Seven Most Common Questions About Christian Counseling Degree Programs

Submitted by Don Ibbitson on Wed, 06/15/2011 - 11:21am

Our Counseling Academy offers distance learning programs through the National Christian Counselors Association (NCCA) so motivated students can earn MA or PhD Degrees in Clinical Christian Counseling and be licensed with the NCCA. Here are responses to the seven most asked questions: 

1.       How long does it take to complete the program?
Answer: Because the program is modular, pay as you go and completely home study, the truthful answer is how hard is the student willing to work? We have had students complete the MA program in approximately a year and the PhD program in fourteen months. We encourage them to schedule their study sessions like appointments and not just do them when there is time left over. I completed the bulk of my studies during lunch at work when I would find a quiet place to eat and study.
2.       Do I get a state license?
Answer:  The licensing is with the NCCA and is at the clinical pastoral counselor level. Each state has its own licensing requirements that typically involve university courses and credits. Our degrees are seminary degrees and most useful typically in church/ministry environments.
3.       What college/seminary do I get my degree from?
Answer: The NCCA has a list of seminaries (currently nine) that the student can choose from. See our website for a complete listing.
4.       Are there jobs available when I graduate?
Answer: Each student should be sure of their calling to the counseling ministry. Within that context, they are encouraged to explore opportunities in their own church, other churches and counseling centers. Many elect to set up their own counseling ministry.
5.       Can I get credit for past courses taken?
Answer: That depends! If you have accredited counseling courses from other institutions we can often apply them towards the advanced course requirements.
6.       I don’t have a BA degree. How do I get a Masters?
Answer: We have a “fast-track” program for mature students (typically 30 years of age or older) to gain a BA degree quickly so they can qualify for the Masters.
7.       Do you have financial aid?
Answer: We do not financial aid programs available ourselves and the students are encouraged to explore those on their own. We have made the program as affordable as possible by segmenting them into modules that typically cost between $700 and $900 each.
 
I knew almost twenty five years ago that there was a ministry call upon my life and really did not believe it was for pastoring. When the doors of opportunity for counseling and deliverance ministry opened up for me, I knew I was heading down the right path? Does that speak to you? 

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