Pastoral Counseling Degrees 2025: Programs, Careers & Salaries
A pastoral counseling degree combines theological training with clinical mental health expertise to prepare counselors who integrate faith-based perspectives with evidence-based therapy. Programs range from Bachelor's (4 years) to Doctoral levels (4-6 years), with Master's degrees typically requiring 3 years, including supervised clinical hours. According to 2024 BLS data, mental health counselors earn a median salary of $59,190, while marriage and family therapists earn $63,780 annually.
Pastoral counseling represents a unique intersection where theology meets psychology. As trained mental health professionals, pastoral counselors have the expertise to provide both spiritual guidance and evidence-based psychological therapy. They use insights from their belief systems in conjunction with standard clinical methods to bring comfort and support to those facing life's challenges.
The primary aim is to help clients, typically members of their faith community or religious organization, use their beliefs to promote mental wellness and spiritual growth while successfully navigating daily life challenges.
According to the Association for Clinical Pastoral Education, pastoral counseling accounts for approximately three million hours of treatment annually, yet it remains an underrepresented specialty. Less than 13 percent of clergy members have formal training in substance abuse issues, according to the National Center on Addiction and Substance Abuse, even though nearly 25 percent of those seeking addiction treatment receive at least partial care from a faith leader.
- What is Pastoral Counseling?
- Bachelor's Degree in Pastoral Counseling
- Master's Degrees in Pastoral Counseling
- Doctoral Degree in Pastoral Counseling
- Degree Level Comparison
- Salary and Career Outlook
- How to Become a Pastoral Counselor
- Certifications and Licensing
- Career Paths and Specializations
- Online Pastoral Counseling Degrees
- Frequently Asked Questions
What is Pastoral Counseling?
Pastoral counseling is a specialized form of mental health counseling that integrates psychological principles with theological understanding. Unlike traditional mental health counseling, pastoral counselors explicitly incorporate religious and spiritual dimensions into their therapeutic approach.
Pastoral counselors must be fully conversant with the belief systems of their religious tradition while also maintaining expertise in clinical counseling techniques. This dual competency requires rigorous training in both theology and psychology, making it essential for aspiring pastoral counselors to pursue specialized education that addresses both domains.
The field is growing as more people seek mental health support that aligns with their spiritual values. Pastoral counselors work in diverse settings, including churches, hospitals, correctional facilities, religious organizations, and private practice.
Bachelor's Degree in Pastoral Counseling
Because pastoral counseling is still a specialized niche field, there isn't a specific Bachelor's degree exclusively titled "Pastoral Counseling" at most institutions. Instead, students choose foundational majors that prepare them for graduate study in this field.
Recommended Undergraduate Majors
Several bachelor's degree paths can lead to graduate study in pastoral counseling:
- Theology or Religious Studies: Provides a deep understanding of religious texts, traditions, and theological concepts
- Psychology: Builds a foundation in human behavior, development, and mental health principles
- Counseling or Human Services: Introduces basic counseling skills and helping relationships
- Pastoral Ministry with Counseling Concentration: Combines ministry training with introductory counseling coursework
Most students pursuing this career path plan to continue to a Master's degree after completing their undergraduate education, as advanced training is required for professional practice.
Typical Undergraduate Coursework
At the bachelor's level, the curriculum is broad and foundational. It often includes business management and administration courses alongside theology and counseling classes. Students can expect courses such as:
- Crisis counseling and intervention
- Christian apologetics
- Reconciliation and conflict resolution
- Developmental psychology
- Systematic theology
- Introduction to pastoral care
- Ethics in ministry and counseling
Master's Degrees in Pastoral Counseling
The Master's degree is the primary credential for professional pastoral counseling practice. Most programs require three years to complete, including time spent in supervised clinical work with a licensed professional.
Degree Options
Students have several master's-level options depending on their career goals:
Master of Divinity (MDiv) with Counseling Concentration: Many students working within religious organizations choose this route. The MDiv provides comprehensive theological education while incorporating counseling coursework and supervised internship requirements. These programs are predominantly offered by theological seminaries.
Master of Arts (MA) in Pastoral Counseling: Some universities offer graduate degrees specifically in pastoral counseling. Notable institutions like Loyola University of Chicago and Fordham University offer these programs both on-campus and online, providing flexibility for working ministry professionals.
Master of Arts in Pastoral Ministry: Focuses on ministry leadership while incorporating pastoral care and counseling components.
Admission Requirements
Students accepted into Master's programs typically need a Bachelor's degree, though it can be in almost any major. Many programs also require:
- Letters of recommendation from clergy or academic references
- Personal statement explaining the calling to the ministry and counseling
- Minimum undergraduate GPA (usually 3.0 or higher)
- GRE scores (varies by institution)
Typical Master's Level Coursework
Graduate programs integrate theological study with clinical training. Common courses include:
- Prayer and spiritual disciplines
- Scripture and hermeneutics
- Christian ethics and moral theology
- Couples and family therapy
- Psychopathology and diagnosis
- Theories of counseling and psychotherapy
- Trauma and crisis intervention
- Group counseling techniques
- Clinical practicum and internship
Clinical Training Requirements
All accredited programs require substantial supervised clinical experience. Students complete internships that may focus on:
- Individual counseling
- Group therapy
- Couples counseling
- Family counseling
- Crisis intervention
These experiences are typically completed in settings such as churches, counseling centers, hospitals, or community mental health agencies.
Doctoral Degree in Pastoral Counseling
Doctoral programs in pastoral counseling prepare graduates for advanced clinical practice, teaching, research, and leadership roles. The average completion time ranges from four to six years, including dissertation or extensive supervised clinical work.
Doctoral Program Options
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Pastoral Counseling: Research-focused degree emphasizing scholarly investigation, theory development, and academic career preparation. Requires completion of an original dissertation.
Doctor of Ministry (DMin) in Pastoral Counseling: Professional doctorate emphasizing advanced practice, ministry leadership, and applied research. Often designed for working professionals.
Doctor of Theology (ThD) with Counseling Emphasis: Theological research degree with specialization in pastoral care and counseling theory.
Admission Requirements
Doctoral programs typically require:
- Master's degree in pastoral counseling, divinity, or related field
- Significant ministry or counseling experience (usually 2-5 years)
- Strong academic record (GPA of 3.5 or higher)
- GRE or MAT scores
- Writing sample demonstrating research capability
- Professional references
Typical Doctoral Coursework
Doctoral programs offer advanced study in both theological and clinical domains:
- Christian history and church traditions
- Ecclesiology and theology of ministry
- Advanced interpersonal communication
- Psychotherapy theories and techniques
- Professional ethics in counseling and ministry
- Empirical research methods
- Practical theology and pastoral care
- Clinical supervision and consultation
- Integration of theology and psychology
Career Outcomes
With a doctorate, graduates can pursue careers as:
- Seminary or university professors
- Clinical supervisors and training directors
- Program directors for pastoral counseling centers
- Researchers in pastoral care and counseling
- Advanced practitioners in specialized settings
- Authors and consultants in the field
Degree Level Comparison
Understanding the distinctions between degree levels can help you choose the right educational path for your career goals.
| Degree Level | Duration | Key Requirements | Career Options | Licensure Eligibility |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bachelor's Degree | 4 years | General education, foundational theology, introductory counseling courses | Youth minister, church administrator, outreach coordinator, liturgical minister | No independent counseling licensure |
| Master's Degree (MA/MDiv) | 3 years (including internship) | Supervised clinical hours (600-1,000+), comprehensive theology and counseling coursework, and internship | Licensed pastoral counselor, mental health counselor, marriage and family therapist, clinical supervisor | Yes (in states offering pastoral counselor license or related mental health licenses) |
| Doctoral Degree (PhD/DMin/ThD) | 4-6 years | Dissertation or major project, advanced clinical work, comprehensive exams, and teaching experience | Professor, researcher, program director, clinical supervisor, advanced clinician, consultant | Yes (exceeds requirements) |
Salary and Career Outlook for Pastoral Counselors
Understanding salary expectations is an important part of career planning. Because pastoral counseling is a specialized field, the Bureau of Labor Statistics doesn't track it as a separate occupation. The closest comparable categories are mental health counselors and marriage and family therapists.
2024 Salary Data
According to the most recent Bureau of Labor Statistics data from May 2024, professionals in related fields earn competitive salaries:
| Career Path | Median Annual Salary | 10th Percentile | 25th Percentile | 75th Percentile | 90th Percentile |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mental Health Counselors | $59,190 | $39,090 | $47,170 | $76,230 | $98,210 |
| Marriage & Family Therapists | $63,780 | $42,610 | $48,600 | $85,020 | $111,610 |
Job Growth Projections
The demand for mental health counselors and marriage and family therapists continues to grow. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook, employment in these fields is projected to grow faster than average through 2034, driven by increased awareness of mental health needs and greater insurance coverage for counseling services.
Factors Affecting Salary
Several factors influence earning potential for pastoral counselors:
- Education Level: Doctoral-level counselors typically earn higher salaries
- Licensure Status: Licensed counselors command higher rates
- Geographic Location: Urban areas and certain states offer higher compensation
- Work Setting: Private practice often yields higher income than institutional settings
- Specialization: Counselors with niche expertise (trauma, addiction, couples therapy) may earn more
- Experience: Salary increases significantly with years of practice
How to Become a Pastoral Counselor
The path to becoming a pastoral counselor involves several key steps. Here's a comprehensive roadmap:
Step 1: Complete a Bachelor's Degree (4 Years)
Choose an undergraduate major that provides strong preparation in either theology, psychology, or counseling. Recommended majors include theology, religious studies, psychology, human services, or pastoral ministry. Maintain strong academic performance to position yourself for competitive graduate programs.
Step 2: Gain Ministry or Service Experience (1-2 Years)
Many graduate programs prefer or require applicants to have experience in ministry or helping professions. Consider serving as a youth minister, church volunteer, crisis hotline counselor, or in similar roles to gain valuable experience and clarify your calling.
Step 3: Earn a Master's Degree (3 Years)
Apply to accredited Master's programs in pastoral counseling, divinity with counseling concentration, or related fields. During your program, you'll complete both academic coursework and supervised clinical training. Most programs require 600-1,000 supervised clinical hours.
Step 4: Complete Supervised Clinical Hours (1-2 Years)
After graduation, accumulate the supervised experience required for licensure in your state. This typically involves 2,000-4,000 hours of post-degree supervised practice, depending on state requirements and the license type you're pursuing.
Step 5: Obtain Licensure or Certification (Varies by State)
Apply for the appropriate license in your state. Options may include Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC), Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT), or, in some states, Licensed Pastoral Counselor. Each requires passing a comprehensive exam and meeting specific educational and experience requirements.
Step 6: Consider Specialized Certification (Optional)
Pursue certification through professional organizations such as the Association for Clinical Pastoral Education (ACPE) to demonstrate specialized competency and enhance your professional credentials.
Step 7: Engage in Continuing Education (Ongoing)
Maintain your license through ongoing continuing education requirements. Stay current with developments in both theology and clinical practice. Many counselors pursue additional training in specialized areas like trauma therapy, addiction counseling, or specific therapeutic modalities.
Total Timeline
Becoming a fully licensed pastoral counselor typically takes 8-10 years from the start of your bachelor's degree:
- Bachelor's degree: 4 years
- Master's degree: 3 years
- Post-degree supervised experience: 1-2 years
- Licensure process: 3-6 months
Certifications and Licensing in Pastoral Counseling
Licensing and certification requirements vary significantly by state and can be complex for pastoral counselors. Understanding your options is crucial for career planning.
State Licensing Considerations
Only six states currently offer specific licensure for pastoral counselors: Arkansas, Kentucky, Maine, New Hampshire, North Carolina, and Tennessee. In these states, pastoral counselors can obtain credentials specifically recognizing their integration of faith and counseling.
In all other states, pastoral counselors typically pursue one of the following licenses:
- Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC): General mental health counseling license
- Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC): Similar to LPC, terminology varies by state
- Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT): Specializes in couples and family systems
- Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW): Social work license allowing independent practice
Learn more about counseling degree programs and licensing requirements in your state.
When Licensure May Not Be Required
Pastoral counselors working within certain settings may not need state licensure:
- Churches and religious organizations (clergy exemption in many states)
- Private religious schools
- Faith-based nonprofit organizations
- Ministry contexts where counseling is pastoral rather than clinical
It's important to understand that practicing without appropriate licensure outside these exempt settings can have legal consequences. Always verify requirements with your state's professional counseling board.
Professional Certifications
Beyond state licensure, several professional organizations offer certification:
Association for Clinical Pastoral Education (ACPE): The ACPE offers certification for chaplains and pastoral counselors who complete their accredited programs, which include supervised clinical pastoral education (CPE) units.
American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy (AAMFT): For pastoral counselors working primarily with couples and families, AAMFT certification demonstrates specialized expertise.
American Mental Health Counselors Association (AMHCA): Offers credentials for mental health counselors, including those with pastoral specializations.
Career Paths and Specializations for Pastoral Counselors
Pastoral counselors work in diverse settings and can specialize in various areas. Graduates with pastoral counseling degrees pursue diverse pastoral counseling careers in churches, faith-based organizations, hospitals, and private practice settings where they integrate spiritual guidance with mental health support. With appropriate credentials, graduates can pursue careers as:
Clinical Roles
- Advanced Level Clinicians: Provide direct counseling services in various settings
- Clinical Supervisors: Oversee and train emerging counselors
- Private Practice Counselors: Establish independent practices serving individuals, couples, and families
Educational and Research Positions
- Counselor Educators: Teach in seminaries, universities, or training programs
- Researchers: Investigate integration of theology, psychology, and counseling practice
- Program Directors: Lead pastoral counseling centers or training programs
Ministry Leadership Roles
Those with Master's degrees often serve in leadership positions within religious organizations:
- Church administrators
- Outreach directors
- Youth ministers
- Liturgical ministers
- Pastoral care coordinators
Work Settings
Pastoral counselors find employment in varied environments:
- Hospitals and healthcare systems
- Correctional facilities
- Domestic violence centers and shelters
- Religious organizations and churches
- Private practice offices
- Community mental health centers
- Military chaplaincy programs
- Hospice and palliative care organizations
- College and university counseling centers
Areas of Specialization
Many pastoral counselors develop expertise in specific areas:
- Addiction Treatment: Helping individuals and families affected by substance abuse
- Hospice Ministry: Providing end-of-life spiritual and emotional support
- Mediation Services: Facilitating conflict resolution in church and community settings
- Interfaith Counseling: Working with religiously diverse populations
- Depression and Anxiety Counseling: Treating mood disorders with spiritual integration
- Marriage and Family Counseling: Strengthening relationships through faith-based approaches
- Child and Adolescent Counseling: Supporting young people's mental health and spiritual development
- Pre-Marriage Counseling: Preparing couples for marriage
- Trauma and PTSD Treatment: Helping survivors heal with spiritual resources
- Grief Counseling: Supporting those experiencing loss
Some pastoral counseling programs offer dual training or coursework aligned with marriage and family therapy requirements, allowing graduates to pursue both pastoral counselor and LMFT credentials for expanded career flexibility.
For more detailed information, read about pastoral counseling career paths and opportunities.
Online Pastoral Counseling Degrees
Online programs have expanded access to pastoral counseling education, offering flexibility for working ministry professionals and those unable to relocate for traditional campus-based programs.
Benefits of Online Programs
Online pastoral counseling degrees offer several advantages:
- Flexibility: Complete coursework around work and ministry schedules
- Accessibility: Study from anywhere without relocating
- Cost Savings: Reduce expenses related to housing and commuting
- Continued Ministry: Remain in your current ministry role while studying
- Diverse Cohorts: Learn alongside students from various denominations and locations
Important Considerations for Online Programs
Accreditation: Ensure your program is accredited by recognized bodies. For theological programs, look for accreditation by the Association of Theological Schools (ATS). For counseling programs, verify accreditation by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP) or equivalent.
Clinical Requirements: Even online programs require in-person supervised clinical experiences. You'll need to arrange local practicum and internship placements, typically coordinating with program administrators to find approved sites in your area.
Licensure Recognition: Verify that your state licensing board will accept degrees from online programs. Most states accept appropriately accredited online degrees, but it's crucial to confirm before enrolling.
Notable Online Program Examples
University of St. Thomas (Minnesota): Offers a Master of Arts in Pastoral Ministry delivered entirely online. The 48-credit program meets National Certification Standards for Lay Ecclesial Ministers and can be completed while maintaining full-time ministry responsibilities.
Luther Rice College and Seminary: Provides a Master of Arts in Biblical Counseling degree that's entirely online, requiring 36 semester hours. The program emphasizes integration of Scripture with counseling practice.
Grand Canyon University: Offers a 48-credit Master of Science in Christian Counseling of Substance Use and Addictive Disorders, focusing on faith-based approaches to addiction treatment.
Explore more options for online counseling degrees that may include pastoral or faith-based concentrations.
Hybrid Programs
Many institutions offer hybrid formats combining online coursework with periodic on-campus intensives. These programs provide flexibility while maintaining face-to-face learning experiences and community building. Intensive sessions typically occur during the summer or between semesters.
- Pastoral counseling degrees combine theological training with clinical mental health expertise, preparing counselors to integrate faith perspectives with evidence-based therapy
- A Master's degree (typically 3 years including clinical hours) is the minimum educational requirement for professional practice as a licensed pastoral counselor
- Mental health counselors earn a median salary of $59,190, while marriage and family therapists earn $63,780, according to 2024 BLS data
- Only six states offer specific pastoral counselor licenses; in other states, practitioners obtain general mental health counseling licenses (LPC, LMHC, LMFT)
- The complete path to licensure typically takes 8-10 years: 4 years for a bachelor's degree, 3 years for a master's degree, and 1-2 years of post-degree supervised experience
- Online programs provide flexible pathways to pastoral counseling credentials while allowing students to maintain current ministry positions
- Career options span clinical practice, teaching, research, and ministry leadership across diverse settings, including churches, hospitals, private practice, and community agencies
Frequently Asked Questions About Pastoral Counseling Degrees
What's the difference between pastoral counseling and regular counseling?
Pastoral counseling explicitly integrates religious faith and spiritual perspectives into the therapeutic process, while traditional counseling typically maintains a secular approach. Pastoral counselors are trained in both theology and clinical psychology, allowing them to address spiritual concerns alongside mental health issues. They often work within faith communities and draw on religious resources like prayer, scripture, and spiritual practices as part of treatment.
Do I need to be ordained to become a pastoral counselor?
Ordination is not required to practice as a licensed pastoral counselor in most states. Licensure requirements focus on educational credentials (Master's or Doctoral degree in counseling or related field) and supervised clinical experience. However, some religious organizations may prefer or require ordination for counselors working in church settings. If you plan to serve as both clergy and counselor, you may pursue ordination through your denomination while also obtaining counseling credentials.
Can I practice pastoral counseling with just a Bachelor's degree?
No, you cannot practice as a licensed pastoral counselor with only a bachelor's degree. A Master's degree is the minimum educational requirement for professional counseling practice and licensure eligibility. However, a bachelor's degree in theology, psychology, or pastoral ministry can prepare you for graduate study and enable you to serve in ministry support roles such as youth minister, church administrator, or pastoral assistant while you pursue advanced education.
How long does it take to become a pastoral counselor?
Becoming a fully licensed pastoral counselor typically takes 8-10 years from the start of undergraduate education. This includes 4 years for a bachelor's degree, 3 years for a master's degree (including supervised clinical training), 1-2 years of post-degree supervised experience required for licensure, and several months for the licensure examination and application process. Some states require more supervised hours, which can extend this timeline.
What states license pastoral counselors?
Six states currently offer specific licensure for pastoral counselors: Arkansas, Kentucky, Maine, New Hampshire, North Carolina, and Tennessee. In all other states, pastoral counselors obtain general mental health counseling licenses such as Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC), or Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT). These licenses allow them to practice counseling while incorporating their pastoral and spiritual perspectives.
Is pastoral counseling covered by insurance?
Insurance coverage depends on your licensure status and the specific policy. Licensed pastoral counselors who hold state-recognized mental health licenses (LPC, LMHC, LMFT) can typically bill insurance for covered services. However, counseling provided specifically as "pastoral counseling" without a state mental health license may not be covered. Pastoral counselors working within religious organizations under clergy exemptions generally cannot bill insurance. Always verify credentials and coverage with both the counselor and your insurance provider.
Can I specialize in pastoral counseling online?
Yes, many accredited institutions offer Master's and Doctoral programs in pastoral counseling entirely online or in hybrid formats. These programs provide the same credentials as campus-based programs when properly accredited. However, you'll still need to complete in-person supervised clinical requirements, typically arranged at sites near your location. Ensure any online program you consider is accredited by recognized bodies like ATS (Association of Theological Schools) for seminary programs or CACREP for counseling programs.
What's the difference between a Master of Divinity and an MA in Pastoral Counseling?
A Master of Divinity (MDiv) is a comprehensive theological degree preparing graduates for ordained ministry, with some counseling coursework available through concentrations. An MA in Pastoral Counseling is specifically focused on clinical counseling practice with theological integration. The MDiv typically requires 72-96 credit hours with broader ministry preparation, while the MA in Pastoral Counseling is usually 48-60 credits focused intensively on counseling theory, techniques, and supervised practice. Choose based on whether you're primarily called to ordained ministry (MDiv) or clinical counseling practice (MA).
Ready to Begin Your Pastoral Counseling Journey?
Explore accredited degree programs that combine theological depth with clinical expertise. Whether you're called to integrate faith and mental health in your community, hospital, or private practice, the right education can prepare you to make a lasting difference.
2024 US Bureau of Labor Statistics salary figures and job growth projections for Substance Abuse, Behavioral Health and Mental Health Counselors and Marriage & Family Therapists are based on national data, not school-specific information. Conditions in your area may vary. Data accessed October 2025.
