A Master of Arts degree in counseling has several applications, including psychiatry, education and law. Graduates with this type of degree have received in-depth knowledge regarding human mental states and behavior. Students have also been trained in the theories and ethics of psychological counseling and have been taught how to provide professional counseling. Often, the MA degree in counseling is used as a stepping stone for those who wish to pursue a PhD in counseling. Students in a MA degree program are required to complete a thesis project and to choose one of several focuses, including abnormal psychology, organizational psychology or developmental psychology.
A Master of Science degree in counseling is much like a MA degree, but is designed for careers in community counseling and does not require a thesis project. This degree program provides students with training and education in several community settings, including group counseling and mental health counseling. MS in counseling degree graduates have learned about research methodology, counseling principles, and diagnosis and treatment methods. Often, graduates find work in hospitals, correctional facilities, community centers, schools or government agencies. Several common courses are required for this type of degree, including theories of personality, group counseling and psychotherapy, and professional and scientific ethics.
A Master of Education degree with a focus in counseling is designed to prepare graduates with the necessary tools to work in the educational field. Specifically, MEd degrees provide graduates with the skills and knowledge needed to work as an educator. However, with a focus on counseling, MEd graduates will be able to provide educational counseling in several settings, including secondary and higher education schools.
With a Master of Social Work in counseling, graduates are trained to help improve the lives of others through several applications, including helping people with medical conditions or substance abuse problems. MSW degree holders are usually trained in one of several concentrations, including health care, children and family services, community advocacy and mental health. Graduates possessing a MSW degree in counseling often find work with hospitals, physician practices and rest homes, providing counseling to people who are faced with chronic illnesses, disabilities or life-threatening situations.