Fresno Pacific University

Programme overview

The Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy at Fresno Pacific Biblical Seminary combines Christian theological study with clinical training in counseling theory, assessment and intervention. The curriculum is designed to integrate theology, psychological theory, character formation and professional practice and prepares students for California licensure by covering the Board of Behavioral Sciences content areas. Students are expected to participate in personal counseling as part of their formation.

What you'll study

The program requires a minimum of 65 units across biblical/theological studies and practical counseling courses. Core course topics include clinical assessment, psychopathology, human development, couples and family counseling, counseling individuals and children, family violence, aging and long-term care, research, testing and family assessment, and professional ethics. Example required courses listed in the catalog include:

• BIB 520 Church & God's Mission in the World (at least 1.5 units required)
• BIB 760 Theology for Integration
• THEO 512 The Story of the Church and Its Theology (at least 1.5 units)
• THEO 708 Introduction to Bible, Christian Theology and Culture
• COUN 710 Introduction to Counseling
• COUN 721 Professional Ethics in Counseling (3 units)
• COUN 726 Human Development (3 units)
• COUN 728 Family Violence (1.5 units)
• COUN 730 Clinical Assessment (3 units)
• COUN 732 Aging and Long-Term Care (1 unit)
• COUN 734 Counseling Couples and Families (3 units)
• COUN 736 Counseling Children (2 units) and COUN 736L Counseling Children Lab (1 unit)
• COUN 740 Psychopathology (3 units)
• COUN 744 Research, Testing and Family Assessment (2–3 units)
• COUN 747 Counseling Individuals (2 units) and COUN 747L Counseling Individuals Lab

The program also highlights joint foundational study with MFT and ministry students, practicum opportunities, online course availability, and optional study experiences such as a summer in Israel or a Hispanic Summer Program.

Entry requirements

Admission is determined by committee review of academic record, work experience and personal statement. Applicants must submit a completed application, official transcripts verifying a bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited institution (or a current transcript if degree is in progress, with a final transcript required prior to enrollment), two references (one spiritual from a pastor or ministry leader and one academic), and short answer responses provided after application. If an applicant's undergraduate GPA is below 3.0 (4.0 scale), a letter of explanation is required. Prerequisite coursework required before starting the program includes Introduction to Psychology and either Abnormal Psychology or Human Development; applicants should consult an admissions counselor if prerequisites are missing.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared to work as marriage and family therapists in clinical settings, faith-based treatment centers and church contexts. The program specifically readies students for California’s Licensed Clinical Exam and Law & Ethics exam; the catalog reports MFT students at FPU Biblical Seminary passed the licensure exam areas at rates of 71% and 100%, respectively. Training emphasizes clinical documentation, ethical practice, multicultural competence and integrating theological perspectives with clinical judgment.

Scholarships & funding angle

The catalog notes cost and financial aid information is available through the university; prospective students should contact FPU’s admissions and financial aid offices to learn about available scholarships, seminary-specific funding, and federal or state aid options. Planning early for practicum-related costs and any travel for optional study experiences is advisable.