Counseling Ministry, MA
The Master of Arts in Counseling Ministry is a one-year, biblically based and academically integrated program that trains students to develop a ministry of people-helping within a variety of ministry contexts.
Program Intro
Students from CBU's MA in Counseling Ministry program are prepared to serve in congregational ministry, pastoral ministry, chaplain ministry, family ministry and lay ministry. This program features both an on-campus and synchronous online format which allows students to learn from anywhere and incorporate applied ministry experience in the context of their own community.
*Based on current academic year. Subject to change.
Why Earn Your MA in Counseling Ministry at CBU?
Gain a solid understanding of theology
With a heavy emphasis on theological understanding of persons, students will learn a solid biblical perspective of human problems and solutions.
Thrive in a biblical community
In addition to a theological understanding of persons and problems, this program helps students learn how congregations practicing biblical commands for relating can create a healing environment for troubled people.
Obtain practical experience from day one
Students will learn how to apply biblical principles of a healing community in developing a robust ministry of people-helping with their local congregation and ministry context.
Opt for a dual degree
The MA in Counseling Ministry can be paired with the MS in Counseling Psychology, preparing candidates for MFT licensure as well as church-based counseling.
What You'll Learn
- Biblical Epistemology: Students will explain, verbally or in writing, how the Bible serves as a primary authority and source for understanding human beings and problems in living.
- Theology as a Behavioral Science: Students will articulate, verbally or in writing, the proper relationship between a biblical view of persons and Behavioral Science theory and practice.
- Biblical Community: Students will articulate specific biblical principles and practices regarding healing relationships in marriage, family, congregation, and society.
- Relational Counseling: Students will demonstrate people-helping skills applied in congregation and para-church ministries.
- Counseling Ministry Practice: Students will apply knowledge and skills in developing and leading people-helping ministries in congregation and other ministry contexts.
Program Details
CBS 530: Congregation as a Healing Community
A general understanding of the dynamics of congregational life to personal development and adjustment necessary in maintaining healthy marital, family and personal relationships in community context.
CBS 540: A Theology of Helping People
This course examines the biblical categories related to human nature, personality, development, well-being, and problems in living, with particular emphasis given to systematic theology and practical theology.
CBS 546: Relational Counseling Techniques
An examination of the relational skills and settings that establish and maintain an effective counseling relationship in a congregational setting.
Nathan Lewis, Ed.D.
Professor of Psychology
Director, Graduate Program in Counseling Ministry
Program Coordinator, Christian Behavioral Sciences
Office Phone: 951-343-4348
E-mail: nlewis@calbaptist.edu
Office Location: W.E. James Building, Room 134
H. Bruce Stokes, PhD
Professor of Behavioral Science
Major Representative, Behavioral Sciences and Christian Behavioral Sciences
Office Phone: 951-343-4269
E-mail: hbstokes@calbaptist.edu
Office Location: W.E. James Building, Room 133
As you make decisions about graduate school, keep in mind the full social, spiritual and educational experience awaiting you at CBU. Here, you will be supported by professors, staff and fellow students who will help you discover your strengths and challenge you to do more than you ever thought you could. Let us equip you with the education, training and opportunities you'll need to start making a unique difference doing what you love.
| Application Deadlines | Fall |
|---|---|
| Priority | May 15 |
| Standard | August 1 |
Student Testimonials
Career Possibilities
Upon completing CBU’s MA in Counseling Ministry program, students will be well prepared to serve in congregational ministry, pastoral ministry, chaplain ministry, family ministry and lay ministry.
- Counselor
- Chaplain
- Counseling Minister
- Counseling Ministry Director
Related Programs
Next Steps
Join our community. At CBU, you’ll be challenged to become an individual whose skills, integrity, and sense of purpose glorify God and distinguish you in the world.