Double Major: Bible/Theology and Counselling Studies
Co-ordinator: Robert Edwards

Description

This program is designed to train Christians in people-helping skills as a basis for employment and ministry in a variety of social service contexts. In addition, there is an increasing interest and need for the training of individuals who may not want to enter pastoral ministry, but who want to assist in a lay counselling ministry to others in their congregations. This degree provides the student with an introduction to the social services, fundamental counselling skills and theory, and a strong foundation in biblical and theological reflection on ministry in a wide variety of contexts. However, the program is not designed to provide qualifications for employment as a professional counsellor or therapist. Such positions require a minimum of a Master’s degree. The counselling studies major provides a solid foundation for further studies in counselling at university or seminary.

Objectives

In addition to meeting the general educational objectives, the student who completes the program should: 1.    Be able to use people-helping skills in positions within Christian organizations or within the local church.
2.    Demonstrate basic counselling skills in individual, marriage, family and group settings.
3.    Apply theoretical models of individual and relationship counselling to real-life situations.
4.    Understand the issues confronting individuals, families and the church in contemporary society.
5.    Develop an integrated approach to helping people that is rooted in the Word of God and is informed by the social sciences.

Career Path
 

Students graduating from this program find work in a variety of front-line settings within Christian and secular agencies or become more involved in ministry in their local church. Graduates may also go on to further education in a variety of colleges, universities, and seminaries. These include social science programs and social work programs at the undergraduate level and counselling programs at the master’s level in seminary. Transfer credits to other schools are awarded at the discretion of the receiving institution.

For more information on how the BRE Counselling Skills degree could be used, click here
Related News: EBC Signs Transfer Agreement with Humber College

Notes

• Admission to and continuance in this program is at the discretion of the program co-ordinator and the college admissions committee. Supporting documents, including a completed program questionnaire and additional references, are required.

Dec 15/09