school counseling

Certificate of Graduate Study in Counseling Ministry

The Certificate of Graduate Study in Counseling Ministry is a 19-hour curriculum that introduces students to basic knowledge about both secular and Christian perspectives on counseling and how these may be applied in a church-based setting. In addition, the program provides an introduction to psychopathology. To complete the curriculum, students choose elective hours that are the best fit for their settings and interests. The intent of this program is to prepare students to apply counseling theory and practice to ministry settings. Students are prepared for work in churches, mission agencies and other settings in which informal counseling and support groups are often provided.

The Certificate is designed to be a practical tool for congregational leaders and members who do not intend to seek licensure. The Certificate does not indicate that the recipient of the Certificate has professional expertise. Persons desiring expertise in counseling should complete the relevant advanced degree (e.g., M.S.C., M.Div., etc.) and fulfill all the additional licensure requirements of the State of Tennessee.

The purpose of the Certificate is to better prepare men and women who serve in leadership positions (both formal and informal) within congregations to:

  1. Be properly introduced to standard theories and practices of counseling
  2. Recognize and respond effectively to routine challenges in human relationships occurring within congregations
  3. Recognize those challenges which require professional intervention by licensed practitioners
  4. Make timely and effective referrals
  5. Support the work of licensed professional counselors.

This program combines existing courses in the Master of Science in Counseling with existing courses in the Seminary’s Christian Care and Counseling concentration to offer a useful and necessary program for individuals serving in ministry.

Students enrolled in a certificate program are not eligible for federal financial aid or institutional scholarships.

Course Requirements

View all details and course requirements for this program in the Milligan College Catalog (link below). The Milligan College academic catalog is the official, authoritative source for all academic requirements and policies. Any discrepancies in curricular requirements from other sources will default to the Catalog.