Occupations within the field of psychology are growing. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the employment of licensed mental health counselors is expected to grow 18 percent from 2022 to 2032. This projected growth is faster than the average 3 percent for all occupations.
To meet the needs of this quickly-growing field, SEU’s psychology and counseling programs are designed to prepare students for their futures as mental health professionals. Whether they’re passionate about the world of psychology or simply just interested in learning more, we desire to give every student room to discover their Divine Design.
Earning a degree in psychology or counseling at SEU will allow students to gain the knowledge and skills needed to work in this field. Along with that, pursuing these degrees at SEU is accompanied by a faith-based education that prepares students to counsel others in the spirit of Christ.
Psychology Degree
As a psychology major at SEU, students will have the opportunity to make their way through a curriculum that features hands-on experiences and engaging coursework. Students learn various theories to explain normal human behavior, behavior that’s not accepted by society, and behavior of people as they grow from infants to the mature stages of adulthood. Students will also learn how to design experiments to help them discover why people do what they do.
Plus, SEU faculty members are experts in their field, bringing practical experience to the classroom. “Students will have the opportunity to learn from and walk alongside faculty who are focused on their growth as people,” said Dr. Nate Pearson, professor and dean of SEU’s College of Social Sciences & Humanities, “These faculty members have worked in the fields in which they teach, offering our students the benefit of firsthand experience coupled with essential field-based knowledge.”
These benefits extend to SEU students no matter which format they choose to earn their psychology degree — on-campus or online.
This degree program is taken to another level through incorporating a Christian worldview into the curriculum. Through approaching psychology from a Biblical perspective, students learn how God created the mind in all of its complexity and can then go forward with confidence, understanding the significance of engaging with God and the world around them.
“We recognize that the mind, will, and emotions are not random but connected to God’s creative purpose for each individual. By understanding that our mind, bodies, and spirits are connected, we can learn effective ways of helping others work through unhealthy mental and emotional patterns and take steps toward health and wholeness,” said Dr. Pearson.
A psychology degree provides excellent versatility in career options, such as case management, child advocate, or behavioral health technician. It also serves as an ideal foundation for advanced graduate study, whether in the mental health field or a related profession.
Master’s Degree in Professional Counseling
Not only can SEU students earn their bachelor’s degree in psychology, but they can go further in their education and earn an MS in Professional Counseling. Like our BS in Psychology, this degree path is student-focused and incorporates a faith-based curriculum. However, it takes students deeper into the skills, knowledge, and values needed to step into their future careers.
This online program includes rigorous academics, active learning options, and internship opportunities. It also includes a Clinical Mental Health Counseling specialization that will academically prepare students for state licensure as clinical mental health counselors. This specialization is especially helpful because of the growing need for mental health counselors. Along with the accompanied training to obtain state licensure, students can also earn marketable experience in this field by participating in practicum and internship opportunities.
Earning a professional counseling degree allows students to become skilled, compassionate counselors who can make an impact in the lives of the people they serve. “As a student, you learn all that you need to know to succeed in your chosen field, while being mentored by caring faculty who want to help you to discover your Divine Design,” said Dr. Pearson.
Students who receive their MS in Professional Counseling also have a number of career options to choose from. Counselors work in private practices, hospitals, community health organizations, and telehealth companies. No matter which field they choose to pursue with their degree, they have career options such as marriage and family counselor, mental health provider, intervention specialist, and clinical director.
Shaping Futures
SEU’s dynamic psychology and counseling programs not only equip students with the practical skills and faith-based perspective essential for thriving in today’s expanding mental health field, but they also embody the university’s broader commitment to the helping professions. By integrating hands-on experiences with a Christian worldview, these programs empower graduates to make a transformative impact in their communities.
Furthermore, SEU offers a range of other degrees in the helping professions, such as human services, social work, criminal justice, and humanitarian relief & development. These degrees are equally dedicated to cultivating ethical leadership and service. Whether you are drawn to counseling, committed to social justice, or passionate about global humanitarian efforts, SEU provides a comprehensive, values-driven education that enables you to embrace your calling and truly discover your Divine Design.
By Raevn Richie, SEU Student Writer
Learn More
MS in Professional Counseling
BS in Psychology
College of Social Sciences & Humanities
Divine Design Resource Center
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