Master of Arts in Religion (Pastoral Care & Counseling)

Pastoral Care & Counseling

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The Master of Arts in Religion degree is oriented towards general and theological studies. The MAR degree has two options, a 54 hour option for those without a background in Bible, theology or a related field and a 36-hour option for those who with a background in Bible theology or a related field. For the field of counseling and family studies, students should choose the Pastoral Leadership Concentration and can choose an emphasis of Pastoral Counseling or Family Studies.

Students graduating with a Master of Arts in Religion with a concentration in Pastoral Leadership will:

  • Construct a theology for the practice of ministry in contemporary cultural contexts.
  • Have effective ministry and leadership skills to help accomplish the church’s mission.
  • Have a mature love for God and be committed to personal Christian discipleship.
  • Be able to communicate effectively.
  • Have met the objectives outlined in the chosen area of concentrated study.

The purpose of the Master of Arts in Religion with a concentration in Pastoral Leadership and a specialization in Pastoral Care & Counseling is to prepare graduates to pursue careers in church-related vocations and to develop counseling skills which will enhance their ministry as ministers, pastoral counselors, chaplains, lay-counselors, and Christian counselors in churches or para-church organizations. The program includes instruction in basic counseling theories, techniques, and helping applications.

Students who satisfactorily complete the requirements with a concentration in Pastoral Care & Counseling will be able to:

  • Model an understanding and use of Scripture and theology in counseling practice.
  • Reflect an awareness of self-understanding, personal faith, and moral principles.
  • Exhibit an understanding and knowledge of the principles of the counseling process.
  • Exhibit an understanding and knowledge of legal and ethical issues for counseling.
  • Apply counseling techniques and clinical skills in church and para-church settings.
  • Complete graduate level research and writing in the field of pastoral counseling.

For further information, contact Michael Shannon or Cincinnati Bible Seminary.