2026 Most Popular Counseling Degree Programs Ranking in Kansas

What can I expect from counseling degree in Kansas?

The average cost of earning a counseling degree in Kansas varies significantly based on the type of institution. Graduates from public universities like the University of Kansas often report more manageable tuition expenses, especially for in-state students, with annual tuition roughly ranging from $9,000 to $12,000. Conversely, graduates from private colleges such as Baker University mention higher costs, sometimes exceeding $20,000 per year, but they value the smaller class sizes and specialized training they received.

Students balancing work and studies appreciate that many programs offer part-time and online options, which can help spread out expenses and reduce financial stress. One common positive reflection from graduates is the strong support and mentorship they found during clinical internships, which contributed to a sense of accomplishment despite the financial investment involved.

While tuition is a major factor, many counselor candidates advise prospective students to consider the total value, including supervised practicum opportunities and licensure preparation embedded in Kansas programs. This holistic approach seems essential, given the rigorous 48-semester-hour requirement by the state.

Where can I work with counseling degree in Kansas?

Graduates from counseling programs at institutions such as the University of Kansas or Kansas State University often find themselves employed in private practices as licensed professional counselors (LPCs), offering personalized therapy for conditions like anxiety and depression. One graduate described the rewarding challenge of building meaningful client relationships in a small Wichita clinic, highlighting how Kansas's LPC licensure requirements equip counselors to work confidently and independently.

Others secure positions at community mental health centers supported by state initiatives, serving diverse populations and gaining broad clinical experience. A graduate from a metropolitan program noted the fulfillment in addressing varied mental health issues across different age groups in these centers.

School counseling is also a notable path, with over 1,600 school counselors statewide helping students navigate academic and emotional challenges. Graduates report a genuine sense of purpose working in Kansas schools, where mental health support is increasingly recognized as vital.

Additional career routes include substance abuse treatment facilities, correctional programs, and corporate employee assistance settings, though these options may require specialized training or offer more limited availability.

How much can I make with counseling degree in Kansas?

Graduates with a counseling degree in Kansas can expect a diverse range of earnings depending on their chosen career path and experience. For example, those working as Addiction Counselors earn a mean annual wage of about $60,080, which aligns well with opportunities available in urban centers like Wichita and Kansas City, where demand is higher. Rehabilitation Specialists make around $48,430 annually, offering a solid option for those focusing on support roles in healthcare settings.

Community Outreach Coordinators and Family Support Workers earn similar salaries, roughly $54,020 a year, reflecting roles that require strong communication skills and community engagement. Intervention Specialists stand out with a higher mean salary near $76,000, exemplifying the impact of advanced certifications or specialized settings.

Graduates from Kansas State University and the University of Kansas often share that their earnings improve significantly after obtaining licensure and gaining practical experience, making early-career salaries near $37,000-$40,000 a realistic starting point but with exciting growth potential ahead.

Choosing the right specialization and investing in professional development are key to maximizing income while positively influencing Kansans' well-being.

How long does it take to complete counseling degree in Kansas?

Completing a counseling degree in Kansas typically requires a significant time investment, especially when aiming for licensure as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC). Graduates from well-known institutions such as the University of Kansas or Wichita State University often recall the demanding but rewarding journey of dedicating about four years to earn their bachelor's degree in related fields before advancing.

Most students find that the master's degree, which is mandatory for LPC licensure, takes approximately two to three years of full-time study. This includes rigorous coursework, practicum hours, and supervised internships required by the Kansas Behavioral Sciences Regulatory Board. Many graduates describe the experience as challenging but fulfilling, highlighting how practical training enriched their understanding of real client scenarios.

Some graduates choose part-time enrollment, which may double the duration but allows balance with work or family. For those pursuing doctoral degrees like a PhD or EdD, usually at Kansas State University, the commitment can extend up to six more years, blending research with clinical practice. Adding the post-master's supervised experience-typically about 3,000 hours over two years-means students should realistically expect 6 to 8 years from start to independent practice.

What's the difference between online and on-campus counseling degree?

Choosing between online and on-campus counseling degrees in Kansas often hinges on daily life realities and learning styles. Graduates from universities like the University of Kansas recall the value of on-campus programs, highlighting face-to-face interactions with faculty and peers as crucial for developing practical counseling skills. These students often enjoyed access to campus counseling labs and libraries, which enriched their hands-on experience.

Conversely, graduates of online programs at institutions such as Kansas State University emphasize the flexibility of virtual classrooms, which made balancing work and family commitments easier. These students appreciate being able to join video lectures and discussion boards from home while still meeting Kansas Behavioral Sciences Regulatory Board's supervised clinical hour requirements by arranging local practicums.

While tuition costs between online and on-campus programs are similar in Kansas public universities, online students often feel relief from reduced expenses like commuting and housing. Both pathways meet licensure criteria, but the choice reflects whether you prioritize peer networking and campus resources or scheduling adaptability and convenience.

What is the average cost of counseling degree in Kansas?

The average cost of a counseling degree in Kansas varies significantly based on residency status and the institution attended. For in-state students pursuing graduate counseling degrees at public universities such as the University of Kansas, median total tuition expenses hover around $10,942. These costs represent a manageable investment for many, especially when considering the rewarding career outcomes shared by recent graduates who value the personal growth and professional opportunities their programs provided. Out-of-state students, however, can expect tuition costs closer to the median out-of-state total of $38,264, which reflects the premium charged for non-residents and highlights the importance of planning for financial aid or scholarships early on.

Graduates from Kansas counseling programs often emphasize the balance between tuition costs and the depth of clinical training they receive, which frequently leads to licensure and enhanced job prospects. While private institutions demand higher tuition-sometimes reaching $20,000 to $30,000 annually-many students find that public universities offer a more affordable path without compromising educational quality. Financial aid and employer tuition assistance frequently make these investments more feasible for prospective students.

Cost-conscious students might also explore alternative options, such as accelerated study paths seen in 1 year graduate programs, which may reduce overall expenses and time spent in school. Considering the typical Kansas counseling degree tuition and fees is essential when budgeting, but so is recognizing how these costs align with long-term career benefits and personal fulfillment in helping others.

What financial aid is available to counseling degree students in Kansas?

Counseling students in Kansas benefit from a broad spectrum of financial aid options, though navigating them requires careful consideration. Graduates from universities like the University of Kansas and Wichita State often recall how federal aid-such as Pell Grants for undergraduates and Direct Subsidized Loans for graduate students-significantly eased their financial burden. These programs provide essential support but come with eligibility criteria that not all students meet, highlighting the need for backup plans.

State-specific resources like the Kansas Comprehensive Grant can be invaluable for in-state students attending public institutions, offering need-based assistance tailored to resident needs. One graduate shared how this grant, combined with university scholarships awarded for academic merit, made pursuing a counseling degree at Emporia State financially viable.

Moreover, unique opportunities such as the Kansas Nurse Educator Scholarship and Loan Program support counseling students interested in healthcare settings, linking financial aid with service commitments that some find rewarding but others might see as a binding obligation.

Professional organizations, notably the Kansas Counseling Association, also extend scholarships and grants, often overlooked but crucial for supplementing costs. For those aiming to serve underserved Kansas communities, federal loan forgiveness programs provide hope by easing debt through public service.

What are the prerequisites for enrolling in counseling degree program in Kansas?

Enrolling in a counseling degree program in Kansas requires meeting clear academic and experiential prerequisites that ensure readiness for the field. For instance, graduates from public universities like the University of Kansas often recall the initial challenge of maintaining a strong GPA-usually around 2.5 to 3.0 for bachelor's programs-which plays a significant role in admissions decisions. Some found the process encouraging as it reflected their genuine commitment to helping others.

At the graduate level, programs such as those at Wichita State University expect applicants to hold a bachelor's degree, preferably in psychology or social sciences, with a minimum GPA near 3.0. Many students appreciate how submitting GRE scores-though waived by some schools-helped them showcase their preparedness for advanced studies. The requirement to present letters of recommendation and a personal statement often allows applicants to share meaningful experiences from volunteer work or counseling-related jobs, adding depth beyond grades.

Students found that understanding Kansas-specific licensure standards, governed by the Behavioral Sciences Regulatory Board, helped align coursework and clinical hours with state expectations, fostering confidence about their career paths. Tuition costs, ranging broadly from $7,000 to $12,000 annually for in-state graduate students, were carefully weighed by attendees as an investment in their professional future.

What courses are typically in counseling degree programs in Kansas?

Counseling degree programs in Kansas commonly include courses that blend theory with practical skills, reflecting the state's standards and national accreditation such as CACREP. Graduates from universities like the University of Kansas often recall how courses like Human Growth and Development helped them understand client experiences from childhood through adulthood, which proved invaluable during internships.

Many recall the depth gained from studying Theories of Counseling and Psychotherapy, which provided a framework to adapt approaches depending on client needs. For example, learning group counseling techniques allowed students at Wichita State University to facilitate insightful group sessions during their practicum, an experience that sparked both personal and professional growth.

Courses such as Counseling Ethics and Professional Issues challenge students to navigate confidentiality and legal responsibilities, reinforcing the importance of trust in client relationships. Student reflections often highlight how modules on Multicultural Counseling expanded their cultural competence, enabling them to serve diverse Kansas communities more effectively.

Practical components like the Clinical Mental Health Counseling Practicum and Internship provide supervised, hands-on experience that many find rewarding, preparing them for licensure requirements set by the Kansas Behavioral Sciences Regulatory Board.

What types of specializations are available in counseling degree programs in Kansas?

Students pursuing counseling degrees in Kansas typically encounter several core specializations designed to meet regional workforce needs. Clinical Mental Health Counseling is a prevalent choice, focusing on equipping graduates to address diverse mental health challenges through therapy. Graduates from universities like the University of Kansas often share how their rigorous practicum and supervised hours prepared them for the demanding Licensed Professional Counselor licensure process. Another widely sought specialization is School Counseling, which aligns closely with Kansas State Department of Education licensure requirements. Graduates from institutions such as Wichita State University recall feeling a rewarding sense of impact when supporting K-12 students' emotional and academic growth, highlighting the role's increasing importance in Kansas schools.

Other specializations like Addiction Counseling and Marriage and Family Therapy offer students hands-on, evidence-based approaches to treatment and recovery, demanded in various community settings. Some graduates emphasize the practical benefit of online counseling degrees with local clinical placements, providing flexibility without compromising quality. Prospective students curious about foundational pathways might also explore what is the easiest associate degree to get online as a starting point. These options illustrate the diversity within Kansas counseling graduate program options, encouraging students to weigh career goals against program strengths.

How do you choose the best counseling degree in Kansas?

Choosing the best counseling degree programs in Kansas involves weighing several critical factors aligned with your goals and lifestyle. Graduates from institutions like the University of Kansas or Wichita State University often highlight the importance of attending CACREP-accredited programs, which streamline the licensure process through the Kansas Behavioral Sciences Regulatory Board. These programs tend to balance strong academic theory with practical clinical training, essential for meeting state requirements and building confidence in real-world counseling scenarios.

Affordability also plays a significant role, especially as many students rely on in-state tuition benefits offered by public universities. For those unsure about commitment, exploring how much does it cost to get an associates degree can provide perspective on educational expenses before moving on to graduate degrees. Graduates frequently emphasize flexibility as another key consideration, noting that evening or online class formats allow them to juggle work and study effectively.

Ultimately, identifying specializations-such as clinical mental health or school counseling-that resonate personally can enrich your educational experience and enhance future employment prospects within Kansas's growing behavioral health workforce. Approaching program selection with a clear-eyed, personalized strategy helps you navigate affordable counseling degrees Kansas 2026 options thoughtfully.

What career paths are available for counseling degree students in Kansas?

Counseling graduates in Kansas often find diverse career paths, ranging from becoming Licensed Professional Counselors (LPCs) to school counselors working in K-12 systems. Graduates from institutions like the University of Kansas and Wichita State University frequently highlight how hands-on clinical experiences prepared them to handle real-world challenges in outpatient clinics or schools, supporting mental health and social-emotional development. These roles demand licensure and certifications unique to Kansas, ensuring professionals meet state-specific standards.

Other graduates have pursued specialized fields such as substance abuse counseling, responding to the increasing local need for addiction support services. Careers in marriage and family therapy also attract many, offering opportunities to work deeply on relational dynamics. Despite some assuming counseling limits them to therapy roles, many find their skills valued in social services or behavioral health program roles, reflecting broader job prospects for counseling graduates Kansas offers.

Considering financial aspects, students often turn to affordable state universities and explore scholarships or the cheapest online schools that accept fafsa to manage educational costs realistically.

What is the job market for counseling degree in Kansas?

The counseling job opportunities in Kansas reflect a steady yet competitive landscape, especially for graduates from well-regarded institutions like the University of Kansas or Wichita State University. Many graduates share that while the demand for mental health professionals is clear, especially in rural areas where shortages exist, navigating licensing requirements and securing positions requires persistence and strategic networking. Those entering the field often find rewarding roles in schools or community centers, where their work makes a tangible difference.

Kansas counseling degree employment outlook remains positive, with an employment growth rate in line with national averages. Graduates report average salaries ranging from $45,000 to $60,000, with school counselors at public institutions frequently earning closer to the higher end, alongside job stability and benefits. Students weighing their options sometimes explore affordable education alternatives such as a cheap online bachelor's degree before pursuing graduate studies, balancing cost with long-term career prospects.