5 Reasons Aspiring Counselors Start at LAPU

The path to becoming a counselor starts with more than just compassion—it requires a strong educational foundation rooted in knowledge, character, and purpose. At Los Angeles Pacific University (LAPU), students are equipped with the practical skills and ethical insight needed to thrive in today’s complex mental health landscape.

If you're called to support others in times of need, help individuals overcome emotional challenges, or lead in human services and behavioral health settings, LAPU offers a clear and supportive path forward.

Here are five reasons aspiring counselors start at LAPU:

1. Programs Designed for Real-World Impact

LAPU offers fully online psychology programs that prepare you for meaningful careers in counseling, human services, and behavioral health—while also laying the foundation for graduate study. Whether your goal is to work in a clinical setting, K-12 schools, college setting, nonprofits, correctional facilities, or private organizations, these programs provide the knowledge and ethical framework to serve diverse populations.

Explore LAPU’s psychology-focused options:

Bachelor of Arts in Applied Psychology:

Prepare for a career in psychology with a B.A. in Applied Psychology. Build skills in research, ethics, and practical counseling techniques—while studying through a Christian worldview perspective. Choose from concentrations like clinical psychology, human services, cultural psychology, or organizational psychology to align your degree with your career goals. Graduates are equipped for counseling-related roles or master-level study.

Master of Arts in Psychology:

Advance your career with a 30-credit M.A. in Psychology. This non-clinical program blends theory, research, and practice with a Christian worldview perspective, offering emphasis areas in general psychology, industrial/organizational psychology, or developmental psychology. Build skills in psychological research, ethics, communication, and cultural awareness while preparing for roles in mental-health, education, business, social services, or doctoral-level study.

Whether you’re just beginning your bachelor’s or advancing with a master’s degree, LAPU’s psychology programs combine academic excellence, career preparedness,  affordability, and faith integration to equip you for a purposeful career serving and supporting others.

2. Flexible, Fully Online Learning with Multiple Start Dates

LAPU’s psychology programs are offered 100% online, giving you the flexibility to study when and where it works best for you. With three semesters per year, each divided into two 8-week sessions, you’ll have six opportunities annually to start your classes—so you never have to wait for a traditional semester.

Why it works:

• You can adjust your start date around your career, family, or life changes

• Shorter courses keep your focus sharp and help you see progress quickly

• Frequent entry points let you recover momentum if you need to pause or restart

Whether you’re starting your bachelor’s or advancing with a master’s degree, LAPU makes it simple to begin when the time is right for you.

3. An Affordable Path to Counseling

Pursuing a career in counseling shouldn’t come with overwhelming debt. LAPU offers one of the most affordable private Christian university options in California—without compromising academic quality.

You’ll benefit from:

• Transparent, competitive tuition

• Financial aid opportunities

• Potential tuition discounts through employers

LAPU is committed to helping you achieve your goals without financial barriers standing in the way.

4. A Christian Worldview That Shapes How You Serve

At LAPU, education is more than a degree—it’s preparation for a life of service, rooted in faith. The psychology programs are designed with a Christian worldview perspective that emphasizes ethical decision-making, empathy, and respect for the dignity of every person.

You’ll graduate with not only the skills to support others, but the character to lead with compassion and integrity.

5. Personalized Support from Start to Finish

LAPU’s dedicated faculty and advising staff are committed to your growth—academically, personally, and professionally. You'll be guided by professors with real-world experience in counseling and psychology, and supported through every stage of your educational journey.

Student support includes:

• One-on-one academic advising

• Faculty who understands the demands of the field

• Career development aligned with your goals

At LAPU, you're never alone on your journey to becoming a counselor—you’re part of a community that’s invested in your purpose.

Start Your Counseling Journey Today

Whether you're just beginning your undergraduate studies or ready to advance with a master’s degree, LAPU offers the flexible, affordable, and Christ-centered education to help you grow into a confident and compassionate professional.

Apply now or request more information to take the next step toward your future in counseling.