M.S. Degree in Marriage and Family Therapy

About this field

The MFT program addresses the interpersonal and social context of mental health and emotional problems. The curriculum focuses on the knowledge and skills necessary to access and intervene in the interactions among people. It prepares students to use an active, positive approach to therapy that will help individuals and their families build upon their strengths, improve communication, and develop solutions to their problems.

The Valdosta State Difference

The MFT program at Valdosta State University leads to a Master of Science (M.S.) in Marriage and Family Therapy. If you are interested in learning the art and science of change, then this is the program for you. This degree is an important part of what will make you eligible to sit for the MFT national licensing exam in Georgia and many other states. Our program is committed to nurturing the development of highly competent clinicians who work from a systemic/relational perspective. We help you develop your unique therapeutic voice, and we help you get there by infusing hands-on learning experiences with real clients from your very first day in the program.

What You'll Learn

The Value of Understanding Differences 

The VSU MFT program curriculum and faculty members emphasize the importance of understanding and appreciating differences among individuals. We believe that simply acknowledging differences is not enough—we encourage our students to develop a deeper awareness and appreciation of the varied experiences that shape human lives. As Mary Catherine Bateson reminds us, it is contrast—the relationship to "otherness"—that makes learning possible. 

To be effective, MFTs must have a genuine interest in their clients, maintain therapeutic curiosity, recognize ethical and professional boundaries, and be open to discussing any topic a client brings to therapy, including aspects of identity, personal values, and life experiences. 

Students learn that the challenges clients face—and the ways they attempt to resolve them—are shaped by multiple factors, including personal history, environment, family dynamics, health, and life circumstances. These factors provide context and meaning to a person’s experiences. Through coursework, practica, and internships, students gain insight into how these elements influence perspectives, relationships, and patterns of behavior in therapy. 

Integrating an Awareness of Differences in the Curriculum 

The curriculum encourages students to examine the broader societal influences that shape human interactions and experiences. Faculty guide discussions on how cultural narratives, societal structures, and personal experiences influence the therapeutic process. By the time students complete the program, they are well-prepared to recognize and navigate the complex interpersonal and societal factors that impact their work as therapists. 

Admissions Requirements

• A baccalaureate degree from a regionally accredited college or university.
• An official copy of all college/university transcripts.
• Previous coursework in social science, human-service, or mental health related areas.
• A cumulative minimum undergraduate GPA of 2.75 or better
• Three references submitted on the VSU MFT recommendation form. In addition to the required Recommendation form, letters from recommenders are strongly encouraged.
• An essay describing self, professional goals, and discussing the candidate’s reasons for choosing the MFT field and VSU’s MFT program.
• A personal interview with an MFT faculty member
• All MFT students must have a criminal background check that includes a sexual predator search

Exit Requirements

• GPA of 3.00 or above
• Pass Comprehensive Exams I and II
• 12-month clinical practicum
• 500 hours of client contact
• 100 hours of supervision

Internships

While internships are not required, they are suggested and many of our students appreciate the learning experience. We assist students in locating internships at a wide range of regional service providers, for example:

• Community mental health agencies
• Private practice
• Home-based therapy organizations
• Department of Juvenile Justice
• Domestic violence shelter
• Hospice
• Foster care support services
• Addictions treatment facilities
• University counseling centers
• Equine therapy
• Children’s Advocacy Centers for sexual abuse treatment
• Secondary and high school counseling centers
• Psychiatric hospital

Careers

• Caseworker
• Child/family Psychologist
• Clinical Therapist
• Clinician
• Marriage and Family Therapist
• School Counselor