[hen-ui-dynamic-experience placement=”aboveTheFold” /] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Counselors help others create positive change in their lives. They work with families, children, couples, and anyone struggling with mental health conditions or substance use disorders.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Attaining your online bachelor’s degree in counseling offers flexibility and convenience and can open the door to rewarding careers. Discover some of the best online bachelor’s in counseling programs in this guide.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]What Can I Expect from an Online Bachelor’s in Counseling Program?[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]What you can expect from the best online bachelor’s in counseling programs varies by school. Most full-time students can complete an online program in four years. Some programs allow students to take classes part time, but all require a minimum of 120 credit hours, and some programs require up to 180 credits for completion. The difference depends on whether the school operates on a quarter or semester system.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Typically, a program allows you to focus on your primary area of interest, such as substance use , school counseling, or [hen-ui-link href=”https://thebestschools.org/rankings/masters/best-online-masters-family-counseling/”]marriage and family counseling[/hen-ui-link]. Some of the general courses include diversity issues, crisis intervention, and general psychology.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]A bachelor’s in counseling degree prepares you to take a national certification and become licensed in your state. State licensure requirements vary by state, but generally, you must pass an exam and complete a supervised internship. Once you are licensed and practicing, you may want to further your education with a [hen-ui-link href=”https://thebestschools.org/rankings/masters/best-online-masters-counseling/”]master’s in counseling degree[/hen-ui-link]. This allows you to provide mental health support and pursue a corporate or research position.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-dynamic-experience placement=”editorialListings” /] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]The Best Online Bachelor’s in Counseling Programs[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Advantages of an Online Bachelor’s in Counseling Education[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]There are several advantages to pursuing your education from the best online bachelor’s in counseling programs. Since the online format is often more flexible and part-time attendance is easily arranged, you can earn your bachelor’s degree while maintaining your family and work obligations.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]A bachelor’s degree is a strong foundation for entry-level counseling roles, providing valuable practical experience. You can also further your career goals and become a licensed counselor by earning a master’s degree in counseling.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Finally, online programs are often more cost-effective since they reduce the program’s overhead costs. The online platform also allows you to complete a program from anywhere in the United States.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Choosing an Online Bachelor’s in Counseling Program[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Choosing the right online bachelor’s in counseling program can be challenging. Consider several important factors when choosing the option that works best for your needs.[/hen-ui-text]

• Accreditation: Accreditation from the [hen-ui-link href=”https://www.cacrep.org/” target=”_blank”]Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs[/hen-ui-link] (CACREP) assures students the program meets national standards, allows students to pursue a master’s degree, and increases the likelihood that credits can be transferred to another program.
• Cost: Research the program’s tuition and other fees for in-state and out-of-state students. Some online programs offer a flat rate for all online students. Also, explore opportunities for financial aid, scholarships, and grants.
• Program Length: Program length is dictated by your ability to attend full-time, part-time, or in an accelerated track. It is important to pursue your education in the timeline you have available.
• On-Campus Requirement: Some online programs have several on-campus requirements. If you are attending an online program from out of state, be sure you can meet these requirements or may not be allowed to graduate.
• Student Support: Most on-campus, traditional college settings have student support services available. Consider the level of support your potential online program offers, such as mentorship, tutoring, or local internship placement.

[hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Online Bachelor’s in Counseling Concentrations[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]The counseling field is incredibly diverse, and students can take advantage of many different career possibilities. Most counseling professionals must gain certification in a specific area to work in their field, and programs offer certifications or specializations to prepare students for their careers.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]Mental Health Counseling[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Students who want to work as mental health counselors concentrate on crisis management, suicide risk assessment, clinical interventions, and mental health policy. Field experience is typically completed at a local mental health agency and can include group sessions with families.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″ tag=”strong” weight=”bold”]Careers this Concentration Prepares for: [/hen-ui-text]

• Mental health counselor

[hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]Family and Human Development[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Individuals interested in studying how humans change and develop may consider a concentration in family and human development. Learners study how people grow socially, mentally, and physically and focus on influences from family and relationships. This specialization prepares individuals for various counseling careers.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″ tag=”strong” weight=”bold”]Careers this Concentration Prepares for: [/hen-ui-text]

• Family and relationship counselor
• Mental health counselor

[hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]Addiction, Chemical Dependency, and Substance Misuse[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]These professionals help those dealing with addiction and substance misuse. This concentration requires courses that focus on the science behind addiction and how to help rehabilitate clients.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″ tag=”strong” weight=”bold”]Careers this Concentration Prepares for: [/hen-ui-text]

• Rehabilitation counselor
• Addiction counselor

[hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]Relationship Counseling[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Those aspiring to help clients navigate personal relationships can pursue this concentration. Concentration areas include marriages, peer relationships, and family dynamics. Some courses also focus on society as a whole and the influence of media and technology on modern day relationships.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″ tag=”strong” weight=”bold”]Careers this Concentration Prepares for: [/hen-ui-text]

• Relationships counselor
• Therapist
• School counselor

[hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]School Counseling[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Professionals with an interest in helping students of all ages can specialize in school counseling. As young people adjust to changes in their lives, having a reliable adult can help, and a school counselor can provide the direction they need..[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″ tag=”strong” weight=”bold”]Careers this Concentration Prepares for: [/hen-ui-text]

• School counselor

[hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Online Bachelor’s in Counseling Curriculum[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]There are several factors to consider before selecting an online bachelor’s in counseling degree, including your interests and career goals. Most programs include a series of core courses designed to impart fundamental concepts and skills, such as counseling theories, human growth and development, and research methodology.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Additionally, some programs offer concentrations or specialized academic tracks that focus on specializations like behavioral analysis, marriage and family therapy, and school counseling. Choosing a concentration lets you develop a specialty while earning a degree, which prepares you to sharpen your skills further in graduate programs or begin a career in a particular field.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]An online bachelor’s degree in counseling may also include an internship or practicum component, which requires a period of direct participation in a professional or clinical setting. While some distance learners prefer programs that offer hands-on experience, others may not have the time or resources to fulfill an in-person requirement.[/hen-ui-text]

• Introduction to Counseling: Nearly every online counseling degree requires an introductory course that prepares students for the rest of their degree. This course provides information on the basic theories and fundamentals of counseling, including an overview of various concentrations within the field.
• Marriage and Family Relationships: Because counselors work with people at various life stages, enrollees must familiarize themselves with the different family relationships across the lifespan. These courses focus on family dynamics, from parents and siblings during childhood to spouses and children in adulthood. Proper knowledge of these relationships allows counselors to better serve their clients.
• Foundations of Addiction and Substance Abuse Disorders: Those with a concentration in addiction and substance abuse often take an introductory course on this subject. However, students pursuing other concentrations may also take this course. Topics include the stages and impact of addiction and the role professionals play in helping people in these situations.
• Introduction to Psychology: Students must possess a strong understanding of the foundations of psychology to fully grasp higher-level counseling courses. This course serves as an introduction to the theories and major themes of psychology, such as human development, behavior studies, and how psychology plays a role in everyday life.
• Conflict Resolution: This course provides students with an overview of helping others work through conflict. Students learn strategies and theories to help others process interpersonal issues in healthy ways.

[hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Counseling Degree Salary Information[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Counselors work with diverse populations and specialize in different areas. Whether you are interested in assisting older adults or helping high school students select the right college, your personal strengths and interests will undoubtedly align with one of counseling’s many subfields. Note that while a bachelor’s degree in counseling can lead to entry-level career opportunities, some positions, particularly those with advanced responsibilities or clinical practice, may require a master’s degree or higher.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Counseling Membership Associations[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.schoolcounselor.org/” target=”_blank”]American School Counselor Association[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]This organization represents school counselors at all levels and provides them with resources to grow in their field. This includes an annual conference to network with other professionals, and a student discount.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.amhca.org/home” target=”_blank”]American Mental Health Counselors Association[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Founded in 1976, this organization for licensed mental health counselors serves as a resource for those pursuing careers in this field. Members have access to liability insurance, networking opportunities, and numerous discounts.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″][hen-ui-link href=”https://multiculturalcounselingdevelopment.org/” target=”_blank”]Association for Multicultural Counseling and Development[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]By providing resources for multicultural counselors, this organization leads in advocating for issues involving race and ethnicity on a global scale. Members of this organization receive support in their field, networking opportunities, access to important research, and opportunities to publish their research.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″][hen-ui-link href=”https://aihcp.net/american-academy-of-grief-counseling/” target=”_blank”]The American Academy of Grief Counseling[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]This organization provides advocacy and support for those in grief counseling, including certification and continuing education offerings.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Frequently Asked Questions About Online Bachelor’s in Counseling Programs[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]What are the admission requirements for an online bachelor’s in counseling program?[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]The admission requirements and process vary by school but generally include a minimum 3.0 GPA, application, transcripts, letter of recommendation, and ACT or SAT scores. Some schools waived the requirement for test scores during the pandemic and have not reinstated it.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]Can I become a licensed counselor with an online bachelor’s in counseling degree?[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]To become a licensed counselor, you must follow the requirements regulated by your state. In most states, you need a bachelor’s in counseling and supervised clinical hours/ You must also pass a state-approved exam.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]Are online counseling programs as respected as traditional on-campus programs?[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Yes, the best online bachelor’s in counseling programs are respected when they are accredited by CACREP. This ensures the program meets the national standards for quality in education.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]Can I pursue a master’s degree in counseling after completing an online bachelor’s degree in counseling?[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Yes, if your online bachelor’s in counseling degree was accredited by CACREP, you can pursue a traditional or online master’s degree in counseling. According to the [hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes211012.htm” target=”_blank”]Bureau of Labor Statistics[/hen-ui-link], states with the highest employment levels include California, Texas, and New York. The top-paying states are California, Washington, Massachusetts, New Jersey, and Connecticut.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-section-header title=”Popular with our students.” /] [hen-ui-article-row variant=”2-col” ids=”970,1538,905″][/hen-ui-article-row]