If you are passionate about a counseling career, then an online faith-based counseling master’s is the right choice. These 100% online and flexible programs are designed for working professionals like you. Now you can gain an advanced degree and train in counseling while you continue to work. Choose from a range of Christian schools that offer professional and liberal arts programs. Taught from a Christian worldview, these prepare students for vocational ministry. You will find that the program outcomes match your strong desire to do right and help other people.
The specialization options that come with a master’s in counseling from a Christian university. These include –
- School counseling
- Clinical mental health
- Marriage and family therapy
- Christian counseling
All these programs combine traditional counseling practices with Christian beliefs, texts, and values. The last one emphasizes faith-based education and is typically linked to seminary studies.
The Christian master’s in counseling programs will prepare you for rewarding careers. You will learn to think, reason, and create from a moral perspective. They are trained to help people who are struggling with various issues including-
- Mental health problems
- Trauma or loss
- Substance abuse
- Marital challenges
- Family crises
- Marital or sexual abuse
- Learning disabilities
As a graduate student, you will learn to combine your faith with in-depth counseling and psychology knowledge. You will also develop a comprehensive view of counseling to help individuals, families, and groups. Here we have shortlisted the top 30 schools that offer an online master of counseling degree with affordable tuition rates. The ranking has considered accreditation, student support systems, curriculum, and tuition and flexibility. For the sake of rating, schools have been ranked based on the affordability of their top counseling programs.
Rating and Ranking Methodology
Tuition
- Net Price Below $10,000: 4 points
- Net Price Below $15,000: 3 points
- Net Price Below $18,000: 2 points
- Net Price Below $20,000: 1 point
Program Flexibility (asynchronous course delivery, hybrid options, part-time/full-time schedule, etc. ) – 1 point per item
Online Student Support Network (faculty mentors/advisors, etc.)— 1 point per item
Accreditation (School-Wide and Program-Specific) – 1 point per item
“Wow” Factor – 1 point
#30 Carolina University
Winston-Salem, NC
Counseling MA Online
Points: 5
Carolina University offers an online Master of Arts in Counseling that offers two tracks –
- Clinical Mental Health Counseling
- Marriage, Couple, and Family Counseling
Students develop self-awareness and grow in their emotional, relational, and spiritual health. The coursework combines with their commitment to helping others better. Students of this program exhibit knowledge of basic and advanced counseling theories. They learn to use their skills to work with varied settings and populations. These include –
- Individuals
- Groups
- Couples
- Families
- Children
Fast facts –
- 60 credits
- Offered through: School of Arts and Sciences
- Accreditation: CACREP; Transnational Association of Christian Colleges and Schools (TRACS)
- Tuition per credit: $1,319
#29 Abilene Christian University
Abilene, TX
M.S. in Counseling Psychology Online
Points: 6
Abilene Christian University offers an online Master of Science in Counseling Psychology. The program combines a Christian perspective in the classroom and clinical training. The practicum helps develop their professional identity and excellence in practice. Students gain skills like-
- Psychological testing
- Individual and group counseling
- Crisis intervention
- Interviewing
- Professional issues and ethics skills
Graduates serve clients in a variety of mental health, educational, and professional settings. They work as –
- Counseling Psychologists
- Mental Health Counselors
- Guidance Counselors
- Behavioral Specialists
- Substance Abuse Counselors
Fast facts –
- 60 credits
- Offered through: College of Arts and Sciences
- Prepares for professional counseling credentials, especially licensure in Texas.
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
- Tuition per credit: $1,291
#28 Dallas Baptist University
Dallas, TX
M.A. in Christian Counseling Online
Points: 6
Dallas Baptist University offers an online Master of Arts in Christian Counseling. The Christ-centered education prepares servant leaders for the practical ministry of Christian Counseling. The coursework is based on a theological and Counseling foundation. Students learn to incorporate biblical principles into a counseling ministry.
It is a non-licensure program designed for graduates who will work in:
- Local churches
- Denominational agencies
- Ministry-based organizations
- Non-profits
- Para-church organizations
Students learn to use their skills in shepherding and servant leadership.
Fast facts –
- 36 credits
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
- Tuition per credit: $1,053
#27 St. Bonaventure University
St. Bonaventure, NY
Online MSED Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Points: 7
St. Bonaventure University offers an online Master of Science in Education Clinical Mental Health Counseling. The program prepares students for the licensed professional counselor exam. It combines engaging coursework and in-field practice to train students for professional practice. It helps students –
- Gain an understanding of the essential concepts and fundamentals of Counseling
- Exercise and expand their critical thinking skills by critiquing
- Apply their learning in practice
- Develop well-designed research skills and methodologies for data collection and analysis
- Generating research projects or publications
- Prepare for effective teaching and counseling work
- Learn how to support people through personal challenges
Fast facts –
60 credits
Accreditation: CACREP, Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
Tuition per credit: $785
#26 California Baptist University
Riverside, CA
Online MS in Counseling Psychology
Points: 7
California Baptist University offers an online Master of Science in Counseling Psychology. Students gain a firm understanding of psychological science from a distinctly Christian worldview. It prepares them for –
- Marriage and family therapy
- Professional clinical Counseling
The curriculum meets California licensure requirements for both tracks.
Students gain a sound psychological and spiritual foundation and training to –
- Assess and treat individuals
- Help couples and families experiencing relational difficulties
- Work with various groups to help them resolve issues
Fast facts –
60 credits
Accreditation: Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC).
Tuition per credit: $745
#25 Eastern University
St. Davids, PA
MA in Clinical Counseling Online
Points: 8
Eastern University offers an online Master of Arts in Clinical Counseling. The program trains students to –
- comprehend human personality organization and experience
- implement positive change strategies
- work with individuals, families, churches, and communities
The faculty of practitioner-scholars bring real expertise from the field into the classroom. Concentrations include the General Track, Trauma Studies, or Applied Behavior Analysis Certification. Electives include-
- Substance Abuse Counseling
- Marriage and Family Therapy
- Grief and Loss
- Autism
- Applied Behavior Analysis
The curriculum meets the educational requirements for Licensed Professional Counselors (LPC) in Pennsylvania.
Fast facts –
60 credits
Accreditation: MPCAC; Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
Offered through: The College of Health and Sciences
Tuition per credit: $725
#24 Messiah University
Mechanicsburg, PA
Online MA in Counseling
Points: 8
Messiah University offers an online Master of Arts in Counseling. It designed for students looking to become –
- Clinical mental health counselors
- Couple and family counselors
- School counselors
The program reflects academic excellence, preparing students to work in various professional settings. Most courses are online, with week-long intensive courses at the Mechanicsburg campus. It allows students to achieve work-life balance and pursue a career and a degree. Students enjoy personalized attention from the faculty and the advantage of small class sizes.
The curriculum prepares students to sit for –
- Professional counseling licensure exam (LPC)
- Marriage, and family therapy licensure exam (LMFT)
- A certified school counselor in Pennsylvania
Fast facts –
48 credits
Accreditation: CACREP; Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
Tuition per credit: $690
#23 Colorado Christian University
Lakewood, CO
Clinical Mental Health Counseling, M.A Online
Points: 8
Colorado Christian University offers an online Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. It is taught by qualified professors who have extensive academic and clinical experience. Students learn to integrate Christian faith and sound counseling principles. The program combines –
- Experiential learning
- Rigorous coursework
- Mentoring relationships
It is designed for busy adults who can complete it in 30 months even with a full-time job. Students of this program become culturally responsive professional counselors. Upon completion, students are prepared to take the National Counselor Exam.
Fast facts –
60 credits
Accreditation: CACREP; Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
Offered through: College of Adult and Graduate Studies
Tuition per credit: $681
#22 Amridge University
Montgomery, AL
MA in Professional Counseling Online
Points: 9
Amridge University offers an online Master of Arts (M.A.) in Professional Counseling. Designed for professionals, it provides a foundation in –
- Psychology theory
- Scientific research
- Clinical practice
- Advanced studies in related fields
It covers the different approaches and clinical techniques for therapy. Graduates of this program work in varied settings like –
- Church
- Private practice
- Governmental agency
- Community agency
The curriculum prepares students for licensure in Professional Counseling.
Fast facts –
60 credits
Option for dual licensure in Professional Counseling and Marriage and Family Therapy.
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).
Offered through: School of Education and Human Services
Tuition per credit: $675
#21 Missouri Baptist University
Saint Louis, MO
Online MA in School Counseling
Points: 9
Missouri Baptist University offers an online Master of Arts in School Counseling. The curriculum is extensive and meets the Missouri Certification requirements for licensure. It helps students get state certification as guidance counselors in public K-12 schools. Students are taught and mentored by a Christian faculty. They can prepare for careers as elementary and secondary school guidance counselors.
The flexible program and online coursework allow students to study when their schedule permits. Graduates can work as a school counselor and mentors or pursue a doctoral program.
Fast facts –
51 credits
Accreditation: The Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
Tuition per credit: $663
#20 Hope International University
Fullerton, CA
Online MSC in Counseling
Points: 9
Hope International University offers an online Master of Science in Counseling (MSC). The curriculum integrates theory and practice, grounded in Christian principles. It prepares students for licensure and certification. Students learn to –
- Conduct assessments
- Establish counseling goals and objectives
- Empower individuals
- Help patients deal with life situations
- Reduce stress,
- Experience growth
- Manage change
- Make well-informed, rational decisions
The curriculum combines theory with practical application, sound research skills with clinical training.
Fast facts –
61 credits
Approved by the Board of Behavioral Sciences (BBS) for licensure as an LPCC in California
Accreditation: Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)
Offered through: College Of Psychology And Counseling
Tuition per credit: $650
#19 Ottawa University
Ottawa, KS
MA in Counseling Online
Points: 10
Ottawa University offers an online Master of Arts in Counseling program. The program leads to in-depth knowledge in a specialty area through a concentration. Specialization options include-
- Christian Counseling
- Professional Counseling
- Expressive Arts Therapy
- Gerocounseling
- Treatment of Trauma, Abuse, and Deprivation
The curriculum meets the educational requirements in Arizona for licensure.
Graduates emerge as well-qualified professionals with –
- Advanced intellectual and academic development
- Greater understanding and knowledge of concepts, ideas, and information
- Ability to apply research, examination, inquiry in their work
- The goal of the program is to train well-qualified, competent, caring individuals
Fast facts –
63 credits
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Tuition per credit: $635
#18 University of the Southwest
Hobbs, NM
MS in Clinical Mental Health Online
Points: 10
The University of the Southwest offers an online Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health. The curriculum meets educational requirements for professional licensure in most states. The comprehensive program develops graduates who excel in diverse competency areas. They learn to –
- Apply and show their knowledge and skills to counsel patients
- Advocate for individuals, families, and groups
- Practice with culturally appropriate solutions
- Promote social justice, equity, and access.
- Use mental health research and evidence-based treatments
- Apply program process and outcome evaluation models
Fast facts –
63 credits
Offered through: College of Arts & Sciences
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Tuition per credit: $625
#17 LeTourneau University
Longview, TX
M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling Online
Points: 10
LeTourneau University offers an online Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. The program equips students to help people live more functional lives. Students integrate a Christian Worldview, personal awareness, and growth with counseling. They engage with varied populations by using –
- Counseling skills
- Ethical practice
- Holistic attention
- Systemic orientation
- Implementing ethical decision-making
- Analyze and apply theories and skills in their work
Graduates impact lives and restore spiritual and psychological relationships.
Fast facts –
66 credits
Offered through: School of Psychology & Counseling
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Tuition per credit: $615
#16 Concordia University Irvine
Irvine, CA
M.A. Counseling: Clinical Mental Health Online
Points: 10
Concordia University Irvine offers an online Master of Arts in Counseling: Clinical Mental Health. Students acquire deeply attuned level skills to help patients with –
Depression
Anxiety
Relational problems
Addictions
Isolation
Shame
Lack of boundaries
Feelings as if they have no voice
Featured Programs
Beyond coping to restoration
They learn to connect with the internal workings of a person’s brain and heart – where the root issues lie. They gain marketable skills that can offer a professional advantage in their vocation.
Fast facts –
60 units
Offered through: Townsend Institute
Accreditation: CACREP; WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)
Tuition per unit: $615
#15 Regent University
Virginia Beach, VA
M.A. in Pastoral Counseling Online
Points: 11
Regent University offers an online masters in pastoral counseling degree. It is a non-licensure degree that teaches counseling techniques and knowledge in –
- Marriage and family
- Substance abuse
- Crisis counseling
It combines Christian psychology, mental health counseling, and clinical pastoral education.
The key focus of the program is to teach students –
- To integrate biblically-based strategies for effective emotional and spiritual healing
- Help them address legal, ethical, and liability issues
- Test treatment issues and gain guidance for referral and collaboration
It equips students with Christian counseling tools for crises.
Fast facts –
30 credits
Offered through: School of Psychology & Counseling
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Tuition per credit: $595
#14 Grace College & Seminary
Winona Lake, IN
MA of Clinical Mental Health Counseling Online
Points: 11
Grace College & Seminary offers an online Master of Clinical Mental Health Counseling. Students explore the psychology and the social sciences through a biblical worldview. It is 100% online with an annual seven-day residency on campus in scenic Winona Lake, Indiana. The key focus of the program –
- Train students to help guide and assist people with their troubles
- Help in their professional and interpersonal development
- Teach them to make workable connections between behavior and relationship
- Teach them to weigh questions and create conversation in a Christian context
- Prepare them for effective counseling practice
Fast facts –
60 credits
Accreditation: CACREP; The Higher Learning Commission
Tuition per credit: $577
#13 Houston Baptist University
Houston, TX
MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling Online
Points: 11
Houston Baptist University offers an online Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. It prepares students for counseling careers with advanced preparation in –
- Counseling
- Testing
- Research methods
The curriculum includes completing a practicum consisting of a University-approved counseling setting. It is done under the supervision of a licensed psychologist or professional counselor-supervisor. Graduates can apply for licensure as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Texas. They go on to work in various setting like –
- Private practice
- Universities
- Clinics
- Hospitals
- Church-based organizations
Fast facts –
60 credits
Accreditation: CACREP; Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Tuition per credit: $575
#12 Liberty University
Lynchburg, VA
Online MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Points: 12
Liberty University offers an online Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. Students get the specialized training they need to become licensed professional counselors. The curriculum combines theory with structured practicum and internship. It is designed to –
- Provide the knowledge, values, and skills to empower others
- Enhance understanding of human psychology through field-tested techniques
- Teach best practices for mental health and behavioral problems
- Develop holistic wellness for diverse groups
- Train students to work with individuals, families, and groups
- Teach them to become ethical, well-trained mental health counselors
Fast facts –
60 credits
Offered through: School of Behavioral Sciences
Accreditation: CACREP; Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Tuition per credit: $565
#11 Faulkner University
Montgomery, AL
MS in Counseling Online
Points: 12
Faulkner University offers an online Master of Science in Counseling program. The program is meant for counseling professionals seeking a new credential. The curriculum –
- Integrates a Christian worldview with the mental health counseling
- Meets the state and national regulatory criteria for professional counselors’ licensure and certification
- Bridges theory with practical experiences
- Helps students develop their counseling skills
- Includes collaborative classroom and field experiences
- Prepares students to practice in varied settings
Fast facts –
61 credits
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Tuition per semester hour: $555
#10 Crown College
St. Bonifacius, MN
M.A. in Counseling Online
Points: 12
Crown College offers an online Master of Arts degree in Counseling. The curriculum integrates a Christian worldview in Counseling.
- It meets the academic requirements for the M.N. state LPCC licensure exam.
- It also meets the Minnesota Board of Behavioral Health and Therapy’s requirements. Students gain foundational and advanced knowledge in various counseling topics.
- They are equipped with the skills to help people effectively.
- They go on to practice as a licensed professional counselor or a lay counselor in ministry. The program is mainly online, with a four-day residency on campus in May each year.
Fast facts –
60 credits
Accreditation: Transnational Association of Christian Colleges and Schools
Tuition per credit: $555
#9 Grand Canyon University
Phoenix, AZ
Online MS Mental Health Counseling – Christian Counseling
Points: 12
Grand Canyon University offers an online Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling-Emphasis in Christian Counseling. It helps students gain foundational knowledge in psychological principles and best practices. They learn to apply their clinical skills to –
- Evaluate
- Diagnose
- Treat patients
- Take a Christ-centered approach to deal with mental, behavioral, social, and emotional problems
The coursework meets the academic requirements established by-
- The National Board for Certified Counselors for the National Certified Counselor (NCC) credential
- The Certified Clinical Mental Health Counselor (CCMHC) credential
- The Arizona Board of Behavioral Health Examiners
Fast facts –
Offered through: College of Humanities and Social Sciences
74 credits
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
Tuition per credit: $550
#8 Columbia International University
Columbia, SC
MA in Care and Counseling Online
Points: 13
Columbia International University offers an online Master of Arts in Care and Counseling. The curriculum integrates Bible knowledge and spiritual formation with ministry skill development.
The curriculum –
- uses theological and evidence-based counseling skills
- provides holistic short-term care that addresses all dimensions of personhood.
- teaches professional and practical skills
- helps people understand themselves, others, life, and the world from God’s perspective
The program is for those who want to teach, train, and counsel in varied contexts
Fast facts –
48 credits
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Tuition per credit: $510
#7 Cornerstone University
Grand Rapids, MI
MA in Counseling Online
Points: 13
Cornerstone University offers an online Master of Arts in Counseling.
The program includes –
- An 18-hour core in Bible and theology
- A 42-hour core in Counseling
- A 9-hour counseling specialization
Students develop competency in foundational counseling theories and skills.
The counseling core includes –
- Counseling philosophy and theory
- Techniques and skill development
- A practicum
- Two internships
Specialization options include –
- Addictions Counseling
- Trauma Counseling
- Multi-State Licensure or Interdisciplinary
The curriculum meets professional licensure criteria in Michigan and other states.
Fast facts –
69 semester hours
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
Tuition per credit: $480
#6 Clarks Summit University
Clarks Summit, PA
Online MS in Counseling
Points: 14
Clarks Summit University offers an online Master of Science in Counseling.
The program –
- Uses the Bible as the foundation, focus, and filter of the entire program
- Trains students to competently deal with secular theories without comprising biblical truth
- Prepares them to pursue state licensure and pass at first try
- Teaches them to understand people better
- Equips them to provide wise, biblical counsel in a wide range of roles
Students can choose from one of six specialization tracks to customize their study. They grow in their awareness of how God’s Word applies to healthy living and resolving human struggles.
Fast facts –
60credits
Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Tuition per credit: $460
#5 Montreat College
Montreat, NC
Online Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Points: 14
Montreat College offers an online Masters in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. It trains students for professional practice by teaching the fundamentals of –
- Human development
- Human behavior
- Counseling
Students engage in reflective practice as professionals and become advocates for social justice. They practice in various settings including –
- Private practice
- Community and church-based organizations
- Government agencies
- Mental health settings
They treat individuals, families, couples, and groups. Some work with specific populations, such as the elderly, college students, or children.
Fast facts –
60 credits
Offered through: School of Adult & Graduate Studies
Accreditation: CACREP; Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Tuition per credit: $455
#4 Bob Jones University
Greenville, SC
Biblical Counseling, MA Online
Points: 14
Bob Jones University offers an online Biblical Counseling Master of Arts program. It teaches counseling and psychology from a biblical perspective. The rigorous program –
- includes supervised counseling and comprehensive coursework
- teaches students to apply the theological framework to counseling
- includes student counseling sessions evaluated by certified counselors
- qualifies students for an advanced ABC (Association of Biblical Counselors) certification
The program prepares students to work in –
- Biblical counseling centers
- Addiction ministries
- Urban ministries
- Social service agencies
Fast facts –
41 credits
Accreditation: Transnational Association of Christian Colleges and Schools (TRACS)
Authorized by: South Carolina Commission on Higher Education
Tuition per credit: $450
#3 Maranatha Baptist University
Watertown, WI
Master in Biblical Counseling Online
Points: 15
Maranatha Baptist University offers an online Master in Biblical Counseling. The curriculum includes –
- Topics in crisis counseling and addictive behavior
- Foundational courses in biblical and theological
- Classic theology and current trends in theology,
- Biblical Counseling
- Internship in a ministry setting under a university-approved mentor
It trains students to go into full-time ministry. It also teaches them to become more effective communicators and help those struggling with various issues.
Fast facts –
33 semester hours
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
Tuition per credit: $340
#2 Ohio Christian University
Circleville, OH
Online MA in Ministry-Pastoral Care and Counseling
Points: 15
Ohio Christian University offers an online Master of Arts with a major in Ministry with a Pastoral Care and Counseling Concentration. The program enhances the ministry skills of pastors and lay leaders in the local church. It consists of –
- 24-semester credits of ministry courses
- 12-semester credits of concentration
Concentration options include-
- Practical Theology
- Sports, Recreation, and Fitness Ministries
- Pastoral Care and Counseling
The last one is designed for those interested in counseling ministry. It prepares students to serve effectively in the church and society. The concentration does not qualify graduates to work as a licensed counselor.
Fast facts –
36 semester hours
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
Tuition per credit: $338
#1 Campbellsville University
Campbellsville, KY
Online MA in Education School Guidance Counseling
Points: 16
Campbellsville University offers an online Master of Arts in Education in School Guidance Counseling. The program –
- Explores advanced counseling theory and strategies for connecting with students
- Is developed by practicing school guidance counselors
- Is rooted in ethical and Christian values
- Teaches students to infuse Christian principles into their practice
- Provides the knowledge and skills that school guidance counselors need
- Teaches students how to transform their students’ lives upon graduation
- Teaches them to navigate systems and find the resources to help their cases
Graduates are trained to meet the diverse academic, social, emotional, and career needs of students.
Fast facts –
48 credits
Accreditation: CAEP; Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
Tuition per credit: $299