Online M.A. in Christian Counseling and Family Ministry in Alabama

Are you passionate about serving families and communities through faith-based care? Consider attending Faulkner University’s online Master of Arts in Christian Counseling and Family Ministry. Offered through the Kearley Graduate School of Theology, based in Alabama, this fully online program blends biblical principles with practical counseling skills, preparing graduates to lead with compassion and spiritual insight. Learn more about this program and what it entails.

MA in Christian Counseling and Family Ministry

Student wearing headset working on laptop

100% Online | Faith-Based | Practical Training

About the Christian Counseling and Family Ministry Program

At Faulkner University, our online M.A. in Christian Counseling and Family Ministry offers a flexible, spiritually grounded education designed for real-world ministry. This comprehensive program takes 37 hours to complete and is taught via flexible eight-week courses. With 100% online delivery, students can balance their studies with personal and professional responsibilities, while gaining practical skills rooted in Christian values.

This program emphasizes:

  • Convenience: Study from anywhere in Alabama or beyond, with asynchronous courses tailored for working adults.
  • Faith integration: Every course is taught from a biblical worldview, preparing students to counsel and minister with spiritual depth.
  • Hands-on learning: Coursework includes case studies, ministry planning, and counseling simulations to prepare you for service in churches, schools, and community organizations.

What You’ll Learn

The online M.A. in Christian Counseling and Family Ministry at Faulkner University offers a comprehensive curriculum that integrates biblical wisdom with practical counseling and ministry skills. Students will explore topics that prepare them to serve families, churches, and communities with compassion and spiritual insight.

Key areas of study include:

  • Christian counseling foundations: Learn counseling techniques grounded in scripture, including active listening, empathy, and spiritual guidance.
  • Family systems and dynamics: Understand the structure and function of families, including techniques for conflict resolution, parenting strategies, and marital support.
  • Crisis and trauma counseling: Develop skills to support individuals and families through grief, addiction, abuse, and other life challenges.
  • Church and family ministry methods: Design and implement ministry programs that strengthen family relationships within church settings.
  • Spiritual formation and character development: Explore personal spiritual growth and how to foster it in others through mentoring and discipleship.

This curriculum is designed to be both academically rigorous and spiritually enriching, ensuring graduates are well-prepared to lead and counsel in faith-based environments.

Who It’s For

This degree is designed for individuals who feel called to serve others through faith-based counseling and family ministry. Whether you're already working in a ministry role or seeking to transition into one, Faulkner University’s online program provides the flexibility and spiritual depth to support your journey.

Ideal candidates include:

  • Church leaders and ministers
  • Youth and family ministry professionals
  • Christian educators
  • Lay counselors and volunteers
  • Aspiring ministry leaders

Note: This program does not lead to state licensure. To pursue licensure, see our MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling program.

Certificate Option

If you’re not ready for a master’s degree, consider completing a certificate in Family Life Ministry. This 19-credit-hour program provides foundational training in Christian counseling and family ministry, allowing students to build essential skills without committing to a full graduate degree.

All courses are delivered online, making it easy for working professionals and ministry leaders to participate from anywhere. Credits earned through the certificate program may be applied toward the full M.A. in Christian Counseling and Family Ministry if students choose to continue their education.

Why Choose Faulkner University?

Faulkner University stands out as a trusted institution for students seeking a Christ-centered education that prepares them for meaningful service. With a strong reputation as a Christian liberal arts university, Faulkner University combines excellent academic programs with spiritual formation to help students grow both professionally and personally.

  • Faulkner University offers a faith-based learning environment where biblical principles are integrated into every course.
  • The university’s online programs are designed for flexibility, allowing students to balance their studies with work, ministry, and family life.
  • Faculty members are experienced Christian scholars and ministry leaders who are committed to mentoring students and fostering spiritual growth.
  • The Kearley Graduate School of Theology is known for its rigorous curriculum and dedication to preparing students for real-world ministry.

Earn an Online Degree in Christian Counseling and Family Ministry in Alabama

Are you ready to continue your education? Faulkner University’s online M.A. in Christian Counseling and Family Ministry offers a unique opportunity to earn a respected, faith-based graduate degree from anywhere in Alabama or beyond. To learn more about our comprehensive Christian counseling program, contact us today.

Apply Now

  1. Submit a completed online application.
  2. Complete and print the Official Transcript Request form and submit it to all previously attended schools with the appropriate fee.
  3. Send all additional items via mail to:

Faulkner University
Attn: Graduate Enrollment
5345 Atlanta Hwy
Montgomery, AL 36109

Admission Requirements

Admissions Requirements

To apply, submit:

  • Minimum overall GPA of 2.75
  • Official transcripts from all institutions attended. Hand-delivered copies, photocopies, and printouts of a grade report are not acceptable.
  • Three references (at least one of whom is a church leader) who could speak to your ability to complete this graduate program (please provide their names and contact information if you did not already list them on your graduate application for admission)
  • A goals statement of at least 1,000 words specifying personal goals and stating ways that the Master of Arts program at Faulkner University will contribute to those goals. Include in this goals statement:
    • Background preparation for the degree
    • The basis for the choice of the KGST
    • Spiritual and academic goals
    • Impact of the degree sought on financiers and personal, employment, and family time.
      • A student must obtain a score of 40 or above (out of 60 possible points) as a partial qualification for admission.

To receive full consideration for the start date you applied for please submit all admission requirements no less than one (1) month prior to the posted class start date.

Tuition

Tuition and Fees

2025 - 2026 Financial Information

Tuition $510 per semester hour
General Fee $350 per semester ($250 if 5 hours or less)
Online Course Fee $75 per semester hour
Applicable Course Fees see full tuition and fee schedule