Overview

Overview

In 2010, US News and World Report ranked marriage and family therapy as one of the best 50 careers. According to the report, an increased acceptance of marriage and family therapy will result in a projected industry growth of 14% between 2008 and 2018. The Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Counseling (MAF) program will prepare you to join this relevant field.

In the program, you’ll complete coursework and practicums focused on understanding and integrating individual lifestyle dynamics within marital and family systems. You’ll also obtain assessment skills in major models of marital and family therapy. All experiences will emphasize the application of skills in advocacy, consultation, systems change, and leadership.

Admission Requirements

• At least a baccalaureate degree from a college or university regionally accredited by a nationally recognized accrediting agency or an equivalent degree from an international college or university
• A grade point average of 3.0 or higher on a 4.0 scale for undergraduate and graduate coursework
• Completion of the following semester courses in psychology with grades of "C" or better: General or introductory psychology, human development, and research methods or statistics. Equivalent coursework in other social sciences may also be considered. 
• Applicants who meet the admission standards will be invited for an interview with faculty

Degree Requirements

• Satisfactory completion of all required credit hours, including all required courses 
• Satisfactory completion of 700 minimum hours of a clinical practicum
• Satisfactory completion of 200 minimum clock hours of community service practicum
• A cumulative grade point average of 3.0 or higher and no more than two grades or six credit hours of "C” or "C+"
• Successful completion of the Master's Clinical Qualifying Examination in MAF
• Submission of a graduation application and full payment of all outstanding tuition and fees
• Faculty approval for graduation and recommendation to the Board of Trustees for the conferral of the Master of Arts in Marriage & Family Counseling

Licensure

Upon completion of the Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Counseling (MAF) program, you’ll be eligible to sit for the Licensed Professional Counselors (LPC) examiniation, to sit for the Licensed Clinical Professional Counselors (LCPC) examination in Illinois, and for licensure as a Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT).