Skip to main content

Master’s in Counseling Programs

Become a licensed counselor with an accredited online MAC program. You can choose a specialization and gain practical experience.

A woman speaks with her therapist in a serene therapy room, emphasizing the importance of mental health and communication.

What is an online MAC degree?

A Master of Arts in Counseling (MAC) is a graduate-level degree that equips individuals with the knowledge, skills, and ethical foundation to become compassionate and competent counselors. This degree is essential for those seeking to pursue licensure and practice as professional counselors in various settings.

Benefits of an online counseling degree

Earning your MAC degree online offers numerous benefits, including:

  • Career Advancement: A MAC opens doors to advanced positions and leadership roles within the counseling field.
  • Skill Development: Develop essential counseling skills, including individual and group therapy, assessment, treatment planning, and crisis intervention.
  • Positive Impact: Make a tangible difference in the lives of individuals, families, and communities facing diverse challenges.
  • Networking Opportunities: Connect with fellow students, faculty, and alumni, building a valuable professional network.

MAC degree: Online curriculum overview

Online master's in counseling programs are designed help students gain the foundational skills to thrive in their counseling careers. While the curriculum may vary by program, coursework typically includes:

  • Counseling Theories: Explore various therapeutic approaches to effectively address diverse client needs.
  • Human Development and Psychopathology: Gain a deep understanding of human growth, development, and mental health disorders.
  • Ethics and Professional Identity: Develop a strong ethical framework and professional identity as a counselor.
  • Research Methods and Assessment: Learn to critically evaluate research and utilize assessment tools.
  • Practicums and internships: Gain practical experience in real-world settings.

MAC program online specializations

Tailor your education to your career aspirations with specialized tracks:

  • K-12 School Counseling: Prepare to support students' academic, social, and emotional development.
  • Addiction Counseling: Gain specialized skills to assist individuals and families impacted by substance use disorders.
  • Community Mental Health: Develop expertise in working with diverse populations within community mental health centers.
  • Rehabilitation: Focus on empowering individuals with disabilities to achieve their potential.
  • Clinical Mental Health: Prepare for a career providing individual and group therapy.

Licensure, what you need to know

Earning your MAC degree is a key step toward becoming a licensed counselor. While licensure requirements may vary by state, the process typically includes:

  • Graduating from an accredited MAC program. Counseling programs may be accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP), the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy (AAMFT) and the American Psychological Association (APA).
  • Completing a designated number of supervised clinical hours (typically between 2,000-3,000).
  • Passing the National Counselor Examination (NCE) or other relevant exams.

Make a difference with a counseling career

Graduating from an online MAC program can prepare you for diverse career opportunities, including:

  • School Counselor: Support students' academic, social, and emotional development.
  • Mental Health Counselor: Provide individual and group therapy to address a wide range of mental health concerns.
  • Addiction Counselor: Assist people struggling with substance use disorders.
  • Rehabilitation Counselor: Empower people with disabilities to achieve their maximum level of independence and integration.
  • Marriage and Family Therapist: Provide therapy to couples and families to improve communication and build healthier relationships.

Find the right online counseling program for you

We offer a personalized enrollment experience designed to match you with online counseling programs that align with your needs. Here's how it works:

Answer a few quick questions about your background and career goals — this should only take about 5 minutes.

Step 2

We'll match you with courses, certificates and/or degrees that can help you achieve your goals.

A cheerful woman with glasses looks directly at the camera, showcasing a friendly and inviting smile.

Our enrollment expertise

Our enrollment advisors are trained to help you select the right online counseling degree or certificate program from one of our accredited academic partners. Their services are offered at no cost to you.

 

  • Get tailored program recommendations
  • Explore no GRE/GMAT options
  • Complete 100% online coursework