If you are considering a graduate degree in counseling, you’ve likely encountered two tracks: a Master of Arts (MA) or a Master of Science (MS). While these degrees may seem similar, each offers a distinct pathway to achieving your professional goals. Oftentimes, these terms are used interchangeably, but the curricula and career outcomes can look quite different. If you are at the point where you are considering a counseling masters degree, it is crucial you are informed of the differences between programs so you can choose the one that best fits your needs and goals. At Cairn University, we provide clarity on the questions you have about MA vs. MS in Counseling, helping you choose the right program for you.
MA in Counseling: Holistic and Relational
The MA (Master of Arts) in Counseling at Cairn University emphasizes relational and theoretical aspects of counseling and their practical application. This graduate degree is an excellent fit for those who want to advance their career in the counseling field or deepen their counseling ability for ministry without the additional courses required to become a licensed professional counselor. When comparing the MA vs. the MS requirements, the MA track requires less credits and time for completion than the MS track while still offering the same courses and training necessary to provide high quality counseling grounded in Christian principles.
Key features of an MA program:
- Theoretical Focus: Dive deep into counseling theories, ethical practices—from a holistic Christian perspective—and interpersonal skills.
- Practical Training: Emphasis on applying theory to practice through fieldwork and real-world counseling scenarios.
- Holistic Approach: Designed for those who value a relational, empathy-driven practice that integrates faith with counseling.
Example Cairn Counseling MA Courses:
- Marriage/Family Counseling
- Psychopathology
- Counseling Adolescents
- Trauma/Grief Counseling
Career Outcomes for MA Graduates:
- Psychiatric technician
- Case manager
- Case worker
- Addictions counselor
- Academic advisor
- Role in Church or parachurch ministry
- More!
The MA in Counseling degree is ideal for students who wish to work directly with clients in diverse settings, focusing on personal growth, relationships, and emotional well-being.
MS in Counseling: Practical and Realistic
The MS (Master of Science) in Counseling at Cairn University offers a research-based curriculum for students interested in evidence-based practice, clinical assessments, and case conceptualization. This program prepares you for the technical and diagnostic aspects of counseling while maintaining a Christian worldview.
Key Features of the MS Program:
- Research and Analytics: Coursework includes statistics, research methodology, and diagnostic techniques that will be applicable to your future career.
- Cohort Labs: Your peers serve as some of the best in-class experience you can utilize. Not only will it be a small, personal group of individuals, but at Cairn, these people share your faith, your ethics, and your convictions.
- Career Support: Designed for those who want to combine clinical expertise with a strong foundation in research and data-driven solutions.
Example Cairn MS Courses:
- Helping Relationships Lab
- Career Development Counseling
- Human Growth and Development
- Psychopathology
- Prof Development Practicum
Career Outcomes for MS Graduates
- Clinical Mental Health Counselor
- Counseling Supervision
- Rehabilitation Counselor
- Various Tracks in Academia
- More!
Ultimately, the MS in Counseling degree is best suited for individuals who aspire to roles that require advanced clinical training and scientific inquiry.
Your Masters in Christian Counseling Choice: Down to the Wire
When deciding between the MA vs. MS at Cairn University, consider your career goals and personal strengths with this simplified breakdown between an MS vs MA in counseling. Remember, this isn’t an all-inclusive list:
Masters in Counseling Assessment
| Interest/Goals: | Interested in a career that requires technical credentials | Career in ministry/faith-based or school setting. | More direct client relationships | Has Long term academic goals (ex: pursuing a PhD) | Likes conducting specialized clinical research and analysis | Has a passion for modeling Christ as a reconciliator |
| MS | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| MA | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
Even more simply put:
- Choose the MA in Counseling if you’re passionate about relational counseling and working directly with clients in school, community, or faith-based settings where licensure isn’t required.
- Opt for the MS in Counseling if you’re drawn to clinical mental health, research, or specialized fields that demand strong analytical and diagnostic skills.
Keep in mind, different universities also may offer different modalities (online, in person, or hybrid) for each program. In addition to determining between the MS vs. MA, you should also consider whether or not you should enroll in the online or in-person program.
Why a Masters in Counseling at Cairn University?
Generally, there may be nuances between the MS vs. the MA at other institutions, but at Cairn University, we don’t just distinguish between an MA and an MS for the sake of a career. Both counseling tracks at Cairn are rooted in a Christian perspective, valuing faith with academic excellence. Our counseling faculty will care about you as an individual, and they design each program to tailor specific needs and goals. No matter whether you choose Cairn’s MA or MS, you’ll benefit from:
- Small class sizes for personalized learning.
- Expert faculty with real-world counseling experience.
- Opportunities for hands-on training through internships and cohort-model learning
- Program modality options that cater to you through their flexibility for your busy schedule.
- Biblically centered curriculum, biblically minded faculty and peers, and formative spiritual growth.
At the end of the day, you’re not just concerned about becoming a counselor. You care about getting a masters in Christian counseling. Fortunately, Cairn University is uniquely fitted for such a purpose, equipping you to serve others.
