Overview

The Master of Arts in Counseling (MAC) prepares students for a career in the mental health professions with a firm foundation of psychological theory, research, and spiritual formation as practitioners. This program is designed to expand student knowledge and expertise in the field of counseling services while developing Christian counseling professionals for a career dedicated to improving the lives of others. This program prepares students for the challenges of the mental health profession by applying current psychological theory integrated with solid biblical principles in spirit-filled practice throughout the curriculum.

Instructors are scholars, practitioners, and people of faith, offering both academic and practical guidance. Built on a cohort model, the program facilitates long-term relationships, supportive growth, and guided professional development. The students will research their state’s guidelines for licensure. Students will acquire the knowledge and skill to assess, diagnose, and treat patients with mental health or other emotional, social, and/or behavioral needs.

This online counseling degree will also prepare students who desire a state license as professional clinical counselors. Students pursuing licensing will need to follow the requirements for their state and academic requirements established by the National Board for Certified Counselors for the National Certified Counselor (NCC). 

Format & Schedule

The 60-unit curriculum of the M.A. in Counseling consists of a series of twenty-one courses that build upon each other to achieve the program goals. All courses will run for eight weeks online and include a 12-month practicum. The courses will be both synchronous and asynchronous. For course descriptions, please see the LPU Catalog. 

Program Outcomes

Graduates of the Online MAC Program will be able to:

• Assessment  Diagnosis
  Utilize effective skills in evidence-based assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of mental disorders and behavioral needs across the lifespan.

• Law & Ethics
  Implement legal and ethical decision-making processes in the practice of psychotherapy within a clinical and biblical worldview.

• Theory & Practice
  Apply theoretical concepts to therapeutic issues in relation to individuals, couples, and families.

• Diversity & Culture
  Examine the complexity of cross-cultural issues and the interventions that address these challenges.

• Formation & Integration
  Formulate a process of integrating psychology and Christianity and connecting each aspect of the human person with God’s grace, redemption, and purpose.