Many aspiring professionals wonder, “So….what degree do I need to be a counselor?” especially given the varied pathways and specialties within the field.
The simple answer is that you need a Master’s in Counseling degree to practice clinical mental health counseling in a professional setting.
But the Bachelor’s degree requirements to get into a Master’s program tend to be more flexible. While the journey to becoming a licensed counselor requires commitment and structured training, the steps are clear once you know what to expect and once you find the right program and cohort study that fits your needs.
The foundation: bachelor’s degree requirements
While a bachelor’s degree alone does not qualify someone for clinical counseling practice, it serves as an essential foundation for graduate-level study and accessing related experience in the mental health field before becoming a qualified counselor.
Most students pursue undergraduate degrees in psychology, social work, human services, or related fields that introduce fundamental theories of human behavior and mental health.
These undergraduate programs help students build the foundation needed before pursuing a Master’s in Counseling degree, online or on campus, in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, while developing transferable skills like communication, critical thinking, and empathy that support future counseling roles.
Must-need prerequisite courses
For those already in a mental health or human services degree program who are thinking ahead, wondering, “Ok, so I’ve got my undergrad almost wrapped up…What’s the next step? What degree do I need to become a counselor?”
To be eligible for admission into a Clinical Mental Health Counseling graduate program, students typically need a strong academic foundation in psychology. Most programs require at least nine credits of undergraduate psychology coursework with a grade of B or higher. Three of those credits should be from closely related fields.
It’s also recommended that applicants complete at least one course in abnormal psychology or psychopathology to demonstrate readiness for advanced clinical study. In addition to academic preparation, programs value hands-on experience, so volunteer or work hours in social service agencies strengthen an application.
Master’s Degree in Counseling
To become licensed, students must complete a Master’s in Mental Health Counseling online or in person. Across the country, a Master’s degree in Mental Health Counseling online meets the same educational and clinical standards as traditional on-campus programs.
A Master’s degree in Mental Health Counseling typically includes specialized coursework in human development, counseling theory, multicultural counseling, assessment skills, and ethics. Supervised clinical hours completed during graduate training are required for licensure in every US state, regardless of whether your coursework is online.
Start on Your Path to Becoming a Clinical Mental Health Counselor
Master’s degree in Mental Health Counseling online formats
Many students choose a Master’s in Counseling online because it offers flexibility without compromising accreditation or clinical training.
Online programs include interactive coursework such as live or recorded lectures, plus support to find supervised clinical placements in your local communities.
A Mental Health Counseling degree online allows you to complete coursework from anywhere while maintaining the academic quality and practical training, as accredited online programs, whether on campus or a mental health counseling degree, meet the same licensure standards as on-campus degrees, ensuring graduates are fully prepared to enter the profession.
What you’ll learn and experience
Clinical mental health counseling programs train students to work with individuals, families, and groups across diverse settings.
Coursework typically covers psychopathology, diagnosis, trauma-informed counseling, research methods, and evidence-based treatment approaches. Students also develop practical skills such as conducting intake interviews, creating treatment plans, and applying counseling techniques tailored to client needs.
Alternative pathways and career changers
If you’ve already completed your Bachelor’s degree in another field and are looking to change career directions, your curiosity may be whispering, “Exactly what degree do I need to become a counselor? It’s not too late to switch directions, right?”
Maybe you’re also worried about having to go back to school before applying to a Master’s in Mental Health counseling online program. But good news! You can apply without a psychology or social work background if you pass the prerequisite courses with a B or higher.
Even career changers without a psychology background can transition into a Master’s in Mental Health Counseling online after completing a few foundational prerequisites. Bridge courses, foundational prerequisites, or introductory psychology credits help students from other disciplines transition into the field. So don’t worry! A bachelor’s degree in another area will not prevent you from becoming a licensed counselor, as long as you find a way to bridge the gap.
Choosing the right Master’s in Counseling program
Accreditation is one of the most critical factors when selecting a counseling degree program. CACREP-accredited programs are widely recognized for meeting national counseling education standards and often streamline the licensure process.
Prospective students should review their own state’s specific requirements to ensure their chosen program aligns with licensure pathways and provides the credentials needed for professional practice.
Whether you pursue a traditional in-person Master’s in Counseling program or a Master’s in Counseling degree online, accreditation ensures the coursework meets national standards so your degree can travel or move with you in the future if necessary.
Career opportunities and outlook
Graduates with a master’s degree in Mental Health Counseling may pursue careers in private practice, schools, hospitals, community agencies, substance-use treatment centers, and many other settings.
Most mental health counselors work full-time, but it is genuinely a flexible career if you work weekends, evenings, or night shifts in residential or inpatient facilities.
The median annual salary for a mental health counselor is $59,190, and the highest 10% earned $98,210. Clinical mental health counseling is a versatile field with strong job growth projections (17% for substance abuse and behavioral health counseling).
Taking the next step at University of Bridgeport
Becoming a counselor requires dedication, structured training, and a master’s-level education, but it leads to a rewarding career supporting individuals and communities.
If you’re ready to begin your journey, check out University of Bridgeport’s Master’s in Counseling online program, a degree designed to fit your busy schedule.
Whether you choose an online or on-campus format, the right program will provide the foundation you need to become a licensed, competent counselor prepared to serve those in need.