Master of Arts in Pastoral Counseling

The Master of Arts in Pastoral Counseling (MAPC) is a 62 credit degree program that prepares counselors to treat the whole person by integrating psychological and theological perspectives into their counseling practice. This holistic counseling training program integrates clinical skills and human and faith development in a curriculum that offers rich combination of spiritual and professional formation, ethical practice, clinical assessment, multicultural issues, group theory and practice, and world religions. The program prepares counseling professionals who intend to counsel in a parish or agency setting, group or solo private practice, or to pursue accreditation for chaplaincy (which requires additional intensive Clinical Pastoral Education/CPE experience). Bivocational clergy or clergy who wish to further develop their pastoral care and counseling ministry skills also find the MAPC program furthers their goals.

The MAPC program is designed to meet the academic and practicum/internship degree requirements in Pennsylvania for Licensed Professional Counselors (LPC).

MAPC Curriculum

The MAPC degree can be completed in two years of intensive, full-time study. Students must complete the degree within six years. The curriculum is distributed within these areas:

Pastoral Counseling	40 credits
Biblical & Theological Disciplines	13 credits
Electives	9 credits
TOTAL	62 credits

View detailed MAPC Curriculum »

Adding a Concentration or Graduate Certificate

Students enrolled in the MAPC program who would like to focus their electives on contemplative practices and spiritual formation can consider the Concentration in Formative Spirituality, the Spiritual Direction Graduate Certificate, or the Formative Spirituality Graduate Certificate. These unique programs ground students in the contemplative tradition while offering hands-on opportunities for practical application within parish and counseling settings and for individual practice.