How many credit hours is the Master of Arts in Counseling program and how long does it take to complete?
The program is 60 credit hours and can be completed in as little as two-and-a-half years or up to six years, depending on what works best with your schedule. The program includes 41 hours in major coursework, 6 hours of electives, 4 hours in Bible and theology, and 9 hours of a practicum. See the M.A. in Counseling Curriculum page for additional information.
Is the program accredited?
All of Colorado Christian University's academic programs are regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association. In addition, the Master of Arts in Counseling program is nationally accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP). Visit our Accreditation site for details.
How many hours are required for the practicum and internship experience?
Currently, students must complete 100 hours of practicum and 600 hours of internship at a site established by the student, for a total of 700 hours.
I have been out of school for years and wish to make a mid-life career change. Will I be out of place in this student population?
Our student population in the M.A. in Counseling program varies in age and background. Students range from those who just completed their undergraduate program to those wishing to make complete career changes later in life.
Admission
Do I need to take the Graduate Record Examination (GRE)?
The GRE must be taken no more than five years prior to your application. The GRE requirement may be waived for students with a cumulative grade point average of 3.25 or above. This requirement may also be waived for those with previous graduate coursework. Read more about the GRE test and other admission requirements for the Master or Arts in Counseling program.
Are there any undergraduate prerequisites?
CCU does not require undergraduate prerequisites for the M.A. Counseling program.
Will CCU accept transfer credits?
Students may transfer up to thirty semester hours of graduate work from a regionally accredited college or university. See our admission requirements for additional information about transfer of courses.
Financial Aid and Tuition
How much does the program cost?
View current tuition and fees for the M.A. in Counseling program.
Is financial aid available?
See our Financial Aid site for detailed information about financial aid and payment options for graduate students. The first step in applying for financial aid is to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). You are also encouraged to check with your employer about additional tuition benefits that may be available through your company.
Locations and Format
Where is the program offered?
Visit CCU's College of Adult and Graduate Studies programs by location site to see where the M.A. in Counseling program is offered.
Can I take classes online?
Select courses in the MAC program are offered online. However, due to the content of the coursework, we believe that the classroom interaction between students and professors is essential for the development of skills and competencies.
Is the program on semesters or quarters?
The program is offered over three 15-week semesters per academic year including fall, spring, and summer. The semesters are divided into two 7-week blocks (A & B) with a week off in between.
When are classes offered?
In order to meet the needs of working adults and those with families, classes meet in the evenings and on weekends.
Career Opportunities
After completing the program, what must I do to become a licensed professional counselor?
This program is geared towards professional licensure with a biblical foundation. Once the program is completed, those wishing to become licensed in Colorado must pass the National Counselor Examination and must complete 2,000 hours of post-graduate supervised counseling. If you are not planning to remain in Colorado, please check the requirements for the state in which you plan to relocate. Licensed and unlicensed counselors must be registered with the Department of Regulatory Agencies (DORA).
What types of jobs will I be qualified for once I complete the program?
This program equips students to work in a variety of settings including church ministries, mental health facilities, research fields, and even private practice.
Can I be a marriage and family therapist or guidance counselor with this degree?
This program is intended to equip students to become licensed professional counselors. The coursework required to obtain licensure as a marriage and family therapist is specific to working with families, couples, etc. Check with your state for specific requirements. School districts also have specific requirements for the coursework required to be a guidance counselor. Check with the district you intend to work in for its specific requirements.