Certificate in Biblical Counseling
Jack D. Terry School of Educational Ministries
Certificate in Biblical Counseling
Minister the Word of God both formally and informally
This certificate program provides an introduction to biblical counseling for both pastors and church members.
Certificate Highlights
- Available online
- 2 semesters
- Begin classes in either the fall or spring semester
The certificate in biblical counseling at Southwestern Seminary furthers the mission of the Terry School of Educational Ministries to equip Great Commission ministers to biblically counsel with excellence. The certificate program provides an introduction to biblical counseling for both pastors and church members. Participants will learn biblical and theological bases for counseling with an emphasis on practical skills for a variety of ministry contexts. Our aim is to glorify God by helping people to change through the Gospel, thereby strengthening the church.
The certificate in biblical counseling is offered over two semesters at the adult education level. Students will complete 3 weekends for Phase1 training and an additional 3 weekends for Phase 2 training, 6 weekends total over 2 semesters. Each training weekend will be scheduled on a Saturday from 8:30a.m. to 5:30p.m. CST. unless stated otherwise. Dr. Jonathan Okinaga serves as the director of the certificate in biblical counseling program.
Students may begin Phase 1 in either the fall or spring semester and take Phase 2 in the following semester.
Students may complete the certificate in biblical counseling online through the Fort Worth track.
Certificate Training Dates
On-campus certificate training dates are listed below.
Fall 2024
The course will meet in person or online on the following three weekends:
Spring 2025
The course will meet in person or online on the following three weekends:
Certificate Cost, Application Process, and Student Benefits
Cost
The certificate in biblical counseling costs $310 per semester, totaling $620. Additional costs include the background check fee for new incoming students and a graduation fee. An application fee waiver for the general application fee is available through the Office of Admissions.
Application Process
Those interested in the certificate in biblical counseling may begin the application process here. Applicants will need to select the “Adult Education” application and supply the requested information.
Application requirements include a background check and a church endorsement. Please note that the background check may take approximately two weeks to complete.
The entire application must be completed before the Jan. 18 spring semester start date.
For specific inquiries regarding the application process or to request an application fee waiver, please contact the Office of Admissions at 817-921-8500 or Admissions@swbts.edu.
Student Benefits
Students at Southwestern Seminary receive several free resources and discounts, including a student email address, free access to the Microsoft Office suite, free and discounted resources for Logos or Accordance Bible software, discounted book prices at the Seminary book store, and more. Visit Tools and Resources – SWBTS for further information.
Frequently Asked Questions
The biblical counseling certificate serves as a formal academic credential in the area of biblical counseling and prepares students for additional training in biblical counseling. Participants in the biblical counseling certificate program serve in a variety of contexts, including the local church, parachurch ministries, and non-profit organizations. Whether someone serves formally or informally, such as pastors, Bible teachers or small group leaders, the biblical counseling certificate provides basic knowledge and skills to strengthen ministry skills in helping people with various struggles.
Got Questions?
We’re here to answer them. Reach out to our Admissions Team and we’ll be in touch by phone, text, or email.