Bachelor of Arts in Counselling Major

 

(Formerly Applied Behaviour Science)

Four Year Degree Program - 120 credit hours

This major combines studies in the Bible and theology with psychology, sociology, counselling and related disciplines. Students will also learn foundational clinical skills for working with individuals and groups.

Course Requirements

Field Education (1 unit = 100 hours)
Field Education requirements ensure practical experience in the student’s area of study. Two Field Education experiences are required for graduation, one in the second year and one in the third year of the program. The student is not charged tuition for Field Education units. Field education takes place in agencies and schools in Calgary . Both Field Labs must be completed before practicum can begin.

Click here for more information on internship / field education options.

Practicum - 6 academic credits

In the 4th year of study, a 600 hour practicum is completed practicum is completed in a Calgary human services agency. Under supervision, the student participates in the day-to-day work of the agency, developing valuable skills in the human services profession. The student is charged for these academic credits.

Profile of a Graduating Student

A graduating student will:

  • increase knowledge of the scriptures and of the theory and practice of ministry
  • integrate principles of psychology and counselling with Christian thought and practice
  • understand the principles of psychology which form the theoretical foundation for the practice of counselling
  • develop individual and group counselling skills for use in human services work environments
  • identify the necessity of receiving supervision, continuing education, and making referrals
  • value and facilitate ethical human services practices


Career Path Possibilities

Students who have completed this degree are well prepared for entry level positions in a wide range of human service agencies. Currently, graduates of this program are working with youth, adults, and families in a variety of clinical and educational settings: group homes, treatment centres, community youth services, correctional services, mental health support services, addiction treatment agencies, women’s shelters, counselling agencies, and church staff positions.

Future Education Possibilities
Although the primary focus of this program of studies is to prepare individuals for entry level positions in the human services, some exceptional graduates have been successful in gaining entry to graduate programs in counselling or other human services fields. Graduate admissions are highly competitive, requiring an undergraduate grade point average of 3.00 or higher.

Course Requirements

Biblical and Theological Studies (30 credit hours)

General Arts (36 credit hours)

Professional Studies (39 credit hours)

Electives  (15 credit hours)

*Transfer students must complete a minimum of 6 credits at the 300/400 level in the professional studies courses and the Senior Research Project at RMC.