Master in Christian Counseling
If you want to make a difference in the lives of others or you are religiously or spiritually inclined, becoming a Christian counselor can be a good option for you. Christian counselors extend counseling services and rehabilitation support to children, adolescents, adults with addictions and other problems. They use religious studies to help people get over their problems and improve the quality of their lives. A number of degree programs are offered in Christian counseling that can prepare you for this career.
Christian Counseling Programs
Degrees in Christian counseling combine Christian morals with psychology and theories. Both campus-based as well as online schools offer degrees in Christian counseling. Students can pursue undergraduate or graduate degrees and learn about the teachings of the Bible and how they can be useful to help people get over depression and other problems. Students in the Christian counseling programs get a chance to develop communication, analytical and problem-solving skills. They are required to complete case studies in addition to coursework. In some programs such as the doctoral in counseling, candidate may also need to complete a clinical practicum.
The coursework in Christian counseling programs may include a variety of topics such as child psychology, the Old and New Testaments, Biblical Crisis Counseling, Marriage and Family Counseling and Addiction Counseling. Classes are also available in counseling with Biblical Principles for Grief, Loss and Trauma and Cultural Diversity.
To become a Christian counselor, students must also hold a certification or a license. The requirements for licensure vary by state but generally candidates need to hold a master's degree and have related work experience.
Master in Christian Counseling
The master's degrees in Christian counseling are suitable for candidates who wish to pursue a career as licensed marriage counselors and family therapists. The coursework in these programs include topics such as Biblical Change, Biblical Processes in Marital Therapy and Techniques of selected counseling theories.
Online Christian Counseling Programs
The online programs in Christian counseling are also available. These programs can be a great learning option for students who want to keep up with their personal or professional commitment alongside their educational goals. The online degree programs provide students with several learning technologies such as e learning software, online libraries, chat forums and more. Through these tools, learners can study from any location anytime that fits their schedule. Counselors who are already working can pursue advanced degrees online and earn valuable credentials without giving up their existing routine.
Admissions Requirements
Students who want to pursue a degree in Christian counseling should hold a high school diploma or GED. They may have to submit their ACT or SAT scores. Other requirements for admissions may vary by school.
Career Prospects
Graduates of Christian counseling degrees can find work opportunities in a variety of settings. They can work in schools, colleges, universities, churches or involve in private or group practice. They may offer counseling services online. Christian counselors can also become speakers or authors.