Counselling plays a vital role in promoting mental health, personal development, and academic success in Ghana and across the world. As awareness of mental well-being continues to grow, so does the demand for trained professionals who can provide guidance, emotional support, and psychological care.
Fortunately, Ghana is home to several reputable tertiary institutions offering high-quality programs in counselling, psychology, and guidance services. These programs equip students with the theoretical knowledge and practical skills needed to serve in schools, hospitals, community organisations, churches, and private practice.
Whether you’re a recent high school graduate, a teacher seeking professional development, or a degree-holder looking to switch careers, choosing the right institution is key. In this article, we highlight the top 10 schools in Ghana offering counselling programs.
We explore each school’s background, counselling-related programs, entry requirements, tuition fees, and unique benefits. You’ll also find guidance on becoming a licensed counsellor in Ghana, along with a list of accredited institutions and free online courses to support your journey.
How to Become a Counsellor in Ghana
Becoming a professional counsellor in Ghana involves education, certification, and licensure.
First, one must earn the necessary academic qualifications. The Ghana Psychology Council (GPC) – the statutory regulator for psychology and counselling professionals – requires at least a GPC-accredited bachelor’s degree in Psychology or Counselling (for paraprofessional counsellors) or a master’s/PhD (for professional counsellors). In practice, aspiring counsellors often obtain a bachelor’s degree in Psychology, Guidance & Counselling, or a related field, followed by a master’s degree specialising in counselling.
Second, graduates must register with the Ghana Psychology Council. According to GPC guidelines, a candidate needs a GPC-accredited first degree in psychology (for example) and then “two–three years full-time postgraduate training in counselling psychology”. After completing the master’s (or a GPC-approved postgraduate diploma), the candidate must pass the GPC licensure examination. Successful candidates receive a Personal Identification Number (PIN) and full license to practice.
In addition, counselling professionals often join professional bodies. The Ghana National Association of Certified Counsellors (GNACC) is the umbrella association for certified counsellors in Ghana, offering continuing-education workshops and advocacy. Counsellors may also register with the Ghana Psychological Association and fulfil GPC’s continuing professional development requirements. In summary, the path is: complete relevant degree(s), undertake supervised practicum or internship, register and pass the GPC licensure exam, and then maintain certification through Ghana’s professional
Here is the list of the Top 10 Best Counselling Schools in Ghana:
- University of Ghana, Legon
- Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST)
- University of Cape Coast (UCC)
- University of Education, Winneba (UEW)
- Valley View University (VVU)
- Oheneba-Dornyo University College of Counselling Psychology (ODUCCP)
- University of Health and Allied Sciences (UHAS)
- University for Development Studies (UDS)
- Presbyterian University College (PUC)
- Methodist University Ghana
1. University of Ghana, Legon
Founded in 1948 as the University College of the Gold Coast, the University of Ghana (Legon) is the nation’s oldest and most prestigious university. It is located at Legon, a suburb of Accra (Greater Accra Region).
The University of Ghana’s Department of Psychology (School of Social Sciences) offers undergraduate and postgraduate programs that include counselling-related courses (such as Guidance and Counselling modules) as part of its Psychology degrees. The university also offers a Master of Arts in Counselling program.
Admission generally requires the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) with credits (A1–C6) in at least six subjects, including core English, Mathematics, Integrated Science or Social Studies, and relevant electives. For postgraduate counselling degrees (e.g. MA in Counselling), applicants need an appropriate first degree.
The University of Ghana is ranked Ghana’s best university in the psychology field, reflecting strong faculty, research output, and facilities. It has extensive libraries, counselling centres, and well-funded psychology labs. Its counselling programs are fully accredited by the Ghana Psychology Council and attract top students.
Tuition (2025): For Ghanaian undergraduates, fees are subsidised. For example, a regular freshman in a B.A. program pays about GH¢2,319 per year (approx. $190), and a B.Sc. student about GH¢3,083 ($250). (International/full-fee-paying Ghanaian students pay higher rates.) A Master’s in Counselling at Legon costs roughly GH¢25,655 ($2,100) for Ghanaian students.
Contact: +233 302-213820 (Academic Affairs Office).
2. Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST)
KNUST began as the Kumasi College of Technology in 1952 and was converted by Act of Parliament into an independent university named Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology in 1961. It is located in Kumasi (Ashanti Region).
KNUST’s Faculty of Social Sciences offers programs in Sociology, Social Work and related fields; while KNUST does not have a standalone counselling degree, its psychology and social-work courses cover aspects of counselling and guidance. The university is known for strong science and engineering, but also has student counselling services and elective courses in psychology.
Entry Requirements for Counselling at KNUST are WASSCE with at least three core and three elective credits (A1–C6), including English and Mathematics. KNUST typically requires that applicants meet the University’s aggregate score cutoffs in the Joint Admissions.
KNUST is consistently one of Ghana’s top universities. Its campus is large and modern, with excellent labs and IT infrastructure. Academic support services and professional student counsellors further enhance its reputation.
As a public institution, KNUST charges similar fees to the University of Ghana. Local undergraduates pay on the order of ~GH¢2,500–3,000 per year (roughly $200–250). International fees are higher (often several thousand USD).
Contact: +233 (0)322 060269 (Department of Economics, main campus).
3. University of Cape Coast (UCC)
Established in 1962 (affiliated with Legon) and granted full university status in 1971, the University of Cape Coast is in Cape Coast (Central Region).
UCC’s School of Educational Foundations includes a Department of Guidance and Counselling. It offers a 4-year B.Ed. in Guidance and Counselling, as well as postgraduate M.Ed. and M.Phil programs in the same field.
To gain admission, WASSCE applicants need credit passes (A1–C6) in English, Mathematics, Integrated Science or Social Studies (as core subjects) plus three other electives. GCE ‘O’-Level applicants need credits in five subjects.
UCC is the leading university for teacher education and counselling in Ghana. Its counselling program is well-established, and it is ranked among the top universities in psychology and education. The campus has excellent educational facilities, libraries, and dedicated practicum placements in schools. UCC graduates are well-regarded in counselling careers.
Ghanaian undergraduates pay roughly GH¢2,000–2,500 per year (about $150–200), depending on the program. For example, full-time education students’ fees are on this order. International (foreign) tuition is much higher, around $7,500 per year.
Contact: +233 3321-32440 (UCC Admissions Office).
4. University of Education, Winneba (UEW), Winneba (Public)
UEW was founded in September 1992 as a university college and became a full university in 2004. Its main campus is at Winneba (Central Region), with additional campuses elsewhere.
UEW specialises in teacher education and human development. Its Department of Counselling Psychology (Faculty of Educational Foundations) offers programs such as B.Ed. Counselling Psychology, B.A. Psychology & Sociology, and M.Ed. Guidance & Counselling.
Entry Requirements for the B.Ed. Counselling Psychology program is for WASSCE applicants with credit passes (A1–C6) in six subjects – core English, Math, Integrated Science/Social Studies, plus three electives. Mature and diploma holders may also apply.
UEW is Ghana’s main institution for training educators and counsellors for schools. It has strong practical training facilities and links with schools for practicum. Its counseling courses are GPC-accredited, and the campus offers robust student support services.
Tuition for a freshman in B.Ed. Counselling Psychology, UEW’s approved fees are about GH¢3,095 (approx. $240) per academic year. This includes tuition and general fees.
Contact: +233 3323-22139 (Academic Affairs, Winneba campus).
5. Valley View University (VVU)
Valley View University, a Seventh-day Adventist private institution, was established in 1979 and granted its own charter in 2006. Its main administrative office is in Afari (Nkoranza West), but it has a large campus at Mile 19, Adenta (Accra).
VVU offers undergraduate programs in social sciences, including Development Studies and Psychology-related courses (though it does not have a dedicated counselling degree). However, its Bachelor of Science in Development Studies and related majors include counselling and human services content.
Entry Requirement is a Standard WASSCE entry (credits in English, Math, etc.).
VVU is the first private chartered university in Ghana and is known for quality teaching. It has modern campuses and good student counselling services. Its programs in Development and Human Services are well-regarded, and it participates in community outreach counseling initiatives.
Tuition at VVU for local undergraduate tuition is about GH¢2,250 per year for programs like Development Studies (~$180). International student rates are higher (e.g. ~$800–1,000 per year).
Contact: +233 30 701 1832.
6. Oheneba-Dornyo University College of Counselling Psychology (ODUCCP)
ODUCCP (Accra) is Ghana’s first and premier specialist counselling college. It originated as the International Theological Seminary in 2000 and was rebranded as the College of Counselling and Psychology in 2013. It is located in Kokomlemle, Accra.
ODUCCP offers focused programs such as a Postgraduate Diploma in Counselling and M.A. in Counselling, all accredited by the Ghana Tertiary Education Commission. It also provides certificate and diploma counselling courses.
To gain admission, applicants need a first degree in any field for the postgraduate programs (with preference for those having counselling experience). Certificate and diploma programs accept high school or diploma holders.
As a niche institution dedicated solely to counsellor training, ODUCCP has state-of-the-art counselling labs, small class sizes, and intensive practicum opportunities. Its founder and faculty are highly specialised counsellors. ODUCCP is fully accredited by the Ghana Psychology Council for its programs.
ODUCCP’s fees for its M.A. in Counselling have been around GH¢20,000+ in recent years.
Contact: +233 244 854 044.
7. University of Health and Allied Sciences (UHAS)
UHAS, created in 2011, is Ghana’s premier health sciences university located in Ho (Volta Region).
It offers a combined B.Sc. and M.Sc. in Psychology program with specialisations (Clinical, Counselling, etc.), effectively producing counseling psychologists. Graduates can pursue licensure with the Psychology Council.
Entry Requirement is WASSCE credentials with credits in core subjects. Additional admission screening for health programs.
UHAS has modern facilities for health and psychological training, and its programs align with global standards in counseling psychology. The Counselling specialisation in its psychology program is accredited by GPC.
As a public university, local students’ fees are low (on the order of GH¢3,000 per year for science programs, ~$230). International tuition is higher.
Contact: +233 (0)362 334462 (Academic Affairs, Ho campus).
8. University for Development Studies (UDS)
UDS (established 1992) is a multi-campus public university (main campus in Tamale, Northern Region).
It offers programs in Psychology and Social Sciences that include counseling courses. For example, UDS runs an M.Phil in Psychology with counselling components and a B.Sc. in Social Work that covers guidance and counselling.
Entry Requirement is WASSCE credits in core subjects and relevant electives.
UDS is known for community-oriented programs in Northern Ghana. Its counseling and social work graduates serve underserved communities. The Tamale campus has counselling clinics for students and outreach.
Tuition for UDS is similar to other public universities: about GH¢2,000–3,000 per year for undergrads (~$160–$240).
Contact: +233 (0)3720 20415.
9. Presbyterian University College (PUC)
Presbyterian University College (PUC), Abetifi campus (founded 2003), is affiliated with the Presbyterian Church.
It offers education and leadership programs, including B.Ed. and M.Ed. degrees in Guidance and Counselling under its Faculty of Education. The curriculum is accredited by the National Accreditation Board and GPC.
Entry Requirement is WASSCE credits (including English and Math) are needed for undergraduate programs.
PUC has small class sizes and strong faculty support. Its counseling program leverages the university’s values-driven ethos and has dedicated counseling practicum partnerships with schools.
Tuition fees are around GH¢12,000 (~$900) per year for education programs.
Contact: +233 (0)3422 32095.
10. Methodist University Ghana
Methodist University Ghana (est. 2000) is a private institution near Accra.
It offers a Master’s in Counselling and Psychology and a B.Sc. in Counselling Psychology. (The M.Phil/M.Sc. Guidance and Counselling was launched in 2024.) Its programs are accredited by GTEC and GPC.
University entry requires WASSCE credits. Graduate programs require a relevant bachelor’s degree.
Methodist University has modern facilities and a growing reputation in social sciences. Its counseling programs emphasise practical skills and research.
The tuition fee is about GH¢15,000 (~$1,150) per year for graduate programs.
Contact: +233 (0)303 020303 (University Administration, Tema campus).
Accredited Counselling Courses in Ghana
| Institution | Location | Public/Private |
|---|---|---|
| University of Ghana (Legon) | Accra (Legon) | Public |
| Kwame Nkrumah University of Sci. & Tech. | Kumasi | Public |
| University of Cape Coast | Cape Coast | Public |
| University of Education, Winneba | Winneba | Public |
| University of Health & Allied Sciences | Ho | Public |
| University for Dev. Studies (UDS) | Tamale | Public |
| Ghana Institute of Management & Public Administration (GIMPA) | Accra | Public |
| Presbyterian University College | Abetifi | Private |
| Ghana Baptist University College | Tema | Private |
| Ghana Christian University College | Accra (Adenta) | Private |
| Valley View University | Accra (Dodowa) | Private |
| Methodist University Ghana | Tema | Private |
| All Nations University College | Kumasi (Manhyia) | Private |
| Catholic University College, Ghana | Fiapre (Sunyani) | Private |
| Central University College | Accra (Miotso) | Private |
| Ghana College of Physicians & Surgeons** | Accra | Public |
| Oheneba-Dornyo Univ. Coll. of Counselling Psychology | Accra | Private |
Note: The above institutions all offer accredited programs or courses in counselling, guidance, or applied psychology at the tertiary level. (Geographical locations and public/private status are indicated; all programs are approved by the Ghana Tertiary Education Commission and Ghana Psychology Council.)
Free and Online Counselling Courses
Ghanaians can supplement their education with many free online courses from global platforms. Examples include:
- Coursera offers counselling/psychology courses, e.g. “Foundations of Positive Psychology” (University of Pennsylvania) and “Addiction Treatment: Clinical Skills for Healthcare Providers”. Learners pay only if they need a certificate.
- edX hosts courses such as “Psychology of Mental Health” (University of Queensland) or “Essentials of Psychological First Aid” (Johns Hopkins). Most can be audited for free.
- Alison has a free diploma in mental health (e.g. “Diploma in Mental Health and Addiction Counselling”).
- FutureLearn offers short courses like “An Introduction to Counselling” and “Mental Health and Wellbeing in the Workplace” (free access option).
- OpenLearn (The Open University, UK) provides free learning modules, including “Counselling Skills for Healthcare” and “Understanding Mental Health”.
- Ghana-based platforms: Some NGOs and the Ministry of Education post webinars on counselling; the Africa Leadership and Management Academy (ALMA) occasionally offers free public courses on counselling-related topics.
These resources allow learners across Ghana to build counselling knowledge at no cost.
