School of Counseling Archives - 91³Ô¹Ï Walk a different path. Tue, 24 Mar 2026 16:12:19 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.9.4 Community Counseling (MA) | Online | In-Person /community-counseling-ma/ Fri, 05 Sep 2025 14:04:37 +0000 /?page_id=97121

Community Counseling (MA)

The Master of Arts in Community Counseling program at 91³Ô¹Ï offers a biblically grounded and academically rigorous graduate degree for individuals seeking advanced training and education in counseling, without necessarily aiming for licensure as a professional counselor. This 45-credit MA program can be completed in two years with full-time enrollment and fosters a comprehensive learning environment focused on students’ academic, spiritual, and character development. Through engaging lectures, hands-on counseling skills laboratories, and collaborative fellowship with fellow graduate students, this program equips learners to better serve the church and their communities through counseling.Ìý

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Our Distinctives

The MA in Community Counseling is designed to provide training for biblically minded Christians who wish to provide counseling services in a variety of contexts within Christian and secular settings. The core courses and counseling laboratories provide a deep learning environment where counseling skills are taught along with character development and the interpersonal growth necessary for effective counseling.Ìý

91³Ô¹Ï Ranks #2 in Glanzer’s Guide to Christian Colleges and Universities. At 91³Ô¹Ï, we work hard to ensure that everything we do inside and outside the classroom aligns with our commitment to Christian education, clearly articulated in our University mission statement.

Weekly Labs

Students participate in weekly labs which provide hands-on skill-building, peer feedback, and role-playing.

Biblically Rooted

At Cairn, we are rooted in the Scriptures; it is the foundation of everything we do whether it is in the classroom, on the field, or out in our local community.

Strong Academics

At Cairn, we prepare you for life in the real world with great academics and professors with real-life experience.

Affordable

Cairn is an affordable option among private Christian schools. Cairn Online degrees ranked among most affordable in PA in 2025.

Program Description

The MA in Community Counseling aims to teach students biblical principles involved in understanding human behavior, their problems, and the process of change. Over two years of full-time study, students develop counseling skills applicable across diverse contexts, grounded in biblical standards. Graduates will gain comprehensive knowledge of the counseling profession’s role in mental health care and a biblically informed approach to fostering meaningful change.

This program does NOT lead to licensure.

Curriculum Highlights

The MA in Community Counseling is a 45 credit program. It includes 39 credits from the core curriculum and 6 credits in Bible and Theology.Ìý

Core Curriculum Courses

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Knowledge
  1. Knowledge of the history of psychology and counseling and its role in the development of current practice trends
  2. Knowledge of the counseling profession
  3. Knowledge of counseling theory
  4. Knowledge of the standards of ethical and professional practice
  5. Knowledge of the taxonomy of psychopathology, the development of maladaptive behavior, and current approaches to treatment
  6. Knowledge of marriage and family process and the skills necessary for couples and family counseling
  7. Knowledge of group processes, and procedures for effectively leading support and treatment groups
  8. Knowledge of mental health and counseling challenges as they appear across diverse cultural contexts
  9. Knowledge of career assessment and counseling
Skills

Students are expected to develop a degree of mastery in the use of foundational counseling skills as well as in the assessment of client problems. Students are equipped with a number of specific skills necessary to provide high-quality, ethically sound counseling and include:

  1. Biblically centered case conceptualization of psychopathology
  2. Navigating and resolving interpersonal conflict
  3. Individual assessment skills
  4. Self-assessment and reflective skills
  5. Academic research and writing skills
  6. Application of professional ethics standards
  7. Assessing group dynamics
  8. Group counseling procedures
  9. Assessment of couples and family processes
  10. Couples and family counseling methods
Maturity

Students are expected to demonstrate growth in the following areas as evidenced in routine faculty assessments:

  1. Application of biblical wisdom in the development and the capacity for self-evaluation and change
  2. Awareness and sensitivity to the presentation of psychopathology and counseling issues across diverse, pluralistic contexts and the ability to use discretion in the evaluation of culturally normative behavior
  3. Flexibility and adaptability
  4. Relational maturity with fellow students, faculty and staff
  5. Healthy boundaries and self-care
  6. Exercising biblical wisdom in prioritizing competing life responsibilities

All 91³Ô¹Ï students must have professed a faith in Jesus Christ as Savior as evidenced by providing a personal testimony that details this faith. By submitting an application, students acknowledge the University’s doctrinal position and standards of conduct as outlined in theÌýFoundational Statements. Below are the admission requirements:

  • Application:ÌýSubmit theÌýApplication for AdmissionÌýalong with the $25 non-refundable fee. Apply today using codeÌýfaithmatters, and we will waive the fee.Ìý
  • Personal Testimony: Describe your conversion to Christ, spiritual growth, and church involvement. (250-500 words)
  • Statement of Purpose: This program is a significant time commitment. In 500 words, explain how you have evaluated your readiness to manage competing responsibilities and priorities while pursuing this degree, as well as how obtaining this degree aligns with your long-term goals.
  • Transcripts: Order official transcripts for all conferred degrees to be sent to 91³Ô¹Ï.

The Statement of Purpose and transcript requests can be submitted via the student portal once you submit the application.Ìý

91³Ô¹Ï strives to keep tuition costs affordable despite providing a rigorous education. Courses are taught by Cairn faculty and not TAs.

The tuition rates for the 2026-2027 academic year for full-time status (6 credits per semester) are:Ìý

Online: $580/creditÌý

Onsite: $725/credit

Additional details on fees and part-time status are available on this page.Ìý

91³Ô¹Ï also partners with many organizations and offers tuition discounts. Tuition discounts are also available for those working in Christian schools.ÌýPlease contact us to find out if your organization has a partnership with 91³Ô¹Ï.Ìý

Additional information on scholarships, grants, and loans is available fromÌýthis page.Ìý

A Master of Arts in Community Counseling equips graduates with skills in counseling, ethical practice, and Christ-centered therapeutic approaches, opening doors to roles that blend spiritual guidance with mental health support in ministry, church, and community settings.

Key Career Paths:
  • Pastoral Counselor or Christian Counselor: Provide faith-integrated therapy for individuals, couples, or families dealing with emotional, relational, or spiritual challenges in church or private practice settings. This role combines counseling theories with biblical principles, often focusing on areas like marriage, addiction recovery, or trauma.
  • Church or Ministry Counselor: Serve as a staff member in local churches, offering one-on-one or group counseling to congregants on issues like grief, personal development, or adolescent mental health, while supporting pastoral teams.
  • Chaplain: Deliver spiritual and emotional support in non-church environments, such as hospitals, military bases, prisons, schools, or hospices. Responsibilities include crisis intervention, ethical guidance, and ceremonies, requiring adaptability to diverse faith backgrounds.
  • Youth or Adolescent Counselor: Work in church youth programs, Christian camps, or schools to guide teens through identity, peer pressure, or faith-related struggles, using group work and developmental counseling techniques.
  • Marriage and Family Therapist (Faith-Based): Specialize in relational counseling within ministry contexts, helping couples and families navigate conflicts, parenting, or divorce through a Christian lens, often in church-based family ministries.
  • Missionary or International Ministry Worker: Provide counseling services abroad or in cross-cultural settings, supporting expatriates, locals, or mission teams with mental health needs amid spiritual outreach.
  • Community Outreach or Advocacy Leader: Lead faith-based nonprofits or initiatives addressing community issues like substance abuse, homelessness, or family support, incorporating group counseling and assessment skills.
  • 91³Ô¹Ï or Camp Counselor: Support spiritual and emotional growth in Christian schools, universities, or summer camps, facilitating group activities and assessments for young adults or children.

91³Ô¹Ï is regionally accredited byÌý (MSCHE).

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91³Ô¹Ï participates in theÌý.

Additional Accreditation Information is available from this page.Ìý

Philip A a counseling student at 91³Ô¹Ï.

“My journey at Cairn has been truly joyful. Looking back, I did not anticipate the depth of transformation I would undergo. It wasn’t just that the program imparted a comprehensive foundation of knowledge; the expert faculty enriched my experience with their meaningful guidance and compassion. In my heart, I am deeply grateful, inspired, and empowered.”

– Phillip A.

FAQs

Can I become a licensed counselor if I graduate from your program?

No, the MA in Community Counseling program does notÌýlead to licensure. If you are looking for a program that leads to licensure, you may want to consider theÌýMS in Counseling program. You can, however, return to complete the third year of study and satisfy the required hours for licensure in states where the program has been approved.Ìý

In summary, only the Master of Science in Counseling (MSC) program meets the educational requirements for licensure.
The Master of Arts in Community Counseling is a shorter program that does not fulfill licensure requirements. This degree can typically be completed in two years of full-time study, whereas the MSC is a 60-credit program usually completed in three years of full-time enrollment.

Both programs share a common core curriculum during the first two years, which includes the following foundational courses:

CSG 601: Counseling Theory and Helping Relationships
CSG 602: Helping Relationships Laboratory
CSG 611: Psychopathology, Assessment, Diagnosis, and Treatment in Counseling
CSG 612: Individual Assessment Laboratory
CSG 701: Marriage and Family Counseling
CSG 702: Marriage and Family Counseling Laboratory
CSG 711: Group Counseling: Dynamics, Theory, and Practice
CSG 712: Small Groups Laboratory

Many agencies and institutions hire individuals for mental health roles that require a graduate degree in counseling, psychology, social work, or a related field—but do not require licensure.
These positions are often found in settings such as inpatient psychiatric facilities, outpatient clinics, and residential treatment programs. In such roles, unlicensed professionals typically work under the supervision of a licensed clinician, contributing to the implementation of treatment plans. Responsibilities may include facilitating psychoeducational groups, conducting individual coaching or counseling sessions, supervising program activities, and participating in interdisciplinary treatment team meetings.

Additionally, many individuals pursue the Master of Arts in Community Counseling to enhance their ministry work. Those serving in pastoral roles often seek advanced training in counseling to strengthen their ability to provide discipleship and spiritual guidance within their congregations. The MA in Counseling is an excellent option for those looking to integrate counseling skills into church-based ministry.

There are six entry points in the program: September, October, January, March, May, and July.Ìý

Provided you submit the enrollment materials, applications are typically processed within 2 weeks of submitting your application.Ìý

One of the key distinctives of our counseling programs is the use of theological principles to conceptualize clinical mental health issues. Students are equipped to conceptualize mental health issues through a Christian theological lens, drawing on biblical principles to inform their understanding of human behavior, suffering, and healing. At the same time, they receive robust training in the clinical language, frameworks, and evidence-based practices necessary to function effectively across a wide range of treatment settings.

A hallmark of the program is its four semesters of counseling laboratory training. These labs provide in-depth, hands-on experience in developing core counseling skills within a highly supportive and realistic environment. Through simulated counseling sessions that closely mirror real-life scenarios, students gain the confidence and competence needed to transition seamlessly into professional or ministerial roles upon graduation. This dual emphasis on theological insight and clinical excellence prepares graduates to serve with both compassion and credibility in diverse contexts.

Also, 91³Ô¹Ï Ranks #2 in Glanzer’s Guide to Christian Colleges and Universities. This achievement is a testament to our unwavering commitment to our mission, evident in every aspect of our institution from our curriculum to our governance.

Next Steps

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Interested in our counseling programs with weekly labs?Ìý Complete this form to connect with an admissions advisor for personalized guidance on schedules, costs, and application steps. We’re here to help you take the next step!

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Success Stories

]]> The Value of a Biblical Counseling Master’s Degree /the-value-of-a-biblical-counseling-masters-degree/ Tue, 17 Jun 2025 19:39:50 +0000 /?p=96006

A counseling degree, perhaps more than other graduate programs, challenges individuals with the amount of both technical work and vulnerability. Tasked with taking on stressful situations, completing homework, and keeping up with your personal social life, you have a lot to juggle, mentally and emotionally. As a Christian, the education you choose to equip you in your calling is important. Consequently, we believe a biblical counseling master’s degree sets you apart and up for success.

Don’t get us wrong. A secular counseling education can, no doubt, prove valuable. The principles, theology, peers, and professors, however, that make up a counseling program matter.

. For now, though, let’s focus on the reasons that are at the top of your mind:

1. Your Peers and Professors Share Your Beliefs.

A community that shares what you believe, especially when counseling requires taking on the burdens of others, encouragement and exhortation, means that much more. Professors will teach what you believe. Cohort counseling sessions are designed to reinforce those values. Your peers will give feedback that align with your values. Together, it creates a holistic program made up of people supporting and encouraging you in a unique way.

2. You Have Access to Your Ideal Network.

Like any graduate program, pursuing a counseling degree opens the door to valuable networking opportunities. In a biblical counseling program, those connections uniquely align with your values and calling. You won’t just meet classmates and professors; you’ll build relationships with people who share your faith, worldview, and passion for Christ-centered care. These connections often lead to internships, job placements, ministry partnerships, and long-term mentorships within churches, Christian schools, counseling centers, and nonprofit organizations.

3. You'll be Able to Serve Anywhere.

What you believe about Scripture informs how you see people, conflict, and resolution—in other words, the very essence of counseling. While a secular university can educate you on technical terms, best practices, and other crucial skills in the counseling field, a biblical master’s counseling degree takes you to the next level. It prepares you to engage with the whole of the person on a technical, spiritual, and emotional level.

Choosing a biblical counseling master’s degree also means you receive hands-on practical training that prepares you for any kind of counseling field you end up in. While a secular education only prepares you to navigate the world through a secular lens, a Christian education will prepare you to take on any kind of counseling.

4. Your Biblical Counseling Master’s Degree Reinforces Your Calling.

In a Christian counseling program, you won’t be prepared just for a job. You will be cared for holistically, and that means your career is treated as more than a job. It’s a calling, a way to serve others with the skills the Lord has gifted you with. You’ll be encouraged to grow spiritually, emotionally, and professionally so you can walk alongside others with compassion, wisdom, and grace.

Conclusion: The Value of a Biblical Counseling Master’s Degree.

If you’re passionate about helping people and want an education that’s committed to both excellence and faith, consider Cairn. At Cairn, you’ll find more than a program, You’ll find purpose, people, and a way to walk a different path.

Additional Resources

Still thinking it through? As you continue to explore a counseling degree, we’ve got a few resources to address your questions and concerns. Check them out below!

Relevant Posts

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online vs in person masters in counseling

Online vs In Person Master’s in Counseling: Which is for You?

January 28, 2025
ma vs ms in counseling

MA vs. MS in Counseling: Which Degree is Right for You?

November 25, 2024
]]> Online vs In Person Master’s in Counseling: Which is for You? /online-vs-in-person-masters-in-counseling-which-is-for-you/ Tue, 28 Jan 2025 14:20:25 +0000 /?p=93850

So, you’re ready to pursue a master’s in counseling. That’s great! This is a significant step in your journey to professionally investing in the lives of others. One of the biggest questions you may face as you work on pursuing your degree is the online vs in person master’s in counseling debate. Particularly because aÌýquality counseling degree requires a level of vulnerability, community, and personalized faculty and peer interaction. Subsequently, you may wonder what modality makes the most sense not only financially, but also for your growth as a Christian professional.

At 91³Ô¹Ï, we understand that students pursuing a Christian counseling master’s degree often seek a program that supports their calling while accommodating their busy lives. We’ve put together a breakdown of the pros and cons of online and in person (and as a bonus, hybrid!) counseling programs, viewed through the lens of faith that we hope provides clarity to take the next step!

More Than an Impulsive Decision

Every decision you make is informed by who you are. For you, it’s being a Christian. That means in addition to the financial aspect of a master’s program, these factors determine where and how to study:

  • Calling: Where do you see God leading you? An online program may fit if you’re called to serve in your current community, while an in-person program might better prepare you for a ministry-centered role that you already find yourself set up for.
  • Accountability: Consider which format will best support genuine spiritual growth and discipline.
  • Impact: How could each option allow you to integrate biblical truth into your studies and future counseling practice?

At 91³Ô¹Ï, both our MS and MA programs are grounded in Christian values (and if you aren’t sure if an MS or an MA is better for you, after you read this blog, check out our other blog: MA vs. MS in Counseling: Which Degree is Right for You?). These programs equip you to serve others with compassion and integrity without compromising a Christian education.

Learn More!

Online Master’s in Counseling

online masters in counseling

First, let’s dive into the online master’s option. This program provides flexibility and convenience but may lack the specific learning environment that’s ideal for a counseling degree.

Online Pros

  • Flexible Schedule:
    Study when and where it’s convenient for you, allowing time for work, family commitments, and church activities. Depending on your program, you may even be able to flex between modalities, because, after all, life happens. This may also allow you to have more control in the amount of overall time it takes you to complete the program.
  • Learn Anywhere:
    Eliminate the need to relocate or commute, providing a beneficial alternative for those in remote areas.
  • Technology Awareness:
    Online master’s in counseling is, well, online, so the advantage of programs with interactive tools, live discussions, and video simulations to enhance learning. It also may give you a leg up for if your counseling career takes you to providing counseling services online.

Online Cons

  • Limited Classroom Face-to-Face Interaction:
    Building personal connections with professors and peers may be more challenging online. With a deeply personal program such as counseling, taking this course online shouldn’t be considered lightly
  • Self-Motivation Required:
    Online learning demands a high level of discipline to stay on track without in-person accountability. If you are a highly motivated individual, this will be a piece of cake!
  • Limited Direct Hands-On Experience:
    While practicums and internships are required, accessing nearby sites might require additional effort. You can try asking institutions if they offer practice virtual sessions. portfolio.
  • Excess Screen Time:
    If you already work remotely or use a phone a decent amount, adding full-time online work to your schedule could potentially result in health issues.

Overall, the online master’s in counseling modality caters to the student’s more general lifestyle needs. It recognizes that someone’s priorities may not always be focused on one thing. While this modality limits personable interaction, modern technology makes sure that crucial element isn’t wholly eliminated. It can be the best choice if you are a student balancing full-time work, family, and/or ministry.

In-Person Master’s in Counseling

In person masters in counseling

Compared to an online master’s in counseling, an in-person program provides a traditional learning experience, emphasizing community, collaboration, and direct mentorship. However, an in-person program inevitably lacks flexibility.

In Person Pros

  • Strong Classroom Connection:
    Unlike an online master’s in counseling, the in-person option engages directly with professors and peers in a collaborative environment. You will have the chance to foster deep relationships, which is an important element to have in the personal profession of counselor.
  • Immediate, Personal Support:
    Another small benefit to the in-person modality is the access to on-campus resources such as counseling centers, libraries, and Christian fellowship groups. An online master’s in counseling may have these resources digitally, but it may be harder to access if there are internet issues or limited personnel availability.
  • Real-Time Practice and Feedback:
    Participate in role-playing, group exercises, and other hands-on training that is best experienced face-to-face.
  • Faith Community:
    On-site programs at a Christian university allows you to grow not only academically, but also spiritually. Through chapels, bible study opportunities, and generally being a part of the community, you can learn alongside like-minded individuals.

In Person Cons

  • Less Flexible Schedule:
    Classes are scheduled at specific times, which may conflict with work or family obligations.
  • Commute or Relocation:
    Attending in person might require travel or moving closer to campus, adding time and expense.

Reflecting on the pros and cons of this method of learning, those who learn best in a close-knit, individualized environment should consider the the in-person modality. While it limits your options for where you study, it means that the institution you choose will be one that facilitates your ideal learning style.

The Bonus Option: A Hybrid Master’s in Counseling

(If you can't decide between online vs in person master's in counseling)

online vs in person masters in counseling

An additional option when considering online vs in person master’s in counseling is the hybrid model. This usually looks like:

You have some courses online and others you come in once a week for other classes.

OR

You take a majority of your courses online and then come together as a cohort for a week-long intensive in which the hours required for that course are completed during that week.

This option provides the personal nature of an in-person learning environment—which is particularly with counseling—but still allows a level of flexibility. The pros and cons are a mixture of what we have listed above, and will also be dependent upon what structure the institution you choose opts to conform to.ÌýMake sure to investigate , familiarizing yourself with what is common and what might work best for you.

Why Choose Cairn for Your Degree?

We hope these pros and cons help you consider the whole picture. Maybe you’re even ready to take a step further in your decision. Allow us to throw in a few final thoughts about our counseling master’s degrees.

In addition to the points above, we also address students’ program needs through:

  • Faith-Integrated Curriculum: Every course is taught from a biblical worldview, preparing you to counsel with a Christ-centered approach.
  • Expert Faculty: Learn from experienced professionals who share your commitment to faith and service and will work hard to make sure you succeed.
  • Practical Training: Gain hands-on practice through experience with our own counseling program, CCCRD, or other network connections we have.
  • Supportive Community: Engage in prayer, fellowship, and meaningful discussions, no matter the format.

Whether you’re studying in person or online, these factors play a part of your experience. If you’re ready to take the next step or even still weighing your options, we encourage you to! It’s a great way to ask your specific questions and talk to someone who wants to help you find what’s best for you. Or, if you’re not quite ready to apply, there’s still more to learn about our counseling programs.

Settle the Online vs In Person Master's in Counseling Debate for Yourself Today.

Learn More!
]]> MA vs. MS in Counseling: Which Degree is Right for You? /ma-vs-ms-in-counseling-which-degree-is-right-for-you/ Mon, 25 Nov 2024 15:44:12 +0000 /?p=93073

If you are considering a graduate degree in counseling, you’ve likely encountered two tracks: a Master of Arts (MA) or a Master of Science (MS). While these degrees may seem similar, each offers a distinct pathway to achieving your professional goals. Oftentimes, these terms are used interchangeably, but the curricula and career outcomes can look quite different. If you are at the point where you are considering a counseling masters degree, it is crucial you are informed of the differences between programs so you can choose the one that best fits your needs and goals. At 91³Ô¹Ï, we provide clarity on the questions you have about MA vs. MS in Counseling, helping you choose the right program for you.

MA in Counseling: Holistic and Relational

The MA (Master of Arts) in Counseling at 91³Ô¹Ï emphasizes relational and theoretical aspects of counseling and their practical application. This graduate degree is an excellent fit for those who want to advance their career in the counseling field or deepen their counseling ability for ministry without the additional courses required to become a licensed professional counselor. When comparing the MA vs. the MS requirements, the MA track requires less credits and time for completion than the MS track while still offering the same courses and training necessary to provide high quality counseling grounded in Christian principles.

Key features of an MA program:

  • Theoretical Focus: Dive deep into counseling theories, ethical practices—from a holistic Christian perspective—and interpersonal skills.
  • Practical Training: Emphasis on applying theory to practice through fieldwork and real-world counseling scenarios.
  • Holistic Approach: Designed for those who value a relational, empathy-driven practice that integrates faith with counseling.

Example Cairn Counseling MA Courses:

  • Marriage/Family Counseling
  • Psychopathology
  • Counseling Adolescents
  • Trauma/Grief Counseling
Find Our Counseling Curriculum Sheets Here!

Career Outcomes for MA Graduates:

  • Psychiatric technicianÌý
  • Case manager
  • Case worker
  • Addictions counselorÌý
  • Academic advisor
  • Role in Church or parachurch ministry
  • !Ìý

The MA in Counseling degree is ideal for students who wish to work directly with clients in diverse settings, focusing on personal growth, relationships, and emotional well-being.

MS in Counseling: Practical and Realistic

The MS (Master of Science) in Counseling at 91³Ô¹Ï offers a research-based curriculum for students interested in evidence-based practice, clinical assessments, and case conceptualization. This program prepares you for the technical and diagnostic aspects of counseling while maintaining a Christian worldview.

Key Features of the MS Program:

  • Research and Analytics: Coursework includes statistics, research methodology, and diagnostic techniques that will be applicable to your future career.
  • Cohort Labs: Your peers serve as some of the best in-class experience you can utilize. Not only will it be a small, personal group of individuals, but at Cairn, these people share your faith, your ethics, and your convictions.
  • Career Support: Designed for those who want to combine clinical expertise with a strong foundation in research and data-driven solutions.

Example Cairn MS Courses:

  • Helping Relationships Lab
  • Career Development Counseling
  • Human Growth and Development
  • Psychopathology
  • Prof Development Practicum
Find Our Counseling Curriculum Sheets Here!

Career Outcomes for MS Graduates

  • Clinical Mental Health Counselor
  • Counseling Supervision
  • Rehabilitation Counselor
  • Various Tracks in Academia
  • !

Ultimately, the MS in Counseling degree is best suited for individuals who aspire to roles that require advanced clinical training and scientific inquiry.

Your Master's in Christian Counseling Choice: Down to the Wire

When deciding between the MA vs. MS at 91³Ô¹Ï, consider your career goals and personal strengths with this simplified breakdown between an MS vs MA in counseling. Remember, this isn’t an all-inclusive list:

Master's in Counseling Assessment

Interest/Goals: Interested in a career that requires technical credentials Career in ministry/faith-based or school setting. More direct client relationships Has Long term academic goals (ex: pursuing a PhD) Likes conducting specialized clinical research and analysis Has a passion for modeling Christ as a reconciliator
MS ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔
MA ✔ ✔ ✔

Even more simply put:

  • Choose the MA in Counseling if you’re passionate about relational counseling and working directly with clients in school, community, or faith-based settings where licensure isn’t required.
  • Opt for the MS in Counseling if you’re drawn to clinical mental health, research, or specialized fields that demand strong analytical and diagnostic skills.
Ìý

Keep in mind, different universities also may offer different modalities (online, in person, or hybrid) for each program. In addition to determining between the MS vs. MA, you should also consider whether or not you should enroll in the online or in-person program.Ìý

Why a Master's in Counseling at 91³Ô¹Ï?

Generally, there may be nuances between the MS vs. the MA at other institutions, but at 91³Ô¹Ï, we don’t just distinguish between an MA and an MS for the sake of a career. Both counseling tracks at Cairn are rooted in a Christian perspective, valuing faith with academic excellence. Our counseling faculty will care about you as an individual, and they design each program to tailor specific needs and goals.Ìý No matter whether you choose Cairn’s MA or MS, you’ll benefit from:

  • Small class sizes for personalized learning.
  • Expert faculty with real-world counseling experience.
  • Opportunities for hands-on training through internships and cohort-model learning
  • Program modality options that cater to you through their flexibility for your busy schedule.
  • Biblically centered curriculum, biblically minded faculty and peers, and formative spiritual growth.

At the end of the day, you’re not just concerned about becoming a counselor. You care aboutÌý getting a master’s in Christian counseling. Fortunately, 91³Ô¹Ï is uniquely fitted for such a purpose, equipping you to serve others.

Start your Master's in Counseling journey today!

Learn more
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