What is a Christian Counseling Degree?
A Christian counseling degree program may allow students to follow a range of paths in their career in the Christian faith. This may include working as a social work, victim advocate, or church counselor. Students may earn their degree and secure state licensure in many cases. With versatile coursework, students may learn about Christ and use Christian beliefs and Biblical foundations to help provide psychological counseling to patients.
Types of Christian Counseling Degrees
Several levels or types of Christian counseling exist.
Bachelor’s Degree in Christian Counseling
A bachelor of science program is often a common starting point. Students may enter after completing high school with the required GPA. A GED may also help pursue admission into this program.
A bachelor’s program may be one of the first steps toward this career path. Students in this undergraduate degree may complete an online BS in Psychology – Christian Counseling. This may help meet the requirements for state licensure. Another faith based track is the Bachelor of Biblical Counseling. This could prepare a student for ministry.
SURVEY OF BIBLICAL LITERATURE
This course often looks at biblical literature. The primary focus may be in the history and the proper interpretation. It may be inclusive of theology.
HISTORY OF THE OLD TESTAMENT
With this course the old Testament is often looked at. The course may look at how to apply and teach the Old Testament in a current setting.
FAITH THERAPY
The basics of Faith Therapy may be covered in this class. The students may lean to apply faith to all types of problems. Problems including self image, self esteem, and self worth.
EFFECTIVE COUNSELING SKILLS
In this course the student may learn how to listen and observe. The ability to ask open ended questions may also be taught here. The course may also teaches how to summarize and paraphrase what the counselor hears from the questions.
MARRIAGE COUNSELING
This course usually teaches how to apply lessons from the bible to improve marriages. The course may typically looks at the differences with genders. It may also cover ways to improve the communication and in a marriage.
GROUP DYNAMICS
In this course students may learn to conduct counseling sessions with small groups. They may also learn how to inspire fellowship and interaction. Skills for effective listening could also be gained in this course.
Master’s Degree in Christian Counseling
A master’s program often offers a professional route. Students may explore areas interesting to them. They may take some leadership courses as well with the goal to refine skills.
Master’s degrees in this field aim to offer some concentration. An MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling is one route. Students may take electives to have an emphasis on Christian counseling. Another option is an M.A. in Human Services – Biblical Counseling. The focus here is usually on community and mission service.
COUNSELING SKILLS
This course may look at the counseling process. Covered may be the characteristics and behaviors that one uses in the healing process.
COUNSELING COUPLES AND FAMILIES
This course may examine the family dynamic. It often takes a broad approach and provides methods for assessing marriage, family and intervention.
PSYCHOPATHOLOGY
In the course the student often gets an introduction in mental illness. The course typically looks at the concepts of dysfunction both psychologically and behaviorally.
GROUP PROCESS AND TREATMENT
This course often provides an understanding of group dynamics and counseling theories. The course may explore the methods and skills required to do this. The types of leadership needed as well as defining roles for group members may also be covered.
PhD in Christian Counseling
Several graduate level programs are available. This includes an online Ph.D in Biblical Counseling, which often focuses on advanced principals in biblical counseling and numerous elective options. A Doctorate in Christian Counseling is another route, offering a focus on leadership roles. Graduate studies may be flexible. They are often for licensed counselors looking for concentration.
ISSUES IN BIBLICAL COUNSELING
This course usually looks at applications of Christian theology with biblical counseling. The course may look at multiple case studies to teach and deliver.
SURVEY OF BIBLICAL COUNSELING MODELS
This course typically emphasizes knowledge of biblical counseling models. The course may use biblical interpretation to apply theology to the needs of people.
LEGAL AND ETHICAL ISSUES IN COUNSELING
This course may look at the ethical and legal issues encountered by counselors. Topics covered may include confidentiality, record keeping and informed consent. Professional ethics could be a major subject covered in this course.
MULTI CULTURAL COUNSELING
This course may look at multicultural trends and how they apply to counseling. The course may look at clinical methods and practice and how to apply them to different groups. Groups considered in this course may include the disabled as well as different social classes.
How Long Could it Take to Earn a Christian Counseling Degree?
Students may work on this degree part time or full time. A typical bachelor’s degree takes about four years to complete. It may be possible to complete this program sooner with an accelerated program. A master’s degree or completing graduate school may take about two years to complete. A doctoral program could take about two years to complete as well.
How Much Does a Christian Counseling Degree Cost?
Many factors could influence the cost of Christian counseling degrees. Factors may include the level of education (bachelor’s program or master’s) and possibly an area of focus and electives selected. According to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), for the 2018/19 academic year it cost about $24,900 to attend a public 4 year college. This includes tuition, required fees, books and supplies and living on campus. The costs are higher ($51,900) at private non profit schools which many Christian colleges are.
Top 25 Colleges with Christian Counseling Degree Programs
Using NCES data, we compiled a list of the schools that awarded the most Christian Counseling degrees in 2018.
#1 LIBERTY UNIVERSITY
BS in Psychology – Christian Counseling (online)
This is a 120 credit hour four year program. This degree usually leads to students continuing on to a master’s program.
Courses Include:
- Christian Counseling for Marriage and Family
- Christian Counseling for Children
- Psychology for Christianity
Key Skills:
- Learn to be a counselor using the Christian foundation provided
More Programs:
MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
#2 MOODY BIBLE INSTITUTE
BA in Human Services (online)
This is a four year program. In this program an internship may be required to get experience in the counseling field.
Courses Include:
- Teaching the Bible Practicum
- Human Development
- Counseling Skills Training
- Abnormal Psychology
Key Skills:
- Group dynamics
- Listening
- Oral communication
More Programs:
N/A
#3 INDIANA WESLEYAN UNIVERSITY-MARION
BS in Christian Ministry Leadership (online)
This is a four year program that may require the completion of 120 credit hours. Upon completion many students may move out into the world of ministry.
Courses Include:
- Intro to Old Testament
- Methods in Bible Study
- Strategic Ministry Leadership
- New Models of Ministry
Key Skills:
- Lead others through strategic goals
- Grow in spirit
- Speak clearly about theology
More Programs:
N/A
#4 ANDREWS UNIVERSITY
MA in School Counseling (online)
This is a 60 credit, two year program. This program is typically geared towards elementary and secondary school counselors.
Courses Include:
- Group Process
- Psych Testing
- Human Development
- Professional Ethics for Counselors and Psychologists
Key Skills:
- Address developmental needs of students
- Working with the community and it’s leaders
More Programs:
N/A
#5 LEE UNIVERSITY
BA in Discipleship Ministry (online)
This is a four year 120 credit program. The aim is to be able to go and practice in the ministry upon graduation.
Courses Include:
- Mission of the Church
- Personal Evangelism
- Intro to Preaching and Teaching
- Spiritual Formation and Discipleship
Key Skills:
- Design and implement programs
- Small group dynamics
- Biblical knowledge of the church
More Programs:
BS in Discipleship Ministry
#6 LOYOLA UNIVERSITY CHICAGO
MA in Counseling for Ministry (online)
This is a four year program requiring 122 credits. There may be options for completing the degree and finishing up a masters and doctorate as well.
Courses Include:
- Foundations of Christian Ministry
- Leadership for Christian Ministry
- Intro to Expository Preaching
- Advanced Expository Preaching
Key Skills:
- Communications
- Group leadership
- Effective listening
More Programs:
N/A
#7 LOYOLA UNIVERSITY MARYLAND
Master’s in School Counseling (online)
This is a two year 51 credit program. The goal is to allow students to achieve the skills needed to work as school counselors.
Courses Include:
- Intro to School Counseling
- Marriage and Family Counseling
- Career Counseling
- Cross Cultural Counseling
Program Goals:
- Leadership
- Listening and comprehending
- Provide counseling services to students in all fields and needs
More Programs:
NA
#8 DALLAS THEOLOGICAL SEMINARY
MA in Biblical Counseling (online)
This is a 90 credit two year program. If taken online the total credits are 42. Students may learn to combine biblical principals and psychology for church.
Courses Include:
- Trinitarianism
- Soteriology
- Counseling Theory
- Abnormal Human Behavior
Program Goals:
- Knowledge of the Bible
- Understand the historical development of theology
- Applying theology to contemporary issues
More BA/BS Programs:
NA
#9 GEORGE FOX UNIVERSITY
BA in Christian Ministries (online)
This is a four year 120 credit hour degree program. Many graduates may pursue positions in nursing, counseling, or social work.
Courses Include:
- Old Testament
- Theological Ethics
- Biblical Interpretation
- Christian Discipling
Program Goals:
- Identify orthodox Christian doctrines
- Analyze global theological developments
- Develop healthy relationships
More Programs:
BA in Religion – Biblical Counseling | BA in Religion – Christian Worldview | MA in Ministry | MA in Biblical Counseling
#10 VALOR CHRISTIAN COLLEGE
AAS in Christian Ministries (online)
This is a two year program that requires 63 credit hours. Many students may plan to continue to a four year program to obtain a bachelor’s.
Courses Include:
- Old Testament
- Intro to Christian Leadership
- Marriage and Family
- Pneumatology
Key Skills:
- Analyze biblical knowledge
- Have a broad understanding of the Church
- General knowledge of the Bible
- Learn to understand individual interests
More Programs:
N/A
#11 ORAL ROBERTS UNIVERSITY
BA in Christian Caregiving and Counseling (online)
This is a four year 124 credit hour program. The goal of many students may be to continue on to a master’s program.
Courses Include:
- Christian Leadership
- Crisis Intervention
- Developing Helping Skills
- Developmental Psychology
Key Skills:
- Research
- Counseling
- Ministry
More Programs:
N/A
#12 NEW ORLEANS BAPTIST THEOLOGICAL SEMINARY
BA in Christian Ministry (online)
This is a four year program that may require the completion of 121 credit hours. This program may be fully online and may offer many minors to coincide with it.
Courses Include:
- Marriage and Family Issues
- World Religions
- New Testament Survey
- Christine Doctrine
Key Skills:
- Leadership
- Group dynamics
- Effective communication
- Effective listening
More Programs:
N/A
#13 LIFE PACIFIC UNIVERSITY
BA in Ministry and Leadership (online)
This is a four year, 120 credit in total program. The program may be completed online with many students continuing into a master’s program.
Courses Include:
- Old Testament Foundations
- Intercultural Ministry
- Christian Counseling
- Foundations of Leadership
Key Skills:
- Leadership
- Relationship building
- Effective communications
- Group dynamics
More Programs:
AA in Biblical Studies | MA in Theological Studies
#14 TRINITY INTERNATIONAL UNIVERSITY-ILLINOIS
BA in Christian Ministries (online)
This is a program that may be completed in as little as three years and requires 124 credits. Many students may continue to a master’s program.
Courses Include:
- Christine Doctrine
- Teaching the Bible
- Relational Skills for Ministry
- Principles of Ministry Programming
Key Skills:
- Communication skills
- Analytical reasoning
- Qualitative reasoning
More Programs:
N/A
#15 SOUTHEASTERN BAPTIST THEOLOGICAL SEMINARY
MA in Ministry to Women with Biblical Counseling (online)
This is a two year program that requires 64 credits to complete. Many students may end up having a career in social work or counseling.
Courses Include:
- Counseling Women
- Ministry to Teen Girls
- Current Trends in Ministry to Women
- Writing and Publishing as Ministry
Key Skills:
- Develop ministry opportunities
- Counseling
- Writing
- Communications
More Programs:
N/A
#16 CATHOLIC THEOLOGICAL UNION AT CHICAGO
MA in Spiritual Ministry (online)
This program requires the completion of 36 credit hours. Many students may move onto a career in ministry.
Courses Include:
- Intro to Old Testament
- Survey of Systemic Theology
- Spiritual Companioning for Ministry
- Spiritual Classics of the Patristic Era
Key Skills:
- Growth in spiritual formation
- Effective pastoral leadership
- Communications
- Constructive reflection
More Programs:
N/A
#17 LANCASTER BIBLE COLLEGE
BS in Marriage, Couple, and Family Counseling (online)
This program may allow students to earn a master’s and bachelor’s in five years with a total of 163 credits. Students if completing this program may go into some form of counseling career.
Courses Include:
- Engaging Faith and Life
- Interpreting the Bible
- General Psychology
- Christian Service
Key Skills:
- Preparation for professional licensure
- Communications
- Leadership
- Group dynamics
More Programs:
MA in Marriage, Couple, and Family Counseling
#18 UNIVERSIDAD PENTECOSTAL MIZPA
BA in Christian Counseling (online)
This is a four year 132 credit program. Students who complete this program primarily continue to work towards a master’s degree.
Courses Include:
- Intro to the Bible
- Intro to the New Testament
- Christian Service
- Intro to Theology
Key Skills:
- Education
- Communications
- Leadership
- Group programs
More Programs:
N/A
#19 UNIVERSITY OF ST THOMAS
BS in Social Work (online)
This is a four year program. The goal of this program is for students to pursue careers in entry level positions or to continue to go through a master’s.
Courses Include:
- The Anatomy of Violence
- Social Policy for Change
- Social Work Research
- People and Environment
Key Skills:
- Interpersonal communication
- Group interaction
- Establish relationships
- Active listening
More Programs:
Master of Social Work | Doctorate of Social Work
#20 SOUTHWESTERN BAPTIST THEOLOGICAL SEMINARY
BA in Christian Studies (online)
This is a four year program requiring 122 credits. There may be options for completing the degree and finishing up a masters and doctorate as well.
Courses Include:
- Foundations of Christian Ministry
- Leadership for Christian Ministry
- Intro to Expository Preaching
- Advanced Expository Preaching
Key Skills:
- Communications
- Group leadership
- Effective listening
More Programs:
N/A
#21 BAPTIST BIBLE COLLEGE
BS in Christian Leadership (online)
This is a four year program requiring 122 credits. There may be options for completing the degree and finishing up a masters and doctorate as well.
Courses Include:
- General Psychology
- Communication for Leaders
- Sharing and Defending the Faith
- History of Baptists
Key Skills:
- Manage employees
- Leadership
- Develop budgets
- Teach understanding of the Bible
More Programs:
N/A
#22 EPISCOPAL THEOLOGICAL SEMINARY OF THE SOUTHWEST
MA in Clinical Health (online)
This is a three year program requiring the completion of 60 credit hours. The goal of this program is to pass the state exam and to become a professional counselor.
Courses Include:
- Foundations of Christian Ministry
- Leadership for Christian Ministry
- Intro to Expository Preaching
- Advanced Expository Preaching
Key Skills:
- Self awareness
- Openness
- Cultural empathy
- Group work
More Programs:
N/A
#23 LUTHER RICE COLLEGE & SEMINARY
BA in Religion Biblical Studies – Biblical Counseling (online)
This is a four year, 120 credit hour program. Many students may continue to pursue a degree on the master’s level in counseling or a career as a pastor, or church counselor.
Courses Include:
- Personal Evangelism
- Life of Christ
- Principles of Counseling
- Vocational Counseling
Key Skills:
- Leadership
- Communications
- Group organization
- Effective listening
More Programs:
BA in Religion Ministry BA in Religion – Biblical Counseling | BA in Religion Christian Worldview
#24 BETHEL SEMINARY-SAN DIEGO
BA in Psychology (online)
This is a four year program with 122 credits requires. Many students may continue on to a master’s degree in a related program.
Courses Include:
- Lifespan Development
- Adult Development and Aging
- History of Psychology
- Social Psychology
Key Skills:
- Research
- Counseling
- Critical thinking
- Communication
More Programs:
MA in Counseling
#25 LOYOLA MARYMOUNT UNIVERSITY
MA in Counseling (online)
This is a 60 credit, two year program. There are two course paths to choose from in this program.
Courses Include:
- Foundations of Counseling
- Helping Skills
- Ethical and Legal Issues
- Group Counseling
Key Skills:
- Leadership
- Effective listening
- Group activities
- Research
More Programs:
N/A
Accreditation
Accreditation for many degrees comes from the Council for Accreditation of Counseling. Some may also come from the Association of Certified Biblical Counselors. Yet another is the American Association of Christian Counselors (AACC).
Is an Online Degree in Christian Counseling Worth it?
A Christian counseling degree may be worth it for those who wish to work as Christian counselors. Those interested in working in counseling centers may find this degree helpful. Online Christian counseling degree programs may prepare students to work in a range of environments. That includes private practice, professional counseling in schools, and other areas of the Christian faith.
How Much Could You Earn?
A degree in Pastoral Studies / Counseling may prepare you for various secular and ministry focused roles. Many of these jobs entail at least a bachelor’s degree or higher. According to 2019 O*NET data:
| PHILOSOPY & RELIGIOUS PROFESSOR Median Wage: $75,240 | A theology professor may research as well as lecture students in two and four year colleges. Many of these occupations require a four-year bachelor’s degree, but some do not. Job growth is expected to be 5 to 7% through 2029. |
| CLERGY (Pastor / Priest) Median Wage: $54,400 | A preaching minister needs to be an effective sermon writer and public speaker. And, must have fluent knowledge of scripture. They are in charge of a Christian church or congregation. In this role, one often performs ceremonies like weddings. Job growth through 2029 is expected to be average at 3 to 4%. Many of these occupations require graduate school. For example, they may require a master’s degree, and some require a Ph.D. |
| DIRECTORS OF RELIGOUS ACTIVITIES & EDUCATION Median Wage: $43,860 | A women’s or youth ministry director may coordinate or craft programs and outreach to promote certain values and activities. Depending on the role, they may offer counseling, rooted in Christian values and the Bible. These roles are expected to grow 3 to 4% through 2029. Many of these occupations require a four year bachelor’s degree, but some do not. |
A degree in Clinical Pastoral Counseling may prepare you for various counseling focused roles. Many of these jobs entail at least a bachelor’s degree or higher. According to 2019 O*NET data:
| MENTAL HEALTH COUNSELOR Median Wage: $46,240 | A mental health counselor works with clients to promote positive mental health. They may work to avoid suicide attempts and help people to find insights into themselves. 62% of employers hiring for these roles prefer a masters degree. According to the BLS, job growth is expected to be 25% through 2029. |
| MARRIAGE & FAMILY THERAPIST Median Wage: $ 49,610 | This type of therapist works with families to treat emotional disorders. Other topics they may cover include unhappy relationships, raising kids and money troubles. According to BLS, job growth through 2029 is expected to be much faster than average at 22%. 79% of employers prefer for applicants to have at least a masters degree. Some require a Ph.D. |
How Much Do Marriage & Family Therapists Make?
As provided by BLS, the 2019 median salary by state is:
| State | Salary | Employment |
|---|---|---|
| Alabama | $40,930 | 260 |
| Alaska | $58,520 | 50 |
| Arizona | $48,030 | 1,000 |
| Arkansas | $50,180 | 110 |
| California | $46,450 | 31,710 |
| Colorado | $58,660 | 800 |
| Connecticut | $48,350 | 370 |
| Delaware | NA | NA |
| Florida | $42,190 | 1,990 |
| Georgia | $49,790 | 130 |
| Hawaii | $67,200 | 150 |
| Idaho | $46,790 | 120 |
| Illinois | $55,610 | 1,150 |
| Indiana | $45,630 | 740 |
| Iowa | $50,750 | 760 |
| Kansas | $43,380 | 200 |
| Kentucky | $40,120 | 450 |
| Louisiana | $36,630 | 70 |
| Maine | $61,940 | NA |
| Maryland | $48,560 | 1,590 |
| Massachusetts | $47,510 | 710 |
| Michigan | $43,130 | 230 |
| Minnesota | $56,810 | 1,380 |
| Mississippi | $37,900 | 130 |
| Missouri | $46,330 | 270 |
| Montana | $45,780 | 40 |
| Nebraska | $35,930 | 310 |
| Nevada | $56,720 | 400 |
| New Hampshire | $45,630 | 40 |
| New Jersey | $75,660 | 4,300 |
| New Mexico | $49,160 | 130 |
| New York | $53,390 | 1,440 |
| North Carolina | $41,610 | 400 |
| North Dakota | $45,340 | 110 |
| Ohio | $47,630 | 420 |
| Oklahoma | $53,300 | 570 |
| Oregon | $53,950 | 370 |
| Pennsylvania | $62,320 | 1,820 |
| Rhode Island | NA | NA |
| South Carolina | NA | 200 |
| South Dakota | $38,840 | 170 |
| Tennessee | $37,740 | 850 |
| Texas | $48,860 | 630 |
| Utah | $69,300 | 640 |
| Vermont | NA | NA |
| Virginia | $50,380 | 550 |
| Washington | $48,880 | 140 |
| West Virginia | $43,370 | 180 |
| Wisconsin | $54,650 | 550 |
| Wyoming | $60,230 | 40 |