11 Best Online Masters in Counseling Illinois Programs for 2026

The right online masters in counseling program in Illinois can change your career path in mental health services. Mental health counselors are just needed more than ever as communities seek greater access to effective, compassionate care.

Bradley University stands out among masters in counseling Chicago options with its CACREP-accredited programs that lead directly to licensure. These programs strike a perfect balance between theory and practice, and students must complete up to 800 hours of real-life skill development. You could earn your degree in as little as 18 months, or take up to 36 months to fit your schedule. The programs focus on hands-on training and professional growth that help students manage their work and studies effectively.

1. Bradley University – MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling

Bradley University offers a rigorous MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling program that shapes future mental health professionals. Students receive detailed training through theoretical coursework and hands-on experiences to prepare for successful counseling careers.

Program overview

The Master of Arts in Counseling with a concentration in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Bradley needs 60-61 semester hours of graduate work. This CACREP-accredited program helps you work with clients from all backgrounds who face challenges like trauma, substance abuse, and family dynamics. The counseling model shows how people and human systems affect each other deeply. Students complete 51 semester hours of core requirements plus 9-10 semester hours in their specialty area. The program has courses in human development, substance abuse treatment, counseling theories, and group counseling principles. These courses help you develop skills to support individuals, couples, and communities on their path to healing.

Accreditation and licensure path

The Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP) accredits the Clinical Mental Health Counseling program. The program earned this prestigious accreditation in 1993. Students who show strong academic and professional growth can take the National Counselor Examination (NCE) during their final year. Graduates qualify for licensure and can work in community mental health agencies, psychiatric hospitals, and private practices. The Higher Learning Commission (HLC) also approves the online delivery of this counseling curriculum.

Clinical training and practicum

Students must complete 750 hours of supervised practicums and internships in clinical settings. The program starts with a 100-hour practicum that needs at least 40 hours of direct counseling with clients. The internship follows with 600 clock hours, including 240 hours of direct service work. These experiences let students develop expertise matching their career goals. Students receive weekly guidance from site supervisors and university faculty during the practicum.

Tuition and fees

Bradley University charges $1,135 per credit hour for graduate programs. Other costs include:

• Application fee: $40 (non-refundable)
• Technology fee: $250 per semester for students enrolled in 4+ credit hours
• Course-specific fees: $100 lab fee for COU 625
• Comprehensive exam fee: $50
• Malpractice insurance: Free with ACA student membership ($96)

Specializations

Bradley’s counseling program offers several specialized tracks beyond Clinical Mental Health Counseling:

• Substance Abuse Counseling: Supporting clients with addictions
• Rehabilitation Counseling: Helping people living with disabilities
• Crisis Counseling: Supporting people after traumatic events
• Grief Counseling: Helping people cope with loss
• Marriage, Couples and Family Counseling: Rebuilding relationships
• Veterans Counseling: Supporting veterans’ transition to civilian life

Online learning format

Bradley’s online MA in Counseling program matches the campus-based curriculum. Students attend two required in-person residencies—one in their first term and another in their eighth term. You can finish your coursework online while gaining clinical experience locally. The program lets you select your site supervisor (with approval) and get ready for the National Counselor Exam. Campus-based and online students earn identical academic degrees and transcripts. Online students should verify their state’s specific requirements for counseling practice.

2. Northwestern University – MA in Counseling

Northwestern University has a unique Master of Arts in Counseling program that focuses on psychodynamic theory and multicultural competence. Students explore the unconscious forces that shape their identity, values, and experiences.

Program overview

Northwestern’s Master of Arts in Counseling program prepares students to become culturally-responsive clinical mental health counselors. Students can choose between online and on-ground formats. The curriculum builds on contemporary psychodynamic theory, evidence-based practices, and a multicultural worldview. Students reflect on how their developmental histories affect their present experiences, which helps clients live more authentically. The program has two entry paths: a Standard Program for psychology graduates and a Bridge to Counseling Program for career-changers who have minimal human services experience.

Accreditation and licensure path

The Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP) has accredited this program. This accreditation is crucial for licensure eligibility in many states. CACREP accreditation was granted for eight years in 2015, and renewal is scheduled for 2024. The Higher Learning Commission also provides regional accreditation to Northwestern University. The program leads to Licensed Professional Counselor eligibility in Illinois, though requirements vary by state based on clinical hours and coursework.

Clinical training and practicum

Clinical training is the heart of Northwestern’s counseling education. Students must complete a 200-hour Practicum with 50 hours of direct client contact and a 600-hour Internship that has 240 hours of direct service. Students attend weekly supervision meetings with on-site supervisors and participate in the program’s exceptional Reflective Practitioner Supervision and Case Conference Experience. Dedicated placement specialists help secure appropriate clinical sites the quarter before practicum term.

Tuition and fees

Northwestern’s tuition costs are:

• Per credit hour: $8,173
• Total program cost: approximately $196,152 plus fees
• Additional technology fee: $215 (one-time)

Specializations

Northwestern has a Child and Adolescent Specialization for students who want to work with youth facing mental health challenges. The specialization has five focused courses:

• Human Growth and Development with child/adolescent focus
• Child and Adolescent Counseling and Psychotherapy
• Assessment in Counseling for children/adolescents
• Evaluation and Treatment of Trauma for young clients
• Play Therapy Methods

This specialization meets a critical need, as 13-20% of children in the United States experience mental disorders each year.

Online learning format

Counseling@Northwestern, the online format, delivers the same quality education as the on-campus program through interactive learning. Students join weekly class sessions, online discussions, and face-to-face study sessions. The program requires two in-person immersions in Chicago: the Group Dynamics Immersion and a Capstone Immersion Experience. Students can choose from three study paths—accelerated full-time (18 months), traditional (2.5 years), or part-time (3 years).

3. Adler University – MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling

Adler University offers a detailed MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling program that builds on Adlerian values and social justice principles. The program gives graduates the tools to provide quality care while building healthier communities.

Program overview

The Clinical Mental Health Counseling (CMHC) program needs 62 credit hours of detailed theoretical coursework and supervised field experience. Students can finish the program in two years with full-time on-campus study or take three years to complete it online. The program combines theory, research, and supervised clinical training with Adlerian values. Graduates learn to help individuals and families while tackling systemic barriers in mental health. Students must also complete a 200-hour Social Justice Practicum. This non-clinical immersion experience helps them become social justice supporters.

Accreditation and licensure path

The Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP) has accredited the CMHC program. This respected accreditation will give a solid foundation in counselor preparation and makes getting licensed easier in many states. Many states recognize CACREP-accredited programs as meeting their educational requirements for entry-level counselor licensing. Students who graduate can earn the National Certified Counselor (NCC) credential after passing the National Counselor Examination (NCE).

Clinical training and practicum

Students complete their clinical field experience through supervised practicum and internship phases at the same external training site over three academic semesters. They start with a 100-hour practicum that includes 40 direct client hours. Next comes a 600-hour internship with 240 direct client hours. Half of all direct hours in both phases must be independent individual counseling. Faculty provide individual supervision and students join group supervision in seminar settings.

Tuition and fees

CMHC program tuition rates:

• Per credit hour: $1,617
• First-year full-time student: $29,106 tuition plus $1,806 fees
• Total program cost (typical): approximately $100,254 plus fees

Specializations

Students can customize their education to match their career goals. The Military and Veterans Behavioral Health (MVBH) emphasis teaches specialized skills for working with military populations. The program also offers dual degree options, including a combined CMHC and Sport & Human Performance program that needs 77 credit hours.

Online learning format

Canvas delivers online courses in eight-week or 16-week cycles. This format combines structure with flexibility. Students attend synchronous video sessions every other week for about an hour. Four courses require in-person learning through two four-day residencies at Adler’s Chicago campus. These courses are Counseling Skills, Diagnosis of Maladaptive Behavior, Group Counseling, and Treatment Planning and Intervention.

4. Moody Bible Institute – MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling

Moody Bible Institute’s MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling program blends professional counseling training with biblical principles. This servant leadership program prepares counselors to change communities through values-based mental health services.

Program overview

The MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling program gives you the tools to blend faith into your counseling practice. You’ll learn from experienced professors who take a personal interest in your growth. The program has core courses in Human Development, Hermeneutics, Professional Identity and Ethics, Theories of Counseling, Counseling Techniques, and Psychopathology. The class of 2024 achieved remarkable results with a 99% job placement rate and 97% pass rate on the National Counselor Examination.

Accreditation and licensure path

Moody Theological Seminary has triple accreditation from the Commission on Accrediting of the Association of Theological Schools, the Association for Biblical Higher Education, and the Higher Learning Commission. The program meets all licensure standards for Illinois Licensed Professional Counselors. Students who want licensure outside Illinois should check with their state licensing boards since requirements differ.

Clinical training and practicum

Students get hands-on experience through structured practicum and internship courses: CMHC 6632 Clinical Practicum, CMHC 6630 Internship I, and CMHC 6631 Internship II. They develop practical counseling skills with regular supervision from both on-site professionals and university faculty.

Tuition and fees

Students pay $565 per credit hour. The yearly cost runs about $11,300 for the 36-month program. This makes it cheaper than many other counseling programs in Illinois.

Specializations

The curriculum focuses on clinical mental health counseling with specialized courses in:

• Substance Abuse and Addictive Behaviors
• Trauma-Informed Counseling
• Integration of Counseling and Spiritual Disciplines

Graduates can work in mental health agencies, hospitals, faith-based counseling centers, and missions organizations.

Online learning format

Students enjoy flexibility through multiple learning options. They can take Bible and theology courses online, on campus, or in modular format. The program combines live virtual sessions with in-person formats. This helps students balance their education with other commitments. The Chicago campus option lets students gain practical experience at the MTS Counseling Center.

Graduates are ready to counsel with humility, compassion, and faithfulness in a variety of settings. They bring a unique faith-integrated approach to mental health services.

5. Governors State University – MHS in Addictions Studies

Governors State University offers a specialized Master of Health Science in Addictions Studies program that uses evidence-based approaches to prevention and treatment. The 32-credit hour curriculum creates leaders in addiction counseling throughout Illinois who can handle the complex nature of substance use disorders.

Program overview

The MHS in Addictions Studies program teaches graduates to handle addictions from multiple angles. Students learn that treatment works only when they understand the behavioral, psychological, physical, and social effects of psychoactive substances. As one of the top online addiction studies programs in Illinois, the program values cultural sensitivity and community influences on recovery. Students will learn to:

• Understand how substances affect users and their loved ones
• See how social and cultural factors shape substance use
• Match helping strategies to each client’s recovery stage
• Include culturally diverse needs in clinical practice

Accreditation and licensure path

The program has dual accreditation from the Illinois Alcohol and Other Drug Abuse Professional Certification Association (IAODAPCA) and the National Addiction Studies Accreditation Commission (NASAC). This accreditation meets all academic requirements for the Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC) professional credential. NASAC is the only accrediting body that represents addiction-focused educators and practitioners.

Clinical training and practicum

Students must complete internships that give them vital hands-on experience to apply their theoretical knowledge in real-life settings. These practical experiences help students develop the clinical, ethical, and interpersonal skills needed for effective addiction counseling. Students interested in criminal justice can choose a specialized internship that meets requirements for the Certified Criminal Justice Addictions Professional credential.

Tuition and fees

The graduate tuition costs $4,956 per semester, with mandatory fees of $2,186. This totals $9,912 yearly for tuition alone. Students should also budget for:

• Books and supplies: $500 per semester
• Federal loan fees: $110 per semester
• Total estimated annual cost: $32,486

Specializations

The program’s main focus is the Addictions Counseling Concentration (ACC), a 60-hour master-level program that extends beyond substance use counseling. This concentration prepares students for broader mental health counseling careers while including substance use treatment. After graduation, students can take the Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) exam, their first step toward independent licensure. Students can also pursue the Addictions Screening, Assessment, and Referral Certificate to learn brief interventions.

Online learning format

Students can choose from three flexible formats: fully on-campus, hybrid courses (50% online), or completely online. They can also benefit from the interactive online format designed for adult learners. This flexibility has helped GSU rank among the top 5 online Addictions Studies programs nationwide according to multiple education ranking organizations.

6. University of Illinois Springfield – MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling

The University of Illinois Springfield provides an economical yet complete MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling program. Students learn both theory and ground application. This program ranks among the most economical counseling degrees in Illinois without compromising academic excellence.

Program overview

Students need 61 semester hours to complete the Clinical Mental Health Counseling concentration. The curriculum helps students build competencies in eight core areas. These include professional orientation, social diversity, human development, career development, counseling relationships, group counseling, assessment, and research. The program goes beyond theoretical knowledge. It builds a strong professional identity among other aspects of self-growth and professional dispositions. Each person’s inherent worth and dignity are the foundations of the department’s approach. Students focus on self-awareness and personal growth throughout their lifespan.

Accreditation and licensure path

The Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP) accredits UIS. This specialized accreditation helps students choose quality training programs. It also helps graduates meet credentialing requirements like certification and licensure. The program meets educational requirements to become a Licensed Professional Counselor in Illinois.

Clinical training and practicum

Students progress through three levels of supervised counseling experience:

• HDC 512 Prepracticum: Students show simple skills competency with classmates
• HDC 587 Practicum: Students spend 100 clock hours at agencies/schools to develop counseling skills with real clients
• HDC 590 Internship: Students get in-depth supervised field experience to participate in professional counselor activities

Tuition and fees

Online graduate students pay $7,551 per academic year in tuition with $1,691 in mandatory fees. Total estimated costs range from $23,435 to $25,165 based on housing choices. On-campus students pay in-state tuition of $6,489 plus $2,575 in mandatory fees. UIS has kept tuition rates unchanged since 2022, showing its steadfast dedication to affordability.

Specializations

Students in Clinical Mental Health Counseling take four additional courses (12 credit hours) beyond core curriculum. These specialized courses include HDC 542 (Foundations of Clinical Mental Health Counseling), HDC 544 (Social Justice and Advocacy in Counseling), and two electives. Students can choose electives from Advanced Ethics, Crisis Intervention, Family Counseling, and Trauma.

Online learning format

UIS offers both in-person and online classes, though specific details about the online format are limited in source material. Students can pursue their education while keeping their professional commitments. UIS ended up creating a high-quality yet economical path to mental health counseling careers.

7. Quincy University – MS in Education in Counseling

Quincy University offers a Franciscan values-based MS in Education in Counseling program that is the only CACREP-accredited counseling program within a 100-mile radius. The program combines academic excellence with hands-on training to shape skilled, ethical counselors.

Program overview

The Master of Science in Education in Counseling program shapes competent counselors through rigorous academics, practical learning, self-reflection, and service to the community. Students attend one evening class weekly for 3-4 hours and typically complete two courses each semester, including summer terms. Most students complete the program in about three years. The curriculum builds expertise in eight core areas such as Professional Orientation, Social Diversity, Human Development, and Counseling Relationships.

Accreditation and licensure path

Both Clinical Mental Health Counseling and School Counseling tracks maintain CACREP accreditation. This credential meets the requirements for Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) eligibility in Illinois. Graduates can pursue Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) status after completing their post-graduate clinical experience. The School Counseling track meets Illinois State Board requirements for Professional School Counselor licensure.

Clinical training and practicum

The program requires students to complete a 100-hour practicum with 40 hours of direct client service work. Students then progress to a 600-hour internship. Licensed mental health professionals or certified school counselors provide field supervision based on each student’s chosen emphasis area.

Tuition and fees

Students pay $520 per credit hour for tuition. A graduate fee of $15 per credit hour applies each semester.

Specializations

Students can choose from three distinct tracks:

• Clinical Mental Health Counseling (CACREP-accredited)
• School Counseling (CACREP-accredited)
• College Student Personnel program

Online learning format

Working professionals benefit from flexible learning options at the university. The supportive environment helps students succeed while maintaining their personal and professional commitments.

8. Lewis University – MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling

Lewis University’s MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling program is notable with its award-winning status. The Illinois Counseling Association recognized it as the Leo G. Bent Outstanding Counseling Program of the Year. Students who complete this CACREP-accredited curriculum excel in counseling settings of all types.

Program overview

The program features two distinct concentrations. Students can choose Adult Clinical Mental Health Counseling for traditional settings or Child/Adolescent Clinical Mental Health Counseling to work with younger clients and families. Expert instructor-practitioners teach all courses and bring their current clinical experiences to the classroom. Students become skilled counselors, scholars, and ethical professionals through practical experiences that transfer directly to clinical settings.

Accreditation and licensure path

Lewis’s Clinical Mental Health Counseling program received CACREP accreditation, which applies retroactively from July 14, 2019. The Council for Higher Education Accreditation recognizes this prestigious credential. Graduates qualify to take examinations for Licensed Professional Counselor credentials.

Clinical training and practicum

Students complete 700 practicum and internship hours before starting their professional practice. This complete field training approach leads to a remarkable 92-95% job placement rate. The Chicago area provides students access to many clinical settings.

Tuition and fees

The graduate tuition rate is $810 per credit hour for all students, regardless of residency. Full-time graduate students pay $14,580 plus $200 in fees, which brings the total annual cost to $14,780.

Specializations

Students can enhance their education by adding an Addiction Studies component to either concentration. Lewis leads Will County as the first institution to provide this advanced training. Students can earn both LPC and Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor credentials.

Online learning format

Illinois guidelines allow students to take up to 50% of their coursework online. Students attend face-to-face classes one evening each week at the Romeoville campus. Working professionals benefit from small class sizes and individual attention in this flexible program structure.

9. DePaul University – MA in Counseling

DePaul University’s Master of Arts in Counseling program ranks among the best in the region. The program has renewed CACREP accreditation through 2027 and provides specialized training in three counseling domains.

Program overview

DePaul runs one of Illinois’ largest counseling programs. Students can choose from three CACREP-accredited specialties: Clinical Mental Health Counseling, School Counseling, and College Counseling and Student Affairs. The detailed curriculum helps students become skilled counselors, scholars, and ethical professionals who can meet growing mental health needs.

Accreditation and licensure path

A detailed multi-year evaluation led to CACREP accreditation renewal through 2027. Students who complete the program meet educational requirements for Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) credentials. Graduates can pursue advanced Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) status after meeting additional requirements.

Clinical training and practicum

The program requires students to complete a well-laid-out 700-hour clinical experience that includes:

• 100-hour practicum with 40 direct client contact hours
• Two internships totaling 600 hours with 240 direct service hours

Students receive weekly individual and group supervision during these experiences.

Tuition and fees

Students can expect to pay approximately $64,032 for the complete program. DePaul gives out $300 million in scholarships each year to help make education more accessible.

Specializations

Students can choose from three CACREP-accredited specialty areas:

• Clinical Mental Health Counseling
• School Counseling
• College Counseling and Student Affairs

Online learning format

While most classes happen on campus, many courses combine online and face-to-face meetings. Students can take core courses in Social and Cultural Foundations completely online.

10. Concordia University Chicago – MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling

Concordia University Chicago creates professional counselors through its MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling program. The program combines clinical excellence with ethical integrity, all grounded in Christian values.

Program overview

The Clinical Mental Health Counseling Program (CMHC) gives you the skills needed to handle complex human issues and promote wellness in a variety of populations. Students experience a balanced 60-credit hour curriculum that blends professional knowledge with Christian beliefs to build integrity and competency. The program boasts an 89% first-year completion rate for 2024-2025. Graduates find careers in community agencies, residential settings, hospitals, religious organizations, and private practices.

Accreditation and licensure path

The program maintains Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP) accreditation through October 2027. This respected qualification meets Illinois’s educational requirements for the Licensed Professional Counselor examination. Concordia University Chicago also holds Higher Learning Commission accreditation.

Clinical training and practicum

The program requires students to complete a well-laid-out 100-hour practicum (40 hours direct service) and 600-hour internship (240 hours direct service) during one 16-week semester. Students take the Counselor Preparation Comprehensive Examination as their capstone experience during the practicum phase.

Tuition and fees

Each credit hour costs $535. Students must pay technology fees of $18 per credit hour before starting each course.

Specializations

While there are no formal concentrations, students prepare to work with different populations through internship experiences at partner sites throughout the region.

Online learning format

Students enjoy flexible scheduling with face-to-face classes one evening weekly during 8-week Fall I and Spring I terms. Fall II and Spring II courses happen online with synchronous evening sessions. Summer courses run fully asynchronously online to fit family schedules.

11. The Chicago School – MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling

The Chicago School offers a strong MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling program that gives students the skills they need to help clients from different backgrounds with their mental health challenges.

Program overview

Students learn to become skilled at ethics, research, evaluation, diagnosis, theories, and counseling interventions. The program’s practitioner-scholar faculty teaches students how to help people with depression, anxiety, grief, relationship difficulties, and suicidal ideation. Students can complete this 60-credit hour master’s program part-time in three years.

Accreditation and licensure path

The Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP) has accredited the program through March 31, 2026. This respected credential shows the program meets high standards in institutional settings, program mission, content, practicum experiences, and faculty qualifications.

Clinical training and practicum

The program requires a well-laid-out 700-hour clinical experience that includes:

• 100-hour practicum
• 600-hour internship split between two courses

Students must attend two in-person residencies during their first and second years to prepare for fieldwork.

Tuition and fees

Master’s level courses cost $1,458 per credit hour. Students pay a one-time $195 Experiential Learning Technology Fee.

Specializations

The program focuses on key areas including:

• Depression and anxiety treatment
• Grief counseling
• Relationship difficulties
• Stress management
• Crisis intervention

Online learning format

Working professionals benefit from the program’s flexible online format and interactive learning experiences. Students stay connected through weekly live discussions throughout their studies.

Pick Your Program Today

Picking the right online master’s in counseling program involves more than just looking at location. This piece has shown you many CACREP-accredited programs in Illinois that will help you get licensed while fitting different career paths and schedules.

These programs give you great flexibility. You can complete them in 18 to 36 months based on your pace. You can also start your program at different times throughout the year when it works best for you.

The cost differences between programs need careful thought. Tuition ranges from $520 per credit hour at Quincy University to $1,617 at Adler University, which creates big differences in what you’ll pay overall. Most schools offer financial aid to make these programs more available despite the price gaps.

Clinical training stays pretty much the same across all programs, with most needing about 700 hours of supervised experience. This standard approach means graduates will have solid practical skills whatever program they pick. This hands-on experience is a great way to get ready for the job market.

You can shape your education toward specific career paths through specializations. You’ll find at least one Illinois program that focuses on addiction counseling, child and adolescent therapy, military counseling, or faith-based approaches. These focused areas will boost your value in your chosen field.

The program’s accreditation should be one of your most important considerations. CACREP accreditation, which most programs in this piece have, will give a quality curriculum and makes getting licensed easier after graduation. This credential helps if you want to practice in different states later in your career.

Now you know about these 11 outstanding programs and can pick one that matches your professional goals, personal values, and practical needs. Your experience toward becoming a licensed counseling professional starts with this key decision – one that will shape both your education and your ability to help others through mental health care.