Program Details

Master of Science in Marital and Family Therapy (MFT)

The Department of Marital and Family Therapy, housed in the College of Health, Human Services, and Nursing (CHHSN), offers a qualifying Master of Science (MS) degree program evaluated by the Board of Behavioral Sciences (BBS) required to pursue a license as a marriage and family therapist in California. This three-year, 64-unit MFT degree program is structured to provide curriculum and clinical training that meets MFT licensure requirements, according to California Business and Professions Code (BPC) §4980.36. Moreover, the Program aligns with the educational and clinical standards outlined by the Commission on Accreditation for Marriage and Family Therapy Education (COAMFTE). The robust and comprehensive educational program of study includes family therapy theories, techniques, research in couples, marriage, family, and therapy, emphasis on diversity and social justice, and 300 client contact hours of supervised clinical traineeship in the greater Los Angeles area communities. The Program adheres to a full-time cohort model to complete the Program requirements within three years. Students’ actual study length is contingent upon adherence to the Program’s established plan of study. The courses are offered in the evening to accommodate those who work during the day.

• Curriculum
  As part of the MFT Department admission, all students agree to adhere to the program's Class Sequence. The program organizes the curriculum to ensure that fundamental courses address foundational knowledge, and subsequent coursework is dependent on the prerequisite semester's experience. Failure to take classes in sequence may delay admission into Practica and or graduation. Under exceptional circumstances, students permitted to attend the program part-time accept that their expected graduation date will differ from the established study plan. Learn more about the MFT Curriculum.
• Clinical Training
  After completing the first academic year, CSUDH MFT students will gain a hands-on experience of the Marriage and Family Therapy principles, professional expectations, codes of conduct, communication, and legal & ethical protocols through clinical training. Clinical Training, referred to as practicum or fieldwork, marks an important milestone for students to obtain practical training in the clinical field and to develop foundational clinical skills. Learn more about MFT Clinical Training.
• Academic Calendar
  The academic calendar is the official University document listing the major academic dates for the academic year. The academic calendar is maintained by the Office of Faculty Affairs and Development.
• Handbook
  MFT faculty, supervisors, and students are responsible for reading and reviewing the CSUDH MFT Handbook. Further, the MFT Department may update the curricular or fieldwork requirements contents herein as needed based on state licensing and in alignment with accreditation requirements. The MFT Department will communicate updates via email to MFT faculty, supervisors, and students. Learn more about the MFT Handbook.