Benefits of online counseling degrees: Flexibility and growth

A growing number of master's students have said farewell to traditional learning and embraced digital learning. According to the 2023 Changing Landscape of Higher Education report, the number of graduate students enrolled in fully online programs increased by 37% between 2022 and 2023.¹ This enrollment shift has contributed to the growing popularity of graduate online counseling programs. 

Online graduate programs offer many advantages for current or aspiring counseling professionals. They provide unparalleled accessibility and flexibility allowing students to tailor their education to fit their interests and schedules. This article examines the numerous benefits of online degrees in clinical mental health counseling. 

People often assume online education provides shortcuts or is less rigorous than traditional programs. The truth is, online clinical mental health counseling programs have the same comprehensive curricula and quality of education as their on-campus counterparts.

Online courses for counseling degrees use technology to provide an interactive learning experience not so dissimilar from a traditional educational environment. Online students can sometimes use video conferencing tools to attend live lectures and discussions or a virtual classroom experience, or they might watch recordings their instructors made specifically for their online classes. Some clinical mental health counseling programs will also include group projects that require students to collaborate and complete assignments with their classmates.

As an online student you can expect to review lecture materials, complete assigned readings, contribute to online discussion boards, watch recorded presentations, and sometimes participate in virtual simulations. These technologies enable students to gain practical experience and expand their knowledge without ever entering a traditional classroom.   

If you’re considering a mental health counseling degree, set yourself up for success by choosing an accredited online program. The Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP) has accredited over 160 online counseling programs, meaning these programs have demonstrated that they meet rigorous educational standards necessary for counselor education.² Many employers and doctoral programs only recognize degrees from accredited institutions. Enrolling in one of these programs ensures that other professionals value your hard work and education.  

Online counseling programs can offer numerous financial advantages. 

Students who enroll in virtual classes can save money by not paying for on-campus housing. According to the National Center for Education Statistics, full-time students spend an average of $5,335 for board annually.³ These savings can add up quickly. Online learners also don’t need to commute to campus for classes, eliminating gas and parking expenses. Even costs such as on-campus snacks, coffees, and meals are eliminated.

Additionally, many online programs accept students from diverse geographical locations. This accessibility allows learners to enroll in programs without paying to relocate. For instance, a student in Florida could virtually attend a university in Wisconsin without leaving home or paying out-of-state tuition fees. 

Online programs also allow students to customize their schedules around work and family obligations. This flexibility allows them to keep earning an income instead of taking time off to attend a traditional on-campus program. 

Online counseling programs have several unique features that can help students thrive academically and professionally. 

These programs provide a wealth of course materials and online resources to support learning. For instance, colleges and universities typically have digital libraries with vast collections of e-books, peer-reviewed journals, and dissertations. Students can use these academic materials to learn about cutting-edge counseling practices, theories, and trends. Online courses also encourage students to develop soft and technical skills that will benefit them throughout their careers. Many programs have self-paced classes, which teach students self-discipline and time management skills. Students also gain digital literacy skills by attending virtual lectures and collaborating in real time through software programs. 

An online program also can cater to diverse learning styles more easily than a traditional degree.

Additionally, many online programs offer academic support services to help students achieve their goals. These services may include career counseling, virtual tutoring, and regular meetings with a student success coordinator. 

Networking opportunities are another significant benefit of online counseling programs. Students build connections with faculty and peers across the country by attending virtual events, engaging in discussion forums, and participating in fieldwork. These experiences enable students to build strong support networks and unlock career advancement opportunities.  

Flexibility is one of the most significant advantages of online learning. 

Graduate counseling programs often allow students to cater their schedules to their unique needs and timelines. People with personal and professional commitments may enroll part-time so they can balance their responsibilities without feeling overwhelmed. Meanwhile, individuals who want to finish their degrees quickly might enroll full-time and take classes at an accelerated pace.

Additionally, many programs offer self-paced learning so students can progress at their own speed. Learners can take the time to master concepts and complete projects without rushing to meet deadlines. They can also adjust their pace if they have other commitments, reducing the risk of burnout. 

This structure also empowers students to focus on concepts that interest them or relate to their career path. For instance, a student who wants to become a family counselor may dedicate more time to their child and adolescent counseling courses. By contrast, aspiring marriage counselors can immerse themselves in family and group counseling courses. 

Virtual learning can help students fast-track their professional development and prepare to enter the counseling field. 

Online graduate students have many opportunities to gain hands-on experience. Virtual simulations and telehealth practicums allow learners to apply their skills under faculty supervision. Participants gain confidence and expand their knowledge in a safe, controlled environment. 

Additionally, many students participate in supervised online internships. For instance, a learner could get placed in a local community mental health organization or rehabilitation facility. These interactive experiences foster skill development and help students gain clinical hours for licensure. 

Make an impact with Marquette University’s online Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. This accredited program will teach you advanced counseling concepts and help you prepare for licensure in a supportive online learning environment. 

Marquette's rigorous online curriculum includes 15 core courses covering foundational topics, such as theories of counseling, research methods in counseling, and professional ethics. Expert faculty with extensive real-world experience in counseling lead the online classes and guide your clinical mental health counseling education. Students also gain hands-on experience in their own community through a practicum course and two internships. 

Marquette's commitment to social justice shapes every aspect of its program. Diversity and cultural competency are emphasized through coursework and practicum experiences. This focus on equity equips Marquette graduates with the skills required to serve communities in need and treat patients with compassion and cultural sensitivity. 

Don’t wait to launch your counseling career. Schedule an appointment with an admissions outreach advisor to learn more.