Doctoral in Christian Counseling
A number of degree programs are offered in Christian counseling by campus-based as well as online schools. Students in these programs gain knowledge on counseling services and rehabilitation support for the people with different problems and helping them improve the quality of their lives through Christian teachings. Graduates may pursue a career as a Christian counselor and work in schools, colleges, churches, ministries and religious groups. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment of mental health counselors and marriage and family therapists are expected to grow between 2012 and 2022.
Christian Counseling Programs
Students interested in the field of Christian counseling can work towards undergraduate or graduate degrees. They would get instructions on teachings of the Bible and how to use them to help different groups. The bachelor's degree may take 4 years to complete while the master's programs require 1-2 years for completion. PhD degrees are also available in Christian counseling. Students can generally complete this advanced program in 5-7 years. The precise duration of a degree depends on the enrollment status of the students.
The Christian counseling programs may instruct students in several topics including Biblical crisis counseling, the Old and New Testaments as well as Christian counseling and cultural diversity. Students may also take classes in marriage and family counseling, addiction counseling and counseling with biblical principles. In addition to classroom-based learning, students may also complete a clinical workshop as a part of some programs. Some Christian counselors choose to focus on one aspect of counseling only, such as childhood, mental health, or substance abuse counseling.
Doctoral in Christian Counseling
Combining psychology and counseling theories with Christian morals, doctoral in Christian counseling can be suitable for students aspiring to become researchers or teachers. Students in these programs learn advanced research methodologies and improve their knowledge through supervised counseling experience. They may also have to complete a doctoral dissertation.
Online Christian Counseling Programs
Students who want to pursue a degree in Christian counseling can work towards the online programs and study while maintaining the balance between their personal and professional lives. Christian counselors seeking to improve their career opportunities may pursue the online programs and complete a degree at their own pace. As these programs may be flexible, students may not have to make major changes in their routine. International students, candidates with physical disabilities as well as stay-at-home parents can also benefit from the online learning as they may allow students to study without setting foot on campus.
Admissions Requirements
A high school diploma or its equivalent may help candidates enroll in a Christian counseling program. In addition, candidates may need to submit ACT or SAT scores.
Employment Opportunities
Christian counselors may find work opportunities in churches, colleges or Christian schools. They may decide to offer online counseling services or one-on-one sessions. According to the BLS, the median annual wage of mental health counselors in 2012 was $40,080. Income is subject to location, experience and area of specialization among other factors.