Most counseling programs offer students a variety of psychology and clinical classes to choose from. Some typical topics include theories and approaches to counseling, research methods, group facilitation skills, ethical issues, counseling families and couples, and trauma counseling.

An MA is a master’s degree awarded to students that have completed a program studying humanities or fine arts subjects such as history, communications, philosophy, theology or English. A Master of Arts degree typically requires coursework, research and written examinations.