Northwestern University : Online MA in Counseling (CACREP Accredited)
Northwestern University : Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy (Complete your COAMFTE-accredited MFT online program in as few as 21 months. No GRE required.)
Walden University : MS in School Counseling (CACREP Accredited) Walden University : MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling (CACREP Accredited, six specializations to choose from)
Grand Canyon University : Master's Degree in Counseling (As a private university, GCU has the same in-state and out-of-state tuition.)
Liberty University : MA: Clinical Mental Health Counseling (CACREP Accredited) (Online with required intensives)
Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU) : Online Psychology Degrees (Bachelors and Masters. Flexible. Affordable. And achievable.) Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU) : MS Psychology with concentration in Child and Adolescent Developmental Psychology (Flexible. Affordable. And achievable.) Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU) : MS Psychology (Flexible. Affordable. And achievable.)What Is an Online Master’s in Counseling Degree With no GRE Requirement?
In the past, applicants seeking a graduate degree for career counseling must endure a lengthy and challenging application process for a graduate program with an accredited institution.
However, as more counseling master's programs look to increase affordability and accessibility, many graduate schools offer counseling programs that don’t require the GRE for their counseling degree.
Instead of relying on the strict GRE scores, many online master's in counseling programs have no GRE requirements and open the door to career counselors by focusing the admission process on a candidate's undergraduate grade-point average (GPA), letters of recommendation, and personal goals for career development.
If you are looking to pursue a professional counseling career and have a strong undergraduate GPA, you should consider an online school counseling program with no GRE-required standard to meet.
GRE waivers are usually only allowed for applicants who show a strong undergraduate GPA, have a certificate in a related educational program, or already have their master's degree.
What Are the Admissions Steps for Online Programs With no GRE Requirements?
No GRE requirements allow some M.S. or M.A. in Counseling programs to base admissions requirements on your undergraduate degree, work experience within the counseling area, and recommendations, among other criteria.
Students who are considering enrollment into Master of Counseling programs may be required to complete several different steps during the application and acceptance periods. Completing online courses for an undergraduate degree is one of the major components to getting accepted into these programs.
Why Choose an Online Master’s in Counseling with No GRE Requirements?
Even without the GRE requirement, these higher education programs show students the methodology to assist patients with various human development steps to address mental illness. Students can achieve the same level of learning with an online master's degree as they could achieve with traditional on-campus education.
Numerous programs — particularly online counseling programs — are either providing GRE waivers or entirely removing the GRE requirement for all students applying for their Master of Counseling program to make the admissions process more straightforward.
The Master of Counseling Degree
An online master's in counseling with no GRE requirement helps learners prepare for careers helping people in need. The curriculum for this degree program includes courses that can educate enrollees on the history of psychology and counseling, explore the fundamental topics of normal and abnormal mental health, and teach techniques for therapeutic intervention for clients in different age groups.
Typical Length
Programs can take around two years to complete for most students, with the additional time needed after graduation for supervised clinical experience. Different colleges may have in-person experience requirements within their course list to help prepare students for their clinical experience, while other programs may be entirely online.
Typically, the GRE requirements (or lack thereof) do not affect the length of a graduate counseling degree.
Specialization Tracks
If you choose to enroll in a Master of Counseling program, you may have the option to pursue studies in different specializations. One of the most popular specialized paths for counseling learners is the clinical mental health discipline, leading to many different careers in the mental health field.
Alternative specialized paths include career counseling, marriage and family counseling, and school counseling. Adding specializations to your degree program can change your curriculum to include additional components for later success.
If you have already worked in a particular area of counseling, you might qualify for a specialization track that waives the GRE based on your work experience. Be sure to speak with the admissions representative for the programs you are considering.
Choosing a specialization at the onset of your online master's in counseling can help you create the perfect degree program from the very beginning. Students who have already completed a Master of Counseling program can add to the quality of their education by enrolling in post-master's certificate programs down the road.
Consider a Featured Online Counseling Program
| School and Program Information | Online Program? Entry Requirements |
Course Information |
|---|---|---|
| Northwestern University
Online MA in Counseling
 CACREP Accredited |
✔ Online
GRE Not Required Bachelor's Required |
Prepare to pursue licensure in as few as 18 months Learn MoreFull-time, part-time, and accelerated track options available |
| Northwestern University
Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy
COAMFTE Accredited |
✔ Online
GRE Not Required Bachelor's Required |
The COAMFTE-accredited MFT@Northwestern is offered by The Family Institute at Northwestern University. Full-time students can complete the program in as few as 21 months. No GRE is required, but applicants must hold an undergraduate degree. Full and part-time tracks available. Learn More |
| Walden University
MS in School Counseling
CACREP Accredited |
✔ Online
GRE scores not required |
School counselors help students overcome obstacles and shape successful futures. Walden’s online MS in School Counseling program will give you a solid foundation in school counseling theories, approaches, and best practices while enabling you to gain hands-on experience. Learn More |
| Walden University
MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
CACREP Accredited |
✔ Online
GRE scores not required |
Mental health counselors play a valuable role in helping people cope with life’s challenges. Walden’s online MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling program can help you become the competent, compassionate counselor you know you can be. Learn More |
| Grand Canyon University
Master's Degree in Counseling
HLC and NASAC Accredited |
✔ Online
|
Clinical Mental Health Counseling master's degree emphases include: Childhood and Adolescence Disorders, Christian Counseling, Marriage and Family Therapy, and Trauma. Designed to meet the academic requirements of the National Board for Certified Counselors for the National Certified Counselor credential, the Certified Clinical Mental Health Counselor credential and the Arizona Board of Behavioral Health Examiners. As a private university, GCU has the same in-state and out-of-state tuition. Learn More |
| Liberty University
MA: Clinical Mental Health Counseling (CACREP Accredited)
CACREP Accredited |
✔ Online
Online with required intensives |
Our CACREP-accredited master’s in counseling degree online can help you become an ethical, well-trained mental health counselor with the knowledge, values, and skills you need to empower others to make positive changes in their lives. Online and on campus. Training Champions for Christ since 1971. Learn More |
| Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU)
Online Psychology Degrees
Bachelors and Masters NECHE Accredited |
✔ Online
No application fee or GRE/GMAT scores required |
With our unique programs - from child and adolescent development to forensic psychology - you'll be prepared for a wide variety of careers in case management, research, human resources, youth services and social services. Learn More |
| Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU)
MS Psychology with concentration in Child and Adolescent Developmental Psychology
NECHE Accredited |
✔ Online
No application fee or GRE/GMAT scores required |
In the master's in child psychology online program, you'll develop assessment, evaluation and treatment strategies that address the unique individual, cultural and psychological needs of children and families. Learn More |
| Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU)
MS Psychology
NECHE Accredited |
✔ Online
No application fee or GRE/GMAT scores required |
Stick with the general track or choose one of 3 concentrations: child and adolescent development psychology, forensic psychology and industrial organizational psychology. Learn More |
*Sponsored Counseling Programs
Online CACREP Accredited programs | Online MPCAC Accredited programs
What Is the GRE and Why Is It Sometimes Required?
The Graduate Record Examination (GRE) is a skill and knowledge test for graduates of undergraduate degree programs. Some colleges require those incoming students to complete this assessment before being approved into their graduate-level degree programs, making it an additional step on students’ educational path.
This exam tests students in areas including analytical writing, quantitative analysis, and verbal skills. After completing the exam, students are assigned a score based on their cumulative progress in each section.
Different colleges have different expectations for scores required for admissions. Colleges that have a higher admissions rate may utilize these test scores to determine which applicants are accepted into their programs.
With this added barrier to entry for some colleges, students may seek out online master's in counseling with no GRE requirement. Multiple schools throughout the U.S. do not require the GRE for entry, many of which offer online flexible course options.
Admissions Requirements for No GRE Online Master’s in Counseling Degree Programs
Some universities can use the GRE as a method for further screening applicants for their programs. In college programs that do not utilize the GRE as a method for enrollment, students may need to provide documentation to support their previous achievements and degree programs prior to enrollment.
Typically, universities require that students provide proof of their undergraduate degree program and transcripts at the time of application. Students applying to universities with no GRE requirement may also be required to hold a minimum GPA of 3 or higher, depending on their enrollment.
Additional requirements may vary depending on the schools you are applying to. In some cases, schools may substitute graduate-level testing requirements with work experience, including a one- or two-year requirement for admissions.
Each school may have slightly different expectations for learners interested in applying to their programs. You should always review the requirements of each institution before submitting your final documentation.
CACREP Accredited Online Master’s in Counseling With no GRE Requirement Options
In today’s educational setting, students may prefer the benefits of utilizing the internet during their learning experience. Online master's in counseling programs can provide students with optimum flexibility and convenience from start to finish, which can be vital factors for busy adults with little free time to dedicate to education.
- Northwestern University currently provides a CACREP-accredited online Master of Arts in Counseling to students interested in making a difference in the lives of others. This program can take 18-39 months to complete and prepare students for completing the National Counselors Examination.
- The University of Denver also provides an online school counseling program with no GRE requirement. Its Master of Arts in School Counseling option can help you learn techniques appropriate for children needing guidance in school settings.
View counseling programs by state to find programs near you or view the online master’s in counseling programs.
Counseling Career Options
One of the most exciting aspects of counseling programs that don’t require a GRE is that they can lead to the same counseling careers as their GRE-requiring alternatives. The GRE does not designate the type of program you are permitted to participate in but simply acts as an admissions filter for higher-demand universities.
Before embarking on a counseling career, however, you must first obtain licensure. An online master's in counseling can prepare you for the completion of the National Counselors Examination, which is a standard precursor for licensure in each state. Once you have graduated from your degree program, you can begin your supervised clinical experience that can last around two years for most participants.
There are many career options for graduates with a master’s degree in counseling. Check out the examples below to see how you can pursue an exciting and rewarding career in the field of counseling.
Licensed Counselor
Licensed counselors can work for mental health agencies that provide care to a broad range of clients. Suppose you are interested in administering general counseling to the public. In that case, you could apply for a substance abuse counselor role in a hospital or private practice, work as a family therapist, or take on a host of other positions in the healthcare field. You could also go on to other specialized forms of clinical mental health counseling to assist patients with a wide range of mental health concerns.
Learn more about becoming a licensed counselor:
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), professional counselors (substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors) make an average salary of $49,710 per year as of May 2022.
The BLS reports that the outlook for this field is strong, with employment of substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors expected to grow 18% from 2022 to 2032, much faster than the average growth of all careers. The increasing focus on treatment for substance abuse instead of incarceration is a major factor in this growth.
School Counselor
Specialized career options in counseling can be found in the educational setting, with a large number of degree programs available to prepare learners for careers in school and career counseling, including online school counseling programs with no GRE requirement.
In some areas, child and adolescent counselors can work in the school system (through group counseling, for example) as an added resource for students. According to the BLS, school and career counselors make an average salary of $60,140 per year as of May 2022. Roles for these counselors are expected to grow 5% from 2022 through 2032 as rising school enrollment necessitates more school counselors.
Military or Nonprofit Counseling
Counselors can be great tools for support in a wide variety of settings. As a licensed professional, you can work for other organizations that require counselors on staff during your career, including the military and even large nonprofits like the Red Cross.
Family Therapist
As a family therapist, you can focus on ways to support couples and families. Typical duties include evaluating mental health, communicating to help resolve conflicts and discuss ways to improve ongoing relationships between family members. Some professionals focus on either family or marriage counseling, while others provide the full range of services to clients in a private practice or other setting.
The median pay for family therapists is $56,570 per year as of May 2022, according to BLS. These professionals work in the offices of health practitioners, in outpatient care centers, and in hospital settings. BLS estimates that the number of family therapists will increase by about 15% between 2022 and 2032.
Rehabilitation Counselor
Consider a career as a rehabilitation counselor to work with clients who may struggle to find employment or live independently. Rehabilitation counselors evaluate clients and arrange for support services that promote independent living. Many clients with physical and/or mental disabilities may need additional support to identify a rehabilitation plan and access the community services in their area.
According to BLS, the median annual wage for these professionals was $39,990 in May 2022. The number of rehabilitation counselors in the United States is expected to grow about 2% from 2022 to 2032, which is a typical growth rate.
Community Health Worker
Combine counseling support and essential health care as a community health worker. This role requires not only an in-depth understanding of health care service but also case management skills and the ability to provide culturally appropriate care.
As of May 2022, the median salary for community health workers was $46,190, according to BLS data. This fast-growing career is expected to see a 14% employment growth between 2022 and 2032.
Social Worker
While a career as a social worker typically only requires a bachelor’s degree, a master’s in counseling graduate can also use their skills and passions for this fast-paced career option. Social workers, whether working in schools, mental health facilities, or in hospitals, evaluate, monitor, and respond to client needs. They typically work with a whole host of community organizations to provide the layers of support many clients need.
According to BLS, the median annual wage for this career was $55,350 as of May 2022. The number of social workers in the United States is expected to grow by 7% between 2022 and 2032.
Psychologist
As a psychologist, you can not only work with clients in a counseling setting but also conduct research in the field of psychology. Many psychologists have a doctorate degree, but a master’s in counseling online degree is a major step toward qualifying for this career path.
The number of psychologists in the nation is expected to increase by 6% between 2022 and 2032, according to BLS. As of May 2022, psychologists earned a median annual wage of $85,330.
Learn More: What Can I Do with a Master's in Counseling Degree?
Northwestern University - Online MA in Counseling (CACREP Accredited)
Northwestern University - Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy (COAMFTE Accredited)
Walden University - MS in School Counseling (CACREP Accredited)
Walden University - MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling (CACREP Accredited)
Grand Canyon University - Master's Degree in Counseling (NASAC Accredited)
Liberty University - MA: Clinical Mental Health Counseling (CACREP Accredited) (CACREP Accredited)
Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU) - Online Psychology Degrees (NECHE Accredited)
Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU) - MS Psychology (NECHE Accredited)
Explore Highly Rated Master’s in Counselor Online Degrees without GRE Requirements Today
You don’t have to worry about preparing for and taking the GRE test to start your master’s in counseling degree journey. Review the rewarding counseling career options and connect with top-rated universities offering programs to earn an online master’s in counseling with no GRE requirements. See how you can work toward your degree in a way that fits your personality and personal situation. Take time to discuss your options with your advisors to see if you are eligible for a GRE waiver today.
Master of Counseling with No GRE Requirements FAQs
Do I need to take the GRE to become a counselor?
No, many institutions offer counseling programs that don’t have a GRE requirement.
How many hours is a master’s in counseling?
Many master’s in mental health counseling programs require students to complete 60 credit hours over two or three years.
Is a master’s in counseling worth it?
Graduates who pursue professional counseling can launch their careers in a number of human services fields, and the demand for this profession is growing.
List of Programs
Northwestern University 🗹 Online 🗗 Masters
Northwestern University 🗹 Online 🗗 Masters
Walden University 🗹 Online Masters
Walden University 🗹 Online Masters
Grand Canyon University 🗹 Online
Liberty University 🗹 Online
Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU) 🗹 Online 🗗 Masters 🗗 Bachelors
Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU) 🗹 Online 🗗 Masters
Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU) 🗹 Online 🗗 Masters
The Chicago School 🗹 Online 🗗 Masters
University of Denver 🗹 Online 🗗 Masters
National University 🗹 Online Courses Start Weekly
National University 🗹 Online Courses Start Weekly
Mid-America Christian University (MACU) 🗹 Online
Lamar University 🗹 Online 🗗 Masters
Colorado Christian University 🗹 Online 🗗 Masters
Colorado Christian University 🗹 Online 🗗 Masters
University of West Alabama 🗹 Online 🗗 Masters
Rivier University 🗹 Online
University of New Haven 🗹 Online
