An online doctoral degree in counseling may provide individuals the opportunity to obtain skills and training in different areas of counseling. In this three to five-year program, students may choose to specialize in school, family, rehabilitation, or mental health counseling. Program coursework may include research and dissertation courses along with major-specific classes such as family development, advanced group counseling, and psychopathology.

Upon completion of the program, students may gain employment in their chosen specialization. Doctoral-level graduates may gain employment in education, behavioral health, mental health, rehabilitation services, and substance abuse organizations.

Program Overview

• Prerequisite: Bachelor’s Degree at minimum
• Program Length: Three to five years to complete
• Post-Grad Options: Employment
• Projected Employment Growth: 37% (2010-2020)*

Program Coursework

The curriculum for doctoral counseling programs may integrate dissertation courses and core counseling coursework. These classes may teach students how to treat emotional disorders, conduct small group counseling sessions, and assist students with social issues or behavioral problems. Core online counseling classes may include the following:

• Applied Counseling Theories
• Issues in Integration
• Advanced Group Counseling
• Family Development
• Advanced Psychopathology
• Diversity and Social Justice
• Advanced Research Design

Career Options

Doctoral-level graduates may seek career opportunities in healthcare, education, family services, employment services, and rehabilitation programs. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment opportunities in mental health counseling are projected to increase by 37% from 2010-2020.*

Possible careers include:

• Mental Health Counselor
• Marriage and Family Therapist
• School Counselor
• Career Counselor
• Behavioral Disorder Counselor

*U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook