If you wish to earn a Christian counseling associate's and bachelor's degree, a high school Diploma or GED qualifies you to apply for enrollment at most Christian counseling correspondence schools. Master's and PhD programs requiring a bachelor's degree are also available, as well as a number of combined degree and licensing programs. Some schools offer a basic certificate of Christian counseling where your calling, passion and life experience are the only prerequisites.You can inquire or read about your school's admission requirements and programs online.
The main courses required to earn a Christian counseling degree vary between schools, but generally include Old and New Testament, psychology and youth, adult and marriage counseling. Variations and other level versions of these courses are also included in the school curriculum.
One of the benefits of attending a correspondence school is that you are not physically attending the school, so you do not incur room and board fees. Otherwise, tuition, costs and fees are similar in nature and price to those of an on-campus study program. Be prepared for unexpected charges for turning in an examination late, and application and transcript fees. If you are completing your Christian counseling courses online, be sure to check with your school for the minimum computer system and Internet speed requirements. You can contact your school for cost and tuition information, as well as for its financial aid and credit policies.
Once you earn your degree in Christian counseling from a correspondence school, there are many church career options that you can look into besides counseling. You can become a worship or church service director, youth minister or pastor. Your Christian counselor degree or certification will aid your success in any church leadership occupation, as well as provide you with the gratification of knowing you are doing God's work by making a difference in people's lives.