Doctor of Philosophy
Marriage and Family Therapy

The primary purposes of the doctoral programs are to develop advanced clinical practitioners who can provide services in multidisciplinary settings and to develop knowledgeable professionals who can educate other therapists. The program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Marriage and Family Therapy Education. The 68 semester hour program is structured for full time study of approximately three years, with the final year including a 12 month internship and the student’s own dissertation research. The doctoral internship provides the opportunity to gain clinical experience in multidisciplinary settings. The internship includes at least 500 client contact hours with 100 hours of supervision by faculty and advanced clinicians. Students see clients in our on campus clinic, the Family Life Center, or in an approved community site that assists in family therapy training. Students receive individual and group supervision of their clinical practice using direct observation, videotape or audiotape review, and case consultation.

Students
Our doctoral students have a wide variety of backgrounds. Previous graduate training includes marriage and family therapy and professional counseling. Many of our students have had valuable life experience in responsible career positions.

Graduates
Our doctoral graduates are employed in mental health agencies, inpatient treatment centers, private practice, and academic institutions.