Wisconsin Lutheran College Announces New Master of Science in Professional Counseling Program

MILWAUKEE, WISCONSIN - Wisconsin Lutheran College (WLC) is pleased to announce the addition of a Master of Science in Professional Counseling degree program, following full approval from the college’s accrediting agency, the Higher Learning Commission, on August 26, 2024. The program, designed to equip students with the core educational requirements for a licensed professional counselor (LPC) in the state of Wisconsin, is set to launch its first cohort in the fall of 2025.

“The Professional Counseling program at WLC will provide a transformational experience for our students and our communities,” shares Karen Fischer, M.S. Ed., LPC, Assistant Professor and Program Director. “Our students will be educated to the highest level of professionalism for the career, in a highly relational learning environment, leading them to be excellent clinicians.”

The demand for counseling services is high and increasing quickly. Stress, anxiety, and grief related to the pandemic have resulted in a counselor deficiency in the United States. One-third of America is currently designated as a shortage area for mental health professionals. This new program offers an accelerated pathway to impact, allowing students to complete their studies on WLC’s Milwaukee campus in just 21 months. Graduates of the program will be uniquely positioned to serve diverse clinical populations, drawing on a vast array of clinical experience opportunities available in the greater Milwaukee area.

Fischer emphasized the holistic approach of the program, which integrates clinical training with spiritual growth. “Alongside all of this, WLC’s professional counselors will be competent in the Christian culture, and able to provide compassionate and ethical care that is informed and motivated by God’s love for all people, no matter their future work endeavors,” she noted. “WLC is privileged to offer this program and this transformational learning environment with the help of many friends and partners. We look forward to seeing God’s blessings on this serving profession as we move forward!”

As WLC prepares to welcome its first cohort of students, the college invites prospective students to request more information about the program.

Media Contact
Dr. Richard T. Mannisto '94
Vice President of Advancement
Wisconsin Lutheran College
richard.mannisto@wlc.edu
414.443.8788

ABOUT WLC

Wisconsin Lutheran College is an independent, nationally ranked Christian college in Milwaukee that serves nearly 1,100 undergraduate and graduate students through its on-campus and online programming. Founded in 1973, WLC is committed to providing a rigorous education and a relational experience in a faith-based community that prepares students for lives of Christian servant leadership.