Marriage, Family and Child Counseling (M.A.)

Home » Programs

Overview

The marriage, family and child counseling (MFCC) program prepares Christian counselors with the knowledge, skill and insight to practice counseling in the church or clinical settings. The curriculum integrates theology, theory, personal formation and professional practice. Students are expected to engage in their own personal counseling for their own growth. The program covers the content areas required for the California marriage and family therapy licensure exams and student membership in the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy.

This program may be combined with the master of divinity degree. Please check with the seminary admissions office for details.

Now offered at our Visalia Center!

Our Graduates

Our graduates pursue careers in many areas:

  • Licensure as a marriage and family therapist
  • Private practice  
  • Pastor and missionary work

Courses

The following courses are part of this program. Please speak with an admissions counselor for specific course information.

Unique Features

  • Small class sizes create personal relationships between students and faculty 
  • Integration of Christian beliefs 
  • Faculty bring a broad range of clinical experience and assist students toward a fitting practicum placement
  • Convienent schedule for working adults now offered at our Visalia Center

Admissions Requirements

  • Commitment to and desire for Christian ministry and service
  • Bachelor’s degree from an accredited school (minimum 2.5 GPA)
  • Application form and fee ($50)
  • Bible knowledge requirement
  • Personal profile statement
  • Three references
  • Writing sample

Prerequisites for the MFCC Program

  • Completed questionaire 
  • Prerequisite undergraduate psychology courses:
    • Introduction to Psychology
    • Abnormal Psychology or Psychopathology
    • Human Development (or Adult or Child Development)
    • Psychology class of student’s choice
  • GRE or MAT results
  • 50 hours of face-to-face counseling with regular supervision by a qualified supervisor (i.e. volunteering on a telephone hotline,volunteering at a substance abuse recovery program,or volunteering at a crisis pregnancy center) 
  • Interview with the MFCC faculty

Further Info

Cost: $430 per unit (Financial aid is available.)

Units: 65

Post-Graduation Requirements for Licensure in California:

  • 3,000 hours of supervised work experience (including hours gained during practicum)
  • 104 weeks of supervision
  • After completing the hours, students must complete the MFT Standard Written Examination and the MFT Written Clinical Vignette Examination

    • (See www.bbs.ca.gov for more information.)