The Master of Arts in Clinical Counseling (MA in Counseling) program is designed to facilitate the growth of Christian students into well-qualified, healthy clinical mental health counselors.
The training model focuses on the heart (personal and spiritual development), the head (professional knowledge and research), and the hands (effective interpersonal and clinical skills).
The program has residential and online options available. Note that CACREP accreditation requires that online students come in person to our Columbia, SC campus for 2 courses (one each summer) during the program. The courses will include pre-work and post-work in addition to the Sunday night through Thursday afternoon residential components.
CIU is the only Christian university in South Carolina with a CACREP-accredited master's degree program in Clinical Counseling.
Columbia International University – Clinical Counseling program has been approved by NBCC as an Approved Continuing Education Provider, ACEP No. 4556. Programs that do not qualify for NBCC credit are clearly identified. CIU – Clinical Counseling is solely responsible for all aspects of the programs.
Clinical Counseling Program Outcomes
- Number of graduates in 2022: 22
- Completion rate: 75%
- Licensure or certification examination pass rate: 96%
- Job placement rate of students/graduates: 100%
Bailey Colquitt, Hannah Friar, Ryan Chitwood, and Abby Salazar
Featured Faculty
Admission Requirements
- Completed application
- A GPA of 3.0 or higher
- Official transcripts for highest earned degree and any master’s degree work
- Resume or CV
- Professional/Professor reference
- Interview (Once admissions documents are in, instructions will be sent)
- Application Essay (800-2000 words total, typed) in response to the following items that explore your Christian experience and reasons for applying to the clinical counseling program:
- Describe your spiritual journey including:
- What does it mean for you to be a follower of Jesus Christ?
- What experiences, trials, and/or people have shaped your development?
- How has your faith informed your worldview?
- What has been your involvement in Christian service?
- How do you connect with other believers?
- Explain how attending the clinical counseling program at CIU will help you achieve your professional goals in the context of God's purpose for your life?
- Self-examination is an important part of the preparation for mental health counselors. Describe your willingness to engage in this process and offer an example to support your readiness
- Describe your spiritual journey including:
* Send documents by email to admissions@ciu.edu or by mail to:
Columbia International University
Attn: Admissions
7435 Monticello Road
Columbia, SC 29203
Our graduates are working in the following areas:
- Christian marriage counseling
- Counseling centers in churches and in private practice
- Drug and alcohol addiction programs
- Academia: universities, public and private schools
- Mental health facilities and hospitals
- Doctoral studies