2026 Most Valuable Counseling Degree Programs Ranking in Oregon

What can I expect from counseling degree in Oregon?

In Oregon, the average cost for a counseling degree typically ranges from $41, 000 to $55, 000 in total tuition. This breaks down to about $755 to $830 per credit hour, depending on the institution and specialization chosen. For example, students at well-known schools such as Oregon State University find these figures realistic when planning their budgets.

Graduates from Oregon programs often mention the financial investment feels worthwhile because of the extensive practical training they receive. Many report that completing 60 to 68 credit hours, including hands-on internships in local community agencies or schools, boosts their confidence and job readiness. One graduate shared how early clinical experiences at a regional mental health center helped solidify their commitment to counseling while making the tuition investment feel very tangible and justified.

Remember, accredited programs-especially those with CACREP certification-can ease future licensure steps, adding value to what you pay. Financial planning should include the full program length of two to three years, plus fees for clinical placements, but the focused mentorship and hands-on opportunities in Oregon's programs balance these costs with real career gains.

Where can I work with counseling degree in Oregon?

With a counseling degree in Oregon, you can find roles in community mental health agencies, schools, and healthcare settings. Graduates from popular programs at institutions like Portland State University often start as school counselors or academic advisors, helping students navigate their educational journeys while earning $50, 000 to $70, 000 annually. This direct impact on student success creates a rewarding and meaningful career.

Many graduates also secure positions in mental health treatment centers, such as residential programs or addiction facilities, where they provide critical support to individuals overcoming challenges. Working for organizations like Cascadia Behavioral Healthcare allows counselors to engage deeply with clients, fostering real change and professional growth.

The versatility of counseling degrees even opens doors to federal jobs. Some Oregon graduates have transitioned into roles with agencies like the FBI, combining counseling skills and investigative work with salaries near $100, 000 or more. This variety ensures you're equipped for multiple career paths that fit your interests and values.

How much can I make with counseling degree in Oregon?

Graduates with counseling degrees in Oregon commonly find roles such as Intervention Specialists, Addiction Counselors, and Community Outreach Coordinators, where salaries vary but remain competitive. For example, an Intervention Specialist earns a mean annual wage of $76, 000, while Addiction Counselors make about $60, 080 per year. Positions like Community Outreach Coordinator and Family Support Worker each offer around $54, 020 annually. These figures reflect data directly relevant to counseling degree holders and provide a realistic picture for those planning their careers.

Many Oregon graduates from institutions like Portland State University or the University of Oregon report feeling optimistic when their salaries approach these state averages, especially as they gain experience. Seeing a steady $76, 000 as an Intervention Specialist can ease financial concerns and motivate graduates to pursue further certification or specialize. Starting salaries around $54, 000 still support living expenses in many Oregon cities, while also offering room to grow professionally.

Practical planning includes considering these salaries when budgeting for student loans or additional training. Aligning your studies with in-demand roles-such as Addiction Counseling or Rehabilitation Specialist work-can maximize your earning potential right after graduation and build a solid foundation for career growth within Oregon's welcoming market.

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

Completing a counseling degree in Oregon typically takes about two to three years if you pursue a master's program. Graduates from OSU-Cascades often share how the two-year accelerated track, with four classes each term, really kept their momentum going, allowing them to finish efficiently without feeling overwhelmed. On the other hand, the three-year part-time option, popular among working professionals, spreads coursework more evenly with two classes per term, offering a balanced pace.

For example, students at Bushnell University appreciate their 28-month hybrid program that blends in-person and online classes, giving flexibility while maintaining a steady timeline. However, coursework is only part of the journey. Oregon requires a 100-hour practicum and a 600-hour internship, which students complete alongside classes, giving real-world experience that builds confidence and skills.

After earning the degree, expect an additional two to three years of supervised clinical practice for licensure. This hands-on experience deepens your competence and prepares you to thrive as a professional counselor in Oregon.

Licensure Requirements in Oregon

To practice as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Oregon, you must meet state-specific education, examination, and supervised experience standards:

1. Graduated from a CACREP-accredited or regionally accredited master’s program (60+ credits)
2. Completed a 100-hour practicum and 600-hour internship under approved supervision
3. Logged 2,400 post-degree supervised practice hours (varies by specialization)
4. Passed the National Counselor Examination (NCE) and Oregon Jurisprudence Exam
5. Submitted your application, official transcripts, supervisor verification, and fees to the Oregon Board of Licensed Professional Counselors and Therapists (OBLPCT)

• Those interested in Marriage and Family Therapy can compare affordable pathways through our cheapest online mft programs.

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

The primary difference between online and on-campus counseling degrees in Oregon lies in how you attend classes and manage your time. On-campus programs, like those at Oregon State University, require physical attendance several times a week, making it necessary for many students to reduce work hours, especially during internships in the final year. In contrast, online programs, such as Eastern Oregon University's Clinical Mental Health Counseling, let you complete coursework entirely through web platforms. This flexibility allows you to keep working full-time and fit study around your schedule.

Graduates from online programs often appreciate being able to do their supervised 700-hour internships locally, under remote supervision, avoiding costly relocations. On-campus students complete these internships at campus-affiliated sites, offering a more traditional setting but less location flexibility. Both paths lead to the same 90 quarter credits required for licensure, but online formats cater especially well to working professionals balancing career and family commitments.

What is the average cost of counseling degree in Oregon?

The average cost of a counseling degree in Oregon varies depending on residency status and the institution type. For in-state students, the median total cost is around $48, 899, which aligns closely with graduates from public universities such as Oregon State University and Portland State University. These graduates often share how access to affordable tuition helped them focus on their studies without overwhelming financial stress. On the other hand, out-of-state students should anticipate a higher median total cost, approximately $64, 240, reflecting increased tuition and fees common to non-resident learners.

Private institutions, including well-regarded schools like George Fox University, typically have tuition costs higher than public counterparts, contributing to an elevated average expense. Students report that while the financial commitment is greater, the smaller class sizes and personalized support make the investment feel worthwhile. Those budgeting for a counseling degree should remember to include additional expenses-like textbooks, clinical practicum fees, and living costs-which can substantially raise the overall price.

Financial aid is a practical solution many counseling students in Oregon have successfully leveraged. Scholarships, grants, and federal student loans can offset costs significantly. Additionally, exploring assistantships or work-study programs within counseling departments can ease financial burdens. For students balancing work and study, it's helpful to consider fast online degree completion programs for working adults, which sometimes offer more flexible and affordable pathways.

Understanding the average cost of counseling degree programs in Oregon is critical for making wise educational choices. Careful comparison of public versus private tuition, assessing residency status implications, and proactively seeking financial aid options will empower prospective students to plan effectively for their counseling careers.

Oregon Counseling Licensure Requirements

Before you can practice as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Oregon, you must complete each of the following steps:

• Earn a master’s degree in counseling or a related field from a CACREP-accredited program (or equivalent curriculum).
• Complete a 100-hour practicum and a 600-hour supervised internship during your graduate training.
• Accrue at least 3,000 hours of supervised post-degree clinical experience over a minimum of two years.
• Pass the National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Examination (NCMHCE) and the Oregon Jurisprudence Exam.
• Submit your application, official transcripts and examination scores to the Oregon Board of Licensed Professional Counselors and Therapists, along with the required fees.
• Maintain your license with 30 continuing education hours every two years; specialized tracks, such as marriage and family therapy, may have additional criteria—learn more about how to become a marriage counselor.

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

When pursuing a counseling degree in Oregon, starting with the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is essential to unlock federal grants and loans. Many graduates remember how completing the FAFSA early opened doors to crucial funding. State aid is another key resource. For example, the Oregon Opportunity Grant helps thousands, including counseling students, reduce tuition costs. While the Oregon Promise Grant mainly benefits associate degrees, those seeking graduate counseling degrees find more support through university scholarships and loan forgiveness programs.

Online counseling students at Eastern Oregon University often share relief at receiving financial aid covering much of their costs-over 90% benefit this way. Meanwhile, Oregon State University's program not only estimates all expenses upfront but offers tailored advice via their financial aid office, enabling students to plan realistically. Institutional scholarships, especially for those entering public mental health roles, add financial peace of mind. Altogether, combining federal, state, and university aid creates a practical path to afford counseling education in Oregon.

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

To enroll in a counseling degree in Oregon, you first need a bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited school, such as Portland State University or the University of Oregon. Most programs expect a minimum GPA of 3. 0, but some graduates have successfully applied with slightly lower GPAs by submitting strong personal essays that explain their dedication and readiness for graduate work.

Application materials play a big role. Expect to prepare a personal essay showing your genuine motivation for counseling, two recommendation letters-ideally with one from a supervisor-and a detailed resume covering relevant experience. For example, many students at Pacific University highlight volunteer work in mental health settings, which impresses admission committees.

Oregon schools also require a criminal background check to protect client safety. Some programs, like those at Lewis & Clark College, may request a personal interview, letting applicants demonstrate interpersonal skills live. International students must prove English proficiency, typically with a TOEFL score of 550 or higher.

Graduates often share that meeting these prerequisites gives them confidence and clarity about their commitment and preparedness before starting their counseling journey.

What courses are typically in counseling degree programs in Oregon?

When pursuing a counseling degree in Oregon, expect your coursework to cover core areas like professional counseling orientation, ethical practice, social and cultural diversity, human growth, and career development. Graduates from well-known institutions such as Portland State University often recall how learning about counseling and helping relationships deeply shaped their ability to connect with clients on a personal level.

Classes in group counseling, assessment, and research methods round out the foundational knowledge necessary for practice. For example, mental health counseling tracks at Oregon State University include specialized courses like applied psychopharmacology and trauma-informed approaches, which help students feel confident addressing complex client needs.

School counseling students at popular programs like the University of Oregon benefit from courses focused on fundamental counseling skills, crisis intervention, and the introduction to school counseling itself. One graduate shared that hands-on crisis counseling classes made real-world school environments far less intimidating.

Overall, Oregon programs blend solid theory with practical skills that prepare students to enter the demanding counseling field feeling capable and hopeful.

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

Oregon counseling graduate program focuses often include several practical specializations designed to meet diverse community needs. Graduates from well-known local institutions, such as Portland State University, typically choose from specializations like Mental Health Counseling, which prepares them to diagnose and treat emotional disorders in real clinical settings, or School Counseling, where they support students' academic and personal growth in K-12 environments. Other common tracks are Marriage and Family Therapy, ideal for those passionate about strengthening family dynamics, and Substance Abuse Counseling, where graduates actively participate in addiction recovery programs. Rehabilitation Counseling also attracts graduates dedicated to helping individuals with disabilities successfully reintegrate into the workforce and society.

Choosing the right specialization aligns your academic path with Oregon's licensure requirements, ensuring you can legally and confidently practice. Many students appreciate programs that offer flexible credit hours and practical internships, bringing the theories of their specializations fully to life. For those who want to explore further options, resources about which is the easiest masters degree can also help guide your decision.

How do you choose the best counseling degree in Oregon?

Start by focusing on programs with CACREP accreditation, as graduates from Oregon's well-known universities often praise this for easing their path to becoming Licensed Professional Counselors (LPCs). Practical experience is crucial-look for degrees that include supervised clinical placements within Oregon communities, since this hands-on training helps you build confidence and professional networks before graduation.

Next, consider your career focus and choose a specialization that fits your passion, such as clinical mental health or marriage and family therapy. Many students at popular Oregon colleges find that aligning program curriculum with real-world counseling needs makes coursework more engaging and relevant.

Cost and flexibility also weigh heavily. Affordable counseling degrees in Oregon often offer in-state tuition discounts or part-time evening formats, which are popular among working adults balancing life and study. For example, some appreciate hybrid programs that mix online study with local internships, allowing greater freedom. To estimate expenses, explore options like online associates degree cost for comparable tuition benchmarks.

Finally, verify that the program supports Oregon Health Authority licensure requirements. Many graduates highlight the peace of mind gained from programs that prepare them thoroughly for the licensure exam and provide career services to secure employment post-graduation.

Choosing among the best counseling degree programs Oregon has means balancing cost, program strength, licensure support, and scheduling-ensuring you feel ready, supported, and excited about your future career.

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

Graduates with a counseling degree in Oregon find career opportunities with counseling degree in Oregon in roles such as Licensed Professional Counselors (LPCs), school counselors, and substance abuse specialists. For example, LPCs often work one-on-one with clients managing mental health or behavioral issues, earning around $55, 000 annually. Those studying at popular institutions like Portland State University report real satisfaction transitioning quickly into community mental health roles.

Many graduates from Oregon State University pursue school counseling certifications to support students facing academic and emotional challenges, especially in rural districts where local shortages create urgent demand. The job prospects for counseling graduates Oregon include vital roles in rehabilitation centers, correctional facilities, and career counseling offices, each requiring state certification and offering meaningful work environments.

Costs vary, but considering factors like tuition and exam fees is essential when planning your path. Those exploring affordable options should also look into which online college is the cheapest, to balance quality education with cost-effectiveness.

What is the job market for counseling degree in Oregon?

The job market for graduates with a counseling degree in Oregon is expanding steadily, with a projected employment growth of 22% by 2030. Graduates from universities such as Portland State or the University of Oregon often find rewarding opportunities in mental health centers, schools, and healthcare facilities. Many report feeling encouraged by the state's focus on licensed professional counselors (LPCs), whose services are highly sought after in both urban and rural communities.

Those entering the workforce can expect salaries around $53, 000 annually, but metropolitan areas may offer higher wages, especially with advanced credentials. Counselors new to the field often share that affordable tuition at Oregon's public universities helped ease the financial burden compared to private programs, an important factor when considering counseling degree salary Oregon prospects. Practical exposure during studies bridges theory and real-life settings, boosting confidence in diverse roles like substance abuse or school counseling.

Leveraging this market means targeting licensure while remaining open to underserved regions where patient demand-and incentives-are strongest. For budgeting your education path, you might explore options in line with which trade school job pays the most to understand financial viability. Careful planning and Oregon's growing commitment to comprehensive mental health services create an encouraging environment for new counselors.