Transform Lives. Make a Difference.

This program is pending accreditor approval. Classes will begin August 2024.

If you're driven by a passion for aiding others and intrigued by the complexities of mental health, a career in counseling could be your calling. Our online Master of Arts in Counseling is designed for adult learners like you, combining flexibility, expertise, and a Christian perspective to prepare you for a fulfilling career in counseling.

Tailor your education to your career goals with specializations in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, Marriage and Family Therapy, or opt for a General Counseling track for a customizable experience.

Our 60-credit hour online master's in counseling curriculum aligns with the standards set by the Mississippi LPC Board for Licensure, providing the necessary coursework to pursue licensure as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Mississippi.

Join us and embark on a transformative educational experience that will empower you to make a meaningful impact in the lives of others.

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Why You'll Love Counseling at Belhaven

Expert Faculty

Learn from seasoned professionals who blend psychological expertise with Christian principles to offer a holistic approach to counseling education.

Rewarding Mission Driven Career

Belhaven University aims to lead in training compassionate Christian counselors committed to serving others. Our program equips students to become skilled helpers, problem-solvers, communicators, and future leaders in mental health care.

Flexible Learning Options

Our program accommodates your busy schedule with a mix of online and synchronous coursework and two brief residency requirements, ensuring accessibility without compromising quality.

High Demand Jobs

With nearly half of Americans facing mental health issues, there's a pressing need for more counselors. Professionals with a master's degree in counseling are in high demand and poised to make a profound impact in today's world.

18% Growth

Mental Health Counselors through 2032 according to BLS.

42,000 Job Openings

For substance abuse, behavioral disorders & mental health counselors through 2032 according to BLS.

3 Specializations

Clinical Mental Health Counseling, Marriage and Family Therapy, and General Counseling

LPC Licensure

Curriculum aligns with standards set by the Mississippi LPC Board for Licensure

What Can you Do with a Counseling degree?

One of the key advantages of this masters in counseling program is its versatility. Graduates have the opportunity to specialize in various areas, each offering unique work environments, salary prospects, and client demographics.

  • Mental Health Counseling
  • Couples and Family Counseling
  • Substance Abuse and Addiction Counseling
  • Community Counseling
  • Trauma Counseling
  • Career Counseling

Top 5 Reasons to Consider a Masters in Counseling

  1. Growing Demand: Bureau of Labor Statistics projects strong growth in counseling jobs over the next several years.
  2. Versatility: Specialize in various areas, depending on your interests and career goals.
  3. Personal Fulfillment: Enjoy a rewarding career that offers the satisfaction of helping others navigate through difficult times, achieve personal growth, and improve their overall well-being.
  4. Make a Positive Impact: Make a meaningful difference in people's lives by providing support, guidance, and therapy to individuals, couples, families, and groups facing various challenges.
  5. Professional Development: Opportunities for continuous learning and professional development, enabling you to stay up-to-date with the latest research, therapeutic techniques, and ethical practices in the field.

Masters in Counseling: What You Need to Know

With primarily online coursework and two short residencies, we make earning your degree while maintaining your career easier without compromising quality. While internships are vital, our structure seeks minimal disruption to your work schedule.

Begin your journey with a week-long residency on our vibrant Belhaven University campus in Jackson, Mississippi. A second residency occurs in your second year, further enriching your experience. These residencies provide valuable opportunities for networking, collaboration, and personal interaction with professors, enhancing the overall learning experience.

Apart from the week-long residency each year, enjoy a convenient seven-week online or synchronous format for your coursework. On occasion, you will be able to engage directly with professors through live Zoom sessions, balancing academic rigor with your busy schedule.

  • To enter this program, you must have a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited college. A 3.0 cumulative GPA from undergraduate work is required for admission. You may also be admitted by showing nine hours of graduate work with a “B” or better in each course.
  • A bachelor’s degree or a minor in the field of psychology or other related fields of study is not required.
  • The GRE will not be required for admission into the counseling program.

Applying for admission to Belhaven’s online graduate programs is quick and easy. When you have all your supporting documentation ready, just complete and submit our online application form.

How to Apply

These rates are for August 1, 2024 through July 31, 2025.

Program Per Credit Hour
Master of Arts in Counseling $615
Active Military Discount, Graduate Program $375
20% Discount: Military Spouse/Veteran/First Responder $492

* Military/first responder benefits cannot be combined with any other institutional scholarships or discounts.

Visit the Scholarships, Tuition & Fees page to view other fees as well as the cost estimate calculator.

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Why Trust Belhaven With Your Future?

Our quality is recognized by SACSCOC, which grants our institutional accreditation and authority to award associate, bachelor’s, master’s, educational specialist, and doctoral-level degrees. Plus, we’re consistently recognized by organizations like U.S. News & World Report for our academic excellence, commitment to community service, expert faculty, and overall value.

Importance of Accreditation

Meet Our Chair

Dr. Justin Kelly

Chair and Assistant Professor of Psychology

601-973-5017
jkelly@belhaven.edu

Contact Us

Office of Adult, Graduate, and Online Admission

Phone: 601-968-5940

Mailing Address:
1500 Peachtree Street, Box 153
Jackson, MS 39202

Fax: 601-300-2932

onlineadmission@belhaven.edu

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Verse of the Year

For the Lord is good. His unfailing love continues forever, and his faithfulness continues to each generation.

Psalm 100:5