Units: 90 quarter units (3 quarter units = 2 semester units)
Start Dates: Fall, Winter, Spring, or Summer
The Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology provides an intensive 90-unit Master of Arts program for students. Along with the M.A. in Counseling Psychology, students can opt to include one of the department’s three emphasis programs.
The Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology has four tracks:
- MFT Track
- LPCC Track
- Joint MFT/LPCC Track
- No Track
MFT Track
The California Board of Behavioral Sciences bases the MFT Track on California State regulations, guidelines suggested by the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy, and the California Association of Marriage and Family Therapists, and curriculum approval. Students choosing this track are qualified to sit for a MFT license exam after completing course work, practicum, and clinical hours in the State of California.Â
LPCC Track
The California Board of Behavioral Sciences bases the LPCC Track on California State regulations, guidelines from the California Coalition for Counselor Licensure, and curriculum approval. Students choosing this track are qualified to sit for a LPCC license exam after completing course work, practicum, and clinical hours. The LPCC is a portable degree, meaning that coursework and clinical training in California will allow a student to sit for licensure in any other state; based on any residency requirements of that state. LPCC licensing requirements include a national, rather than state-centric, exam.
The LPCC program is primarily focused on individual adult clients. Students pursuing this program who wish to work with couples, families and children will need to take classes in these specialties to work legally and ethically with these populations.
A major difference between the MFT and the LPCC is that a significant number of the required 3,000 training hours can be completed prior to receiving the Masters degree for the MFT license. The required 3,000 hours for the LPCC must all be accrued after graduation with a Masters degree.
Joint MFT/LPCC Track
The joint MFT/LPCC track is available for students who wish to apply for both licenses. This combined program can be completed within the 90 units. Students can also opt for one of the three emphases; however, students completing this track with an emphasis in Health Psychology or Correctional Psychology will need to complete 91.5 units and students completing this track with an emphasis in Latino counseling will need to complete 93 units to obtain all the necessary courses. Students who wish to explore this joint track option are encouraged to meet with a Faculty Advisor.
No Track
Students may also opt for neither the MFT nor the LPCC track. This track is for individuals who desire more extensive training and experience than the 51-unit M.A. of Counseling affords. This track does not lead to licensure.
For admissions questions, please email ecpadmissions@scu.edu. If you have specific questions about this program, please email Susan Babbel at sbabbel@scu.edu
