Colorado Christian University Programs in Psychology and Counseling
Colorado Christian University appears in our ranking of the 10 Most Affordable Counseling Psychology Online Programs.
There are several counseling program options available at Colorado Christian University, and two undergraduate programs in psychology. The school focuses on “scientific research and investigative study” without sacrificing the spiritual aspect of counseling.
The Associate Degree in Psychology is a preparatory degree that can be used to begin an entry-level career, recognizing that the degree serves as a doorway to baccalaureate and graduate degrees. It is an introduction to psychology. The program contains 60 credit-hours including 18 in the major, 36 in general education and the remainder in electives. The degree is offered regionally or online, and students take one class at a time. It is presented in five-week blocks and can be completed in under two years. The classroom-based program meets once a week in the evening.
The Bachelor of Science in Psychology is also an introductory program. It can be earned as a generalist degree or with one of three emphases. The program contains 120 credit-hours. Of these, 36 are in the major, 42 are in general education and 42 are in electives. The courses are presented in five-week blocks, one course at a time. In-seat students attend class one night a week for five weeks. A dual-degree is also offered, and courses can be applied to the master’s degree requirements. Since this is an accelerated program, it can be completed in five semesters of intensive study. The three emphasis areas available are Biblical Studies, Clinical Counseling, and Criminal Justice.
The Master of Arts in Counseling is a 60 credit-hour program with a Christian framework. Graduates of the program are prepared to take the National Counselor Exam. Classes in this degree program are delivered in seven-week blocks. Students can complete the requirements in two-and-a-half years. The degree can be earned in-seat or online. In-seat students take 41 hours of counseling core classes, four of Bible and theology, nine hours of practicum and/or internship and six hours of electives. Students earning the degree online complete 39 credit hours of core classes, four of Bible and theology, four credit-hours of electives and four hours of in-residence trainings. These residencies are three five-day integrative and intensive experiences that include role play, seminars, and creative journals.
About Colorado Christian University
This private, Christian university headquartered in Denver, Colorado, has several satellite campuses and a distance-learning component. It began in 1914 as the Denver Bible Institute. The school started offering four-year degrees in 1945 and was known as the Denver Bible College. After a series of mergers, it assumed its present name in 1981.
The school maintains a Christian personality as all undergraduate resident students are required to attend chapel services once a week. Every student is also required to complete 22.5 hours of community service each semester and to sign a lifestyle covenant. Colorado Christian University has a “think tank” called the Centennial Institute that looks at domestic and world problems through a Christian lens.
This university is ranked as #96-#126 of Regional Universities- West by the US News and World Report. It has a total enrollment of 8,156 and a student-to-faculty ratio of 15:1 for undergraduates and 11:1 for graduate students and adult learners. The school offers more than 100 degree programs and has an impressive 92-93 percent retention rate.
Colorado Christian University Accreditation Details
The university is accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools of the Higher Learning Commission.
Featured Programs
The Master of Arts in Counseling degree program is accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs ( CACREP).
Colorado Christian University Application Requirements
Students applying as first-time freshmen should create an account in the university student portal. Then, they should complete the online application, including the essay questions. The $30 non-refundable application fee must be submitted to the school at the time of application. Students can employ the online Institutional Transcript Request form to have their high school transcripts, and transcripts from any college work completed, sent to the university. The official SAT or ACT scores are required as well. The Office of Admissions may also request other information from applicants on an individual basis.
Graduate students should also apply online. They must complete the essay portion of the graduate application and submit a curriculum vitae or a resume, whichever is required by their degree program. They must submit undergraduate transcripts as well, and present a valid driver’s license or a state ID. They will need to supply at least one letter of recommendation. Students applying to the MAC program should complete the online MAC letter of recommendation form. In addition, there may be other department-specific requisites.
Tuition and Financial Aid
Undergraduate tuition for traditional students at Colorado Christian University is $15,683 per semester. Room and board will add another $5,923 (although this depends upon accommodation selection). There are $250 in student fees per semester as well. In addition, students should budget for books and other expenses as well as for personal spending.
Graduate students will pay $13, 351 per semester in tuition. In addition, there are fees and an estimated $1,000 for books and materials.
Online students average an estimated cost-of-attendance of $22,310 per semester.
Most students at this school receive financial aid. Some of this comes from the federal government. The first step in getting help with education expenses is completing the FAFSA ( Free Application for Federal Student Assistance) form. The federal government awards grants, loans and work-study opportunities based on financial need. Colorado also has several grants and scholarships for students pursuing higher education.
- The CollegeInvest Opportunity Scholarship is funded by the Colorado lottery and awarded at random from a drawing of applicants. There are 38 $1,000 scholarships available.
- The CCHS/CR Volunteer/ Community Service Scholarship is a $6,000 scholarship to undergraduates who commit to 40 hours or more of volunteerism with at-risk children. In addition, applicants must demonstrate financial need.
- The Boettcher Scholarship is a full-ride merit-based scholarship.
- The Denver School Foundation Scholarship is a needs-based scholarship for graduates of the Denver Public School System.
- Colorado also has several grants and scholarships for individuals studying for specific careers such as nursing or accounting and opportunities for minorities.
Colorado Christian University has several merit-based scholarships as well as some departmental opportunities and activity and athletic scholarships and grants. There are awards based on scripture memorization as well as church-sponsored grants and scholarships funded by individuals and charitable organizations. These can be found through an Internet search or through the Colorado Christian University website.
Related Resources:
- 5 Tips for Landing Your First Job after Earning a Psychology Degree
- Is an Online Psychology Degree Cheaper Than a Traditional One?
- Should One Expect to attend Graduate School with a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology?
- What Can I Do With a Bachelors Degree in Psychology?
- What Can I Do with a Master’s Degree in Psychology?
- What Interests Would Lead One to Obtain an Online Degree in Psychology?
- What is the Future Job Outlook for Careers with an Online Degree in Psychology?
- What is the Future Outlook for Careers in Psychology?
