BA in Christian Counseling
Mental Health Emphasis
Prepare to lead with compassion through a Christ-centered approach to emotional and psychological care. Our program bridges professional mental health counseling with a deep spiritual foundation, equipping you to bring healing to those in need.
A Spiritual Foundation for Mental Health
The Mental Health Counseling emphasis at John Melvin University is designed for those called to serve as instruments of healing in a broken world. Our program uniquely synthesizes advanced psychological principles with a profound Christ-centered worldview, preparing students to address the complexities of the human mind through the lens of spiritual truth. By integrating biblical wisdom with clinical understanding, we equip future counselors to offer holistic care that honors both the psychological and spiritual dimensions of the individual. Our learning objectives focus on developing diagnostic precision, empathetic engagement, and ethical leadership. Students explore the spiritual foundations of mental health, understanding that true restoration often begins with the reconciliation of the heart and mind to God's purpose.
Program Requirements
Academic Requirements
- Minimum GPA of 2.5 for admission
- Completion of 120 total credit hours
- Successful completion of foundational psychology courses
- Senior capstone project in mental health focus
Spiritual Standards
- Agreement with JMCU Statement of Faith
- Active involvement in a local church body
- Participation in weekly campus chapel services
- Character references from ministry leaders
Admission Criteria
- Official high school or college transcripts
- Personal statement of educational goals
- Professional or academic interview
- Submitted University Interest Questionnaire
Clinical Counseling Roles
Work in clinical settings, providing professional assessment and treatment for individuals and families through a Christ-centered psychological lens.
Social Service Advocacy
Advocate for mental health awareness and ethical care standards in diverse organizational settings, merging professional ethics with Christian values.
Mental Health Career Opportunities
Ministry-Based Counseling
Lead pastoral care and counseling ministries within local churches, offering spiritual guidance and emotional support to congregants and community members.
Integrated Health Support
Collaborate in multi-disciplinary health environments to provide holistic support that addresses emotional, mental, and spiritual well-being.
Community Support Services
Engage with non-profit organizations and social service agencies to implement mental health programs and resource coordination for at-risk populations.
Christian Counseling Private Practice
Establish a private advisory service specializing in spiritual integration, mental health enrichment, and family relationship restoration.
Curriculum Breakdown
General Education & Core
- Biblical Worldview (3)
- English Composition (6)
- History of Christianity (3)
- Systematic Theology (6)
- Ethics & Philosophy (3)
Total: 45 Credit Hours
Mental Health Emphasis
- Abnormal Psychology (3)
- Crisis Counseling (3)
- Theology of Suffering (3)
- Child & Adolescent Care (3)
- Psychopathology (3)
Total: 48 Credit Hours
Electives & Practicum
- Cross-Cultural Ministry (3)
- Community Outreach (3)
- Counseling Practicum I (3)
- Counseling Practicum II (3)
- Biblical Elective (15)
Total: 27 Credit Hours
*Successful completion requires a minimum of 120 total credit hours and a cumulative GPA of 2.0 or higher.