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2026 Most Affordable 91成人 Master's Degrees in Christian Counseling

Find an affordable Christian counseling master's degree online from a list ranked by manually verified tuition rates.

Updated 5/29/2026 By Bailey Fletcher

Want an online degree that's:

  • Affordable
  • Popular
  • Highly Rated
  • Military-friendly

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Updated 5/29/2026 By Bailey Fletcher

Why Trust Us?

  • 90,000+ Verified Student Reviews
  • Manually Researched Tuition
  • 200+ Expert Interviews
  • 1,800+ 91成人 Colleges
  • 30,000+ 91成人 Degrees

An affordable Christian counseling master鈥檚 degree online provides a flexible way to combine psychological insight with faith-based guidance, preparing graduates to support individuals through a spiritual lens. These fully online programs explore theology, pastoral care, and counseling ethics, helping students serve in churches, private practices, or nonprofit settings.

Key Takeaways:

  • Every school on the list charges the same tuition for in-state and out-of-state students for all Christian counseling master's degrees online. 
  • Affordability and student satisfaction do not always move together. Some of the least expensive schools, like MBU and LRCS, report 100% recommendation rates, while several higher-cost programs sit much lower.
  • Nearly half the schools are between ~$9,000-$17,000 annually, which means students are often choosing between denomination, licensure pathways, and counseling philosophy rather than huge tuition differences.

Want an online degree that's:

  • Affordable
  • Popular
  • Highly Rated
  • Military-friendly

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How We Rank "Most Affordable" Schools

%%YEAR%% Most Affordable 91成人 %%LEVEL_NAME%% in %%PROGRAM_NAME%% Badge

The 91成人 research team manually collects and verifies tuition data for every school on our lists, ensuring you see accurate, up-to-date costs whether you're pursuing an associate, bachelor's, master's, or doctoral program. To qualify, schools must offer fully online degrees, hold institutional accreditation, and have verifiable enrollment data through the National Center for Education Statistics. While some of our rankings include partner schools, every school is evaluated using the exact same criteria.

We prioritize schools that offer a consistent tuition rate across programs at the same degree level, so you're not caught off guard by unexpected price differences between majors, and for graduate programs we go a step further by individually calculating program costs since credit requirements and fees vary widely.

All tuition numbers were manually collected and verified
Only verified student reviews informed our overall ratings and recommendation rates
Rank School Annual In-State Tuition Annual Out-of-State Tuition Recommendation Median Salary
# 1 #1 Maranatha Baptist University $5,692 $5,692 100% N/A
# 2 #2 Liberty University $5,700 $5,700 75% N/A
# 3 #3 Grace College and Theological Seminary $8,460 $8,460 80% N/A
# 4 #4 Southeastern University $8,910 $8,910 95% N/A
# 5 (tie) #5 (tie) Dallas Baptist University $9,900 $9,900 93% $48,006
# 5 (tie) #5 (tie) Oral Roberts University $9,900 $9,900 82% $44,893
# 7 #7 Luther Rice College & Seminary $10,557 $10,557 100% N/A
# 8 #8 Pentecostal Theological Seminary $12,100 $12,100 N/A N/A
# 9 #9 Calvin Theological Seminary $12,620 $12,620 100% N/A
# 10 #10 Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary $13,800 $13,800 79% N/A
# 11 #11 The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary $13,950 $13,950 94% N/A
# 12 #12 Calvary University $14,850 $14,850 100% N/A
# 13 #13 Loyola University Chicago $15,930 $15,930 87% N/A
# 14 #14 Colorado Christian University $16,752 $16,752 67% N/A
# 15 #15 Cornerstone University $16,950 $16,950 63% N/A
# 16 #16 Regent University 91成人 $18,450 $18,450 83% N/A
# 17 #17 Amridge University $20,800 $20,800 83% N/A
# 18 #18 California Baptist University $21,252 $21,252 85% N/A
# 19 #19 Messiah University $24,000 $24,000 94% N/A
# 20 #20 Dallas Theological Seminary $31,500 $31,500 96% N/A
#1
Annual In-State Tuition: $5,692
Annual Out-of-State Tuition: $5,692
Average Program Length: 2 years
4.15 / 5
Overall Rating
100%
Recommend
100%
Helpful for Career

91成人 Degree:

What Sets This Program Apart:

  • This is the #1 cheapest online biblical counseling master's program at $5,692/year, and that goes for in-state and out-of-state students studying online.
  • MBU anchors the curriculum in a dispensational hermeneutical framework and prepares students for ministry within a baptistic, separatist church context. This gives students a clearer picture of this Christian counseling master's lens.

Student Review Summary: Reviews describe Maranatha Baptist University as a generally positive experience shaped by caring faculty, a close-knit campus, and practical preparation for life and careers. Students repeatedly praise professors for being knowledgeable, accessible, and willing to provide individualized support during personal challenges. The small environment is seen as helpful for building relationships and receiving attention. At the same time, criticism centers on administration and campus rules, especially strict student life policies, early dorm lockups, and mandatory daily chapel, which some view as excessive. Cost is another concern, though some reviewers still felt the education and resources justified the investment.

This is an AI-generated overview of real student feedback submitted to 91成人, highlighting common themes and insights. The summary was reviewed for accuracy.
  • Graduate 91成人: 212 enrolled
  • Median Earnings: N/A
  • Avg. Grad. Rate: 64%
  • Retention Rate: 88%
#2
Annual In-State Tuition: $5,700
Annual Out-of-State Tuition: $5,700
Average Program Length: 2 years
3.68 / 5
Overall Rating
75%
Recommend
79%
Helpful for Career

91成人 Degree:

What Sets This Program Apart:

  • This master's program narrowly defines its Christian counseling pathway around crisis response and trauma ministry. Its coursework and concentration structure point toward specific high-need settings, like disaster response, abuse recovery, acute stress, grief, complex trauma, and PTSD/combat-related trauma.
  • It's explicitly non-licensure and built for ministry professionals, church leaders, and students preparing for pastoral counseling roles.

Student Review Summary: Reviews describe Liberty University as a highly polarizing online experience. Many students praise the flexible eight-week format, affordable tuition, responsive professors, strong veteran and military support, and the ability to finish quickly while balancing work and family. Positive reviews also highlight challenging writing-heavy coursework, useful feedback, and strong spiritual alignment for those seeking faith integration. Negative reviews focus on inconsistent advising, slow or error-prone financial aid and billing, weak instructor engagement, and a self-teaching model with limited lectures. A recurring concern is mandatory biblical integration in nearly every class, which some found excessive, distracting, or professionally misaligned.

This is an AI-generated overview of real student feedback submitted to 91成人, highlighting common themes and insights. The summary was reviewed for accuracy.
  • Graduate 91成人: 49,153 enrolled
  • Median Earnings: N/A
  • Avg. Grad. Rate: 65%
  • Retention Rate: 80%
#3
Annual In-State Tuition: $8,460
Annual Out-of-State Tuition: $8,460
Average Program Length: 2 years
4.17 / 5
Overall Rating
80%
Recommend
100%
Helpful for Career

91成人 Degree:

What Sets This Program Apart:

  • GCTS positions this concentration as ministry-based counseling for leaders who want practical tools to help people in local church settings. As such, the graduate counseling courses are taught by instructors who are currently engaged, or have previously been engaged, in local church counseling.
  • In addition to the Counseling track, there's also related concentrations in Christian Ministry, Leadership and Management, Spiritual Formation, Technology, and Women’s Leadership.
  • GCTS notes that applicants without a bachelor’s degree may still have a route into the master’s program if they can demonstrate ministry experience and research-writing ability.

Student Review Summary: Reviews are strongly favorable, highlighting a college experience that combines personal support, academic preparation, and flexibility. Students repeatedly praise close professor relationships, saying faculty were accessible, caring, and responsive to individual circumstances, including demanding schedules outside class. Several reviewers say they felt well prepared for graduate study or career success, suggesting the coursework translates effectively into next-step readiness. 91成人 learners also emphasize convenience, noting they could keep working, stay near family, and still receive high-quality instruction. A distinctive takeaway is that the small, community-centered environment helped foster lasting friendships and made students feel recognized rather than anonymous.

This is an AI-generated overview of real student feedback submitted to 91成人, highlighting common themes and insights. The summary was reviewed for accuracy.
  • Graduate 91成人: 276 enrolled
  • Median Earnings: N/A
  • Avg. Grad. Rate: 69%
  • Retention Rate: 77%
#4
Annual In-State Tuition: $8,910
Annual Out-of-State Tuition: $8,910
Average Program Length: 2 years
4.13 / 5
Overall Rating
95%
Recommend
100%
Helpful for Career

91成人 Degree:

What Sets This Program Apart:

  • SEU emphasizes spiritual, emotional, physical, and mental wholeness as interconnected in a holistic model of care.
  • This master's degree does not lead to state clinical licensure and the school advises students to research their state’s pastoral counseling laws, clergy exemptions, and denominational requirements before enrolling.
  • SEU points students toward ministry careers, such as pastoral marriage counseling, congregational care and outreach ministry, family service ministry, hospice ministry, and pastoral care ministry.

Student Review Summary: Reviews portray Southeastern University as a supportive, faith-centered environment where accessible professors, attentive advisors, and close-knit community stand out. Many reviewers value the spiritual growth woven into coursework, the personal encouragement from faculty, and the flexibility of online formats that fit work and family responsibilities. Students also say classes are rigorous, career-relevant, and effective at developing leadership, ethics, and professional readiness. Concerns center on cost, with several describing tuition as expensive or rising over time. A few also cite fast-paced online courses, inconsistent lecture delivery, judgmental campus culture, frequent administrative calls, and stressful financial account errors.

This is an AI-generated overview of real student feedback submitted to 91成人, highlighting common themes and insights. The summary was reviewed for accuracy.
  • Graduate 91成人: 837 enrolled
  • Median Earnings: N/A
  • Avg. Grad. Rate: 43%
  • Retention Rate: 70%
#5
Annual In-State Tuition: $9,900
Annual Out-of-State Tuition: $9,900
Average Program Length: 2 years
4.05 / 5
Overall Rating
93%
Recommend
74%
Helpful for Career

Student Review Summary: Reviews of Dallas Baptist University are largely positive, driven by strong ratings and frequent recommendations, but they reveal meaningful trade-offs. Students consistently praise approachable professors, small classes, responsive advisers, and flexible formats such as evening, weekend, online, hybrid, and satellite-campus options that work well for full-time professionals. Many also value the faith-centered environment, welcoming community, and helpful support services, including library, IT, and writing assistance. The main drawbacks are high tuition, limited scholarships or financial aid, parking and building access issues, and, in a few sharply negative reviews, concerns about inconsistent grading, weak instruction, confusing requirements, and limited career or practical preparation.

This is an AI-generated overview of real student feedback submitted to 91成人, highlighting common themes and insights. The summary was reviewed for accuracy.
  • Graduate 91成人: 304 enrolled
  • Median Earnings: $48,006
  • Avg. Grad. Rate: 57%
  • Retention Rate: 64%
#5
Annual In-State Tuition: $9,900
Annual Out-of-State Tuition: $9,900
Average Program Length: 24 months
3.85 / 5
Overall Rating
82%
Recommend
90%
Helpful for Career

91成人 Degree:

What Sets This Program Apart:

  • Based on ORU’s ministry philosophy, this online master's in pastoral counseling program helps prepare students to serve on “the front lines of the Spirit-empowered movement.” As such, the curriculum centers pastoral counseling as a ministry practice grounded in Scripture, spirituality, and applied care.
  • Even the culminating practicum is framed specifically around applying counseling principles to “clients and congregants in a ministerial context.”
  • ORU instead builds in four required live-stream webinar meetings during every 7-week course.

Student Review Summary: Reviews portray Oral Roberts University as a place where caring professors, close-knit community, and a strong spiritual culture often define the experience. Students repeatedly praise approachable faculty, one-on-one mentoring, transfer-credit flexibility, and preparation for careers, graduate study, and professional schools through research, internships, clubs, and rigorous capstone work. Many also value the structured environment, chapel, and emphasis on whole-person development. Criticism centers on administration rather than teaching: hidden fees, strict rules, fines, financial aid and records errors, weak support offices, and inconsistent quality in some smaller or specific departments, where opportunities, rigor, or curriculum were seen as limited.

This is an AI-generated overview of real student feedback submitted to 91成人, highlighting common themes and insights. The summary was reviewed for accuracy.
  • Graduate 91成人: 416 enrolled
  • Median Earnings: $44,893
  • Avg. Grad. Rate: 57%
  • Retention Rate: 80%
#13
Annual In-State Tuition: $15,930
Annual Out-of-State Tuition: $15,930
Average Program Length: 2 years
3.74 / 5
Overall Rating
87%
Recommend
92%
Helpful for Career

Student Review Summary: Reviews portray Loyola University Chicago as a generally strong but uneven experience, defined by excellent professors, small classes, and meaningful access to Chicago’s internships, employers, and professional networks. Many praise the lakefront campus, Jesuit values, social justice emphasis, and hands-on learning that connects coursework to practice. Several say motivated learners benefit most, especially through mentors, field placements, and alumni ties. The clearest drawback is cost: tuition, living expenses, and limited aid often left reviewers with substantial debt. Administrative frustrations also recur, including weak advising, slow financial aid processing, class availability problems, inconsistent teaching quality, and occasional program disorganization.

This is an AI-generated overview of real student feedback submitted to 91成人, highlighting common themes and insights. The summary was reviewed for accuracy.
  • Graduate 91成人: 1,151 enrolled
  • Median Earnings: N/A
  • Avg. Grad. Rate: 73%
  • Retention Rate: 82%
#14
Annual In-State Tuition: $16,752
Annual Out-of-State Tuition: $16,752
Average Program Length: 30 months
3.24 / 5
Overall Rating
67%
Recommend
79%
Helpful for Career

Student Review Summary: Reviews portray a school many appreciate for responsive professors, small classes, flexible online formats, and a clearly integrated Christian worldview that feels meaningful rather than incidental. Several reviewers say the workload is rigorous, reading- and writing-heavy, and manageable for working adults if they stay organized. Many also credit advisors and faculty with strong encouragement, career preparation, and a close community. The sharpest criticism centers on administration, especially delayed or confusing financial aid, unclear billing, weak communication, difficult withdrawal processes, and transfer-credit problems. Some also report inconsistent instruction, limited diversity, and frustration with required religious, volunteer, or attendance expectations.

This is an AI-generated overview of real student feedback submitted to 91成人, highlighting common themes and insights. The summary was reviewed for accuracy.
  • Graduate 91成人: 1,542 enrolled
  • Median Earnings: N/A
  • Avg. Grad. Rate: 64%
  • Retention Rate: 84%
#15
Annual In-State Tuition: $16,950
Annual Out-of-State Tuition: $16,950
Average Program Length: 2 years
3.2 / 5
Overall Rating
63%
Recommend
38%
Helpful for Career

Student Review Summary: Reviews portray Cornerstone University as highly polarizing. Positive feedback emphasizes small classes, caring professors, close-knit community, spiritual growth, and coursework seen as useful in careers and personal development. Several reviewers also value schedule flexibility, individualized attention, and support resources. Negative reviews are more pointed, citing weak academics, poor advising, unresponsive faculty or administrators, and a sense that financial motives outweigh educational quality. Many criticisms center on rigid religious requirements, perceived hypocrisy, mandatory chapel, and faith integration that some felt overshadowed practical preparation. Other recurring concerns include limited diversity, weak commuter support, poor campus culture, expensive tuition, and inconsistent institutional leadership.

This is an AI-generated overview of real student feedback submitted to 91成人, highlighting common themes and insights. The summary was reviewed for accuracy.
  • Graduate 91成人: 247 enrolled
  • Median Earnings: N/A
  • Avg. Grad. Rate: 62%
  • Retention Rate: 78%
#16
Annual In-State Tuition: $18,450
Annual Out-of-State Tuition: $18,450
Average Program Length: 1 years
3.83 / 5
Overall Rating
83%
Recommend
82%
Helpful for Career

Student Review Summary: Reviews of Regent University 91成人 are broadly positive, driven by high ratings and frequent praise for attentive professors, accessible advising, and a rigorous format that many found rewarding and flexible enough for working adults. Students often valued posted assignments, small classes, practical support resources, and strong Christian integration, especially when that faith-based focus matched their expectations. Criticism centers on uneven administration: transfer-credit problems, repeated paperwork, weak communication, confusing registration, hidden requirements, and inconsistent advising. Many also cited expensive tuition and fees, compressed eight-week terms, and discussion boards or overlapping courses that felt burdensome, superficial, or poorly suited for busy schedules.

This is an AI-generated overview of real student feedback submitted to 91成人, highlighting common themes and insights. The summary was reviewed for accuracy.
  • Graduate 91成人: 4,787 enrolled
  • Median Earnings: N/A
  • Avg. Grad. Rate: 57%
  • Retention Rate: 75%
#17
Annual In-State Tuition: $20,800
Annual Out-of-State Tuition: $20,800
Average Program Length: 3 years
4.06 / 5
Overall Rating
83%
Recommend
100%
Helpful for Career

Student Review Summary: Reviews of Amridge University are largely favorable, with most describing a supportive online experience built around accessible faculty, responsive advisors, and flexible course delivery. You see repeated praise for live online classes that are also recorded, allowing review of lectures and continuity during moves or busy schedules. Several reviewers say professors are knowledgeable, respectful, and proactive about helping you stay on track, while financial aid and advising are described as hands-on. Distinctive strengths include theory-based instruction and exam preparation. The lone negative review alleges poor support, aggressive recruiting, low graduation outcomes, and a costly, disappointing experience.

This is an AI-generated overview of real student feedback submitted to 91成人, highlighting common themes and insights. The summary was reviewed for accuracy.
  • Graduate 91成人: 396 enrolled
  • Median Earnings: N/A
  • Avg. Grad. Rate: 100%
  • Retention Rate: N/A
#18
Annual In-State Tuition: $21,252
Annual Out-of-State Tuition: $21,252
Average Program Length: 1 years
3.95 / 5
Overall Rating
85%
Recommend
86%
Helpful for Career

Student Review Summary: Reviews of California Baptist University are largely favorable, with many describing attentive professors, small classes, and a welcoming, faith-based atmosphere that feels personal rather than impersonal. Students frequently praise responsive instructors, practical coursework, flexible online and hybrid formats, and a clean, attractive campus with strong community. Several say faculty mentorship, accountability, and career preparation stood out. The most consistent complaints center on high tuition, loan burden, and uneven financial aid or advising support, with some reporting misinformation, poor communication, and weak follow-through. A smaller but notable group also cites disorganization, inadequate student support, parking frustrations, limited weekend campus life, and inconsistent instructional quality in certain areas.

This is an AI-generated overview of real student feedback submitted to 91成人, highlighting common themes and insights. The summary was reviewed for accuracy.
  • Graduate 91成人: 1,242 enrolled
  • Median Earnings: N/A
  • Avg. Grad. Rate: 62%
  • Retention Rate: 74%
#19
Annual In-State Tuition: $24,000
Annual Out-of-State Tuition: $24,000
Average Program Length: 2 years
4.01 / 5
Overall Rating
94%
Recommend
100%
Helpful for Career

Student Review Summary: Reviews portray Messiah University as a relationship-driven campus where small classes, accessible professors, and a strong sense of community help students feel known, supported, and well prepared for work after graduation. Many praise practical learning, real-world faculty experience, study abroad, service opportunities, and a respected reputation with employers. Faith integration is valued by some, though others say religious requirements are overemphasized. Key frustrations center on cost, inconsistent instruction in some courses, and specific administrative concerns during the pandemic, including strict policies, poor communication, fines tied to chapel requirements, and a perception that institutional decisions could feel financially motivated or dismissive of concerns.

This is an AI-generated overview of real student feedback submitted to 91成人, highlighting common themes and insights. The summary was reviewed for accuracy.
  • Graduate 91成人: 440 enrolled
  • Median Earnings: N/A
  • Avg. Grad. Rate: 75%
  • Retention Rate: 89%

Stories Behind the Most Affordable Christian Counseling Master's Degrees 91成人: An Editorial Analysis

馃弳 Where Small Scale Becomes the Selling Point

Calvary, Luther Rice, and Grace 

  • Calvary posts a 7:1 student-faculty ratio 鈥 among the strongest on the list 鈥 along with a 100% recommendation rate. 
  • Luther Rice combines a 9:1 student-faculty ratio with accelerated timelines and ministry-focused practicum work.
  • Grace boasts student reviews that repeatedly describe students feeling 鈥渒nown personally rather than treated like numbers.鈥 

These online schools with Christian counseling master's degrees may appeal most to students who prioritize mentoring and more individualized interaction with peer and faculty. 

馃弳 Counseling Degrees That Refuse to Water Down Their Doctrine

MBU, ORU, and PTS 

  • MBU grounds its counseling model in a dispensational hermeneutical framework and baptistic separatist ministry identity. 
  • ORU frames pastoral counseling through a 鈥淪pirit-empowered鈥 lens, encouraging charismatic ministry formation. 
  • PTS integrates Wesleyan-Pentecostal theology into clinical counseling coursework. 

While many online schools with Christian counseling master's are marketing themselves widely to maximize appeal, these programs are comfortable signaling exactly what kind of ministry worldview shapes the counseling training. 

馃弳 Where Clinical Licensure and Seminary Formation Intersect

PTS, Calvin, and CCU 

These schools are hosting licensure-oriented clinical mental health counseling programs that intentionally retain theological integration. These are the clearest examples where licensure preparation is a central structural identity of the program rather than a secondary disclaimer. They all ahve explicit clinical mental health counseling structures, supervised clinical training, licensure exam preparation, and/or CACREP-aligned design. 

Want an online degree that's:

  • Affordable
  • Popular
  • Highly Rated
  • Military-friendly

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FAQs About Affordable Christian Counseling Master's Degrees 91成人

What Can You Expect From an Affordable 91成人 Master鈥檚 Degree in Christian Counseling?


A master's degree in Christian counseling is designed for students who want to provide mental health and behavioral support from a faith-based perspective. Enrollees learn the principles of psychology, Christian ethics, social sciences, and theology so they can adopt church-approved approaches when treating patients for relationship, behavioral, sexual, and substance-related challenges. Interested students can earn an affordable online Christian counseling degree, allowing them to complete their coursework at flexible times while keeping costs down.

If you're applying to a master鈥檚 program in Christian counseling, you'll need to detail your academic and work history. Most graduate-level programs require the following:

  • Bachelor鈥檚 degree transcripts from your undergraduate institution, showing a minimum GPA of 2.5-3.0
  • A personal reflective essay or answers to a series of essay questions about your faith and professional goals
  • Letters of recommendation from professors or experienced mentors
  • A resume of relevant experience

Since a Christian counselor engages in ministry, you may need to profess faith in a particular denomination during your application process. Most institutions granting these degrees are affiliated with a specific branch of Christianity. Additionally, your institution may ask that you pledge commitment to your chosen school's code of conduct.

How Long Does an 91成人 Christian Counseling Master鈥檚 Degree Take To Complete?


The length of an online Christian counseling master's degree can vary based on whether it leads to professional counseling licensure. Most non-licensure programs last 36 credit hours and take about two years of full-time study to complete, whereas licensure options take up to 60 credits and can last four years. Christian counseling degree programs that lead to licensure require 2,000-4,000 clinical counseling hours in a supervised professional setting, depending on the state. Some non-licensure programs also require supervised hours, though this is uncommon and hours vary by program.

Do 91成人 Christian Counseling Master鈥檚 Degrees Lead to Licensure?


Since Christian counseling is unregulated, there are no absolute degree requirements to work in the field. Some employers may hire a Christian counselor who only has an undergraduate degree, whereas others require a master's degree. Similarly, some employers may prefer to hire an applicant whose degree program required supervised clinical hours, and others may be satisfied that a degree included a research practicum course.

Because Christian counseling is rooted in religion, there are no state-mandated guidelines for practicing in the field and scarce regulation. Earning the licensed professional counselor (LPC) credential requires a graduate degree from an accredited institution, at least 3,000 supervised clinical hours, and a passing score on the (NCE) or state equivalent. Only a few master's and doctoral programs in Christian counseling are designed to lead to licensure as LPCs.

Notably, even graduates of non-licensure Christian counseling programs may obtain a license as a pastoral or Christian therapist 鈥 as opposed to an LPC 鈥 through the (NACC). If you want NACC certification, you'll need to pay a nominal fee, provide proof of a master鈥檚 or doctoral degree, and complete the NACC Board Certified Christian Counselor Program. This alternate form of licensure is not regulated by any state body. Although NACC licensure cannot bestow the title of LPC, graduates of the program can call themselves a "Christian counselor" or some variation.

What Courses Are Common in 91成人 Christian Counseling Master鈥檚 Programs?


A master's in Christian counseling is intended for individuals who have faith in Christianity and want to help others improve their mental health. Courses in the field intertwine these themes by teaching biblical knowledge and religious practice alongside counseling techniques and insights from psychological research. Below are some courses that are often included in an online master's program in Christian counseling.

  • Aging and End-of-Life Issues: Many older adults and their families need counseling support as they experience late-life changes and begin to contemplate the end of life. This course teaches students to address these issues from the viewpoint of Christian ministry. Topics include government policies relating to aging and end of life, the secular human services industry, and a cross-cultural comparison of these experiences.
  • Crisis Counseling: In this course, students learn Christian-based methods for counseling clients in crisis, ranging from divorce to the sudden loss of a loved one. Students also learn the crisis intervention process as well as biblical principles applicable to crisis situations. Faculty may also emphasize the spiritual questions that patients commonly have in reaction to life crises and trauma.
  • Human Sexuality: At a Christian school, a course on human sexuality examines sexual relationships from a biblical perspective. Coursework also explores how culture, family and peers, psychology, and biology influence individuals鈥 sexuality. Students learn how to use a biblical lens in order to view a broad range of questions surrounding sexual identity and behavior.
  • Marital Counseling: Students in this course learn to counsel couples at all relationship stages. The coursework typically covers common issues from a Bible-centered perspective: finances, parenthood, family dynamics, communication, and conflict resolution. Professors train students to work through these issues with their clients.
  • Principles of Christian Counseling: This course explores the professional values and clinical procedures used to counsel patients through the lens of biblical studies. Students learn effective methods for assessing patients, gathering information, and counseling. The coursework often covers appropriate Christian approaches for dealing with some of the most common challenges, such as grief, anxiety, depression, and conflict.

What Careers Are Available After an 91成人 Christian Counseling Master鈥檚 Program?


Christian counseling graduates can pursue various career paths. Counselors earn , but data on unlicensed Christian counselors remains insufficient. Therefore, while the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) is used when possible, the salary and job growth information remains uncertain for most careers listed below.

  • Chaplain: Ordained ministers may work as chaplains to provide biblical counseling in select non-parochial spaces. Certain prisons, businesses, and sports associations allow chaplains to meet with people interested in counseling. The military also employs chaplains from a variety of faiths, but they're required to be uniformed service members with an officer's commission. 
  • Church Counselor: Lay counselors may find employment at churches, where they conduct individual, group, or family counseling sessions with community members. They work closely with administrative staff to schedule appointments and advise ministers on the congregation鈥檚 needs.
  • Life Coach: Life coaches help clients develop plans for improving aspects of their lives that they find dissatisfying. As a self-employed life coach, an alumnus with training in behavioral science can develop a roster of clients or work in a rehabilitation/residential care organization with a Christian worldview. Businesses often hire life coaches to provide services for executives or recently terminated employees. Interested professionals can pursue further training and certification through the .
  • Nonprofit Organization Counselor: Employees of religious-affiliated non-profit organizations can apply their mental health counseling skills in a variety of human services fields, such as disaster relief, Christian ministry, or mission work. Disaster-relief counselors often work abroad, helping people affected by disasters to process their trauma. Some domestic non-profits also offer faith-based counseling to their communities, including outreach to local high schools or colleges.
  • Substance Abuse and Addictions Counselor (unlicensed): Addiction counselors help clients confront and overcome dependency on chemical substances, harmful sexual behavior, and/or eating disorders. Christian counselors provide a Christian perspective on these issues as they encourage healthy lifestyle changes. They could work in a private practice, church-affiliated counseling center, or non-profit. Graduates from a licensure program may be able to pursue certification as an addiction counselor in their state, though this is rare for Christian counselor programs. Interested applicants can find licensure information for their state by contacting their regional center of the .

What Financial Aid Is Available for 91成人 Christian Counseling Master鈥檚 Students?


Many financial aid sources help mitigate educational costs for those who want to pursue an online Christian counseling degree at the lowest possible cost. For counseling and behavioral health students, a diverse array of scholarships, fellowships, and grants are available from federal, state, school, and private sources. These types of aid are beneficial because students do not have to repay them, which could lower their student debt in the long run.

On the other hand, student loans are available from a variety of sources, but they require repayment with interest. Federal loans are generally preferred because they typically have lower interest rates and better repayment terms.

Students who plan to enroll in an online program at an accredited school can apply for most types of financial aid by completing the Free Application for Student Financial Aid (FAFSA) form. The federal government and all higher education institutions use the information provided on the FAFSA to decide a student鈥檚 eligibility for financial aid and the amount. Most colleges use this form for the same purpose and notify students about any financial assistance offers after enrollment.

In addition to government aid, Christian counseling students can apply for funding specific to their field. Many individual churches and larger church organizations, such as the Episcopal Church and the Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese, provide educational assistance for church members. Schools may also offer institutional grants or scholarships to enrolled students, while generous alumni sometimes endow scholarships for those attending their alma mater.

Are Affordable 91成人 Christian Counseling Master鈥檚 Degrees Accredited?


When choosing a master's degree program, prospective students should only consider schools that are institutionally accredited. This means that an independent organization has certified that the school meets specified quality standards for curricula, faculty, and student support. 

Sometimes, individual degree programs are accredited by an independent body affiliated with a particular industry. However, there is no recognized authority granting program accreditation for Christian counseling master's degrees. The (CACREP) accredits master's degrees in several types of counseling, but Christian counseling isn't among these.

Is an Affordable 91成人 Master鈥檚 Degree in Christian Counseling Worth It?


A master's degree is a substantial investment without a guaranteed payoff 鈥 no matter what subject you study. Every individual should weigh the advantages and costs according to their circumstances and goals. However, an online master's degree in Christian counseling may be worthwhile for those who want to help others in faith communities and have the means to pursue an advanced degree. Here are some benefits and drawbacks to consider: 

Potential Benefits

  • Although the BLS doesn't distinguish Christian counselors from other mental health counselors, the total through the end of the decade. This indicates that counselors will likely have job security.
  • A master's in the field prepares students to pursue specialized, non-regulated licensing through the or certification through the .

Potential Drawbacks

  • Most online master's degrees in this discipline are non-licensure programs. Therefore, some graduates would need to earn a different master's degree if they later want to become an LPC.
  • Mental health counselors are prone to and professional burnout from helping people in crisis day after day.

In conclusion, pursuing a master鈥檚 degree in Christian counseling online can be a highly rewarding path for those seeking to integrate their faith with their professional aspirations in counseling. The flexibility and faith-based curriculum are significant advantages, providing students with the opportunity to balance their studies with other life responsibilities while preparing them to serve in faith-based settings. However, prospective students should carefully weigh these benefits against the potential drawbacks. Ultimately, the decision should be based on individual goals, learning preferences, and career aspirations, ensuring that the chosen program meets both professional and personal needs.

Student Reviews of 91成人 Christian Counseling Programs

697a4db1967de4c172ede2b8, Graduated 2025

Attended: Summit Christian College

Summit Bible College was an overall excellent experience academically. The professors are passionate about their work and the overall culture was enjoyable. I highly recommend anyone who is looking into attending seminary to consider Summit Bible College.

Review Date: 2/9/2026

Attended: Summit Christian College

Overall Rating: 5/5

Experience Rating: 5/5

Instruction Rating: 5/5

Would Recommend: Yes

Helpful for Career: Yes

697a4db1967de4c172ede2b8, Graduated 2025

Lizbeth, Graduated 2019

I have attended GCU for my Bachelors as well as my Masters. I had to change my major right now and will push out my grad date. GCU is a great college and have been an awesome learning experience. Because they are a Christian college all classes are taught with a Christian worldview but can also benefit those that are not Christian. I have a 3.9 and because of doing my degrees online it has been easy to fit into my busy schedule.

Review Date: 3/28/2017

Overall Rating: 5/5

Instruction Rating: 5/5

Would Recommend: Yes

Helpful for Career: No

Lizbeth, Graduated 2019

Elizabeth Page, Graduated 2019

Attended: Liberty University Campus

As a mom of 3 with a full-time job, a home, and all the responsibilities that come with being a wife, parent and adult in general, the idea of earning my master's degree seemed very daunting. After speaking with a friend, who also attended Liberty, I decided to apply. The application was extremely easy and the advisers got in touch with me quickly. Within a week, I had my degree plan and was filling out my FAFSA for school. Because the university has a large online program, their online resources... Read More

Review Date: 3/4/2017

Attended: Liberty University Campus

Overall Rating: 5/5

Experience Rating: 5/5

Instruction Rating: 5/5

Would Recommend: Yes

Helpful for Career: Yes

Elizabeth Page, Graduated 2019

Pastor, Graduated 2018

Attended: Ohio Christian University

It is a do it yourself degree. You read the material and write a paper then you wait forever for anyone to respond to your work. Sometimes the grade for a paper will take 3 weeks to get a grade so what good is the feedback if it is not given during the week you do it. Why do they even have professors- just have a computer grade the work? You will get an "A" if you turn it in on time. That is the only requirement.

Review Date: 12/3/2018

Attended: Ohio Christian University

Overall Rating: 2/5

Experience Rating: 2/5

Instruction Rating: 2/5

Would Recommend: No

Helpful for Career: No

Pastor, Graduated 2018

Lizbeth, Graduated 2018

Grand Canyon works well for those working full time while going to school. They help with curriculum as well as classes being small. It is a Christian college that allows those of faith be open and honest. Financial and student services are great as well as cost.

Review Date: 9/28/2017

Overall Rating: 5/5

Experience Rating: 5/5

Instruction Rating: 4/5

Would Recommend: Yes

Helpful for Career: Yes

Lizbeth, Graduated 2018

Lizbeth, Graduated 2018

Grand Canyon works well for those working full time while going to school. They help with curriculum as well as classes being small. It is a Christian college that allows those of faith be open and honest. Financial and student services are great as well as cost.

Review Date: 9/28/2017

Overall Rating: 5/5

Experience Rating: 5/5

Instruction Rating: 4/5

Would Recommend: Yes

Helpful for Career: Yes

Lizbeth, Graduated 2018

Masters student, Graduated 2017

Attended: Ohio Christian University

I am like Fox Mulder, I want to believe, I really do. Overall I am very grateful for the education I received here, the teachers for the most part were good. My problems are with the administration in general. My advisor was AWOL for most of my time at OCU and when I called the answers center they defended her as being "busy". It sounded like either the person was incredibly lazy or overwhelmed not at all what I expected from the alammater of leadership expert John Maxwell. I had to practically harass... Read More

Review Date: 11/29/2016

Attended: Ohio Christian University

Overall Rating: 3/5

Experience Rating: 2/5

Instruction Rating: 5/5

Would Recommend: Yes

Helpful for Career: Yes

Masters student, Graduated 2017

Stefani719, Graduated 2014

I really loved GCU. If you are a religious/spiritual person who wants to integrate that into your education, GCU is a great school to look at. I did all online for my program, and it was great for me. 91成人 programs are not for everyone, though, so it's important to keep that in mind when looking at certain programs at this school. All my advisors were really good about aiding me when I needed it and making sure that my experience is a smooth one. I enjoyed my time at GCU, and I believe anyone who... Read More

Review Date: 3/30/2015

Overall Rating: 4.5/5

Experience Rating: 5/5

Instruction Rating: 4/5

Would Recommend: Yes

Helpful for Career: Yes

Stefani719, Graduated 2014

Elizabeth Page, Graduated 2011

Attended: Liberty University Campus

As an online student I appreciate how easy the online component is to navigate and the quality of instruction. I have never felt like I was a lesser student because I was online. The professors are thorough with their feedback and always prompt when responding to emails or discussion board questions. For one of my classes I did have to be on campus for a week and that was a wonderful experience. The campus is beautiful with a lot of amenities for students to enjoy. The buildings are not dated and... Read More

Review Date: 4/5/2017

Attended: Liberty University Campus

Overall Rating: 5/5

Instruction Rating: 5/5

Would Recommend: Yes

Helpful for Career: No

Elizabeth Page, Graduated 2011

Marcel, Graduated 2019

Attended: Moody Bible Institute

Moody Bible Institute and Moody Theological Seminary represent a wonderful place where growth takes place inside and outside the classroom. One of the most impactful experiences consists of being part of a great multicultural community of students, and seeing the God and the world through so many eyes from all the continents. The professors are high quality and both their teaching and their friendliness are life-transforming. Most importantly, I believe God is honored through the academic and ministry-oriented... Read More

Review Date: 2/27/2019

Attended: Moody Bible Institute

Overall Rating: 5/5

Experience Rating: 5/5

Instruction Rating: 5/5

Would Recommend: Yes

Helpful for Career: Yes

Marcel, Graduated 2019

Pamela Horton, Graduated 2017

Attended: Carolina Christian College

Carolina Christian College is a college that teaches you the Bible and all types of Christianity. The professor are very knowledgeable in the word of the Lord. It is very interesting learning about the different women and men of the Bible. I have a lot to learn and it would help a lot financially to get a scholarship to help with my financial expenses.

Review Date: 11/6/2016

Attended: Carolina Christian College

Overall Rating: 4/5

Experience Rating: 0/5

Instruction Rating: 5/5

Would Recommend: Yes

Helpful for Career: No

Pamela Horton, Graduated 2017

Aisha Nikki Myers, Graduated 2006

Attended: Cairn University

Cairn University is previously known as Philadelphia Biblical University. This school is filled with kind, caring and knowledgeable staff. They have assisted me in ways that I never would have imagined including praying for me. In fact, the professors pray at the beginning of each class which really helped me to understand how important it is for students to succeed. The school is an excellent choice for folks who would like to become equipped to work in both spiritual and secular settings. Attending... Read More

Review Date: 3/27/2017

Attended: Cairn University

Overall Rating: 5/5

Experience Rating: 5/5

Instruction Rating: 5/5

Would Recommend: Yes

Helpful for Career: Yes

Aisha Nikki Myers, Graduated 2006

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