We CU Innovating at Centenary University!
Master of Arts in Counseling
Build counseling skills applicable across educational, clinical, and community environments.
Are you looking to gain the skills and experience to work as a counselor in a variety of settings?
Centenary University’s Master of Arts in Counseling is a 45-credit degree program designed to provide you with a comprehensive background in the theory and practice of counseling. You will have opportunities in the classroom and in the field to learn how to provide counseling and consultation in settings such as business, education, criminal justice and community service.
The counseling curriculum offers a foundation in counseling theory as well as training in practical skills such as interviewing techniques, statistical analysis and group dynamics. You will then have the opportunity to move on to fieldwork and concentrated study in areas including marriage and family counseling, career counseling and substance abuse counseling.
Program results
By completing Centenary’s Master of Arts in Counseling, you will:
- Gain a thorough understanding of and competence in the practice of individual and group counseling.
- Acquire an appreciation for the role of the counselor in society and an understanding of the ethical and legal responsibilities associated with that role.
- Acquire a comprehensive understanding of the theories of adaptive and maladaptive human behavior and their applicability to assessment and promotion of improved human functioning.
- Develop competency in the design, conduct, and evaluation of counseling research.
- Acquire professional skills and practical experience in the provision of counseling services in settings relevant to your career focus.
Counseling is a career with a future and a purpose.
Your Future
Academic Advancement:
Next steps include LPC/LAC licensure pathway, school counseling certification, addiction counseling credentials, doctoral study, clinical supervision, or trauma/addictions specialization.
Career Pathways:
School Counselor, Mental Health Counselor, Career Counselor
Industry Outlook:
Steady demand for counseling professionals in schools, healthcare, and corporate settings.
Regional employers include
New Jersey school districts; Rutgers UBHC; RWJBarnabas Health; Hackensack Meridian Health; Atlantic Health System; SERV Behavioral Health; CFG Health Network; Carrier Clinic; nonprofit behavioral health providers.
Salary Outlook:
$50,000 – $85,000
Getting Started
For New Jersey entry-level roles aligned to Master of Arts in Counseling, a reasonable starting range is approximately $50,000–$65,000, depending on role, licensure/certification, employer type, and prior experience.
Early Career and Progression
Approx. $75,000 midpoint at about five years, with higher earnings in specialized, licensed, technical, supervisory, or high-demand settings.
Approx. $90,000 average or attainable mid-career benchmark around ten years, especially for advanced credentials, management responsibility, or specialized practice.
*Salary and Outlook Data