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By Kristen Fescoe
Posted July, 2015
A bachelor’s degree in Christian counseling is an excellent way for students with an interest in counseling from a faith-based approach to enter this important helping profession.
A Christian counseling degree provides the background and skills for someone to succeed in a non-clinical position within the psychology or counseling field. While some degrees offered are specifically referred to as Christian counseling degrees, others are noted as traditional counseling degrees or degrees in ministry or theology. Regardless of the specific name of the degree, they’re all great options for students who plan to enter the workforce as a pastoral or biblical counselor, or for those who are considering a graduate degree in this field of study. The curriculum that underlies these various program options all cover the foundational areas of counseling and mental health services allowing students to become Christian professionals who can effectively treat both mental illness as well as individuals struggling with personal difficulties. Finding an affordable Christian counseling degree program means that students can begin a career upon graduation without incurring a great amount of debt.
Accreditation
An important consideration when choosing a bachelor’s degree in Christian counseling is accreditation. Christian colleges, universities and seminaries have two options when offering accreditation or affiliation for a Christian counseling degree. The first is to follow the guidelines set forth for traditional credentialing by a program specific accrediting body such as Commission on Accreditation for Marriage and Family Therapy Education (COAMFTE), Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP) or Council on Rehabilitation Education (CORE). The second is to adhere to the criteria set forth for regional accreditation such as Senior College and University Commission of the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC), the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools (NCACS) or the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE).
However, many colleges and universities offering Christian counseling bachelor’s degrees (or degrees at various levels) may choose a different route. Some are permitted, by the state, to issue degrees without accreditation. Others will pursue an accreditation issued by the church ruling body. Some of these accreditors include:
- Council for Christian Colleges and Universities (CCCU)
- Association of Christian Schools International (ACSI)
- International Association of Bible Colleges and Seminaries (IABCS)
- National Addictions Studies Accreditation Commission (NASAC)
- Association for Biblical Higher Education (ABHE)
This issue of accreditation is important for a variety of reasons and there are a few things to consider. First, are the credits earned transferable or applicable should the student change schools or pursue a graduate degree? Second, does the degree fulfill the minimum requirements for a specific position a student may be pursuing? The third, and possibly most important, issue to consider is that students earning a degree from a church based organization may not have the ability to pursue state licensure. They may, however, still have the ability to find employment in a church based position of employment. These are all important factors to consider before choosing which Christian counseling certification or degree is the ideal fit for you.
Methodology
In order to compile a list of fully accredited, undergraduate affordable Christian counseling degree programs, research began with a large number of colleges, universities and seminaries found throughout the United States. Only academic institutions with the appropriate accreditation, affiliation or memberships were considered. Next, all schools must offer a faith based counseling degree program with a rigorous and robust curriculum. Programs that came with a large price tag were eliminated. Tuition data was gathered, when possible through the total net cost of attendance according to the National Center for Education Statistics College Navigator Tool. In instances where this data was unavailable, tuition data was gathered directly from the school. Schools that remained, were ranked according to the following:
Overall Cost of Attendance
Schools offering academic training while also keeping student costs low are given higher consideration in this list. Data about the overall cost of attendance was gathered from the College Navigator Tool or the school itself.
Points:
Under $14,999 / $15,000 – $17,999/ $18,000 – $19,999 / $20,000-$25,000
5 Points / 3 Points / 2 Points / 1 Point
College Ranking
The next consideration was whether or not a school has been granted acknowledgement by a national ranking body. The major source of such national notoriety comes typically comes from the US News and World Report Best Colleges List or the Forbes Top Colleges list. The data being considered for this ranking list is National Ranking, Regional Ranking, High School Counselor Ranking and Best Online Bachelor’s Degree Program Ranking. Inclusion on the following lists meant the following points were awarded.
Points:
US News Best National University Ranking: 3 Points
US News Best Regional University Ranking: 2 Points
US News and World Report Best Online Bachelor’s Program Ranking: 2 Points
US News and World Report High School Counselor Ranking: 1 Point
Accreditation
In order to be included in this ranking list, schools must be accredited, affiliated or a member of an appropriate ranking body or religious organization. Schools that have received multiple accreditations are awarded more points.
Points:
1 Accreditation / 2 Accreditations / 3 or more Accreditations
1 Points / 2 Points / 3 Points
Number of Degree Options or Areas of Specialization
Students pursuing a bachelor’s degree in Christian counseling will have a variety of options upon graduation in terms of where and how they work. Schools that offer multiple degree options and multiple areas of specialization are awarded more points as they allow for greater job potential and flexibility.
Points:
More than one area of specialization: 2 Points
More than one degree option: 2 Points
Grading Process
Once the points have been tallied the schools are arranged into groups according to the amount of points they have earned. In the cases of ties, preference was given to those schools with the lowest tuition rates. Specializations, awards and achievements earned by the school or department have also been noted. The main purpose of this list is to highlight the most affordable Christian counseling degree programs in the United States.
Ranking the Top 25 Most Affordable Christian Counseling Bachelor’s Degree Programs 2015
#25 – Colorado Christian University – Lakewood, Colorado
The College of Adult and Graduate Studies
Bachelor of Arts
Points: 3
Program Website
The Bachelor of Science in Psychology degree program offered by Colorado Christian University offers students the opportunity to gather a thorough understanding of what underlies human nature. The program uses a Christian worldview for all of its teaching and students are challenged to mesh their faith and understanding of human behavior in an academic environment that promotes critical and creative thinking skills.
This degree program is offered online, as well as the Colorado Springs, Denver Tech Center, Grand Junction, Lakewood, Loveland, Northglenn and Sterling campuses. The program is made up of 120 credit hours, including 36 in the major, 48 in general education courses and 36 elective credits. Colorado Christian University offers students an option to apply up to 31 credits from life and learning experiences towards a degree. Coursework can typically be completed over the course of just four semesters and most classes are offered in five-week blocks.
Upon graduation from this program students are ready to pursue a variety of entry-level positions in business, education, mental health, ministry, government agencies, or any area where a degree in psychology is required or suggested. Students are also prepared for application to Colorado Christian’s Master of Arts in Counseling degree program.
Overall Cost of Attendance: $24,438
Enrollment: 5,787
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Arts in Psychology with a Christian Focus
Accreditations:
The Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools (NCACS)
National Ranking: Not Applicable
Religious Affiliation: Christian
#24 – Southwestern Assemblies of God University – Waxahachie, Texas
The Department of Counseling
Bachelor of Arts
Points: 4
Program Website
Southwestern Assemblies of God University (SAGU) is a faith-based academic institution affiliated with the Assemblies of God Church. All study and ministry at SAGU is done around a commitment to a biblical world view.
The Bachelor of Arts in Counseling Ministry degree program is designed to train students in the basic concepts and theories of counseling and psychology while using a biblically based standard of counseling. This Christian counseling degree program provides undergraduate students with the training they will need for effective Christian ministry in a variety of settings or entrance into seminary or graduate pastoral counseling programs.
Overall Cost of Attendance: $23,257
Enrollment: 1,984
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Arts in Counseling
Accreditations:
The Commission on Accreditation of the Association for Biblical Higher Education (ABHE)
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACS-COC)
National Ranking: Not Applicable
Religious Affiliation: Assemblies of God
#23 – Nazarene Bible College – Colorado Springs, Colorado
The Department of Psychology
Bachelor of Arts
Points: 4
Program Website
Nazarene Bible College offers a Bachelor of Arts in Ministry degree with a selected major. With each B.A.Min. degree, students may choose from several major areas of study. The selected major is added into the curriculum in the student’s fourth year, after the General Education Core and the Bible and Theology Core are completed. The Christian Counseling major is available for students who are seeking to become competent in Christian counseling and they will receive an education that can be applied to various ministry contexts.
Overall Cost of Attendance: $15,969
Enrollment: 762
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Arts in Ministry with Christian Counseling Emphasis
Bachelor of Arts in Ministry with Counseling for Christian Ministries Emphasis
Accreditations:
Commission on Accreditation Association for Biblical Higher Education (ABHE)
The Higher Learning Commission North Central Association of Colleges and Schools (HLC-NCA)
National Ranking: NA
Religious Affiliation: Christian
#22 – Arlington Baptist College – Arlington, Texas
The Professional Studies Division
Bachelor of Science
Points: 4
Program Website
The Bachelor of Science in Biblical Counseling degree program at Arlington Baptist is designed to prepare students for work in the Biblical counseling ministry or for entry into a master’s level program in Biblical counseling. The program at Arlington Baptist emphasizes the superiority of the Bible over secular psychologies and adheres to a counseling model that focuses on “heart change” leading to behavioral change. The program is part of the Professional Studies Division and is available on campus or online
Overall Cost of Attendance: $15,031
Enrollment: 245
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Science in Biblical Counseling
Accreditations:
The Commission on Accreditation of the Association for Biblical Higher Education (ABHE)
National Ranking: Not Applicable
Religious Affiliation: Baptist
#21 – Grand Canyon University – Phoenix, Arizona
The Department of Psychology and Counseling
Bachelor of Science
Points: 5
Program Website
Grand Canyon University offers a unique range of “transformative Christian Counseling programs,” all designed to offer students the opportunity to combine Christian teachings with a career as a professional counselor. The Bachelor of Science in Counseling with Christian Counseling Emphasis program builds upon a framework of biblical knowledge and theological wisdom that can be applied in a professional counseling setting. The Christian faith components of the curriculum include:
- Biblical Foundations for Counselors
- Spiritual Formation
- Biblical Concepts of Healthy Relationships
- Integration of Scripture with Counseling Theory
Relevant topics covered in the curriculum include:
- Spousal and Child Abuse, Crisis, and Trauma Counseling
- Psychopathology and Counseling
- Psychopharmacology & Addictions
- Counseling Theories
Upon graduation from this program students are prepared for entry-levels positions working with individuals who suffer from social, psychological and emotional disabilities. Students are also prepared to pursue graduate training in this, or a related field of study.
Overall Cost of Attendance: $19,761
Enrollment: 62,304
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Science in Counseling with Christian Counseling Emphasis
Accreditations:
The Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools (NCACS)
National Ranking: Not Applicable
Religious Affiliation: Not Applicable
#20 – Ohio Christian University – Circleville, Ohio
The College of Adult and Graduate Studies
Bachelor of Arts
Points: 5
Program Website
The Bachelor of Arts in Christian Ministries at Ohio Christian is offered with a number of concentrations, including the concentration in Pastoral Counseling which is specifically designed to help students move toward ordination in their chosen denomination or to provide academic training that will help them become effective counselors in a pastoral setting. Some of these positions might include pastoral care, pastoral counseling, and other types of ministry.
This traditional undergraduate program requires 125 semester credit hours with 51 credit hours of general education courses, 29 credit hours of religion core courses, 2 credit hours of professional electives, 2 credit hours of math, science or computer elective, 3 credit hours of mathematics electives, 4 credit hours of science elective courses and 3 credit hours of literature elective courses.
Upon completion of this undergraduate program, students are encouraged to pursue a graduate pastoral counseling degree to advance their studies in the field.
Overall Cost of Attendance: $16,414
Enrollment: 3,711
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Arts in Christian Ministries with emphasis in Pastoral Counseling
Accreditations:
The Commission on Accreditation of the Association for Biblical Higher Education (ABHE)
The Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools (NCACS)
National Ranking: Not Applicable
Religious Affiliation: Christian
#19 – Crown College – Saint Bonifacius, Minnesota
The Department of Online Degrees
Bachelor of Science
Points: 6
Program Website
Crown College offers two excellent online Christian counseling degree options for students interested in a career in counseling and psychology. The Bachelor of Science (BS) in Psychology/Counseling is an online Christian-based degree program that helps students answer the call to help others from a faith perspective. The program is ideal for students of all levels, including recent high school graduates as well as adult learners. The BS in Psychology/Counseling is among the few undergraduate psychology degrees with a Christ-centered worldview in the country that is offered 100 percent online. The program includes a solid framework in the theories and modalities of modern psychological theory while also maintaining a Christian perspective. The purpose of the counseling portion of the degree is to provide students with a focused learning opportunity that offers a number of important skills that can be applied to a wide range of careers. Coursework included in this curriculum focus on human behavior and development, listening and assessment techniques, counseling theory, and skill building. It also includes principles and learning styles that students enrolled in similar program may not receive until they reach graduate level training. Graduates of this online degree program are prepared to work in any industry or field that requires comprehension of human cognition and behavior. The curriculum also adequately trains students for entrance into a master’s program.
The optional minor in Drug and Alcohol Counseling can be added to the Psychology Counseling degree. The minor is available to any student majoring in Criminal Justice, Psychology or Christian Ministry, in order to increase the opportunities for employment options upon graduation. This minor can help a graduate secure positions in many different professional opportunities ranging from healthcare, to education and corrections, to corporations, faith-based organizations, and social-service agencies.
Overall Cost of Attendance: $21,840
Enrollment: 1,323
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Science in Psychology/Counseling
Bachelor of Science in Psychology/Counseling with a minor in Drug and Alcohol Counseling
Accreditations:
The Commission on Accreditation of the Association for Biblical Higher Education (ABHE)
The Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools (NCACS)
National Ranking:
US News and World Report 54th Best University in the Midwestern Region of the US
Religious Affiliation: Christian and Missionary Alliance
#18 – Wayland Baptist University – Plainview, Texas
The Department of Counseling
Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Science
Points: 6
Program Website
Wayland Baptist University is one of the leading Baptist colleges in the nation, and offers students the chance to participate in the innovative Pre-Christian Counseling track. This area of counseling focuses on “the Bible as a main guidance tool when working with patients”. The undergraduate psychology program at Wayland Baptist University is offered with an optional Pre Christian Counseling specialization. Students can pursue either a Bachelor of Arts or a Bachelor of Science (depending upon their they academic and career goals) and add this unique area of specialization. The Pre-Christian Counseling Track in Religion is a 33-semester hour specialization that can be added as a second major to the Psychology major. When combined, these two majors offer excellent preparation for students to enter graduate school for counseling. The curriculum used when combining these programs teaches student counselors how they will be able to teach their patients to resolve issues they face by using Christian based principles. While this Pre-Christian counseling track focuses strongly on religion, the major in Psychology gives students a better understanding of the professional career of psychology and counseling.
Overall Cost of Attendance: $16,452
Enrollment: 6,222
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Arts in Psychology – Pre-Christian Counseling Track in Religion
Bachelor of Science in Psychology – Pre-Christian Counseling Track in Religion
Accreditations:
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACS-COC)
National Ranking: Not Applicable
Religious Affiliation: Baptist
#17 – Cathedral Bible College – Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
The Undergraduate Department
Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Theology
Points: 6
Program Website
Cathedral Bible College is a small church based college, affiliated with the Restoration Fellowship of Christian Churches and Ministries. The college offers students interested in counseling and ministry two excellent degree options. The Bachelor of Theology with an Emphasis in Christian Counseling is a combined plan of study that leads to a degree conferred upon completion of an Associate’s of Theology with two additional years of study. Students must maintain a grade average of at least 77 throughout the 132 total credit hours of study to earn their degree. The next degree option is the Bachelor of Arts in Theology with a specialization in Christian Education. This degree is also conferred upon completion of Associate’s of Theology with two additional years of study with a grade average of at least 77 throughout the 132 total credit hours of course work.
Overall Cost of Attendance: $12,773
Enrollment: 156
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Arts in Theology
Bachelor of Theology with an Emphasis in Christian Counseling
Accreditations:
Accrediting Commission International
National Ranking: Not Applicable
Religious Affiliation: Restoration Fellowship of Christian Churches and Ministries
#16 – Carolina College of Biblical Studies – Fayetteville, North Carolina
On Campus Studies Department
Bachelor of Arts
Points: 6
Program Website
Carolina College of Biblical Studies is a nondenominational Christian college located in Fayetteville, North Carolina. The college offers a Bachelor of Arts in Biblical Studies with an optional minor in Biblical Counseling. This combination offers excellent preparation for those who have an interest in Christian counseling. The minor in Biblical Counseling is designed to provide students with robust training in the bible combined with the inner workings of the human heart. Students learn to make diagnoses and provide guidance for people experiencing distress or problems by using the Word of God alone. The objectives of this program, as stated by the college, include:
- To strengthen confidence in the sufficiency and unequalled reliability of Scripture to counsel inner person problems
- To give the student a comprehensive biblical framework with which to confidently diagnose and address the root cause of marriage, family, and common counseling problems, as well as of most mental disorders
- To prepare the student to give practical biblical guidance that will help heal and strengthen the personal relationships of those they counsel
- To enrich the student’s own personal life and relationships through the biblical principles taught in the course
Students working toward the Bachelor of Arts in Biblical Studies with the minor in Biblical Counseling are required to complete the following courses:
- Introduction to Biblical Counseling
- Theological Foundations of Biblical Counseling
- Human Emotions
- Counseling Human Problems 1 Counseling practicum is included.
- Counseling Human Problems 2
- Counseling Marriage and Family Problems
Overall Cost of Attendance: $838
Enrollment: 113
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Arts in Biblical Studies with minor in Biblical Counseling
Accreditations:
The Commission on Accreditation of the Association for Biblical Higher Education (ABHE)
National Ranking: Not Applicable
Religious Affiliation: Non-Denominational Christian
#15 – Northwestern Seminary – Port Richey, Florida
The Department of Undergraduate Studies
Bachelor of Theology
Points: 6
Program Website
Northwestern Seminary provides a note-worthy degree option for those pursuing a career in Christian counseling. The Bachelor of Theology (BTh) in Christian Counseling was created with the goal to “equip persons for competent introductory leadership in some form of specialized ministry in congregations and other settings”. Another important goal of the program is to offer the framework for an essential understanding of theological disciplines as part of the process of preparing for graduate study. The curriculum was designed to serve as a “scholarly enhancement of ministerial practice and preparation for some forms of basic ministerial counseling”. In order to fulfill the minimum curricular requirements for theology, students must complete the following core religion courses:
- Old Testament Survey
- New Testament Survey
- Intro to the Bible I
- Life of Christ I & II
- Introduction to Bible Study Methods
- Life of Paul I & II
- Introduction to Evangelism
- Exegesis Book of Acts I & II
- Introduction to Apologetics
- Christian History I
- Introduction to Missions
- Four Electives
In order to fulfill the minimum curricular requirements for counseling, students must complete the following core counseling courses:
- Introduction to Christian Counseling
- Hermeneutics I
- Introduction to Systematic Theology
- Exegesis Book of Romans
- Ecclesiology
- Biblical Leadership
- Christian Ethics I
- Anthropology
- Soteriology
- Systematic Theology I
- Balancing the Christian Life
- Exegesis Book of I & II Corinthians
- Homiletics I
- Christian Counseling I & II
- Four Electives
Overall Cost of Attendance: Information Provided by the School
Single Degree $2,900 before discounts
Dual Degree $3,900 before discounts
Discounts:
A – $700 discount when paid in full
B –$2,600 dual degree discount when paid in full
C – Initial Payment of $59 with no interest and a monthly payment
Enrollment: Data Not Available
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Theology in Christian Counseling
Accreditations:
International Association for Christian Educational Accountability (IACEA)
National Ranking: Not Applicable
Religious Affiliation: The Worldwide Church of Jesus Christ
#14 – Cedarville University – Cedarville, Ohio
Psychology Department – School of Biblical and Theological Studies
Bachelor of Arts
Points: 7
Psychology Program Website
Bible and Theology Program Website
Cedarville University is a private Baptist university that was established in 1887. The total undergraduate enrollment is 3,238, and the campus size is 400 acres. The university offers a strong Bachelor’s Degree program for candidates interested in pursuing a career in the helping fields of psychology or counseling. Students have the option of pursuing a Bachelor of Arts in either general psychology, or they may choose to pair their degree with a minor to make their curriculum more customized to match their career goals. The optional minors include:
- Bible
- Bible Teacher Education
- Christian Education
- Pastoral Ministry
- Women’s Ministry
- Youth Ministry
Regardless of which program best suits the student’s needs, Cedarville places a strong emphasis on faith as a major part of student life outside the classroom, with daily chapel services, mission trips and a student-run Christian rock station, Resound Radio. The university also supports HeartSong gospel groups and over 60 ministry teams that serve at locations like churches, schools and social agencies. The school works to ensure that each student gets the individualized attention they deserve with a student-faculty ratio of just 13:1, with 64.5 percent of the classes with fewer than 20 students. In order to keep the tuition rates affordable, 67.7 percent of full-time undergraduates receive need-based financial aid and the average need-based scholarship or grant award is $4,241.
Overall Cost of Attendance: $23,403
Enrollment: 3,462
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Arts in Psychology
Bachelor of Arts in Psychology with minor in Bible
Bachelor of Arts in Psychology with minor in Bible Teacher Education
Bachelor of Arts in Psychology with minor in Christian Education
Bachelor of Arts in Psychology with minor in Pastoral Ministry
Bachelor of Arts in Psychology with minor in Women’s Ministry
Bachelor of Arts in Psychology with minor in Youth Ministry
Accreditations:
The Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools (NCACS)
National Ranking:
US News and World Report 6th Best University in the Midwestern Region of the US
Religious Affiliation: Baptist
#13 – St. Leo University – St. Leo, Florida
The School of Arts and Sciences
Bachelor of Arts
Points: 7
Program Website
Saint Leo University is a private Catholic university that was originally established in 1889. It has a current undergraduate enrollment of 2,234, and is situated on a beautiful 259-acre campus. Keeping tuition affordable is a high priority at St. Leo, with 71.7 percent of full-time undergraduate students receiving financial aid, with the average need-based scholarship or grant award currently at $14,490. The School of Arts and Sciences offers a fully Online Christian Counseling Degree option that highlights the wide range of theories that make up the field, allowing students to better understand human cognition and behavior. The program is designed to offer a comprehensive education in the discipline, with the chance to customize the curriculum to address each students academic and career goals. The Bachelor of Arts in Psychology degree program prepares students for graduate training in psychology or related disciplines, as well as entry-level employment in fields such as human services and in mental health facilities. This degree also prepares students for careers in law, business, human resources management, advertising and sales. Some of the curricular requirements include courses such as:
- Research methods
- The psychology of learning
- Individual differences and social processes
- Biological bases of behaviors
- Developmental psychology
- Diversity
- Forensic psychology
- Military psychology
- Industrial and organizational psychology
- Interviewing and counseling
Students will learn about the theories and practices that underlie human thought and behaviors. Through participation in this online psychology program, students gain the leadership skills that are in keeping with the university’s core values and traditions. Psychology majors at St. Leo are strong encouraged to become active in ongoing research projects and complete a practicum placement or internship that relates to their career aspirations.
Overall Cost of Attendance: $19,466
Enrollment: 16,275
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Arts in Psychology
Accreditations:
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACS-COC)
National Ranking:
US News and World Report 65th Best University in the Southern Region of the US
US News and World Report 50th Best Online Bachelor’s Degree Program
Religious Affiliation: Catholic
#12 – Maranatha Baptist University – Watertown, Wisconsin
Maranatha Seminary
Bachelor of Arts
Points: 7
Program Website
Maranatha Baptist University is a small Baptist University located in Watertown, Wisconsin. The Maranatha Seminary offers a Bachelor of Arts in Biblical Counseling to those students who feel called to pursue a career in Christian Counseling. The program is available in either a traditional format or a summer format to make the program flexible enough for almost any schedule. The Seminary has outlined the most fundamental objectives for this program, which include:
- Students will become acquainted with classic theology, as well as current trends in theology
- Students will seek a spiritually fervent life of ministry
- Students will become competent to discern current trends, particularly in the area of Biblical Counseling, and their relationship to biblical truth
- Students will be faithful to the Holy Spirit’s work through God’s Word in his or her personal life and ministry
- Students will be desirous of ministry of counseling in a church, youth, campus, or missions setting
- Students will become capable of further training in Biblical Counseling by developing the research and communication skills and the foundational knowledge of Biblical Counseling necessary to successfully pursue additional graduate studies
By pursuing this unique Biblical Counseling undergraduate degree in whichever format fits your lifestyle, you can gain the skills and knowledge to begin a career as a Biblical Christian Counselor.
Overall Cost of Attendance: $18,442
Enrollment: 1,035
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Arts in Biblical Counseling
Accreditations:
The Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools (NCACS)
National Ranking:
US News and World Report 62nd Best University in the Midwestern Region of the US
US News and World Report 161st Best Online Bachelor’s Degree Program
Religious Affiliation: Baptist
#11 – Calvary Bible College and Theological Seminary
Department of Biblical Counseling
Bachelor of Science
Points: 7
Program Website
The Department of Biblical Counseling at Calvary Bible College and Theological Seminary offers a Bachelor of Science degree in Biblical Counseling. Calvary is grounded in the belief that “the revelation contained in the Scriptures concerning God, man, and man’s problems and their solution is the only adequate foundation on which to build a counseling model that is totally Christian”. In keeping with this ideology, the college teaches and practices a counseling style and approach that stems from biblical principles that pertain to human growth and development, behavioral changes, and problem solving. This Biblical Counseling degree program is taught in the context of Christian ministry. The Department has outlined the following objectives for all students pursuing this degree:
- That the student be able to articulate a biblical philosophy of counseling
- That the student demonstrates in his life the Christian character qualities necessary for a biblical counseling ministry
- That the student acquires a basic knowledge of the counseling process
- That the student be able to identify people’s problems
- That the student develops communication skills needed for counseling one-on-one and in small group situations
Overall Cost of Attendance: $13,657
Enrollment: 328
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Science in Biblical Counseling
Accreditations:
The Commission on Accreditation of the Association for Biblical Higher Education (ABHE)
The Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools (NCACS)
National Ranking: Not Applicable
Religious Affiliation: Christian
#10 – Christian Leadership University – Cheektowag, New York
The Department of Christian Counseling
Bachelor of Christian Counseling
Points: 7
Program Website
Christian Leadership University is a small, private Christian University located in the town of Cheektowag, New York. The Department of Christian Counseling offers a Bachelor of Christian Counseling that is very accessible to individuals with busy lifestyles. Students have the ability to earn half of their undergraduate degree through a combination of previous courses from other colleges and a “Life Experience Portfolio”. This means that students can use past academics and personal and professional experiences to earn a Bachelor’s Degree in Christian Counseling. The Bachelor of Christian Counseling requires a total of 120 credit hours, which provides students with a broad-based introduction to a number of subject areas. The university takes a unique approach to college education. After students complete the course Communion with God they have the ability to “follow the leading of the Holy Spirit” and choose courses to earn their degree. The idea is that God knows better than man, so He can guide the student to the knowledge and skills that will fulfill His plans for each individual. The tuition is kept low due to a number of factors. The first is previous college experiences and the second is life experience credits. These can help bring the cost to $4,200 – $9,000 for a Bachelor’s degree from CLU.
Overall Cost of Attendance: $4,200-9,000 (data provided by the school)
Enrollment: Data Not Available
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Christian Counseling
Accreditations:
Apostolic Council for Educational Accountability (ACEA)
Christian Accreditation International (CAI)
National Ranking: Not Applicable
Religious Affiliation: Christian
#9 – Trinity College and Seminary – Newburg, Indiana
School of Christ Centered Counseling
Bachelor of Arts
Points: 7
Program Website
Trinity is a nonprofit college, which allows them to keep their tuition rates significantly lower than most traditional universities and for-profit colleges. Students can also take advantage of grants that are offered for most full time students. The School of Christ Centered Counseling at Trinity College and Seminary offers two unique Bachelor’s in Christian Counseling. The Christian Counseling Degree is the Bachelor of Arts in Biblical Counseling. This 30-credit program is designed to Provide students with thorough knowledge and understanding of counseling from a biblical and theological viewpoint. The program teaches learners to think analytically about what they call the “quilt of counseling” so they may develop the skills needed to conduct a successful “ministry of counseling”. A unique aspect of this program is that it is designed so that students will develop research skills that will help them stay on top of developments and trends in the field of counseling. Upon graduation, students are prepared for careers as counselors, church counselors, consultants, pastors or associate pastors.
The second degree option is the 30-credit Bachelor of Arts in Christian Counseling. The Christian Counseling Bachelor of Arts degree was created to provide students with the knowledge and modalities of counseling from a cohesive perspective of both Biblical and secular models of counseling. The coursework in this program will provide learners with the skills they will need to participate in successful ministry of counseling. Like the Bachelor of Arts in Biblical Counseling, students will gather important research skills so they understand the trends and advancement in the field of counseling.
Overall Cost of Attendance: $5,280 (data provided by the school)
Enrollment: Data Not Available
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Arts in Biblical Counseling
Bachelor of Arts in Christian Counseling
Accreditations:
Trinity College of the Bible and Trinity Theological Seminary grants degrees in the State of Indiana under Article I, Sections 2, 3, and 4, of the Indiana State Constitution
National Ranking: Not Applicable
Religious Affiliation: Evangelical Christian
#8 – Azusa Pacific University – Azusa, California
The School of Behavioral and Applied Psychology
Bachelor of Arts
Points: 8
Program Website
The School of Behavioral and Applied Psychology at Azusa Pacific offers a Bachelor of Arts in Applied Psychology with an emphasis in Applied Pastoral Counseling. In order to work in the applied psychology field students must possess a broad knowledge base that covers the basic elements of psychological sciences. This Bachelor of Arts degree program provides students with a blend of professional information and practical skills in general psychology and optional emphasis areas. The program at Azusa Pacific is taught with a focus on a Christian worldview. Some of the highlights, as stated by the university include:
- Students will learn from experiential, applicable, and practical approaches
- The program works to integrate a Christian worldview
- Students learn to evaluate ethical behavior and decision making within the profession
- The curriculum utilizes empirical, analytical, and inductive reasoning
- Upon graduation, students should demonstrate a basic knowledge of methods, theories, and concepts in the field
Applied Psychology majors have the option of selecting an emphasis area to further customize their academic experience. The following emphases are recommended for this bachelor’s degree:
- Applied Pastoral Counseling
- Business Psychology
- Child and Adolescent Psychology
- Clinical Psychology
- Criminal Behavior
- Cultural Psychology
- Educational Psychology
- General Psychology
- Health Care Management
- Human Services
Overall Cost of Attendance: $31,587
Enrollment: 10,755
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Arts in Applied Psych with emphasis in Applied Pastoral Counseling
Accreditations:
Commission on Accrediting of the Association of Theological Schools (CAATS)
Senior College and University Commission of the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC)
National Ranking:
US News and World Report 173rd Best National University
US News and World Report 184th Best High School Rated School
Religious Affiliation: Christian Interdenominational
#7 – Campbellsville University – Campbellsville, Kentucky
The Department of Online Learning
Bachelor of Science
Points: 8
Program Website
For those individuals who feel the call to enter the ministry, Campbellsville University offers a unique Bachelor of Science in Pastoral Ministries. This Online Christian Counseling Degree program allows students to obtain a comprehensive understanding of ministry study and work. This Christian Counseling program adheres to the same accelerated pace of other certificate and associate programs offered by the university. Students pursuing this degree will learn from a variety of biblical topics such as biblical study, church history, missiology, evangelism, pastoral care and more. By earning this degree, students gather the tools and skills they will need to fill a role in ministry in several capacities. This program is a good fit for students who plan to “preach, teach, lead, counsel or meet social needs”. This online undergraduate program includes 120 credit hours of study and completion time depends upon the amount of transfer credits brought to the program. With the right course completion pace and transferred credits, it can be completed in as little as two years. This degree in pastoral ministry prepares students to answer the call to ministry. Graduates of this program can enter the service in a variety of ways, including:
- Traditional pastoral ministry
- Religious and biblical education
- Missionary work
- Religious nonprofit management
- Social justice outreach
Overall Cost of Attendance: $14,646
Enrollment: 3,646
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Science in Pastoral Ministry
Accreditations:
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACS-COC)
National Ranking:
US News and World Report 81st Best University in the Southern Region of the US
Religious Affiliation: Baptist
#6 – Colorado Theological Seminary – Wheat Ridge, Colorado
The Department of Ministry
Bachelor of Ministry
Points: 8
Program Website
The Department of Ministry at Colorado Theological Seminary offers students a great option if they want to pursue a career in Christian Counseling. The Bachelor of Ministry degree (BMin) program is an affordable option to gain entrance into this exciting helping profession. The BMin is designed to offer students the basics underlying tenets of field ministry (designed specifically for seminary students). Applicants must have earned an associate’s degree or equivalent in order to enroll in this program. The program is made up of 60 credit hours and offers a Biblical foundation of study for Christians students, specifically those with a desire to enter into the “pulpit ministry”. The BMin degree can also be used to enhance training for a current ministry, prepare for other ministries, or to acquire recognized ministerial credentials, such as ordination. Upon enrollment, students are assigned a mentor to guide the students through the program. All undergraduate degree programs at the school are designed with a high degree of flexibility for students with commitments to family, church, careers, and community. This degree is also designed to be affordable. The approximate tuition for degree completion is $5,700 without books.
Overall Cost of Attendance: $5,700 without books (data provided by the school)
Enrollment: Data Not Available
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Ministry
Accreditations:
Florida Council of Private Colleges (FCPC)
Association for Biblical Higher Education (ABHE)
Association of Christian Continuing Education Schools and Seminaries (ACCESS)
Institute of Theological Studies (ITS)
National Ranking: Not Applicable
Religious Affiliation: Nondenominational Christian
#5 – Andersonville Theological Seminary – Camilla, Georgia
The Department of Undergraduate Studies
Bachelor of Ministry
Points: 8
Program Website
Andersonville is also a Theological Seminary offering affordable, flexible degree options for students planning to pursue a career in Christian Counseling. The Bachelor of Ministry (BMin) degree program is a 120 credit-hour program, with the first 60 credit hours completed to earn an associate’s degree. The program offers students courses in the fundamentals of the field as well as practical training for church workers and pastors. The curriculum focuses heavily on biblical counseling and the lives of key Bible figures, which provides a functional method for teaching abstract concepts. The program is designed with church leaders in mind to offer then formal training in Bible doctrines and everyday, usable ministering skills. Students have the ability to complete the course work at their own pace, making it accessible to both full-time and bi-vocational pastors. All courses are offered through the ATS Distance Education Formats.
Overall Cost of Attendance: $1,500 (data provided by the school)
Enrollment: More than 3,000 (data provided by the school)
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Ministry
Accreditations:
Association for Biblical Higher Education Council of Private Colleges of America (ABHECPCA)
Association of Christian Distance Education (ACCESS)
Association of Christian Schools International (ACSI)
National Christian Counselors Association (NCCA)
United States Distance Learning Association (USDLA)
National Ranking: Not Applicable
Religious Affiliation: Nondenominational Christian
#4 – Bob Jones University – Greenville, South Carolina
The Department of Online Learning
Bachelor of Arts
Points: 9
Program Website
Bob Jones University is a nationally recognized university that offers strong training in a variety of ministry and counseling subject areas. The Bachelor of Arts in Biblical Counseling is offered in an interdisciplinary manner, combining the Bible and Counseling methods. Bible courses (which equate to a minor in Bible) provide students with a strong framework for a biblical counseling ministry. Students will complete classes in hermeneutics, doctrines, Bible and theology, as well as courses on the books of the Bible. Students in this program will “learn who God is, how to interpret His Word and how the gospel pertains to every area of life”. The counseling courses included in the curriculum teach students how Christ-centered ministry is “deeply rooted in the doctrines of sufficiency and progressive sanctification”. Students will cultivate the skills and knowledge to direct people toward Christ so they may take the Bible and apply it to their spiritual struggles, trials and challenges. The psychology portion of the curriculum is designed to familiarize students with secular counseling approaches that will challenge the students to understand and biblically evaluate the psychological diagnoses found in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM)). Students will become well versed in key areas of psychology, such as social, developmental and experimental psychology, while also formulating a biblical view of each area.
In addition to the Bible, Counseling and Psychology curriculum, students must also fulfill the BJU Core requirements. These are a unique combination of Bible and liberal arts courses completed by all BJU students. Students enrolled in the biblical counseling program complete the Bible courses as a part of the program of study. The liberal arts courses are included to broaden the opportunities available upon graduation as well as equip students with skills necessary for flexibility in a constantly evolving job market. Some of the skills students are expected to acquire include critical thinking and problem solving, effective communication, ethical decision-making, adaptability and more.
Overall Cost of Attendance: $13,537
Enrollment: 3,108
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Arts in Biblical Counseling
Accreditations:
Transnational Association of Christian Colleges and Schools (TRACCS)
National Ranking:
Forbes 279th best University in the United States
Religious Affiliation: Christian
#3 – Grace Bible College – Wyoming, Michigan
The School of Behavioral Sciences
Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Science
Points: 9
Program Website
The School of Behavioral Sciences at Grace Bible College offers several excellent options for students seeking a Bachelor’s Degree in Christian Counseling. Both the Bachelor of Science and the Bachelor of Arts degree in Counseling are taught with a Christian focus. Both degree programs adequately train students for graduate studies or immediately entrance into the workplace. This major is designed to prepare students for graduate work in both counseling and clinical psychology. The counseling degree option will give students a thorough understanding of what causes emotional and spiritual growth and what underlies problems and challenges. Students will learn to help clients improve relationships, personal well-being and relationships, all from a biblical worldview. The counseling major emphasizes counseling with a “biblical set of glasses” in order to help students understand “what God intended for proper function, what goes wrong, and how to help people get back to God’s design”. Grace College is one of the few schools to receive both regional accreditation as well as a faith based accreditation.
Overall Cost of Attendance: $13,324
Enrollment: 700
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Arts in Counseling
Bachelor of Science in Counseling
Accreditations:
The Commission on Accreditation of the Association for Biblical Higher Education (ABHE)
The Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools (NCACS)
National Ranking: Not Applicable
Religious Affiliation: Christian
#2 – Liberty University – Lynchburg, Virginia
The Department of Psychology
Bachelor of Science
Points: 10
BS Psychology Program Website
BS Religion – Christian Counseling Program Website
Liberty University is a private institution with undergraduate enrollment of 47,460 and a campus set on 7,000 acres. Throughout the university, 80.7 percent of full-time undergraduates receive need-based financial aid and the average need-based scholarship or grant award is $6,011. For students with an interest in Christian Counseling, there are two options. The first is the Bachelor of Science in Psychology with a specialization in Christian Counseling. This degree program is designed to help students better understand the complex elements of Christian Counseling. The specialization allows students to learn about counseling from a Christian perspective, which trains students for work in the Christian counseling fields of lay ministry. Students will gain insight into the development and influence of personality based on modern psychological models, as well as investigate topics that evaluate the distinct theoretical approaches to counseling and psychotherapy. This degree prepares students for non-clinical positions in the field of either psychology or counseling.
The second degree option is the Bachelor of Science in Religion with a specialization in Christian Counseling. This program trains students with the skills they will need to meet the increasing demand for skilled counselors who can offer excellent quality care from a Christian perspective. Students are introduced to the issues facing clients and the biblical basis for counseling as a ministry. The curriculum gives students a strong framework of principles and treatment modalities, including training within various areas of counseling women, children, family, and married couples. Classes are taught by some of the fields leading experts in the field of Christian counseling, such as Dr. Ed Hindson, Dr. Ron Hawkins, Dr. Tim Clinton, Dr. Gary Smalley, and many others. Upon graduation from this program, students are ready for a wide range of positions in the counseling field, as well as graduate studies.
Overall Cost of Attendance: $23,367
Enrollment: 77,338
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Science in Psychology with Christian Counseling Specialization
Bachelor of Science in Religion with Christian Counseling Specialization
Accreditations:
Transnational Association of Christian Colleges and Schools, Accreditation Commission (TRACCS)
National Ranking:
US News and World Report 80th Best University in the Southern Region of the US
US News and World Report 29th Best Online Bachelor’s Degree Program
Religious Affiliation: Southern Baptist
#1 – Emmanuel College – Franklin Springs, Georgia
The Social Sciences Department – The School of Christian Ministries
Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Science
Points: 12
Majors Program Website
Topping the list of the most affordable Christian Counseling Bachelor’s Degree Programs is Emmanuel College. Students enrolled at the Social Sciences Department and the School of Christian Ministries have the ability to choose their major and then pair the degree with a minor that compliments their academic and career aspirations. The goal of the Psychology program at Emmanuel is to offer students a comprehensive knowledge base in the history of psychology as a science. Some of the focus areas of the Psychology major include:
- Bio-psychosocial process
- The application of psychological principles to professional practice
- The experiential and theoretical integration of psychology and Christianity
Students have the option to choose the Bachelor of Arts or the Bachelor of Science, depending upon what field they plan to enter. Once the student chooses a major and degree option, they can then choose their optional minor from the following:
Minor in Christian Ministries: In addition to completion of the Liberal Arts Core and completion of all major requirements in psychology, a sequence of courses can be completed to qualify for a Christian Ministries Minor. Students may not duplicate course work for this minor. Meaning that if any of the required courses are required by the major plan of study, additional courses will need to be completed for a total of 18 hours of credit for the minor.
Minor in Biblical Studies: In addition to completion of the Liberal Arts Core and completion of all major requirements in psychology, a sequence of courses can be completed to qualify for a Biblical Studies Minor. Like the minor in Christian Ministries there can be no duplication of course work in this minor.
Overall Cost of Attendance: $14,746
Enrollment: 806
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Arts in Psychology with a minor in Christian Ministries
Bachelor of Arts in Psychology with a minor in Biblical Studies
Bachelor of Science in Psychology with a minor in Christian Ministries
Bachelor of Science in Psychology with a minor in Biblical Studies
Accreditations:
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACS-COC)
National Ranking:
US News and World Report 47th Best University in the Southern Region of the US
Religious Affiliation: International Pentecostal Holiness
Affordable Programs in Christian Counseling
This list highlights the most respected, affordable and accredited Bachelor’s Degree Programs in Christian counseling. Among these schools are small Liberal Arts Colleges, seminaries, large universities and everything in between. Regardless of the size or type of school you are looking for, this list has something for everyone. A Christian Counseling degree can be earned either online or on-campus making this degree plan even more flexible. By earning a degree in Christian Counseling you can be on your way to a career as a counselor for those in need.
Resources:
National Center for Education Statistics College Navigator Tool
About the Author
After earning a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Rutgers University and then a Master of Science in Clinical and Forensic Psychology from Drexel University, Kristen Fescoe began a career as a therapist at two prisons in Philadelphia. At the same time she volunteered as a rape crisis counselor, also in Philadelphia. After a few years in the field she accepted a teaching position at a local college where she currently teaches online psychology courses. Kristen began writing in college and still enjoys her work as a writer, editor, professor and mother.
