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Counseling FAQ

Are Walden University’s counseling programs accredited?

Walden’s counseling online degree programs are accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP). CACREP accreditation ensures that the content and quality of counselor-preparation master’s and doctoral degree programs have been evaluated and meet standards set by the profession.

How long does it take to get an online counseling degree?

The length of time it takes to get an online counseling degree can vary based on several factors, including the type of counseling degree, the level of the program (e.g., bachelor's, master's, or doctoral), practicum requirements, and the pace at which you choose to complete the coursework. It's a good idea to talk to a Walden Enrollment Specialist to get an accurate estimate of the time it would take you to complete your online degree.

Are online counseling degrees respected?

Online counseling degrees receive respect and recognition, with programmatic accreditation playing a pivotal role. Accreditation by established bodies like the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP) is a key marker of program quality. CACREP accreditation ensures adherence to stringent standards in curriculum and education. Walden’s master’s and doctoral counseling online degree programs are CACREP-accredited.

What is the best degree to become a counselor?

The best degree to earn if you want to become a counselor depends on your career goals and the specific type of counseling you wish to pursue. There are several types of counselors, including mental health counselors, school counselors, marriage and family therapists, and substance abuse counselors, among others. Each type of counseling role may have different education requirements and career tracks. Walden provides many avenues for you to explore to help you find the right path for your professional counseling journey.

Can I get a counseling degree online?

Yes, you can earn a counseling degree online. Walden’s online counseling degree programs provide a flexible and convenient way to pursue your goals while allowing you to balance your studies with work and family commitments.

Education FAQ

Is Walden University accredited for education?

Walden University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (www.hlcommission.org), an institutional accreditation agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. Accreditation is a mark of quality. Walden has been accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) since 1990. In July 2023, HLC reaffirmed the institutional accreditation of Walden for another 10-year period.

Being accredited by HLC validates that our online university lives its mission, operates with integrity, hires academically qualified faculty, and provides the resources and support necessary for our students to succeed. Walden has also earned programmatic accreditations from the following organizations:

  • Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP)
  • Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
  • Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP)
  • Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP)
  • Council on Education for Public Health (CEPH)
  • Council on Social Work Education (CSWE)

 

Can I teach with a PhD from Walden University?

Earning your PhD in Education from Walden can give you the advanced knowledge and skills you need to effect transformative change—in your school, your district, and your community. A doctoral online degree program can prepare you to pursue various opportunities in the education field, including roles as a faculty member, professor, dean, provost, or institutional research director in diverse work environments such as:

  • Schools
  • School districts
  • Community colleges
  • Universities
  • Professional schools

 

Are Walden University and the Riley College of Education accredited?

Walden University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. Walden's Richard W. Riley College of Education and Human Sciences is accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP) for a period of seven years, from April 2019 through June 2026. This accreditation covers initial teacher preparation programs and advanced educator preparation programs. CAEP is the only recognized national accreditor for educator preparation, promoting excellence in educator preparation through quality assurance and continuous improvement. The Riley College of Education and Human Sciences earned CAEP accreditation by meeting rigorous national standards and demonstrating excellence in the areas of content and pedagogy, clinical experiences, selectivity, program impact, and capacity for continuous improvement. Learn more about CAEP’s importance to teacher preparation programs.

Can you get an education degree online?

Yes, Walden University’s online degree programs offer a convenient way to pursue your education. Our programs offer flexible options that allow you to manage your studies and reach your personal and professional goals—all while balancing other responsibilities such as work and family.

Is an online education degree program worth it?

The choice to enroll in an online degree program should depend on your personal goals, circumstances, and preferences. Consider what you’re trying to achieve. For instance, do you want to grow professionally, gain specific skills, follow your passions, or switch fields? Your goals should be the compass guiding your decision.

Online college programs offer unique benefits for busy working adults. As an online university, Walden provides a flexible learning environment that makes it easier to balance work commitments or family responsibilities with your studies. If flexibility is important to you, earning an online degree in education from Walden may be a good option for you.

Nursing FAQ

Is Walden University accredited for nursing?

Walden University has been accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) since 1990. The HLC is an institutional accreditor recognized by the U.S. Department of Education and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation. We want you to have confidence in the quality of our online degree programs. Several of our nursing degree programs and our post-graduate APRN certificate program are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).

Are Walden’s nursing programs accredited by CCNE?

Accreditation signals program quality, and assures an educational experience aligned with the demands of today’s nursing field. The baccalaureate degree program in nursing (BSN), master’s degree program in nursing (MSN), post-graduate APRN certificate program, and Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program at Walden University are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education. These programs have received a 10-year accreditation from CCNE, the maximum period granted for all eligible nursing programs.

Is an MSN the same as an NP?

A nurse practitioner (NP) is a nurse who has advanced educational and clinical practice and leads preventive healthcare services for their patients. A Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) degree is the minimum educational requirement for an NP, in addition to the initial nursing education and licensing requirements for all registered nurses (RNs).

Can I get an MSN instead of a BSN?

At Walden, if you’re a registered nurse (RN) with a hospital diploma or an associate degree in nursing, you can choose our bachelor’s program RN to BSN track or the master’s program RN to MSN track. These CCNE-accredited online degree programs differ in their curriculum, costs, and completion times. To make an informed decision, speak to a Walden Enrollment Specialist for help deciding on the best degree program for your specific needs.