Earning a master’s degree in counseling is a vital step toward becoming a licensed professional counselor—and choosing a CACREP-accredited program ensures your education meets national standards for quality and licensure eligibility. The Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP) sets rigorous criteria for curriculum, faculty, and clinical training that many state licensing boards require.
As demand grows for flexible and accessible education, more students are seeking affordable online counseling programs that don’t sacrifice quality. The good news: several universities now offer the cheapest CACREP-accredited programs online, combining low tuition with the credibility that comes from proper accreditation.
What to Look For in an Affordable Online Counseling Program
Choosing from the cheapest CACREP-accredited programs online requires more than comparing tuition rates. To make a wise investment in your future, you should evaluate key features that influence program quality, licensure readiness, and learning experience.
CACREP Accreditation
This is the most critical factor. CACREP accreditation assures that a program meets national standards for counselor education, which can streamline licensure, improve job prospects, and enhance degree portability across states. Many state boards either require or prefer CACREP-accredited degrees for licensure.
Program Format
Online counseling programs vary in delivery:
- Fully online: All coursework completed remotely
- Hybrid: Mix of online and on-campus sessions
- Asynchronous: Study on your own schedule
- Synchronous: Attend live, scheduled online classes
Make sure the format fits your lifestyle, learning style, and fieldwork flexibility.
Specializations Available
Look for programs that offer concentrations aligned with your goals. Common CACREP-approved specializations include:
- Clinical Mental Health Counseling
- School Counseling
- Marriage, Couple, and Family Counseling
- Addictions Counseling
- Rehabilitation Counseling
Not all programs offer every track, so check if your preferred specialty is available online.
Support Services
Affordable doesn’t have to mean bare-bones. Strong programs provide:
- Field placement assistance to help you secure practicum and internship sites
- Virtual academic advising and mentorship
- Licensure exam preparation resources
- Career guidance for post-graduation success
Evaluating these elements alongside tuition can help you identify programs that offer true long-term value.
Some of the Cheapest CACREP-Accredited Online Programs
The programs listed below represent some of the lowest-cost CACREP-accredited online counseling programs we could identify as of mid-2025. Cost estimates are based on the per-credit tuition rate, and each program requires approximately 60 credits to graduate, which is typical for many online master’s in counseling degrees.
These selections are intended to help prospective students understand what “low-cost” can mean in this context—not as an exhaustive list, but as a starting point for further exploration. When evaluating programs, cost is important, but it’s just one of many factors to consider. Prospective students should also weigh other key criteria, including program format and flexibility, licensure alignment, faculty expertise, student support services, clinical placement assistance, and reputation or outcomes data when available.
Tuition rates and fee structures may change, so readers are strongly encouraged to visit the official program pages for the most current and detailed information.
Winston-Salem State University (Winston-Salem, NC)
Degree Type: M.S.
Specialization(s): Rehabilitation Counseling
Estimated Cost-per-Credit: $242.73 (in-state), $827.98 (out-of-state)
North Carolina Central University (Durham, NC)
Degree Type: M.A.
Specialization(s): Career Counseling, School Counseling, Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Estimated Cost-per-Credit: $299.23 (in-state), $1,038.57 (out-of-state)
Fort Hays State University (Hays, KS)
Degree Type: M.S.
Specialization(s): School Counseling
Estimated Cost-per-Credit: $360.29 (in-state and out-of-state)
Midwestern State University (Wichita Falls, TX)
Degree Type: M.A.
Specialization(s): Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Estimated Cost-per-Credit: $404 (in-state), $519 (out-of-state)
Western New Mexico University (Silver City, NM)
Degree Type: M.A.
Specialization(s): Addiction Counseling, Clinical Mental Health Counseling, Clinical Rehabilitation Counseling, School Counseling
Estimated Cost-per-Credit: $435 (in-state and out-of-state)
University of the Cumberlands (Williamsburg, KY)
Degree Type: M.A.
Specialization(s): Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Estimated Cost-per-Credit: $449 (in-state and out-of-state)
Credit Requirement: 60
These programs offer strong academic quality at a low cost, making them excellent starting points for prospective counselors seeking CACREP-accredited online degrees without the burden of excessive debt. Be sure to review each school’s website and speak with admissions counselors to confirm current pricing and delivery formats.
Tips for Managing Costs
Even among the cheapest CACREP-accredited programs online, it’s important to plan ahead and make the most of available financial resources. Here are practical ways to reduce your out-of-pocket expenses and graduate with less debt:
Apply for Federal and State Financial Aid
Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to access federal grants, work-study programs, and low-interest student loans. Some states also offer graduate-level financial aid for residents pursuing in-demand fields like counseling.
Explore Scholarships and Assistantships
Many universities offer graduate scholarships, even for online students. Look for awards specific to counseling, mental health, or diversity in the helping professions. A few schools also offer online graduate assistantships with stipends or tuition waivers.
Use Employer Tuition Reimbursement or Loan Forgiveness
If you currently work in education, healthcare, or social services, your employer may offer tuition reimbursement. Additionally, graduates who work in underserved communities may qualify for Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) or state-based loan repayment programs for licensed counselors.
Weigh Cost-Per-Credit Against Long-Term Value
A lower sticker price is helpful, but also consider what you’re getting in return:
- Field placement support can save time and money
- Licensure exam prep resources may reduce the need for third-party courses
- Career services can improve job placement and earnings after graduation
By combining smart planning with the right program, you can earn a high-quality counseling degree while keeping costs manageable.
Career Outlook and ROI for Counseling Graduates
Graduates of CACREP-accredited programs are well-positioned for high-impact careers in mental health, education, and community service. These roles not only offer strong job stability but also provide a clear return on investment—especially when pursued through low-cost, accredited programs.
Common Career Paths
With a CACREP-accredited master’s degree and appropriate licensure, graduates can pursue roles such as:
- Mental Health Counselor
- Substance Abuse or Behavioral Disorder Counselor
- School Counselor
- Career Counselor
- Marriage and Family Therapist (with proper specialization)
Salary and Job Growth
- The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that the median annual wage for substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors was $59,190 as of May 2024.
- Employment in this category is projected to grow 19% from 2023 to 2033, much faster than the average for all occupations, with 84,500 new jobs expected over the decade.
- For school and career counselors, the BLS reported a median salary of $65,140 in May 2024.
- Employment in this group is projected to grow 4% from 2023 to 2033, in line with the average across all occupations.
The Value of CACREP Accreditation
Graduating from a CACREP-accredited program enhances:
- Licensure eligibility in most U.S. states
- Employment competitiveness in clinical, educational, and community settings
- Degree portability, allowing easier license transfers between states
Loan Forgiveness Potential
Graduates working in nonprofit, public school, or community-based roles may be eligible for Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) or state-sponsored loan repayment programs, which can significantly reduce long-term student debt—especially when paired with a low-cost degree.
Overall, an affordable CACREP-accredited degree can provide a high-value pathway into a stable, growing profession with meaningful impact and financial sustainability.
FAQ
Can I get licensed with an online CACREP-accredited degree?
Yes. Most states accept online CACREP-accredited counseling programs as long as they meet the same educational and clinical standards as on-campus versions. Be sure to confirm your specific state’s licensure requirements, especially regarding supervised practicum and internship hours.
Are there hidden costs in “cheap” programs (fees, residencies, etc.)?
Potentially. Even low-tuition programs may charge technology fees, clinical placement fees, or require occasional in-person residencies that involve travel costs. Always ask for a full breakdown of estimated expenses before enrolling.
How do I know if a program is really CACREP-accredited?
The most reliable way is to use the official CACREP Program Directory. Verify the program name, degree track, and delivery format (online, hybrid, or in-person) to ensure current accreditation status.
Are fully online formats accepted by state licensing boards?
In most states, yes—if the program is CACREP-accredited and includes appropriate practicum and internship hours. Some states may have additional requirements, such as face-to-face supervision or coursework in specific areas. Always check with your state’s board before applying.
Finding the Best Program for Your Budget
Choosing among the cheapest CACREP-accredited programs online means balancing affordability with long-term value. A low-cost program that maintains CACREP standards can set you up for licensure, job stability, and meaningful work—without overwhelming debt.
Before committing, verify each program’s accreditation, licensure alignment, and total cost—including fees and fieldwork support. For the most accurate guidance, consult the CACREP directory and your state’s counseling licensure board.
With careful planning, you can pursue a high-quality counseling degree that fits both your budget and your future goals.
