Home California Baptist University Counseling Ministry, M.A....
Counseling Ministry, M.A.
The Counseling Ministry, M.A. program is designed to prepare students to offer counseling services within a faith-based context, integrating psychological principles with spiritual and pastoral care. It equips students with the skills and knowledge necessary to provide guidance and support to individuals, couples, and families facing emotional, relational, or spiritual challenges, all while being grounded in Christian ministry and ethics.
Program Summary: The Master of Arts in Counseling Ministry focuses on the integration of counseling theory and practice with religious values and spiritual care. Students in this program learn a variety of counseling techniques, including individual therapy, group counseling, and crisis intervention, while also exploring topics such as pastoral care, spiritual guidance, and theology. The program emphasizes ethical practice, cultural competency, and the development of a holistic approach to healing that addresses both the emotional and spiritual well-being of clients. Through coursework, supervised clinical training, and practical ministry experience, students are prepared to work as counselors, chaplains, or pastoral care providers within churches, religious organizations, or counseling centers.
Key Learning Outcomes:
- Develop effective counseling techniques tailored to a faith-based context, including pastoral counseling and spiritual guidance.
- Understand and apply psychological theories and therapeutic interventions in a ministry setting.
- Gain practical experience in providing counseling and pastoral care in diverse community and church environments.
- Explore ethical, theological, and cultural considerations in counseling ministry practice.
- Build strong communication and empathetic listening skills to support clients through emotional and spiritual challenges.
Graduates of the program are prepared to work as counselors, pastoral care providers, chaplains, or in other roles within faith-based organizations, offering both emotional support and spiritual guidance to individuals and communities.
Requirements
Listed below are the documents required to apply for this course.
4-Year Bachelor's Degree
70 %
Total: 6.0
Reading
0.0
Writing
0.0
Listening
0.0
Speaking
0.0
Total: 80.0
Reading
0.0
Writing
0.0
Listening
0.0
Speaking
0.0
The **Counseling Ministry, M.A.** program typically has the following prerequisites: 1. **Bachelor's Degree**: A completed undergraduate degree from an accredited institution is required. While many programs prefer a background in psychology, theology, or ministry, students from other disciplines may also be considered, provided they meet other requirements. 2. **Grade Point Average (GPA)**: A competitive GPA, usually around 2.5 to 3.0 on a 4.0 scale, may be required for admission. Some programs may require a higher GPA, particularly for students without a related undergraduate background. 3. **Personal Statement/Essay**: A personal statement or essay explaining the applicant's interest in counseling ministry, career goals, and how their faith and academic background have prepared them for the program. 4. **Letters of Recommendation**: Typically, two or more letters of recommendation from academic or professional references who can speak to the applicant's character, academic abilities, and suitability for counseling ministry. 5. **Relevant Experience**: While not always required, any previous experience in ministry, counseling, or social work can strengthen an application. Some programs may prefer applicants who have experience in church or community ministry settings. 6. **Interview**: Some programs may conduct an interview to assess the applicant's suitability for the counseling ministry field, their spiritual maturity, and their readiness for graduate-level studies in a counseling context. 7. **Theological Understanding**: Some programs may require students to have a basic understanding of Christian theology or church history, as the program integrates faith-based principles with counseling practices. 8. **Writing Sample**: Some institutions may ask for a writing sample or academic paper to assess writing proficiency and ability to articulate complex ideas.
Program Level
Program Length
Tuition fee
Application fee
Upcoming Intakes
- Sep 2025
- Sep 2026
