Christian Counseling Certificate Online Program

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Overview

Help Others Approach Mental Health With a Christ-Centered Focus

The online Graduate Certificate in Christian Counseling program at Grand Canyon University offers an introduction to counseling theory within a Christian worldview. You will examine personal spiritual formation and character development, and you will be guided to apply biblical principles to counseling topics, such as forgiveness, self-assessment and reconciliation with God.

This certificate in Christian counseling online is designed to teach you counseling theories from a Christian perspective, which can help you decide if you wish to pursue a master’s degree in counseling and, afterward, state licensure. Alternatively, this Christian counseling certificate may enable you to pursue non-licensure positions, where you can work to create meaningful change for others.

Help Others Approach Mental Health With a Christ-Centered Focus

Locations

Online

Tuition Rate

Online: $590 per credit [More Info]

Course Information

Credits: 12

Online: 8 weeks 

[More Info]

Transfer Credits

Up to 12 credits or 1/3 of the total program requirements in transfer (whichever is less)

Fill out the Lopes Eval to find out what will transfer

Admission Requirements

  • Undergraduate Degree*
  • 2.8+ GPA
  • Or Passing Test Scores:

  • GMAT: 500
  • GRE: 300 combined**

Admission requirements may differ based on degree level, program and modality, or transfer status. Some programs of study may require a higher GPA and/or other qualifying criteria for admission. Please review full admission and program requirements in the University Policy Handbook.
* Degree must be from an accredited college or program that has been approved by GCU.
** Combined verbal/quantitative, after August 2011 (1,000 combined verbal and quantitative, prior to August 2011).
Why GCU

Earn a Certificate in Christian Counseling Online From GCU

The Christian counseling certificate program at GCU could be a great path if you want to help others and, potentially, move forward to earn a master's in counseling. This online certificate program integrates the Christian worldview and the Bible into counseling field concepts. It teaches the boundaries and limitations for counselors, counseling theories, and the relationship between biblical concepts and healthy relationships.

This program is offered fully online so you can build your knowledge in Christian counseling skills on a more flexible schedule. Take courses through an interactive learning platform and have access to your instructors and peers throughout the program.

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Skills and Coursework Taught in This Certificate in Christian Counseling

The Christian counseling certificate online consists of four courses that address the integration of counseling theory, Christian worldview, the study of spiritual formation and more. You will take courses that integrate a Christ-centered approach to overcoming emotional and behavioral health difficulties.

During these courses, you will be taught to:

  • Assess major counseling theories in light of a Christian worldview
  • Establish a biblical and theological foundation as it informs counseling practice
  • Evaluate ethical issues in counseling from a Christian perspective
  • Incorporate a Christian approach to spiritual growth and emotional health for life and practice
  • Integrate a Christ-centered approach into the implementation of counseling therapies

These courses cover topics such as:

  • A narrative approach to theology, with a look at applications of biblical principles to the life and practice of Christian counselors
  • Spiritual formation and stages of growth, including personal faith development and character development for counselors
  • Personal and professional implementation of practices pertaining to relational health
  • The integration of the Christian worldview into counseling theory and practice, with an emphasis on the nature and purpose of human beings from a biblical perspective and ethical issues pertinent to the Christian counselor
Careers

Careers Paths For Christian Counseling Certificate Holders

This Christian counseling certificate online is designed for students who want to help people but are unsure whether they want to earn their master's degree and pursue licensure as a counselor. No program of study can guarantee any particular career outcome, and the requirements to become a counselor can vary from state to state. However, after graduating with your certificate in Christian counseling, you may choose to pursue the following types of work:

  • Providing personal coaching support within church settings
  • Delivering peer support services
  • Helping others as a behavioral health specialist
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Accreditation

GCU Proudly Offers Institutionally Accredited Certificate Programs

Before making an enrollment decision, it's important to check whether the school you're considering is institutionally accredited. GCU is an institutionally accredited university that emphasizes quality of instruction.

Certificate in Christian Counseling Online Program FAQs

The decision to further your education is not an insignificant one. Take the time to research your intended career path before making an enrollment decision regarding a Christian counseling certificate program. The following frequently asked questions and answers can help you get started.

How long does it take to become a Christian counselor?
Is biblical counseling the same as Christian counseling?
How do you become a certified Christian counselor?
Can you be a Christian counselor without a license?
Courses

Course List

Credit Summary

Major12 Credits

Degree Requirements12 Credits

Core Courses

CCN-601

3 Total Credits

Biblical Foundations for Counselors: The Story of God

View Course Description

CCN-650

3 Total Credits

Spiritual Formation: Becoming a Healthy Practitioner

View Course Description

CCN-655

3 Total Credits

Biblical Concepts-Healthy Relationships: Forgiveness & Healthy Spirituality

View Course Description

CCN-675

3 Total Credits

Integration of Scripture with Counseling Theory

View Course Description
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Pursue Your Passion for Helping Others

Prepare to pursue work that helps others and glorifies God with a certificate in Christian counseling. Apply today for enrollment in GCU’s online program.

  1. U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2022, October 24). How to become a substance abuse, behavioral disorder, or mental health counselor. Occupational Outlook Handbook. Retrieved September 1, 2023.
  2. Grey, S. (2023, May 31). How to become a Christian counselor: skills and requirements. Forbes. Retrieved September 1, 2023.