Fuller Theological Seminary
Fuller Theological Seminary is a leading multidenominational Christian institution located in Pasadena, California, with additional campuses in Phoenix, Arizona, and Houston, Texas. Established in 1947, Fuller is renowned for its commitment to integrating evangelical faith with academic excellence across its diverse programs. The seminary offers a range of graduate degrees through its School of Mission and Theology and the School of Psychology & Marriage and Family Therapy, serving a student body of approximately 2,300 individuals from over 90 countries and 110 denominations.
Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy (MSMFT) Program Overview
Fuller’s Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy (MSMFT) program is designed to equip students with the professional training and clinical skills necessary for licensure as Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFT) in California and Arizona. The program also prepares students for licensure as Licensed Professional Clinical Counselors (LPCC) in California and Licensed Professional Counselors (LPC) in Arizona. Offered at both the Pasadena and Phoenix campuses, the MSMFT program integrates rigorous academic coursework with spiritual formation, emphasizing the development of clinical virtues such as humility, compassion, hope, and self-care.
Key Features
- Accreditation: Fuller is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) and the Association of Theological Schools (ATS). The MSMFT program meets the academic requirements for licensure in both California and Arizona
- Delivery Formats: Courses are delivered on-campus in Pasadena and Phoenix, with some courses available in hybrid formats.
- Program Length: Students can complete the program in two years (full-time) or three years (part-time), depending on their chosen track
- Total Units: The program requires 98 units for LMFT licensure, with an additional 2 units for those pursuing LPCC licensure in California
- Clinical Training: Students engage in supervised clinical practicum experiences, completing a minimum of 300 direct client contact hours
- Spiritual Formation: The program includes integration courses and formation groups that foster personal and spiritual growth alongside professional development
Curriculum
The MSMFT curriculum is structured to provide comprehensive training in both theoretical and practical aspects of marriage and family therapy. Key components include:
- Theology / Integration (16 units):
- FI500 Introduction to Integration
- FI510A/B/C/D Integration Formation Group
- OT500 Old Testament Introduction
- NT500 New Testament Introduction
- ET535 Ethics of Life & Death
- Family Studies (16 units):
- FS500 Family Systems Dynamics
- FS501 Gender and Sexuality
- FS505 Child and Family Development
- FS511 Cultural and Ethnic Issues in Marital and Family Intervention
- Marriage & Family Therapy (36 units):
- FT502 Legal and Ethical Issues in Family Practice
- FT508 Psychopathology and Family Systems
- FT514 Family Therapy
- FT515 Marital Therapy
- FT520 Child and Adolescent Therapy in Family Contexts
- FT522 Assessment of Individuals, Couples, and Families
- FT526 Addiction and Family Treatment
- FT533 Vulnerable Family Systems
- FT535 Group Therapy
- FT549 Psychopharmacology
- Clinical Training (18 units):
- FT530A/B/C Clinical Foundations I-III
- FT550 Practicum
- FT555 Practicum Continuation
- Family Research (4 units):
- FR501 Research Methods, Statistics, and Design in Marital and Family Therapy
- Electives (8 units):
- Options include courses like FI515 Forgiveness, Reconciliation, and Clinical Practice; FI531 Theology & Clinical Exploration of Shame/Guilt; FI540 Narrative & Family Life; FT562 Medical Family Therapy; and FL501 Family Life Education
Clinical Training
Clinical training is a cornerstone of the MSMFT program. Students participate in supervised practicum placements, gaining hands-on experience in various therapeutic settings. Faculty members are actively involved in students’ clinical development, offering weekly supervision and consultation. Select students at the Pasadena campus have the opportunity to engage in faculty-led practicums, receiving direct supervision from licensed faculty members specializing in models like Restoration Therapy or Emotionally Focused Therapy.
Admission Requirements
Applicants to the MSMFT program must:
- Hold a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
- Submit an online application with essay responses
- Provide four letters of recommendation
- Submit official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended
- Complete a fifth essay addressing their vision for integrating clinical training with service to organizations or ministries
- Demonstrate English language proficiency, if applicable
Tuition and Financial Aid
Most master’s courses are 4 units, and each unit is $540.
Tuition for the MSMFT program is consistent across both Pasadena and Phoenix campuses. Additional tuition may apply for students pursuing licensure requirements beyond the standard curriculum. Fuller offers various financial aid options, including scholarships and grants. Pasadena students may be considered for the merit-based Vermeer Scholarship.
Career Outcomes
Graduates of the MSMFT program are prepared for licensure as LMFTs in California and Arizona, and as LPCCs in California or LPCs in Arizona. Career opportunities include:
- Private practice
- Community mental health agencies
- Hospitals and healthcare settings
- Educational institutions
- Faith-based organizations
The program’s integration of faith and clinical training equips graduates to serve diverse populations effectively.
Why Choose Fuller Theological Seminary?
- Faith Integration: Combines Christian theology with counseling practices.
- Experienced Faculty: Learn from professionals with extensive clinical and academic backgrounds.
- Comprehensive Training: Curriculum aligned with California and Arizona’s LMFT requirements.
- Supportive Community: Engage with a diverse and inclusive student body and faculty.
- Flexible Learning Options: Choose from full-time or part-time tracks to fit your lifestyle.
How to Apply
- Complete the online application form on Fuller’s official website.
- Submit required documents, including transcripts, personal essays, and letters of recommendation.
- Schedule and complete any required interviews or assessments.
- Await admission decision and, if accepted, begin the enrollment process.