Master of Science in Applied Human Development and Family Sciences - Marriage and Family Therapy

Marriage and Family Therapy (SMFT) is a specialization in Applied Human Development and Family Sciences M.S. program. The specialization prepares you for a career as a licensed couple and family therapist. The intensive 21-month (5 semester) program is a blend of academic coursework in systemic theory and therapeutic techniques along with hands-on clinical training. Graduates gain 500 hours of supervised clinical experience as a therapist. The SMFT program is accredited by the Commission for the Accreditation of Marriage and Family Education (COAMFTE). The specialization in marriage and family therapy, accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Marriage and Family Therapy Education, emphasizes the practical application of systemic family therapy principles to the diagnosis and treatment of problems in human relationships.Through extensive course work and clinical experience working with couples, families, and individuals under the supervision by Approved Supervisors of the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy (AAMFT), students learn to integrate theory and research while developing the clinical skills of marriage and family therapists. The specialization prepares students to function in mental health, family service, hospital, business, and social service settings.

An applicant whose native language is not English must present an IELTS score of 6.5 or alternatively, a TOEFL score of at least 80 on the TOEFL ibt. Normally, to be considered for admission, a non-U.S. citizen shall have completed a four-year undergraduate degree. A minimum 2.75 overall gradepoint average (GPA), based on a 4.00 system, in their baccalaureate program or must have completed 15 or more semester hoursof graduate work at an accredited institution with a GPA of 3.20 or higher.
Completed application
Unofficial transcripts from all undergraduate and graduate institutions
GRE Scores
Statement of Purpose
Three letters of recommendation
Current resume/curriculum vita
Guidelines for the Statement of Purpose are provided on the website for applicants.

Admission
After a review of the applications, qualified candidates are invited to an interview day in February. Under extraordinary circumstances, faculty may conduct a long-distance interview with a candidate. Admission decisions are made following the interview process. Students are accepted into the graduate major in Applied Human Development and Family Sciences. Graduates of the program receive a Master of Science in Applied Human Development and Family Science with a Specialization in Marriage and Family Therapy.

Students admitted to this graduate major are required to have 9 undergraduate semester hours in human development and family sciences including a course in:

Child or Lifespan Development
Family Relations
Family Theories or Child Development Theories (Upper Division)