Counselling
Free
About this course
Those working in the field of counselling are engaged in relational encounters; joining with people in need to participate in God’s ongoing redemptive and transformative work. It is with this perspective on helping that Columbia has developed a program for those who feel called to help others.
Columbia’s Counselling program equips students with knowledge and skills foundational to helping others. A unique set of academic courses and practical learning opportunities help students integrate Bible, theology, psychology, counselling skills, and practical ministry courses within a Christian view of persons. (See Program Course Checklist for details.)
Knowledge-based classroom learning is complemented by experiential learning opportunities. By engaging in service and internship experiences students apply knowledge, develop skills, and express values foundational to helping professions and ministry roles.
Bachelor of Arts in Practical Theology, Major in Counselling
A degree in Counselling at Columbia incorporates a unique mix of biblical studies, theology, and psychology to offer insight into the human condition. The program incorporates the best of these disciplines and offers students a solid foundation for integrating their Christian faith with current psychological research.
This program equips students with the knowledge, skills, and attitudes necessary for caring for people as they experience the spiritual, emotional, psychological, and relational challenges of life. Students develop an integrated approach to helping people, one that is built upon a biblical worldview and informed by the social sciences. Students also have opportunities to apply their skills and knowledge in practical ways.
Columbia’s Counselling degree provides a solid foundation for a variety of roles focused on helping and caring for individuals of all ages within a range of church, para-church, and community settings. This program prepares students for additional education in the helping profession, in particular Masters-level work in Counselling Psychology or Marriage & Family Therapy.
Each degree student at Columbia has the option to select a minor in a variety of fields. Typically, minors are chosen in a student’s third year of study and will inform the type of internship placement they choose. Learn more about available minors.
What is Practical Theology?
Diploma Option – General Studies
Students with a strong interest in psychology and counselling who prefer a two-year diploma option should consider the Diploma in General Studies. This flexible diploma includes course courses in Bible, theology, and the humanities, while leaving room for five electives. Students are welcome to focus all their electives on studying psychology and basic counselling skills, laying a foundation for further studies in the field.
Minors for Counselling Students
Each degree student at Columbia has the option to select a minor in a variety of fields. Typically, minors are chosen in a student’s third year of study and will inform they type of internship placement they choose. Learn more about available minors
Minors
- Biblical Studies
- Social Entrepreneurship
- Church Ministry
- Intercultural Engagement
- Practical Ministry
- Worship Arts
- Youth Work
Students enrolled in the Counselling degree program will complete an internship. Internships involve experiential learning and are intended to foster skill development. They complement the program’s course work and constitute a critical component of the Counselling degree.
Internships provide students with the opportunity to personalize their learning according to their specific interests and offer a flexible way for them to forward their career objectives. Counselling internships encompass diverse learning experiences involving a range of helping roles, including Community Support Worker, Peer Counsellor, Youth Sponsor, Intake Worker, Mentor, Mediator and others.
For more information about Columbia’s internship program, including application forms and placement options, visit Service Learning.
Student Stories
Donnel S.
“I came into Columbia as someone who lacked conviction and didn’t even really know where I was headed in life- or why. At the same time, I desperately wanted to appear like I had it “all together”, so I often kept others at arms-length. The greatest growth I have experienced is in the fact that I now have a very solid sense of purpose, and I no longer live in a mindset of having to solve every problem by myself. This capacity to accept help and guidance has also allowed me to experience a greater sense of connection in my relationships, and to be more vulnerable. By God’s grace I was nudged out of my comfort zone and drawn into classes, roles, and relationships that allowed me to grow. Of course, I’ve had failures along the way, but there was always support to get back up and keep at it. It has truly reshaped how I see myself and others.”
William B.
“I had previously started a BA in Psychology and wanted to continue studying in this field with the influence of Christian instructors. I have appreciated the focus on counselling because it is unique for an undergrad program. Something else I’ve appreciated is that every psychology instructor I’ve had here has practical experience in applying their skills in counselling practices and are willing to share these experiences (within the confines of confidentiality of course) for the benefit and learning of their students.”
To view the Program Objectives for the Degree in Counselling, click here.
This program does not require approval by the Private Training Institutions Branch (PTIB) of the Ministry of Advanced Education and Skills Training. As such, PTIB did not review this program.
Syllabus
Prepare for a kingdom-focused life as you become skilled in interpreting God’s Word and applying it in practical ways.
Heart & Soul 0/2
Mind & Worldview 0/3
Strength & Skills 0/2
"Love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your mind, and with all your strength. Love your neighbour as yourself." -Jesus