Master's Degrees in Counseling

Counseling Master's Degrees

There are several counseling master's degrees:

• MA - Master of Arts degree in counseling or psychology (a common counseling psychology degree, similar to the MS but requires a thesis)
• MEd - Master of Education degree with a counseling focus (for those who are certain that they want to pursue work in educational counseling)
• MS - Master of Science degree in psychology, human services, counseling or mental health (like the MA, but does not require a thesis)
• MSW - Master of Social Work degree (argued to be more versatile than the MA or MS)

In contrast to the MS in mental health counseling, the MA requires a written and/or oral thesis prior to completion. With an MA in counseling you can continue straight through to your doctorate more easily than with an MS.

The MSW is a popular option because it is recognized in 50 states. With an MA or MS in counseling, or with an MSW, you can become a licensed professional counselor (LPC) and begin working in your chosen field.

Check the licensing requirements in your state.

LPCs work as:

• Career counselors
• Marriage and family counselors
• Mental health counselors
• Rehabilitation counselors
• School counselors
• Substance abuse counselors
• Social workers

It is important to interview the schools to which you are applying. Ask them about their programs and what type of degrees they offer, and then decide which program gives you the best options.