VA

Master's in Christian Counseling
Online

Liberty University | Master of Arts in Pastoral Counseling

  • Lynchburg


About This Program

Liberty’s program integrates psychology and biblical counseling to address relational, emotional, and spiritual challenges.

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What You'll Learn
  • Integrate theological and psychological principles to provide compassionate, biblically grounded pastoral counseling
  • Conduct comprehensive assessments and develop individualized, holistic care plans addressing spiritual, emotional, and relational needs
  • Apply evidence-based counseling skills and interventions within ministry and faith-based contexts
  • Develop self-awareness, ethical practice standards, and resilience strategies essential to sustaining long-term pastoral ministry
For detailed, official program information including specific curriculum, faculty, research opportunities, and application requirements:
Typical Curriculum Structure
The Master of Arts in Pastoral Counseling at Liberty University is a graduate program designed to integrate theological principles with psychological and counseling skills for ministry-based practice, typically completed in 24–36 months.[1][5
Typical Course Topics
1. Pastoral Counseling Theories and Practice 2. Ethics and Issues in Pastoral Counseling 3. Spiritual Formation and Theological Integration in Counseling 4. Advanced Group Counseling in Ministry Settings 5. Crisis Intervention and Trauma-Informed Pastoral Care 6. Assessment and Care Planning in Pastoral Counseling
Program Specializations:
Pastoral Counseling
Biblical Counseling
View the exact, up-to-date curriculum on the official program website
Typical Admissions Requirements
Applicants must hold a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution and typically demonstrate a minimum GPA of 3.0.[3] A background in ministry, theology, or counseling-related fields is often preferred, though not always required.
Academic Requirements (Typical)

β€’ Degree Required: Bachelor’s degree
β€’ GRE/GMAT: Optional
β€’ TOEFL/IELTS: Required for international students (TOEFL 80+ / IELTS 6.5+)

Application Materials (Typical)

β€’ Statement of Purpose: Required
β€’ Letters of Recommendation: 2–3
β€’ Resume: Required
β€’ Official Transcripts: Required

Application Timeline

Most programs have rolling admissions or deadlines in early winter for fall admission. Check the official program website for exact dates.

Career Opportunities in AI

Graduates provide biblically grounded counseling in ministry and community environments.

Estimated Industry Salary
Mental Health Counselor/Pastoral Counselor: $51,000–$60,000 Clinical Pastoral Specialist: $58,000–$68,000
Total compensation (entry to mid-level)
AI Job Growth
12%
Projected 2024-2034 (BLS)
Common Career Paths:
1. Pastoral Counselor in churches or faith-based organizations 2. Chaplain in hospitals, military, or correctional facilities 3. Clinical Pastoral Educator or Supervisor 4. Grief Counselor or Spiritual Care Coordinator
Top AI Employers (Industry-Wide):
Common employers include hospitals and healthcare systems, religious organizations and churches, military and veteran services, and nonprofit counseling agencies.
Program Details
Duration
  • 2 Year
Tuition
$ 13,564
Format
Online
Specializations
Pastoral Counseling
Biblical Counseling
Official Resources