Master in Pastoral Studies/Counseling (Master's)

Tuition is 22,250 USD per year.

This field studies the theory and principles of pastoral care. Students learn pastoral leadership, counseling psychology, crisis intervention, pastoral care, and theological and spiritual counseling.

It prepares ordained clergy to provide non-clinical pastoral counseling to individuals and groups. The training also applies to specific types of ministry.

For international students, tuition is around the median for US programmes. The institution admits about 94% of applicants.

Naropa University’s student experience centers on a supportive community of like-minded peers, contemplative practice, and learning that connects intellectual knowledge with self-awareness. On-campus programs include meditation, experiential coursework, retreats, and community work practice. The university is based in Boulder, Colorado, with residential and low-residency study options available in selected programs, as well as online degrees for students who want to study from elsewhere.

Academic strengths include counseling and psychology, contemplative studies, creative writing and poetics, environmental and sustainability studies, interdisciplinary arts and sciences, leadership, spiritual care, yoga, religious studies, and visual arts. The Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling offers six concentrations, including Buddhism-Informed Contemplative Counseling, Nature-Based Transpersonal Counseling, Somatic Counseling, Dance/Movement Theories and Practice, and Transpersonal Art Therapy. Coursework combines professional preparation with meditation, mind/body awareness, social justice, and personal development.

International students should understand that some programs involve substantial in-person participation. The Buddhism-Informed Contemplative Counseling concentration is a three-year, on-campus program with five Maitri meditation retreats, a practicum, and a supervised internship. Other programs offer low-residency or online formats. Across its degrees, Naropa places importance on reflective practice, compassion, ethical leadership, and applying learning in professional and community settings.