In This Section

  1. What is Counseling Ministry?
    At California Baptist University, students in the MA in Counseling Ministry program are prepared to serve in congregational ministry, pastoral ministry, chaplain ministry, family ministry and lay ministry.
  2. What are the program's entry dates and application deadline?
    The Counseling Ministry program admits students once a year—fall (August/September). Our priority deadline is May 15th, and our final deadline is August 1st of the year you are applying to. Information regarding application deadlines for each start term can be found here.
  3. How long does the admission process take?
    Once an application file and/or interview is complete, applicants will typically be notified of a decision within 3–5 business days.
  4. What is the GPA requirement?
    Applicants are considered for admission based on GPA, transcripts, an essay OR interview and individual considerations. Since one number cannot completely define you, we consider the total admissions packet when making admissions decisions. Any student, regardless of the type of bachelor's degree attained, can be admitted into the Counseling Ministry program. However, when reviewing transcripts, our minimum GPA requirement is 2.75 or higher. If your cumulative GPA falls below this, please contact your admissions counselor for additional routes that may be available.
  5. Is there an accreditation for the Counseling Ministry program?
    California Baptist University is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission. There is no program-specific accreditation for the Counseling Ministry program as APA does not accredit master’s-level programs in this field.
  6. How long does the program take to complete?
    The program is offered as a 1-year program, beginning in the Fall, and students remain enrolled in 3 consecutive semesters (Fall, Spring, and Summer).
  7. When do classes meet?
    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. Courses take place 4x per week from 4:00-6:45pm on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday.
    Additionally, there is a required 3 days in-person residency in the month of May.
  8. What types of careers can I pursue with a degree in Counseling Ministry?
    Graduates of the Counseling Ministry program are well prepared to serve in congregational ministry, pastoral ministry, chaplain ministry, family ministry and lay ministry. Common roles include Counseling Minister, Counselor, Chaplain and Counseling Ministry Director.