Psychology (BA) + MS in Counseling Dual-Level Program
Pursue your academic interests with your compassion for others in this dual level program that allows you to receive both a bachelor’s and a master’s in just six years, preparing you to be a professional counselor that models after Jesus, the Great Reconciler.
Why BA in Psychology + MS in Counseling?
At Cairn, we believe that psychological and spiritual health centers on the restoration of a person’s relationships—with God and with our fellow man. Through the diverse curriculum of the psychology program, you will enhance your understanding of how people think and behave based on a Christian worldview. The master’s degree specializes and builds on what you have learned at the undergraduate level through practice models and methods for effective counseling using intensive small group training cohorts.
How it Works
This dual-level program allows you to condense what would be seven years of study (four-year bachelor’s + three-year master’s) by starting master-level courses in your senior year. You’ll be able to complete all requirements for both degrees in six years. You will also continue to receive your undergraduate scholarships and tuition aid for all six years of study. Upon completion of the MSC program, the student will be able to engage in professional practice including preparation for LPC, self-care, professional development, case management, and ethical practice.
Why BA in Psychology + MS in Counseling?
Academic Opportunity
Study coursework relevant to today’s workforce.
Career Preparation
Utilize Cairn’s business connections to enter world-class internships while you study.
Personalized Education
Engage with practical, up-to-date strategies of youth ministry.
Experienced Faculty
Be mentored by professors who have successful, global experience in business.
Hands-On Education
Receive hands-on training through ministry involvement and interaction with a ministry mentor.
Ministry Opportunity
Understand youth ministry from a global perspective and take opportunities to experience various missional contexts.
more Details
Get an inside look at our BA in Psychology + MS in Counseling
There are over 70 unique programs at Cairn to choose from! Not sure if this is the best program for you? Here are some more details to help you decide.
Required Credits: 150
Curriculum Highlights:
- PSY 324: Cognitive Psychology
- CSG 611: Psychopathology
- CSG 701: Marriage/Family Counseling
- CSG 711: Group Counseling
- Clinical counseling
- School counselor
- Marriage and family therapist
- Substance abuse counselor
- Trauma counselor
- Administration
- Education
- Case management
- Students demonstrate an understanding of counseling from a Christian perspective.
- Students demonstrate proficient knowledge and skills in the areas of:
- Clinical Mental Health Counseling
- Professional counseling orientation and ethical practice
- Social and cultural diversity and multicultural awareness and sensitivity
- Human growth and development
- Career development
- Counseling theory and helping relationships
- Group counseling and group work
- Assessment and testing
- Research and program evaluation
Connect With Us
An Affordable Education
While the cost of a Cairn University education is competitive with similar institutions, we realize you may need financial assistance to take this journey. You are not alone. 97% of our full-time undergraduate students receive some form of financial assistance.
Meet Our Faculty
Matthew Miller
Faculty, School of Liberal Arts and Sciences
Dr. Miller is an Associate Professor in the Graduate Counseling program at Cairn University. He is also a NJ licensed psychologist.
Dr. Miller has been a Christian counselor since 1997 in both private practice and at community mental health centers. He works with children, adolescents, and adults through individual, marital, family, and group counseling. He treats people with problems which include eating, depression, relationships, anger, stress, anxiety, and spiritual issues. Dr. Miller also presents seminars on Christian life to adolescents and adults. Before coming to Cairn, Dr. Miller taught at Camden County College and Rowan University.
Ruth Kuchinsky-Smith
Co-Chair, Sciences Department
Dr. Kuchinsky-Smith teaches on a variety of topics across psychology and research, including probability and statistics. Dr. Kuchinsky-Smith has taught at the university level for more than 30 years across the disciplines of education, special education, music, and psychology. In addition, her professional experience has taken her from the Pennsylvania Department of Education in Harrisburg to the Philadelphia Prison Systems to the School District of Philadelphia to the Milton Hershey School to freelance writing at Patch.com to Lehman Memorial United Methodist Church in Hatboro, PA, where she currently serves as music director.
