Counseling Degree Programs in California

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Updated March 25, 2024

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California counseling degrees can prepare graduates to serve various patient populations. This guide allows readers to learn more about the counseling profession and degree options in the state.

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California is one of the best destinations in the U.S. for licensed counselors, with the state ranking among the nation's leaders in both counselor employment rates and average salaries. The state's counselor licensing system includes specific requirements for education, supervised training experiences, and exam performance.

This California-specific guide includes a list of top-ranked counseling programs. It explores the state's licensing process and provides data on average salaries and job growth prospects. Use it to explore the best counseling degree programs in California as you plan your path to a rewarding counseling career.

Popular Online Counseling Master's Programs

Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.

The Best Counseling Degree Programs in California

Explore our ranking of the best counseling degrees in California. Graduates of these programs can pursue licensure or further education and training.

Read our ranking methodology.

#1 Counseling Degree Programs in California

University of Southern California

  • Los Angeles, CA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Cost per Credit:
In-State | $2,244
Out-of-State | $2,244

Credits to Graduate: 60

The University of Southern California's MS in marriage and family therapy (MFT) helps pave the way for licensure in California and takes 24-48 months to complete. The program is delivered on campus in Los Angeles and features a small cohort of students, therapy-like practice sessions, and fieldwork at a placement site. 

Students explore therapy skills and research-supported interventions to address client issues, such as mental illness, emotional disorders, and alcohol and substance abuse. USC boasts a 92% MFT student pass rate on the clinical Board of Behavioral Sciences exam. The school automatically considers MFT program applicants for $15,000-$30,000 scholarships.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$60,446
Out-of-state
$60,446
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$60,446
Out-of-state
$60,446
Retention Rate
96%
Acceptance Rate
13%
Students Enrolled
49,318
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
46% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission

#2 Counseling Degree Programs in California

California State University-Long Beach

  • Long Beach, CA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Cost per Credit:
In-State | $2,082
Out-of-State | $2,478

Credits to Graduate: 65

The MS in counseling psychology at California State University-Long Beach prepares learners for licensure to practice as an independent marriage family therapist and/or licensed professional clinical counselor. The program offers flexibility with two-year, 30-month, and three-year tracks. 

Students learn how to address trauma and grief and provide a variety of evidence-based treatments, such as couples, group, and human sexuality counseling. A licensed counseling professional supervises 500 hours of practicum and field experience. In addition to an on-site clinic, enrollees have access to a variety of community practice sites. The program requires no GRE for admission.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$5,742
Out-of-state
$17,622
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$7,176
Out-of-state
$16,680
Retention Rate
87%
Acceptance Rate
47%
Students Enrolled
40,190
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
87% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission

#3 Counseling Degree Programs in California

Santa Clara University

  • Santa Clara, CA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Cost per Credit:
In-State | $726
Out-of-State | $726

Credits to Graduate: 90

A highly customizable curriculum is a hallmark of Santa Clara University's MA in counseling psychology. Students can choose one of four tracks: licensed professional clinical counselor (LPCC), marriage and family therapist (MFT), MFT/LPCC, or no track.

Enrollees can choose one of four emphasis areas that function like a minor: Latino counseling, health psychology, LGBTQ counseling, or correctional psychology. With additional credit, learners can elect to complete the child and adolescent mental health concentration. 

Students enroll on a part- or full-time basis and take courses online and in person. The program's competitive tuition rates and California Board of Behavioral Sciences' approval may provide additional appeal.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$55,224
Out-of-state
$55,224
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$25,170
Out-of-state
$25,170
Retention Rate
94%
Acceptance Rate
54%
Students Enrolled
8,918
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
5% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission

#4 Counseling Degree Programs in California

The Wright Institute

  • Berkeley, CA
  • 4 years
  • Campus

Cost per Credit:
In-State | $1,225
Out-of-State | $1,225

Credits to Graduate: 60

The Wright Institute's MA in counseling continues the school's mission to educate clinical practitioners. The degree prepares learners for licensure as a marriage and family therapist or professional clinical counselor in California. Enrollees complete coursework and practical experience as part of a cohort.

Topics covered include counseling theories and techniques, family violence and protection, and clinical assessment and measures. Students learn counseling techniques to address the needs of groups, couples, people with addictions, and children and adolescents. 

The practicum component provides clinical fieldwork experience. Enrollees can get more involved in the Wright Institute community by mentoring peers and working as teaching assistants.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$37,650
Out-of-state
$37,650
Retention Rate
Not provided
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
517
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
Not provided
Accreditation
Yes Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission

#5 Counseling Degree Programs in California

California Institute of Integral Studies

  • San Francisco, CA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Cost per Credit:
In-State | $1,285
Out-of-State | $1,285

Credits to Graduate: 60-67

California Institute of Integral Studies' MA in counseling psychology offers a concentration in community mental health. Students complete the hybrid degree in 2.5-3 years as part of a weekend cohort. The curriculum prepares enrollees for marriage and family therapist licensure in California. For those interested in LPCC licensing, additional coursework is required.

Faculty give weekly asynchronous online lectures and readings, supplemented with five full-weekend immersions students attend in person as part of their cohort. Learners must also complete 50 hours of personal psychotherapy with a mental health professional. A clinical practicum provides field experience and participants culminate the program with a project.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$20,500
Out-of-state
$20,500
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$21,708
Out-of-state
$21,708
Retention Rate
Not provided
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
1,833
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
92% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission

#6 Counseling Degree Programs in California

National University

  • San Diego, CA
  • 4 years
  • Online

Cost per Year:
In-State | $11,934 per year
Out-of-State | $11,934 per year

Credits to Graduate: 72 quarter units

National University's MS in educational counseling prepares professional school counselors and also offers a community college counselor emphasis. Students complete coursework, practicum, and fieldwork that lead to the California pupil personnel services credential in school counseling. 

The community college emphasis requires coursework, a capstone project, and a comprehensive exam. Enrollees in both programs complete a common core, learning best practices in individual and group counseling, trauma-informed counseling, and college and career counseling.

Students can finish the degree faster with NU's four-week courses and by transferring up to 13.5 quarter units to the program. NU also offers fully online MA in marriage and family therapy and MS in clinical mental health counseling programs. 

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$13,320
Out-of-state
$13,320
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$15,480
Out-of-state
$15,480
Retention Rate
100%
Acceptance Rate
55%
Students Enrolled
17,135
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
80% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission

#7 Counseling Degree Programs in California

University of San Francisco

  • San Francisco, CA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Cost per Credit:
In-State | $1,085
Out-of-State | $1,085

Credits to Graduate: 49-60

The University of San Francisco's MA in school counseling produces practitioners skilled in addressing the needs of pupils attending multicultural urban schools in California. Successful completion of the degree positions graduates for the pupil personnel services credential in school counseling. A dual concentration in school counseling and professional clinical counseling is available with additional credits.

Enrollees take weekday online classes and attend in-person sessions on alternate weekends as a cohort. Key topics covered include cross-cultural counseling, counseling theories and practice, and trauma and crisis counseling. Participants complete at least 900 hours of practicum and traineeship experience. Scholarships help make the degree more affordable.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$52,920
Out-of-state
$52,920
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$27,180
Out-of-state
$27,180
Retention Rate
86%
Acceptance Rate
71%
Students Enrolled
10,034
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
66% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission

#8 Counseling Degree Programs in California

California State University-Bakersfield

  • Bakersfield, CA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Cost per Credit:
In-State | $2,082
Out-of-State | $2,478

Credits to Graduate: 60

California State University-Bakersfield's MS in counseling psychology meets the state's academic requirements for licensure as a marriage and family therapist and/or professional clinical counselor. The 60-unit program explores how to counsel various populations, including those with addictions, couples, and families.

Students also learn how to engage in developmental counseling with children and adolescents. The three-year program requires individual, dyadic, and group exercises in which enrollees participate as both counselor and client. Aspiring practitioners complete hands-on clinical training during an extensive practicum and traineeship. Scholarships and other aid help students pay for tuition.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$5,742
Out-of-state
$17,622
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$7,176
Out-of-state
$16,680
Retention Rate
75%
Acceptance Rate
85%
Students Enrolled
10,972
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
91% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission

#9 Counseling Degree Programs in California

Saint Mary's College of California

  • Moraga, CA
  • 4 years
  • Campus

Cost per Credit:
In-State | $1,130
Out-of-State | $1,130

Credits to Graduate: 48-69

The MA in counseling at Saint Mary's College of California offers a customizable curriculum. Students can choose a general counseling curriculum or a specialization in career counseling, school counseling, higher education and student affairs, or higher education and student affairs/professional clinical counseling. 

The degree also offers a marriage and family therapy/professional clinical counselor specialization. Learners can choose more than one specialization as long as they meet each program's field requirements. Enrollees complete a common core and the requirements of their specialization in two-year, 30-month, three-year, or 42-month tracks.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$51,568
Out-of-state
$51,568
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$33,357
Out-of-state
$33,357
Retention Rate
88%
Acceptance Rate
70%
Students Enrolled
3,165
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
2% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission

#10 Counseling Degree Programs in California

California Baptist University

  • Riverside, CA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Cost per Credit:
In-State | $800
Out-of-State | $800

Credits to Graduate: 62-68

California Baptist University's MS in counseling psychology is a faith-based program founded more than 40 years ago. The degree aligns with the state's requirements for licensure as a marriage and family therapist and/or professional clinical counselor.

The curriculum explores how to integrate counseling theory and a Christian worldview to address clients' mental, emotional, and spiritual development. The training includes clinical assessment and diagnostic techniques, therapy models and interventions, and treatment planning and case management. 

Licensed supervisors oversee practicum experience. Students can take additional coursework if they plan to pursue professional clinical counselor licensure or the program's forensic psychology concentration.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$34,918
Out-of-state
$34,918
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$13,590
Out-of-state
$13,590
Retention Rate
79%
Acceptance Rate
64%
Students Enrolled
11,489
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
54% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission

Accredited Counseling Programs in California

Beyond institutional accreditation, you can look for additional endorsements from specialized accreditors of counseling programs. The Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP) ranks among the best-known specialized accrediting agencies for counseling degrees.

CACREP accreditation means that a program meets elevated standards of academic quality. While it is a voluntary credential, schools that hold CACREP accreditation may enjoy a better reputation among employers and other educational institutions.

As of March 2024, you can choose from 25 CACREP-accredited graduate programs across 13 institutions and nine unique specializations in California.

How to Become a Counselor in California

The California government's Board of Behavioral Services manages counselor licensing. California counseling professionals qualify for two forms of licensure: associate professional clinical counselor (APCC) and licensed professional clinical counselor (LPCC).

Your professional journey toward becoming a licensed professional counselor begins with completing a master's in counseling degree program. It will also include supervised field training experience and examination requirements. Licensed counselors in California first earn their APCC license, which allows them to obtain valuable supervised experience. After completing 3,000 hours of experience as an APCC, you may then apply to become an LPCC.

Education Requirements

To qualify for counseling licensure in California, you must hold at least a master's degree in counseling. Your qualifying degree must concentrate on counseling or psychotherapy. You must earn that degree at a school accredited by an organization recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.

It typically takes 1-2 years to complete a master's program in counseling. You need a four-year bachelor's degree to qualify for admission.

Exceptions apply to substance abuse counselors. You can gain certification as a substance abuse counselor through the Addiction Counselor Certification Board of California (ACCBC). Education requirements for Level I initial certification include completion of an approved postsecondary addiction studies program that covers at least 30 semester credits.

Licensing Requirements

The LPCC credential is considered a full license. To obtain licensure, you must first earn initial licensure as an APCC by applying to the Board of Behavioral Sciences upon completing a qualifying master's or doctoral degree.

If the board approves your application, you will receive an APCC number that will remain valid for six years. However, you must renew your number annually and pass California's Law and Ethics Exam to qualify for renewal.

Once you have your APCC license, you can begin accruing your supervised practical training hours. California's regulations align with national standards .You need to complete 3,000 hours of supervised experience to become eligible for your LPCC. At least 1,750 of those hours must include direct clinical counseling.

Note that any practical training hours you completed as a student will not count if you did not hold an APCC license at the time.

Salary and Career Outlook for Counselors in California

Beyond learning how to become a counselor in California, you should also research salary trends and job growth projections. These data points can inform your choice of counseling specializations and professional practice destinations.

Average Salary for Counselors in California

In general, California counselors earn high salaries. BLS data from May 2022 placed California first for average salaries for education counselors and second for genetic counselors. High local labor market demand is likely a major influence on their elevated earning potential.

California also dominates BLS lists of the 10 highest-paying metro areas for counseling specialists. The BLS counted at least three California cities among its 10 top-paying destinations for education counselors, marriage and family therapists, substance abuse counselors, and genetic counselors.

The following table provides a further breakdown of average annual salaries for specific counseling specializations in California:

Average Annual Salary for Counselors in California
Occupation Average Annual Salary
Educational, Guidance, and Career Counselors and Advisors $81,100
Marriage and Family Therapists $65,320
Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors $64,460
Rehabilitation Counselors $44,790
Counselors, All Other $44,240
Source: BLS, 2022

Occupation Outlook for Counselors in California

California's job growth outlook for licensed counselors looks promising. O*NET Online, a research resource affiliated with the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL), projects much higher than average job growth for mental health counselors in California from 2022-2032. This means the DOL projects job growth of 9% or more during that time frame.

Research by the Kaiser Family Foundation (KFF) also suggests that California has a long way to go despite ranking among the leading employers of counselors among U.S. states. According to a November 2023 report, California only meets 24% of its mental healthcare needs in areas with documented professional shortages.

The following table summarizes the state's long-term employment outlook for counselors of various specializations.

Career Outlook for Counselors in California
Occupation Change in Employment 2022-2032
Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors +17.3%
Rehabilitation Counselors +14.4%
Educational, Guidance, School, and Vocational Counselors +12.1%
Marriage and Family Therapists +10.5%
Source: Projections Central

Frequently Asked Questions About Counseling Degree Programs in California

How long does it take to become a counselor in California?

The path to obtaining full LPCC licensure in California can take 7-8 years. You need to spend at least 1-2 years in grad school after completing your bachelor's degree, as you must hold an advanced degree to qualify for licensure. After meeting your educational requirements, you must then accrue 3,000 hours of supervised experience. This step usually takes at least two years. It would take 75 weeks to satisfy this requirement if you spent 40 hours per week on field training.

Can you be a counselor without a license in California?

You cannot legally practice as a counselor in California unless you hold a license. Counselor licenses are issued by the California state government's Board of Behavioral Sciences, which offers a detailed breakdown of the licensing process.

How often do counselors have to renew their licenses in California?

You must renew your initial APCC license annually while you complete your supervised experience requirements. After earning full LPCC licensure, you must renew it biannually.

How much does it cost to apply for your counseling license in California?

A $150 application fee applies to your initial APCC license. When you transition to a full LPCC license, you must pay a $250 fee for your first license and a $220 renewal fee if you renew on time. If you renew late, a $320 fee will apply instead.

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