11 Top School Counseling Masters Programs in Texas: Online & Campus Options

The search for a Masters in School Counseling in Texas presents an impressive array of choices that might feel overwhelming initially.

Texas houses 40 public and private institutions that offer these specialized programs. The tuition costs vary significantly from $7,056 to $79,560. Students can choose between online learning flexibility or traditional campus experience, as 23 programs provide hybrid or online formats. Texas Christian University plans to make its program more available through a fully online format starting summer 2025. The university’s scholarships up to $69,000 bring the total program cost down to approximately $30,000.

This guide highlights 11 of the top school counseling programs in Texas to help you choose your educational path wisely. These programs include CACREP-accredited options and those with impressive certification exam pass rates. You’ll find everything needed to take your next step toward a counseling career.

1. Texas Christian University (TCU)

Texas Christian University stands out among Texas school counseling programs with its fresh approach and dedication to accessibility. TCU will change its respected program into a fully online format starting summer 2025. This change creates new opportunities for aspiring counselors throughout the state.

Program Overview

TCU’s Master of Education in School Counseling is a complete 48-hour program that meets Texas State Board of Educator Certification requirements. The well-laid-out curriculum focuses on a solution-based approach that builds on client strengths and resilience instead of focusing on problems. Students learn to handle ground challenges with this practical philosophy. The counseling classes count toward Texas professional licensure requirements, giving graduates career options beyond school settings.

Online Format & Flexibility

The program becomes fully online in summer 2025, designed specifically for busy professionals with multiple commitments. Students can keep their current jobs while studying through a mix of live and self-paced coursework. Teachers and other professionals find TCU’s program appealing as they can expand their career without leaving their jobs.

Tuition & Pathways to Purpose Scholarship

TCU’s Pathways to Purpose program offers guaranteed scholarships up to $69,000 for new students. This brings the total program cost down to about $30,000, or $5,000 per semester. Students need to take 6 or more credit hours each semester to keep their scholarship. Passionate educators can now get a quality counseling degree at a more economical cost.

Accreditation & Certification

The State Board of Educator Certification has approved this program. Students must clear the practice TExES exam before attempting the state exam for school counseling certification. Texas certification requires all practicum hours at schools with Texas Education Agency or Texas Private School Accreditation Commission accreditation. Texas removed its teaching experience requirement for school counselor certification in September 2023, making career changes easier.

Unique Features

Students and faculty build lasting relationships that continue after graduation. The solution-focused approach teaches students to build on client strengths rather than weaknesses. Modern school environments benefit from the program’s culturally responsive practices and evidence-based strategies.

Application Requirements

Prospective students must submit:

• Completed online application with $60 fee
• Official transcripts
• Current resume
• Academic/Professional Objectives Statement
• Three recommendation letters (two addressing academic potential)

The fall cohort welcomes applications until March 15, giving you plenty of time to prepare your materials.

2. Texas Tech University

Texas Tech University in Lubbock offers a complete graduate program for aspiring school counselors. The program emphasizes practical skills and professional development.

Program Overview

Texas Tech’s School Counseling track provides a 48-credit hour Master of Education degree that prepares graduates to counsel in elementary and secondary educational settings. The program’s curriculum focuses on a distinctive Trademark Outcome based on implementing the American School Counselor Association (ASCA) National Model. Students learn to serve as guidance directors for school districts and work in career counseling, college advising, and university counseling centers.

Modality & Course Structure

Students can choose between in-person and online options to pursue their school counseling degree. The program has essential subjects like internship experiences, counseling theories, ethical issues, dysfunctional behavior assessment, group counseling techniques, and specialized counseling approaches. Full-time students can complete the program in about 24 months.

Tuition & Cost Estimator

Student Business Services offers a helpful Cost Estimator tool for financial planning. Texas residents pay approximately $9,518 per year, with a total program cost around $11,304. Out-of-state students’ tuition runs higher at about $17,918 per year. The university recommends using their official tuition calculator to get precise estimates based on residency status and program details.

Accreditation & Certification

CACREP (Council for the Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs) has accredited the School Counseling program. Texas Tech’s counseling programs are the only CACREP-accredited options available west of Dallas and east of Albuquerque. The program has all coursework needed for Texas School Counselor certification. Students with a master’s degree in related fields can pursue the 48-hour non-degree Certification in School Counseling option.

Faculty & Support

The program’s faculty brings specialized expertise in a variety of counseling domains. Their research backgrounds span professional school counseling, ethics, child development, multicultural counseling, grief and loss, career development, and technology in counseling. The School Counseling program coordinator, Dr. Charles Crews, brings practical experience as a former school counselor. He specializes in adolescent issues, crisis intervention, and technology integration. Faculty members actively participate in professional organizations at local, state, and national levels while creating an environment that respects diverse values and backgrounds.

3. University of Houston

The University of Houston sits in the heart of Texas. Its counseling program prepares skilled mental health professionals to serve people from all backgrounds in different settings.

Program Overview

The University of Houston offers a 60-credit hour Master of Education in Counseling program that takes three years to complete. Students follow a Clinical Mental Health Counseling track that teaches counseling theories, techniques, and cultural awareness in detail. The program helps you become skilled at counseling people from different backgrounds. You’ll learn about legal and ethical duties and how to use research to improve counseling services. Students focus on professional skills, theoretical knowledge, personal growth, and cultural awareness. This preparation leads graduates to jobs in K-12 schools, community colleges, universities, and mental health facilities.

In-Person Format

The program runs mostly on campus, with classes at both UH Main and Sugar Land locations. Notwithstanding that, students can take some courses through a mix of face-to-face, hybrid, and online options. This setup lets you benefit from direct faculty interaction and feedback while fitting different learning styles. Faculty members guide students through clinical practice and professional development.

Tuition & Financial Aid

In-state students pay about $11,888 yearly for tuition, which beats the national average of $12,436. Out-of-state tuition costs $27,776 per year, less than the national average of $29,815. The university helps students manage costs through several options:

• Graduate Tuition Fellowship (GTF) covers 9 credit hours for qualified students
• First-year students receive need-based scholarships averaging $12,813
• Graduate students can apply for College of Education scholarships

The university provides need-based aid to 68% of first-year students and meets 55% of student financial needs.

Application Requirements

The program needs these items from applicants:

• A completed online graduate application
• Official transcripts with a preferred 3.0 GPA or higher
• Three professional recommendation letters through online forms
• A three-page statement about your background, goals, and program fit
• Your resume or curriculum vitae

New students start in fall term only, with admissions happening in fall and spring. The committee looks at all materials to assess your potential for graduate success and program contribution.

4. Lamar University

Lamar University stands out among Texas schools with its affordable master’s in school counseling. The program features a flexible online format and detailed counseling programs that working professionals will find convenient.

Program Overview

Lamar University offers three distinct 60-credit hour graduate counseling concentrations:

• Ed. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
• Ed. in Counseling and Development with a concentration in Marriage, Couple and Family Counseling
• Ed. in Counseling and Development with a concentration in Professional School Counseling

The Professional School Counseling track helps educators support students’ academic, career, personal, and social needs across culturally diverse elementary, middle, and secondary schools. The program meets Texas requirements for both School Counseling Certification and Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC). Graduates benefit from this dual preparation with excellent career options. Lamar’s achievements speak for themselves – the university ranks #1 in Texas and #4 nationally for Master of Education degrees awarded in 2020. The Simple Dollar named it the #1 Affordable Online Master’s Degree in Education in 2020.

Online Format

Students can access the 100% online program anytime, which lets them create their own study schedule. Most courses run in 5-week formats so students can complete the curriculum quickly. The Professional School Counseling track combines online learning with ground experience through one on-campus residency, a 15-week practicum, and a 15-week internship. Clinical Mental Health Counseling students must attend two 5-day in-person residency seminars plus practicum and internship components.

Tuition & Affordability

The M.Ed. in Counseling – School Counseling program costs $360 per credit hour, $1,080 per course, with total program costs of $21,604 including university fees. The Clinical Mental Health Counseling program’s total tuition is $20,520. Qualified applicants can cover university fees through Financial Aid. Students pay tuition by course instead of by semester.

Application Flexibility

Applicants must have a minimum 2.75 undergraduate GPA. They should complete the online application and pay a one-time $25 application fee. The department application has essential program information, professional informed consent, structured essay questions about career goals, and a professional reference. The program starts multiple times throughout the year to help busy professionals. Texas residents pursuing School Counseling must have a valid teaching certificate, two years of teaching experience, and work at a Texas Education Agency-approved school.

5. Sam Houston State University

Sam Houston State University in Huntsville helps students achieve academic excellence with real-life applications. Their school counseling program delivers outstanding professional success rates.

Program Overview

Sam Houston State University offers a complete 60-credit hour Master of Education in School Counseling program. Students learn to serve K-12 students effectively. The curriculum helps students apply theory to practice, communicate clearly, and build a strong professional identity. This CACREP-accredited program focuses on practical, real-life applications for students pursuing Texas certification as school counselors. The program has achieved a 100% pass rate on both TExES and NCE exams, with all graduates finding jobs after completion. The well-laid-out program meets academic requirements for Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) licensure in Texas. Graduates can explore broader career options.

In-Person Format

Students can attend classes at the main Huntsville campus or The Woodlands Center. Both locations offer evening classes that work well for professionals. Students complete their coursework in person, followed by a final semester internship after comprehensive examination. The 60-hour curriculum helps students master school counseling skills. They develop better self-awareness of relationships, strengthen communication abilities, and build multicultural competencies.

Tuition & Cost

Texas residents pay $4,476.65 per semester for 9 credit hours. Out-of-state students pay $8,121.65 per semester for the same credits. The program costs Texas residents about $17,904 total, making it affordable compared to similar programs. Summer terms cost less, with Texas residents paying $4,307.45 for 9 credit hours. Full-time graduate students taking 9 credit hours spend roughly $9,888 annually for residents and $17,988 for non-residents.

Certification & LPC Eligibility

The program meets Texas Education Agency standards for professional school counseling certification. Graduates can become Licensed Professional Counselors (LPCs) and work beyond school settings. Students must:

• Take comprehensive examination during their first internship semester
• Qualify for school counseling certification exam after completing courses
• Complete two years of teaching before TEA issues certification

CACREP and SACSCOC accreditation ensures high educational standards. Students develop valuable skills in critical thinking, professional conduct, ethical behavior, and practical counseling applications.

6. University of Texas at Tyler

The University of Texas at Tyler is well-known among Texas school counseling programs. Their cohort-based approach to school counseling education delivers structured progression and impressive certification outcomes.

Program Overview

UT Tyler’s Master of Arts in School Counseling helps students become skilled, creative, and multiculturally competent school counselors. This 48-hour program gives graduates the tools to take active roles in counseling, consulting, and leadership. Students learn to promote academic excellence and equal learning opportunities. The curriculum lines up with Texas School Counselor standards and American School Counselor Association (ASCA) guidelines. UT Tyler graduates have proven their excellence with a 99% pass rate on the TExES school counseling certification exam, ranking them among Texas’s best-prepared counselors.

Online Learning Experience

Students can complete their coursework entirely online and graduate in 24 months. The program uses a mix of synchronous, semi-synchronous, and asynchronous learning based on each subject and professor. Evening Zoom meetings are part of some courses, usually from 5:30-8:15 PM. Working professionals find this format available as they pursue their masters in school counseling in Texas. The program runs on a cohort model that starts each summer, without fall or spring entry options.

Tuition & Scholarships

The total in-state program cost runs approximately $24,162 based on the 2025-2026 tuition and fees schedule. Texas K-12 teachers who are currently working can get the Teachers in Excellence Scholarship. This scholarship takes $200 off their first graduate semester. Tuition rates might change, so students should plan their finances accordingly.

Application Requirements

Successful applicants need:

• A bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
• A minimum 2.75 GPA (overall undergraduate or last 60 hours) or a graduate degree GPA of 3.0+
• A completed application submission process

The May cohort opens for applications in September. The deadline is February 20. All materials must reach by March 2, and students will hear about admission decisions by March 31. The program takes an integrated approach to assess all submitted materials for competitive admission.

7. Texas A&M University Corpus Christi

Texas A&M University Corpus Christi combines beachside campus life with top-notch career prep. The school has become a go-to choice for students who want to get their master’s in school counseling in Texas.

Program Overview

Texas A&M Corpus Christi’s Master of Science in Professional School Counseling packs a detailed 60-semester hour curriculum that’s perfect for future PK-12 school counselors. Students who finish the program meet all the educational requirements they need for Texas Education Agency school counselor certification and Texas professional counseling licensure (LPC). The program’s Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP) stamp of approval means students get education that hits the highest national marks. The faculty keeps tabs on each student’s personal and professional growth to make sure they’ve got the basics of counseling down pat.

In-Person Format

Classes happen right on campus in Corpus Christi. This setup helps students work closely with faculty who review their counseling skills, how well they communicate, and their professional behavior. The school doesn’t offer this program online, but that’s not a bad thing. Face-to-face learning encourages stronger relationships and gives students hands-on experience they’ll need as counseling pros.

Tuition & Value

Texas locals pay about $9,748 per academic year in graduate tuition and fees, which breaks down to $201 per credit. Students from other states pay more – around $20,794 yearly or $634 per credit hour. The whole package, including housing, food, books, and extras, runs about $28,336 for in-state students and $39,382 for out-of-state folks. All the same, the university stands tall at #19 in the 2022 Best Value Counselor Education rankings for Texas.

Career Outcomes

The program’s numbers speak volumes – everyone passes the state credentialing exam and lands a job after graduating. Texas dropped the two-year teaching experience requirement for school counselor certification, which has opened doors for people switching careers. The program hit some impressive marks in 2023-2024. Every student aced the National Counselor Examination, beating the national average of 92%. The same goes for the TExES School Counselor examination, which shows just how well this program works.

8. Texas Wesleyan University

Texas Wesleyan University in Fort Worth has a flexible Master of Science in School Counseling program. This program works well for educators who want to advance their careers while teaching.

Program Overview

The 48-hour degree program prepares you to work in kindergarten through 12th-grade public, private, or charter schools. The curriculum has key courses like advanced counseling techniques, career development and assessment, and advanced psychopathology. You can take the TExES certification exam after graduation, but you must meet teaching experience requirements before finishing your coursework. The program’s coursework counts toward becoming a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) or Licensed Professional Marriage & Family Therapist (LMFT). These credentials open up career paths in psychiatric hospitals or private practice settings.

Online Format

Working professionals will find the program’s mix of fall, spring, and summer-intensive virtual courses very convenient. Classes meet once weekly Monday through Thursday evenings, with additional Saturday morning and afternoon sessions. You can complete 160 hours of practicum experience while keeping your teaching position. Teachers can earn their counseling credentials without disrupting their careers.

Tuition & Study Abroad

The 2025-26 tuition costs $1,090 per credit hour with a $150 technology fee included. The total program cost comes to about $52,320. Students can take advantage of study abroad opportunities that complement their counseling education. These international experiences will give you a broader point of view to help your professional growth.

Application Requirements

To apply, you need:

• Bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution
• 0 cumulative GPA or 3.25 over the last 60 hours
• Official transcripts from all previously attended institutions
• Minimum two-page essay describing strengths and purpose
• Interview session with program faculty if selected

The program accepts applications for spring, summer, and fall terms. The deadlines are December 15, April 15, and July 15 respectively.

9. Sul Ross State University

Sul Ross State University ranks #6 nationally for affordability, making it a great value choice for a master’s in school counseling in Texas.

Program Overview

The Master of Education in Counseling program features a 48-credit School Counseling track that prepares graduates to get certified with the State of Texas. Students learn to work in a variety of settings including public schools, universities, mental health agencies, and private practice. The program’s faculty members bring impressive credentials to the table. They are all Licensed Professional Counselors, and some hold Texas School Counselor certification, with their combined teaching experience exceeding 114 years.

Online Format

Students can complete 39 credits online but must finish at least 9 credits on campus. The professors teach in-person classes on weekends, which works well for working professionals. Students can enroll in up to 9 credit hours during fall/spring terms and 6 credit hours in summer sessions. New students can start the program at the beginning of any term.

Affordability

Texas residents pay approximately $320 per credit hour, with total tuition and fees reaching $6,392. Students from other states pay about $729 per credit hour, bringing their total cost including fees to $13,754.

Application Requirements

The program requires a bachelor’s degree with a minimum 2.5 GPA on the last 60 hours. Applicants with a GPA below 3.0 must submit a GRE score of at least 850. School counseling candidates must also be certified teachers and have two years of teaching experience.

10. Our Lady of the Lake University

Our Lady of the Lake University, a Catholic institution in San Antonio, offers a values-driven Master of Arts in Counseling with a school counseling specialization.

Program Overview

Students need 60 credits to complete the School Counseling program that equips graduates to handle student challenges in educational settings. The curriculum teaches vital skills for student guidance in academic, career, and socio-emotional development. The coursework aligns with standards from the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP).

Online Format

The program runs completely online with practicums and internships available in your local area. Students can start the eight-week courses during fall, spring, or summer terms. Most students finish their degree in about 40 months. The program combines self-paced learning with interactive activities that build strong connections between faculty and peers.

Tuition & Cost

The program’s tuition rate is $991 per credit hour, bringing the total cost to around $59,460. OLLU’s status as a Yellow Ribbon School allows them to offer active military members and veterans a 10% tuition discount.

Application Requirements

Students can apply by June 15 for fall, November 15 for spring, and April 15 for summer enrollment. The admission process requires a minimum 2.75 GPA, official transcripts, personal statement, reference form, and a $10 background check fee.

11. University of North Texas (UNT) Denton

The University of North Texas at Denton’s counseling program ranked #1 in Texas and among the top 20 counseling programs nationwide.

Program Overview

Students pursuing the CACREP-accredited Master of Science in School Counseling need 60 credit hours to graduate. The program qualifies graduates for K-12 school counselor certification in Texas. Students can also become licensed professional counselors by taking just one additional course, while developing their counseling competencies.

In-Person Format

Students progress through the program in cohorts and take two courses each semester during summer, fall, and spring terms. Weekly classes run Monday through Thursday during afternoons and evenings. Regular classes accommodate 25 students, while clinical sessions maintain intimate groups of 10-15 students.

Tuition & Affordability

Texas residents living off-campus pay an average annual cost of $26,774 for graduate studies. UNT’s value speaks for itself – the university has earned its place among America’s 100 Best College Buys for 25 straight years.

Unique Research Areas

UNT’s faculty expertise spans diverse areas including suicide prevention, mental health services for low-income clients, counseling and play therapy in schools, near-death experiences, and spiritual transformation. The university’s Center for Play Therapy serves as the national hub for field literature.

Get Started

Your path to becoming a school counselor starts with picking the right program. Texas offers amazing choices that can shape your career of helping students. You’ll find everything from TCU’s new online format launching in 2025 to Sam Houston State University’s campus program with its 100% certification exam success rate.

Money matters will shape your decision. Program costs vary widely. Sam Houston State University charges about $17,904, while Our Lady of the Lake University costs $59,460. The good news? Many schools offer scholarships to help with these costs. TCU’s Pathways to Purpose scholarship brings the total program cost down to around $30,000.

These programs give you more than just school counselor certification. You can also become eligible for Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) status. This opens up career options beyond schools. Texas has made the field more available to professionals from different backgrounds by removing the teaching experience requirement for school counselor certification.

You’ll find a program that fits your schedule. Texas Tech offers evening classes. UT Tyler uses a cohort learning model. Sul Ross State University provides weekend classes. These options let you keep working while you earn your degree.

This detailed look at Texas’s top school counseling programs helps you make the right choice. Your decision should match your career goals, learning style, and budget. The program you pick will prepare you to change students’ lives across Texas and beyond.