stand out in this profession. Students attending this program will learn both the theories of counseling and in-person experience to help them gain a deeper understanding of what they’re being taught. Graduating from Capella University will help you feel confident while earning your license in school counseling.

2. Southeastern Oklahoma State University

Average Net Price: $8,508

School Type: Non-Profit
School Accreditation: HLC
Total Graduate Enrollment: 1,398

Southeastern Oklahoma State University provides excellent teaching and diverse programs. Graduating from SOSU will promote lifelong values and skills. Students become leaders who go on to contribute and serve in their communities. Individuals attending the university appreciate the welcoming environment and the faculty who encourage continuous learning.

If you’ve ever wanted to make a positive impact on students’ lives then earning a master’s in school counseling at Southeastern Oklahoma State University is the place to start. In this program, you’ll examine child development, psychopathology, and social/cultural diversity issues in counseling. Students can graduate from this program in as little as 12 months with experience.

3. University of Louisiana-Monroe

Average Net Price: $9,361

School Type: Non-Profit
School Accreditation: SACS COC
Total Graduate Enrollment: 1,503

The University of Louisiana at Monroe is dedicated to its students’ success which is why they offer 96 majors to choose from and hire professors who are experts in their field. The university keeps a student-to-faculty ratio of 19:1 so each student gets valued time. Students come from around the world to attend ULM because of the advanced programs and intriguing coursework.

A master’s in school counseling from The University of Louisiana at Monroe will teach you the vital skills needed to uplift students’ lives. You’ll gain the necessary experiences as well as learning the important applications and psychology behind the career. A few of the courses you’ll take in this program include advanced techniques and theories of counseling. This program is accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs.

4. Lamar University

Average Net Price: $12,967

School Type: Non-Profit
School Accreditation: SACS COC
Total Graduate Enrollment: 5,879

Lamar University is one of the fastest-growing universities in Texas, this is because of its exceptional community and high-quality educators. Pupils attending Lamar University go on to become diverse mission-driven individuals. The university is recognized for top-tier education, specifically their hands-on learning no matter what your major.

Attending Lamar University for a master’s in school counseling would mean becoming skilled in topics such as mental health promotion and positive youth development. Individuals in this program not only get plenty of class time with real professionals in the field, but each student will participate in an internship to gain real-world experience. This experience will help you stand out as you search for your perfect position.

5. Albany State University

Average Net Price: $13,066

School Type: Non-Profit
School Accreditation: SACS COC
Total Graduate Enrollment: 370

At Albany State University students are finding their passions because of the broad array of programs and degrees to choose from. The university is dedicated to providing excellence in teaching, learning, as well as their community environment. Individuals attending Albany State University have the freedom to contribute to research, explore their creativity, and become leaders in their communities.

The counselor education program at Albany State University is prepared to train professional counselors to serve the nation. In this advanced program, students will learn the importance of mental health, social development, and educational achievement. Towards the end of the program, students will have the opportunity to practice their skills with real professionals in a setting of their choice.

6. West Texas A&M University

Average Net Price: $13,185

School Type: Non-Profit
School Accreditation: SACS COC
Total Graduate Enrollment: 2,653

West Texas A&M University was founded in 1910 with a mission to become one of the best post-secondary schools in the nation. At West Texas A&M the faculty values teaching and above all else, your success through your journey. Not only will students benefit from one-on-one time with their professors, but they get to share insights to create and discover. You won’t find a school more dedicated to you.

A master’s in school counseling degree at West Texas A&M University is all about becoming an advocate for the students you help. In an ever-changing world, it’s more important than ever for school counselors to understand what their students are going through. For this reason, individuals in this program will be educated on ethical, cultural, and social differences. Students graduating from this program go on to be leaders in this career field.

7. Southern Arkansas University

Average Net Price: $13,602

School Type: Non-Profit
School Accreditation: HLC
Total Graduate Enrollment: 929

At Southern Arkansas University students can personalize their educational path to fit their needs.  The university keeps an atmosphere that aids in the growth of its students. This is a university where creativity develops and productivity thrives amongst individuals at SAU. At Southern Arkansas University you’ll do more than achieve your goals, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of the world.

Among some of the best master’s programs at Southern Arkansas University, their master’s in school counseling has become a favorite. This program teaches participants the critical skills needed to become knowledgeable and aware professionals. Southern Arkansas University follows guidelines from the Comprehensive Developmental Guidance Program so individuals can be properly trained in childhood development. As graduates near the end of their courses, they’ll partake in an internship of their choosing.

8. Arkansas State University

Average Net Price: $13,605

School Type: Non-Profit
School Accreditation: HLC
Total Graduate Enrollment: 4,359

With a mission to enrich lives, Arkansas State University is known for educating today’s leaders. Arkansas State University is the second-largest university in Arkansas with over 14,000 students and is recognized as a doctoral-level institution. Attending the university guarantees the opportunity to participate in world-class research-based on your interest areas. The university is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Gaining a master’s in school counseling at Arkansas State University is the first step in becoming an expert counselor. The university program focuses on a variety of different topics associated with childhood development but specializes in crisis and trauma. As professionals are teaching these courses, they’re aware of what’s most relevant and pressing for those you help.

9. Adams State University

Average Net Price: $14,229

School Type: Non-Profit
School Accreditation: HLC
Total Graduate Enrollment: 1,113

Located in beautiful Alamosa, Colorado, Adams State University is an institution where stories begin. The university fosters a sense of belonging all while providing a top-tier education for all students both online and in-person. Attending Adams State University will empower you as you positively contribute to your community and better yourself.

One of the most important aspects of becoming a counselor is finding your professional identity. A master’s in school counseling degree at Adams State University assists students in finding their unique traits. You’ll be trained in relational skills, interpersonal skills, and theoretical knowledge. Individuals will be ready to work in a diverse range of school environments and differing clients.

10. University of North Dakota

Average Net Price: $15,970

School Type: Non-Profit
School Accreditation: HLC
Total Graduate Enrollment: 3,328

If you’ve ever wanted to experience an education ahead of its time then attending the University of North Dakota may be right for you. The university offers such exceptional academic programs that it’s been nationally recognized. Along with this reputation, the University of North Dakota is a Carnegie Doctoral Research Institution and has international recognition for research. Graduates not only get to practice critical skills but add to research.

The most important aspect of the master’s in school counseling program at the University of North Dakota is helping children emotionally during their most formative years. You’ll be taught by professors with doctoral degrees and extensive years of experience. Individuals become experts in knowing how to empower the students they support. This program is accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation.