Published November 13, 2018 in News
Clarks Summit University was recently listed as number two on the list for “The Eight Best Online Bachelor’s in Counseling Programs.” CSU offers online programs in Addictions Counseling, Counseling, Counseling Ministries and Accelerated Counseling.
This recognition comes from The Best Schools, which considered academic excellence, strength of faculty scholarship, reputation, financial aid, range of programs and strength of online instruction methodology as the six determining factors for the list of eight schools.
CSU offers counseling degrees both online and on campus, including an online associate degree and a bachelor’s degree in Addictions Counseling as well as an on-campus bachelor’s degree in Counseling. Counseling Ministries is also available online. In addition, the Accelerated Counseling program, where a student can obtain both their bachelor’s and master’s degrees simultaneously in five years, is available on campus.
Dr. Lynelle Buchanan, chair of the counseling department, says the focus of the counseling program is what sets it apart. “Our online program, like our on-campus program, is rooted in an understanding that God’s Word functions as our foundation, our focus and our filter,” she states. “As our students come to the topic of counseling, they come from a Biblical worldview that transcends the secular theories. This has resulted in a program that is rigorous and is excellent at preparing students for careers both in ministry environments and in secular careers.”
At one time, that preparation was only available to on-campus students. Buchanan explains that now, through online learning, all students have access to a biblical education. “There’s advantages to both the online program and on-campus program, and there’s a reason that we have both,” says Buchanan. “Not everyone can come to campus, so we want to make sure that we have an excellent education for those who can’t come here.”
Buchanan adds that the online classes are especially ideal for self-driven students. An added perk to the online format is the diversity of students. “It’s not uncommon for me to have younger students as well as students well into adulthood,” she says. “That collaboration is a beautiful thing; it can really be a strength to the discussion when you have that life experience to throw into the mix.”
CSU students who are able to study on campus have access to additional enriching opportunities, such as practical opportunities through a partnership with CSU’s on-campus counseling center. The Accelerated Counseling program, which allows students to earn both their bachelor’s and master’s degrees in a condensed time frame, is an ideal fit for driven students.
Get started at Discover.ClarksSummitU.edu.
-Haley Seboe (’17)
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