Dual Master of Arts (M.A./M.A.) in Theology and Ministry and Counseling Psychology
Dual Master of Arts (M.A./M.A.) in Theology and Ministry and Counseling Psychology
The Dual Master of Arts (M.A./M.A.) in Theology and Ministry and Counseling Psychology program was developed by the School of Theology and Ministry (STM) and the Lynch School of Education and Human Development (Lynch School). It is designed for individuals who wish to pursue graduate studies that combine theories and practice in counseling and psychology with studies in religion and exploration of the pastoral dimensions of caregiving. It combines the foundational studies and faculty resources of the existing MA in Theology and Ministry with the MA in Counseling Psychology (Mental Health Counselor track).
Dual-degree students couple their study of counseling psychology with the study of pastoral care and spirituality and can seek licensing as professional mental health counselors. Such licensed counselors are well equipped to seek positions in mental health agencies, shelters, pastoral placements in parishes, campus ministry programs, prison work, and youth and young adult programs. Graduates will bring the strength of solid counseling skills and exposure to spiritual direction work to their positions.
At a Glance
How many courses?
There are two tracks for this program. The 84 credit track meets the educational requirements for licensure as a Mental Health Counselor in Massachusetts.
The other consists of 78 credits and prepares students for further studies in counseling, including doctoral study.
How long will it take?
Full time students will typically complete the program in 3 years.
When can I start?
Students can begin the program only in the fall semester.
What will I study?
Curriculum
- Credits: 78 or 84
- Comprehensive Exam
Dual degree students will complete the curriculum in either the Master of Arts (M.A) in Mental Health Counseling or the Master of Arts (M.A.) in School Counseling programs.
Program Facts & Figures
Where do our graduates work?
Our Lady of Victory Catholic School
School Counselor
Willowglen Academy
Clinician
Massachusetts General Hospital
Research Assistant
Bay State Community Services
Mental Health Counselor
Veterans Health Administration
Research Health Science Specialist
Christiana Care Health System
Psychologist
Italian Home for Children
In-home Family Therapist
Brain Excel
Cognitive Trainer
Community Substance Abuse Centers
Substance Abuse Clinician
Career paths chosen by previous graduates of the CDEP Department.
Financial Assistance
Education should level the playing field – we feel the same way about financial aid.
The Lynch School of Education and Human Development provides more than $7.5 million in financial aid to students each year. As a result, the quality of BC’s instruction, the benefit of our alumni network, and the impact a BC degree will have on your employment options is both affordable and invaluable.
Deadlines
- Regular Decision
- 1/6/20
- Rolling Admission
- 1/6/20
Apply Now
A non-refundable application fee of $75 is required, however, this fee is waived for select applicants.
Students interested in this degree must also apply to the School of Theology and Ministry here.
Resume
To be uploaded to your online Application Form.
In addition to your academic history and relevant work experience, please include any licenses currently held, any social justice-related experience, any language skills other than English, and any research experience or publications.
Personal Statement
To be uploaded to your online Application Form.
In 1,000-1,500 words, describe your academic and professional goals, any experience relevant to this program, and your future plans, expectations, and aspirations.
Letters of Recommendation
Identification of recommenders/instructions to recommenders are outlined in the online Application Form.
Two letters of recommendation are required with at least one required from an academic source. Applicants may submit one additional recommendation of their choice.
Transcripts
All official undergraduate and graduate transcripts must be sent to our office before the application deadline. Please note the following:
Only official sealed (unopened) transcripts are acceptable. An official postsecondary transcript must be printed on official institutional paper and include at least one of the following: an institutional watermark, the registrar’s signature, or the registrar's seal.
Copies and unofficial transcripts sent directly from applicants are not acceptable, the transcript must come directly from the institution.
If you are a current student and have not completed your undergraduate and/or graduate degree, the most updated version of your transcript is acceptable.
Official electronic transcripts are accepted when sent directly to gsoe@bc.edu from the institution. When requesting electronic transcripts, you must manually type in gsoe@bc.edu to ensure it is received by our office.
If your degree was obtained from an institution outside of the U.S. you are required to submit a course-by-course evaluation completed by a National Association of Credential Evaluation Services (NACES) approved evaluator. A complete list of NACES-approved evaluators is found on the Directory of NACES Members.
Mailed transcript(s) should be sent to the following address:
Lynch Office of Graduate Admissions, Boston College
Campion Hall 135
140 Commonwealth Avenue
Chestnut Hill, MA 02467
Standardized Tests
If you are a current student or alum of Boston College, submitting GRE test scores is optional and not required. The Lynch School requires GRE test scores for all other applicants; our GRE code is 3218.
Writing Sample
Not required.
International Students
International applicants are encouraged to apply to the Lynch School of Education and Human Development. Learn about requirements for international students.
Academic Tools
Contact Us
gsoe@bc.edu
617-552-4214