MA Christian Counseling Degree (MACC)

Immerse yourself in a rigorous curriculum covering a wide range of counseling topics, including trauma-informed counseling, substance abuse counseling, career counseling, ethics, and advanced psychopathology. Through these courses, you develop a solid theoretical foundation that empowers you to help individuals from diverse backgrounds. After learning key clinical diagnosis and treatment concepts, complete a counseling practicum and internship to elevate your practical skills.

Our program specifically provides individuals with the necessary coursework to obtain their Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) credentials. Our approach is distinct from that of other degree programs in the field of counseling, as it is Christ-centered, biblically rooted, and clinically informed. Read more about the Christian psychology and counseling movement and the Christian counseling philosophy espoused by our counseling center.

Review degree plan.

Example Program Timeline

Counseling Practicum and Internship Experience

As part of our master’s in Christian counseling program, we offer you the invaluable opportunity to gain in-person counseling experience through a counseling practicum. This experience is a crucial component of your training, allowing you to apply your theoretical knowledge in real-world settings.

Under the guidance and supervision of experienced professionals in HCU’s counseling center or local practices in the Houston area, you can work with clients, further develop your counseling skills, and receive valuable feedback and support.

Program Highlights

• Transform lives with a Christ-centered approach.
• 66 Credit Hours
• Three Years
• In-Person Classes in Dynamic Houston
• Many Online Class Options Available
• Scholar-Practitioner Faculty
• Pursue Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) Certification in Texas and other states not requiring CACREP certification

By choosing our MACC program, you can be confident that you are receiving a comprehensive education that proceeds from a Christian orientation while integrating mainstream counseling methods and techniques, preparing you to serve and inspire others to find healing, hope, and wholeness.

Faculty of Excellence

Christian counseling faculty bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the classroom, ensuring that you receive the highest quality education and mentorship. Each faculty member nurtures your journey of educational and spiritual discernment, shepherding you on the path to becoming a compassionate, skilled, and knowledgeable counselor.

In addition to their terminal degrees in counseling and psychology, many of our faculty hold seminary degrees and have specialized training in distinctly Christian counseling approaches, such as spiritual transformation, Christian psychology, and other faith-based therapeutic approaches.

Meet the distinguished faculty for the Christian Counseling program and the experienced counseling faculty housed in the College of Education and Behavioral Sciences.

Support in Personal Growth and Spiritual Formation

We understand that personal growth and spiritual development are essential for effective counseling. Along with your academic coursework, our Christian counseling degree program curriculum places significant emphasis on spiritual formation, deepening your relationship with Christ and cultivating your spiritual growth.

Through reflective practices, mentoring, and integrating faith into your counseling approaches, you not only develop professional skills but also strengthen your character in pursuit of your calling.

The Office of Career and Calling provides personalized assistance for career goal-setting and achievement.

Upon completing this program, a wide range of postgraduate opportunities unfold before you. Dive into the depths of practice in both Christian-focused environments and other mental health settings, whether you become a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Texas or choose a different path. If you are pursuing certification in other states, review if the program of study meets the relevant licensure eligibility requirements.

Beyond immediate practice, the realm of academia might call you to further your education, exploring the intricacies of research or advancing to doctoral programs. The broader field also offers roles in administrative, educational, and community-centric settings.

Opportunities include:

• Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC)
• Pastoral counseling
• Clinical therapy roles in faith-based institutions
• Academic research or educator roles
• Counseling director positions in nonprofit or community organizations
• PhD candidacy

Christian counseling salaries vary in response to different levels of education, licensure, and experience. According to Salary.com, Christian counselors in the United States make between $66,000 to $91,000 annually. Income may increase for those leading faith-based nonprofits or practicing independently.

If you’re ready for a fulfilling journey in christian counseling, Houston Christian University welcomes you to apply. Explore next steps:

• Get to know HCU: Dive deep into what makes us unique.
• Gain admissions clarity: Learn the application process and timeline.
• Tuition and financial aid: Review federal aid, scholarships, and essential deadlines.