Masters in Pastoral Counseling (MA)

Pastoral counselors are trained in both psychology and theology to provide psychological as well as spiritual guidance to patients and families in health care settings. They perform a variety of tasks with their main responsibility being to counsel patients and family members. They also work with hospital staff to provide ethical and spiritual direction and instruction on religious practices and beliefs.

Steps Toward A Masters in Pastoral Counseling (MA)

To become a pastoral counselor, requirements vary significantly by state. Successful students typically complete the following steps:

Earn proper undergraduate degree (requirements vary by state). Common undergraduate degrees include Bachelor of Science programs in education, psychology, or human services or Bachelor of Arts program in theology.
Earn proper graduate degree (requirements vary by state). Typically includes completing a Master of Religion with a focus in pastoral counseling.
Obtain proper licensure. Licensure requirements differ greatly by state, occupational specialty, and work setting.
Consider certification options. Some counselors elect to be certified by the National Board for Certified Counselors, which grants a general practice credential of National Certified Counselor. While voluntary and distinct from state licensing, in some states, those who pass the national exam are exempt from taking a State certification exam.

My Earning Power

The expected salary, career growth, and work environment for a pastoral counselor might include:

Median Expected Salary: $33,000, according to Indeed.com’s most recent report.
Job Prospects: Excellent, particularly for individuals with advanced education.
Job Setting: Churches, healthcare facilities such as hospitals and nursing homes, correctional facilities, community centers, homes.

My Degree and What It’s Good For

A pastoral counseling degree will allow you to provide advice and support in a religious context, and to help people with crises of faith as well as general issues. A pastoral counselor’s job requires them to:

Deliver religious rites and ordinances.
Provide personal and vocational counseling.
Offer spiritual support and guidance.
Arrange for medical care, vocational training, job placement and other outside services.

Online Masters in Pastoral Counseling Degree Programs

Liberty University Online: MA in Religion – Pastoral Counseling
Liberty University Online: MA – Pastoral Counseling

Masters in Counseling Online Programs

The following accredited schools offer online masters in counseling programs in various specialties. You can request information from one or more schools by clicking on the school's link.