MAR Description

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 Care & Counseling or Educational & Family Ministry.

Students graduating with a Master of Arts in Religion with a concentration in Pastoral Leadership will (1) construct a theology for the practice of ministry in contemporary cultural contexts; (2) have effective ministry and leadership skills to help accomplish the church’s mission; (3) have a mature love for God and be committed to personal Christian discipleship; (4) be able to communicate effectively; and (5) have met the objectives outlined in the chosen area of concentrated study.

Program Description

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 (1) model an understanding and use of Scripture and theology in counseling practice; (2) reflect an awareness of self-understanding, personal faith, and moral principles; (3) exhibit an understanding and knowledge of the principles of the counseling process; (4) exhibit an understanding and knowledge of legal and ethical issues for counseling; (5) apply counseling techniques and clinical skills in church and para-church settings; and (6) complete graduate level research and writing in the field of pastoral counseling.

Program Information

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Course Offerings (Pastoral Care & Counseling)

Degree Requirements (Pastoral Care & Counseling)

Program Coordinator
Dr. Michael Shannon, Professor
mike.shannon@CCUniversity.edu
513.244.8620 (phone)
513.244.8434 (fax)