Psychology MS

The mission of the Marriage and Family Therapy Program at California State University, Chico is to train exemplary, passionate, research-informed, culturally-sensitive, client-centered, systemic therapists capable of excelling in a multitude of mental health settings through innovative and experiential learning.This three-year program provides an integrated course of study that meets the educational requirements for the Marriage and Family Therapist (MFT) license as specified in California State law (SB-33; Section 4980.36). The 60-unit program is designed to train exemplary professional therapists to work in public mental health agencies, private practice, and other similar settings. Skill acquisition is emphasized by a strong core of introductory laboratory courses and on-campus practica in our Counselor Training Center (CTC), culminating in an off-campus traineeship at a local agency. Theoretical background and training are provided in a variety of theoretical approaches, with emphasis on core “common-factors” that span all therapy practice. The program is designed to emphasize three overarching facets of clinical training: academic research, clinical practice, and personal experience. Self-care and personal growth are recognized as equally important processes to clinical learning as is academic ability. Program faculty aim to present themselves as models of ethical, professional, and passionate therapists.

International students applying for a master’s degree program must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5 on the U.S. 4.0 grading scale, including a minimum 2.5 GPA in the last 60 units or credits of an acceptable bachelor’s degree. Applicants must have completed an educational qualification equivalent to a U.S. four-year bachelor’s degree, and any additional prerequisite courses will vary depending on the specific graduate program.