2026 Most Valuable Counseling Degree Programs Ranking in Tennessee

What can I expect from counseling degree in Tennessee?

The average cost of a counseling degree in Tennessee varies widely depending on the institution and program format. For example, graduates from well-known Tennessee universities report that tuition for Master's programs typically ranges from $10, 000 to $25, 000 per year for in-state students. Part-time and online options offer some financial flexibility, often costing slightly less per credit but extending the overall duration of study.

Many counseling students highlight how attending CACREP-accredited programs at respected institutions enhanced their job prospects and licensure eligibility. These programs usually require about two to three years of full-time study, which means the total tuition cost can approach $30, 000 to $75, 000 over the course of the degree.

Graduates often describe securing internships through university partnerships with local hospitals and community clinics as invaluable, giving them practical experience that complements their coursework. The positive outcomes from these hands-on experiences contribute to a strong sense of readiness and confidence entering Tennessee's growing mental health workforce.

Where can I work with counseling degree in Tennessee?

Graduates with a counseling degree from institutions like the University of Tennessee or Vanderbilt University often find diverse career paths across Tennessee's mental health and education sectors. Many secure positions in mental health clinics and counseling centers, where licensed professional counselors provide therapy and treatment planning for individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, or substance abuse. These roles deliver a sense of fulfillment by directly impacting patient wellbeing.

School counselors are in steady demand, especially in growing districts reported by the Tennessee Department of Education. Graduates frequently join public schools or universities to support student mental health and career guidance. Working in these settings offers rewarding opportunities to influence youth development positively, as reported by alumni from Middle Tennessee State University.

Hospitals and healthcare systems also employ behavioral health counselors, integrating their expertise with medical teams. With a 10% growth rate in Tennessee's healthcare sector over the past five years, counseling professionals find expanding roles in treating patients' psychological and emotional needs alongside physical care.

Private practice remains a favored path for many graduates who earn LPC licensure through Tennessee's Board of Licensed Professional Counselors. This enables counselors to create personalized client connections in individual or group therapy settings, bringing a deep sense of autonomy and impact to their careers.

Community agencies and government programs focusing on addiction recovery or crisis intervention further diversify employment opportunities, providing counselors chances to serve vulnerable populations with meaningful support.

How much can I make with counseling degree in Tennessee?

Graduates holding counseling degrees in Tennessee can expect varied earnings depending on their chosen career path and experience level. For example, Intervention Specialists, often employed in schools or community settings, earn a mean annual wage of about $76, 000 according to recent BLS data. Rehabilitation Specialists and Community Outreach Coordinators, roles commonly pursued by counseling graduates, have mean annual wages near $48, 430 and $54, 020 respectively.

Those focusing on addiction counseling, a rapidly growing specialty, typically see salaries averaging $60, 080 annually. Family Support Workers also earn around $54, 020 per year, reflecting the value placed on specialized support roles in Tennessee's mental health landscape. These figures align with real experiences shared by counseling graduates from institutions like the University of Tennessee and Lipscomb University, where many have reported starting salaries near these averages and appreciating the steady increase as they gain licensure and field experience.

Overall, pursuing advanced certifications such as the Licensed Professional Counselor certification enhances earning potential, often pushing salaries well above state averages. Graduates enjoy the positive impact of meaningful work alongside financial growth.

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

Completing a counseling degree in Tennessee typically takes about four years for a bachelor's program, aligning with the standard undergraduate path at institutions like the University of Tennessee or Middle Tennessee State University. Graduates often reflect on the full-time commitment needed to complete around 120 credit hours, balancing coursework with gaining foundational skills.

For those pursuing licensure as professional counselors, the master's degree demands an additional two to three years of full-time study. Many students appreciate programs accredited by CACREP at colleges such as Vanderbilt University, which provide structured practicum and internship experiences requiring at least 600 hours of supervised practice.

Beyond the degree, graduates share how the required 3, 000 hours of post-master's supervised clinical work-typically spanning two years-shapes their professional growth and confidence, preparing them fully for LPC licensure in Tennessee.

Flexible scheduling options, like evening classes, help some students manage work and studies, adding valuable adaptability to their educational journeys.

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

Online and on-campus counseling degree programs in Tennessee differ mainly in learning format and student interaction. On-campus degrees at universities like the University of Tennessee offer face-to-face classes, allowing graduates to benefit from direct engagement with professors and peers. These students often share how hands-on internships at local agencies provide valuable real-world experience, fostering confidence and practical skills. Tuition for these programs typically ranges from $8, 000 to $15, 000 per year, influenced by whether the school is public or private.

Conversely, graduates from online programs at institutions such as Tennessee State University frequently appreciate the flexibility to balance studies with work or family commitments. Online courses deliver instruction remotely, though many still require in-person practicum placements. This structure eliminates commuting and housing costs, which can reduce overall expenses, making it financially appealing.

Both formats emphasize meeting CACREP accreditation standards to prepare students for Tennessee licensure. Key differences include on-campus access to campus resources like counseling labs versus online program convenience and scheduling adaptability.

What is the average cost of counseling degree in Tennessee?

The average cost of a counseling degree in Tennessee is approximately $41, 320 for in-state students and around $54, 964 for out-of-state students. These figures reflect the full program expenses typically incurred over two to three years of graduate study. Graduates from public institutions like Middle Tennessee State University and the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga often report that the state residency tuition advantage plays a significant role in making their education more affordable, enabling them to pursue their degrees without excessive financial strain.

Private universities in Tennessee, on the other hand, tend to charge noticeably higher tuition, which can push the total expenses closer to or beyond $90, 000. While this can feel daunting, many counseling graduates emphasize that the investment often leads to rewarding career opportunities and personal growth, justifying the costs over time.

Students also encounter additional expenses beyond tuition, such as technology fees, textbooks, liability insurance for practicum placements, and licensing exam fees. These can add several thousand dollars to the overall budget. Prospective students who carefully plan for these costs often find that financial aid, scholarships, and graduate assistantships offered by regional universities significantly ease the burden.

For those seeking to shorten the timeline and reduce expenses, some universities in Tennessee offer accelerated or hybrid formats, helping to decrease both time and financial commitment. It's useful to explore options like a fast-track associate degree online to complement or kick-start longer studies.

Considering the total expenses for counseling programs Tennessee offers, a detailed budget review aligned with available resources substantially improves the experience and outcomes for counseling students statewide.

Licensure Requirements in Tennessee

Before practicing independently, counseling graduates must meet state licensing standards:

1. Graduate from a CACREP-accredited master’s program (minimum 60 semester hours) with required coursework in ethics, assessment, and counseling theories
2. Complete in-program practicum (at least 100 hours of direct client contact) and internship (600 supervised hours)
3. Accumulate 3,000 hours of post-master’s supervised clinical experience under a board-approved supervisor
4. Pass the National Counselor Examination (NCE) or the National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Examination (NCMHCE)
5. Submit an application and fee to the Tennessee Board of Licensed Professional Counselors and clear a background check

For those interested in a family therapy credential, learn more about how to become a licensed marriage and family therapist.

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

Students pursuing counseling degrees in Tennessee have access to multiple financial aid sources to manage the typical $10, 000 to $30, 000 annual tuition costs. Federal aid-including Pell Grants and low-interest student loans-is widely utilized by those enrolled in accredited counseling programs at institutions like the University of Memphis and Tennessee State University. Graduate students often rely on Federal Graduate PLUS Loans to cover additional expenses beyond standard aid.

State programs such as the Tennessee Student Assistance Corporation (TSAC) provide grants and loans tailored for residents, while HOPE scholarships mainly benefit undergraduates who later enter graduate counseling programs. Graduates from these universities frequently highlight merit-based scholarships that reward strong academic records and need-based awards from their schools, easing financial pressure effectively.

Work-study and graduate assistantships are common at counseling programs and offer the dual benefit of tuition remission plus stipends, which graduates recall as both financially supportive and professionally enriching. Additionally, scholarships from professional bodies like the American Counseling Association's Tennessee chapter offer further monetary relief, often encouraging community and career growth.

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

Enrolling in counseling degree programs in Tennessee typically requires meeting clear academic and experiential prerequisites. At the undergraduate level, candidates usually need a high school diploma or GED, along with a satisfactory academic record-often with a minimum GPA around 2. 5. Institutions like Middle Tennessee State University may also ask for letters of recommendation and personal statements, helping admissions assess motivation and commitment. Graduates often recall how these requirements encouraged them to reflect deeply on their passion for helping others, fostering a sense of purpose early on.

For graduate programs, such as those at the University of Tennessee, applicants generally must hold a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution, preferably in psychology, social work, or education. Many programs require a minimum GPA of 3. 0 and official transcripts. Additional expectations include personal essays and professional recommendations. Some students report that prior volunteer or work experience in counseling settings made their applications stand out and strengthened their practical understanding of the field. This blend of academic rigor and real-world insight prepares candidates effectively for licensure paths like the LPC in Tennessee.

Licensure Requirements in Tennessee

After finishing your counseling degree, pursue licensure to practice professionally in Tennessee:

1. Complete a CACREP-accredited master’s program with at least 60 graduate credit hours.
2. Accumulate a minimum of 3,000 post-master’s supervised clinical hours over at least two years.
3. Pass the National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Examination (NCMHCE).
4. Submit an application to the Tennessee Board of Licensed Professional Counselors, including transcripts, supervision logs, and exam results.
5. Obtain and maintain active LPC licensure by fulfilling continuing education requirements.

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What courses are typically in counseling degree programs in Tennessee?

Counseling degree programs in Tennessee commonly include courses such as Introduction to Counseling Theories and Techniques, Human Growth and Development, and Group Counseling Methods. Students at universities like the University of Tennessee and Middle Tennessee State University often share their positive experiences mastering Counseling Ethics and Professional Issues, essential for navigating real-world dilemmas confidently. Coursework in Multicultural Counseling prepares graduates to work effectively with diverse populations, reflecting Tennessee's varied communities.

Many programs incorporate hands-on learning through supervised internships, reinforcing theoretical knowledge with practical skills in actual counseling settings. Career Counseling and Development, Assessment and Testing in Counseling, and Research Methods further equip students to provide comprehensive client support. Graduates frequently highlight how Marriage, Couple, and Family Counseling courses enabled them to address complex family dynamics empathetically, while Substance Abuse Counseling classes prepared them to tackle prevalent challenges in Tennessee's healthcare landscape.

These core subjects, combined with CACREP-aligned curricula, ensure students leave well-prepared for licensure and a rewarding counseling career in Tennessee's competitive job market.

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

In Tennessee, counseling degree programs offer a variety of specializations designed to meet community and professional needs. Clinical Mental Health Counseling is prevalent, preparing graduates to work in hospitals or community centers addressing behavioral disorders. Graduates from universities like the University of Tennessee share positive experiences about hands-on training that equips them for real-world challenges. School Counseling is another key specialty, emphasizing academic and emotional support in K-12 settings. Tennessee mandates certification for this track, with graduates from institutions such as Tennessee State University often noting the rewarding nature of directly impacting youth development.

Substance Abuse Counseling has gained critical importance amid Tennessee's opioid crisis, where graduates feel purpose-driven by supporting recovery in affected communities. Other notable options include Marriage and Family Counseling, Rehabilitation Counseling, and Career Counseling, each addressing specific client needs. Students exploring easy online programs find this range of specializations valuable for flexibility. The diversity in counseling degree programs Tennessee specialties appeals broadly, enabling graduates to align their passion with community impact.

How do you choose the best counseling degree in Tennessee?

Choosing the best counseling degree programs in Tennessee requires focusing on CACREP-accredited master's programs, as these meet the Tennessee Board for Licensed Professional Counselors' requirement of at least 60 graduate semester hours with supervised clinical experience for licensure. Graduates from universities popular for counseling degrees in Tennessee often highlight how program accreditation and structured licensure pathways made their transition into clinical roles smoother and more rewarding.

Affordability plays a key role; public institutions in Tennessee typically charge between $7, 000 and $15, 000 annually for tuition, making affordable counseling colleges Tennessee a practical consideration. Students balancing work and study appreciate programs offering evening or online options, providing flexibility without sacrificing quality. One graduate from a well-known Tennessee college noted that flexible scheduling and strong practicum connections ultimately boosted both confidence and career readiness.

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

Graduates with a counseling degree in Tennessee have diverse career paths available, from mental health counseling to school and substance abuse counseling. Becoming a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) is a common route, requiring a master's degree, supervised clinical hours, and passing a national exam. LPCs work in various settings including hospitals and private practice, providing psychotherapeutic support for conditions like anxiety and trauma. Many graduates from Tennessee universities like Middle Tennessee State University find this path fulfilling and stable.

School counseling is another growing opportunity, especially given Tennessee's educational certification requirements. School counselors support students' academic and emotional well-being, with job growth projected at 8% nationally through 2031. Graduates pursuing counseling career opportunities in Tennessee frequently mention rewarding interactions with students as a significant motivator.

Specializations such as substance abuse and behavioral disorder counseling address critical local needs, supported by data from SAMHSA. Similarly, marriage and family therapy, rehabilitation, and career coaching offer meaningful roles for degree holders. Many students at universities in Tennessee benefit from in-state tuition and access to accredited universities online with no cost to apply, reducing financial barriers to entering these fields. Jobs for counseling degree holders Tennessee are varied, with strong demand and promising security.

What is the job market for counseling degree in Tennessee?

The counseling degree job outlook Tennessee shows strong growth driven by expanding healthcare facilities, schools, and community programs. Graduates from well-known institutions feel optimistic as many find roles in community mental health centers, school systems, and private practices. For instance, counseling graduates from popular Tennessee universities often share positive experiences securing positions where they directly impact student wellness or address behavioral health challenges in underserved communities.

Employment opportunities for counseling graduates Tennessee benefit from a median annual wage around $44, 000, with Licensed Professional Counselors earning more in cities like Nashville and Memphis. Many graduates emphasize that hands-on practicum experiences during their studies at local colleges significantly enhance job readiness and licensure success. The state's efforts to improve access to behavioral health services boost demand, making the field promising for new professionals.

Prospective students interested in what schools offer dual degree programs will find options that blend counseling with other disciplines, further increasing employment flexibility. These factors combine to create a robust job market for counseling degrees in Tennessee.