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.
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
- School Counseling
Top 5 Reasons to Consider a Masters in Counseling
- Growing Demand: Bureau of Labor Statistics projects strong growth in counseling jobs over the next several years.
- Versatility: Specialize in various areas, depending on your interests and career goals.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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
Master of Arts in Counseling: Core curriculum, 48 credit hours
Integration of Counseling and Christianity
Program Orientation
Professional Orientation to Counseling and Ethics
Abnormal Psychology and Psychopathology
Human Growth and Development
Lifestyle and Career Development
Substance Use Disorders: Diagnosis and Treatment
Social and Cultural Foundations
Research and Evaluation
Testing and Appraisal
Counseling and Psychotherapy Skills- 1 week residency
Marriage and Family Therapy
Theories of Counseling, Psychotherapy, and Personality
Group Counseling
CPCE Comprehensive Program Evaluation
Clinical Practice
Practicum
Internship 1
Internship 2
Clinical Mental Health Counseling Specialization: 12 credit hours
Advanced Counseling and Psychotherapy
Crisis and Trauma Counseling
Childhood and Adolescent Disorders and treatment
Clinical Supervision
Marriage and Family Therapy Specialization: 12 credit hours
Family Systems Theory
Advanced Marriage and Counseling
Advanced Family Counseling
Human Sexuality
General Specialization
Any combination of courses from either the Clinical Mental Health Counseling specialization or the Marriage and Family Counseling specialization.
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.
These rates are for August 1, 2024 through July 31, 2025.
| Program | Per Credit Hour |
|---|---|
| Master of Art 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.
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.
Meet Our Chair
Contact Us
Office of Adult, Graduate, and Online Admission
Phone: 601-968-5940Mailing Address:
1500 Peachtree Street, Box 153
Jackson, MS 39202
Fax: 601-300-2932
Verse of the Year
God is working in you, giving you the desire and the power to do what pleases Him.
Philippians 2:13