Amridge University Academic Catalog

Amridge University is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, Georgia 30033-4097; Telephone number 404.679.4501) to award Associate of Arts, Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Science, Master of Arts, Master of Science, Master of Divinity, Doctor of Ministry, and Doctor of Philosophy degrees.

Amridge University is authorized by the Alabama Department of Postsecondary Education to operate a private school pursuant to the Alabama Private School License Law.

Amridge University is authorized by the Tennessee Higher Education Commission. This authorization must be renewed each year and is based on an evaluation by minimum standards concerning quality of education, ethical business practices, health and safety, and fiscal responsibility.

Amridge University’s Turner School of Theology is an Associate Member of the Association of Theological Schools (ATS) in the United States and Canada.

Amridge University is authorized by the Arizona State Board for Private Postsecondary Education to operate a private school pursuant to the laws of the State of Arizona.

Amridge University is authorized by the Utah Higher Education Commission. This authorization must be renewed each year and is based on an evaluation by minimum standards concerning quality of education, ethical business practices, health and safety, and fiscal responsibility.

Amridge University is a 501(c) (3), non-profit corporation as determined by the United States Department of Treasury and incorporated in the State of Alabama.

Amridge University is authorized under federal law to enroll nonimmigrant students.

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY STATEMENT

Amridge University is a private Christian university open to any qualified student. In a manner consistent with all applicable laws and regulations including Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Title IX of the Educational Amendments of 1972 and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (ADA) or other federal, state or local laws or executive orders, Amridge University does not discriminate in admission, employment or administration of its programs on the basis of race, color, gender, age, creed, national origin, ancestry, disability, religion, belief or veteran status. Amridge University does follow specific religious tenets and maintains its religious freedom and rights. Inquiries concerning application of these statements should be directed to: Dr. Michael C. Turner, President, Amridge University, 1200 Taylor Road, Montgomery, AL 36117-3520.

PAPER AND ELECTRONIC VERSION OF THIS CATALOG PUBLISHED BY:

Amridge University

1200 Taylor Road

Montgomery, AL 36117-3520

Telephone Number: 800.351.4040

http://www.AmridgeUniversity.edu

The programs, policies, regulations, curricula, fees, and other information as set forth in this catalog are subject to change at any time at the discretion of Amridge University. Because of the possibility of change or undetected error, important points of fact and interpretation should be confirmed by the appropriate University official.

Section 8: School of Human Services

This section includes important information on the programs, courses, and degrees offered through the Amridge University School of Human Services. Exceptions may be noted in the respective sections for specific programs and services specified elsewhere in this publication, noted in later editions of this publication, and/or published addenda (paper- and web-based). Also, as each degree may have its own unique admission, graduation, and related requirements, these requirements are listed with each degree. Even though the individual listing of these degree requirements may appear to be, and in some cases may be, repetitious of other degrees, the University has chosen to list all of the admissions, graduation, and other requirements under each degree for accuracy purposes [Version 6.2011-2012, Effective 4.14.2012].

PURPOSE OF THE SCHOOL OF HUMAN SERVICES

In keeping with the Christian heritage of Amridge University, the purpose of the School of Human Services is to prepare students for careers and professions that are dedicated to providing support and services for the well-being of individuals, family, the church, and society in the spirit of Christian services. This purpose will be accomplished by providing students with an interdisciplinary learning and serving experience with core courses and focused knowledge and skills in a major which may include, but will not be limited to family therapy and human communications.

Additionally, the University provides a program of continuing education, through the Amridge University School of Continuing Education, for those who are not pursuing degrees.

EDUCATIONAL GOALS OF THE SCHOOL OF HUMAN SERVICES

1. Each student will acquire a basic core of knowledge of psychology, family therapy, counseling, related disciplines, and practical methods as a foundation for a productive professional life.

2. Each student will develop intellectual capacities for critical thinking and problem solving, for analyzing and utilizing information, and for reasoning ethically and morally in decision making.

3. Each student will develop skills for scientific research, human relations, leadership, and oral and written communication appropriate to that student’s profession.

4. Through gaining essential knowledge, developing proper attitudes, and acquiring important skills, each student will be prepared for more advanced studies, for employment in a chosen profession, and/or for life-long learning.

5. Through developing proper attitudes and values and through acquiring skills in communication and human relations, each student will be prepared to function responsibly and effectively in the familial, social, and civic arenas of life.

DESCRIPTIONS OF THE SCHOOL OF HUMAN SERVICES PROGRAMS OF STUDY

The Amridge University School of Human Services offers programs of study at the master’s and doctoral levels. The specific programs of study include the following:

Master of Science: Pastoral Counseling

The Master of Science (MS) in Pastoral Counseling is a professional-level degree program. Experiences provide the foundation for psychology theory, scientific research, and clinical practice. In this context, students learn the different approaches and clinical techniques required for today's practitioners offering therapeutic services to individuals and groups. Also, an optional goal of this program is to help prepare students to be a Member of the American Association of Pastoral Counselors (AAPC). Students graduating from the Master of Science in Pastoral Counseling degree program will be prepared to do counseling through their ministry. This program also prepares students to move to advanced studies in related fields. Students planning to pursue further graduate study beyond the MS in Pastoral Counseling should maintain a 3.0 GPA.

Upon completion of the Master of Science in Pastoral Counseling Program, the graduate will have:

1. Learned foundations of psychological theory used in Pastoral Counseling;

2. Learned clinical techniques required for practitioners in Pastoral Counseling;

3. Been prepared to move to a higher level of studies in counseling;

4. Been prepared to be a Member of the American Association of Pastoral Counselors (AAPC); and

5. Learned to do counseling in the Christian community.

These outcomes are assessed in the Program Exit Examination. A student may demonstrate achievement of these outcomes by receiving a passing grade in the course and on the Program Exit Examination administered in the following capstone course:

FT 7372 – MFT Clinical Training II

Master of Arts: Marriage and Family Therapy

The Master of Arts (MA) in Marriage and Family Therapy is a professional-level degree program. Experiences provide the foundation for psychology theory, scientific research, and clinical practice. In this context, students learn the different approaches and clinical techniques required for today's practitioners offering therapeutic services to individuals, couples, and families. Also, a major goal of this program is to help prepare students for licensure in Marriage and Family Therapy in their resident state. Students graduating from the MA in Marriage and Family Therapy Degree program will be prepared to do therapy in a church setting, private practice, governmental agency, and community agency. This program also prepares students for advanced studies in related fields.

Students may also consider taking additional courses for a dual licensure in Marriage and Family Therapy and Professional Counseling. Students interested in a dual licensure should consult with the Dean of the School of Human Services.

Upon completion of the Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy Program, the graduate will have:

1. Developed knowledge and skills in therapy which can be applied in church settings or other professional settings;

2. Been prepared for licensure in Marriage and Family Therapy;

3. Learned to practice Marriage and Family Therapy through comprehensive Clinical Training;

4. Learned to conduct himself or herself according to the Code of Ethics of the American Association of Marriage and Family Therapy (AAMFT);

5. Become more sensitive to cultural diversity needs of clients; and

6. Been prepared to advance to the PhD in Family Therapy.

FT 7372 – MFT Clinical Training II

Master of Arts: Professional Counseling

The Master of Arts (MA) in Professional Counseling is a degree program for persons who wish to become professional counselors. Experiences provide the foundation in counseling theory, scientific research, and clinical practice. In this context, students learn the different approaches and clinical techniques required for today's practitioners offering therapeutic services to individuals and groups. Also, a major goal of this program is to help prepare students for licensure in Professional Counseling in their resident state. Students who graduate from the MA in Professional Counseling Degree program will be prepared to do therapy in a church setting, private practice, governmental agency, and community agency. This program also prepares students for advanced studies in related fields.

Students may also consider taking additional courses for a dual licensure in Professional Counseling and Marriage and Family Therapy. Students interested in a dual licensure should consult with the Dean of the School of Human Services.

Upon completion of the Master of Arts in Professional Counseling Program, the graduate will have:

1. Developed knowledge and skills in counseling which can be applied in church settings or other professional settings;

2. Been prepared for licensure as a Professional Counselor;

3. Been trained to practice counseling through a comprehensive clinical training program;

4. Been encouraged to conduct himself or herself according to the Code of Ethics of American Counseling Association (ACA);

5. Been abreast of the laws that govern Professional Counselors;

6. Gained knowledge and learned methods to practice the major theories used by Professional Counselors;

7. Been more sensitive to cultural diversity needs in his or her clients; and

8. Been prepared to advance to the PhD in Professional Counseling.

PT 7372 – PC Clinical Training II

Master of Divinity: Marriage and Family Therapy

The Master of Divinity (MDiv) in Marriage and Family Therapy is a professional-level degree program for individuals planning to enter or continue careers in full-time ministry. A major element of this program provides students with extensive studies in the biblical text and thorough preparation in theology and various areas of practical ministry. Another major element provides students with a foundation for marriage and family therapy theory, scientific research, and clinical practice. Finally, this program also helps prepare students for licensure in Marriage and Family Therapy in their resident state. Licensed MFTs will be able to do therapy with families, couples, and individuals in their ministry.

Upon completion of the Master of Divinity in Marriage and Family Therapy Program, the graduate will have:

1. Developed knowledge and skills in therapy which can be applied in church settings or other professional settings;

2. Learned a higher professional level application of Marriage and Family Therapy;

3. Become prepared to work within the Christian community setting as a Family Minister;

4. Been prepared by taking extra courses necessary for licensure in Marriage and Family Therapy; and

5. Been prepared to advance to the Doctor of Ministry in Family Therapy or the PhD in Family Therapy.

These outcomes are assessed through a comprehensive examination. A student may demonstrate achievement of these outcomes by receiving a passing grade (i.e., Qualifying or Qualifying with Distinction) for the comprehensive examination given for this degree.

Master of Divinity: Professional Counseling

The Master of Divinity (MDiv) in Professional Counseling is a professional-level degree program for individuals planning to enter or continue careers in full-time ministry. A major element of this program provides students with extensive studies in the biblical text and thorough preparation in theology and various areas of practical ministry. Another major element provides students with a foundation for counseling theory, scientific research, and clinical practice. In this context, students learn the different approaches and clinical techniques required for today's practitioners offering therapeutic services to individuals and groups. Also, a major goal of this program is to help prepare students for licensure in Professional Counseling in their resident state. Licensed Professional Counselors (LPCs) will be able to provide counseling to individuals and groups through their ministry.

Upon completion of the Master of Divinity in Professional Counseling program, the graduate will have:

1. Developed knowledge and skills in counseling which can be applied in church settings or other professional settings;

2. Learned a higher professional level application of Professional Counseling;

3. Become prepared to work within the Christian community setting as a Counselor;

4. Been prepared by taking extra courses necessary for licensure in Professional Counseling; and

5. Been prepared to advance to the Doctor of Ministry in Family Therapy or the Doctor of Philosophy in Professional Counseling.

Master of Divinity: Pastoral Counseling

The Master of Divinity (MDiv) in Pastoral Counseling is a professional-level degree program for individuals planning to enter or continue careers in full-time ministry. A major element of this program provides students with extensive studies in the biblical text and thorough preparation in theology and various areas of practical ministry. Another major element provides students with a foundation for psychology theory, scientific research, and clinical practice. In this context, students learn the different approaches and clinical techniques required for today's practitioners offering therapeutic services to individuals and groups.

Upon completion of the Master of Divinity in Pastoral Counseling Program, the graduate will have:

1. Learned a higher professional level application of Pastoral Counseling;

2. Become prepared to work within the Christian community setting as a Pastoral Counselor;

3. Been prepared for membership in the American Association of Pastoral Counselors (AAPC); and

4. Been prepared to advance to the Doctor of Ministry Family Therapy.

Master of Divinity: Ministerial Leadership

The Master of Divinity (MDiv) in Ministerial Leadership is a professional-level degree program for individuals planning to enter or continue careers in full-time ministry. A major element of this program provides students with extensive studies in the biblical text and thorough preparation in theology and various areas of practical ministry. Through completion of this program, graduates will be able to conduct their ministry at the highest level of professional competence and communicate in a manner that is intellectually articulate. Also, graduates will be committed to, and effective in, evangelism. Finally, graduates of the MDiv in Ministerial Leadership will be able to conduct themselves and relate to others in a way that is spiritually mature and morally sensitive.

Advanced Bible Placement of 75 Hours – Students who have a major in religious studies on the undergraduate level may receive 15 semester hours Advanced Bible Placement – reducing required degree total from 90 to 75 semester hours. Note: Hebrew and/or Greek languages are recommended in the MDiv program, but not required.

Upon completion of the Master of Divinity in Ministerial Leadership Program, the graduate will have:

1. Been prepared to enter or continue a career in full-time ministry at the highest level;

2. Learned extensive principles from the text of the Bible and practical ways to do Christian ministry;

3. Learned to do evangelism;

4. Learned to communicate in an effective manner; and

5. Become spiritually mature and morally sensitive to people in need.

Doctor of Ministry in Family Therapy I

The Doctor of Ministry (DMin) in Family Therapy I is an advanced professional degree for community organizations and church-related vocations. This program infuses both academic rigor and practice to prepare students for family therapy and counseling ministry.

The purposes of this program include: (1) Developing advanced knowledge and professional skills in Family Therapy; (2) Understanding and interpreting ministry in relation to the context of Family Therapy; (3) Acquainting the student with literature, materials, and methodologies which develop leadership, teaching, and counseling skills to be used in helping relationships; (4) Guiding the student in personal reflection and growth; and (5) Providing courses necessary to be a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) or Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC). ; The Doctor of Ministry in Family Therapy I is designed for students who do not have a Master of Divinity in a related field.

Students who are deficient in content courses, as identified through the Student Academic Evaluation, may be required to take leveling courses in addition to the required course work for this program.

Upon completion of the Doctor of Ministry in Family Therapy I Program, the graduate will have:

1. Developed knowledge and skills in therapy which can be applied in church settings or other professional settings;

2. Developed advanced knowledge and professional skills in Family Therapy;

3. Understood and interpreted ministry in relation to the context of Family Therapy;

4. Become acquainted with literature, materials, and methodologies which develop leadership, teaching, and counseling skills used in helping relationships;

5. Developed personal reflection and growth;

6. Taken courses necessary to be a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) or to be a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC); and

7. Been prepared to be a member of the American Association of Pastoral Counselors (AAPC).

These outcomes are assessed in the following course. A student may demonstrate achievement of these outcomes by receiving a passing grade in the Research Dissertation Module IV.

Doctor of Ministry in Family Therapy II

The Doctor of Ministry (DMin) in Family Therapy II is an advanced professional degree for community organizations and church-related vocations. This degree has three concentrations designed to prepare participants to counsel with couples, families, and individuals. Being a capstone program, it infuses academics and practice to prepare students for family therapy and counseling ministry.

The Doctor of Ministry in Family Therapy II is designed for students who have a Master of Divinity in a related field.

Upon completion of the Doctor of Ministry in Family Therapy II Program, the graduate will have:

1. Developed knowledge and skills in therapy which can be applied in church settings or other professional settings;

2. Developed advanced knowledge and professional skills in Family Therapy;

3. Understood and interpreted ministry in relation to the context of Family Therapy;

4. Become acquainted with literature, materials, and methodologies which develop leadership, teaching, and counseling skills used in helping relationships;

5. Developed personal reflections and growth;

6. Taken courses necessary to be a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) or to be a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC); and

7. Been prepared to be a member of the American Association of Pastoral Counselors (AAPC).

These outcomes are assessed in the following course. A student may demonstrate achievement of these outcomes by receiving a passing grade in Research Dissertation Module IV.

Doctor of Philosophy Degree in Marriage and Family

Offered through the Amridge University School of Human Services, the PhD Degree Programs in Marriage and Family is a 60-semester hour rigorous research oriented programs beyond the Master's degree. The number of hours required for the completion of one of these doctorates will depend on the number of graduate hours the student has already taken before entering the program.

This PhD programs is not designed to prepare individuals for professional licensure. It is assumed that the applicant has already completed the course work required for professional licensure. If the applicant wishes to obtain professional licensure, additional courses may be required.

The distinctive components in this program will be the emphasis on traditional and non-traditional extended learning delivery system. Broadly put, upon completion of the program, the student will have an advanced degree with both therapeutic expertise and scholarship.

Students will complete intensive studies in theories of therapy, human development, problems with abuse and addiction, cultural diversity, and research. Courses offered in these programs will be taught partly from traditional class settings and will be partly delivered online over the Internet.

Upon completion of the Program the graduates will have:

1. Gained an ability to conduct original research, including both quantitative and qualitative methodologies;

2. Obtained a comprehensive knowledge of the current status of research in marriage and family therapy;

3. Learned the psychodynamics of mental illness and techniques to treat these disorders;

4. Demonstrated the ability to function as a scholar/practitioner as evidenced by critical analysis of the student’s own practice setting; and

5. Applied family therapy practice and research in teaching or clinical practice.

These outcomes are assessed through a comprehensive examination. A fee is charged for this exam. A student may demonstrate achievement of these outcomes by receiving a passing grade (i.e., Qualifying or Qualifying with Distinction) for the comprehensive examination given for this degree.

Doctor of Philosophy Degree in Professional Counseling

Offered through the Amridge University School of Human Services, the PhD Degree Programs in Professional Counseling is a 60-semester hour rigorous research oriented program beyond the Master's degree. The number of hours required for the completion of this doctorate will depend on the number of graduate hours the student has already taken before entering the program.

This PhD program is not designed to prepare individuals for professional licensure. It is assumed that the applicant has already completed the course work required for professional licensure. If the applicant wishes to obtain professional licensure, additional courses may be required.

The distinctive components in this program will be the emphasis on traditional and non-traditional extended learning delivery system. Broadly put, upon completion of either program, the student will have an advanced degree with both therapeutic expertise and scholarship.

Students will complete intensive studies in theories of counseling, human development, problems with abuse and addiction, cultural diversity, and research. Courses offered in this program will be taught partly from traditional class settings and will be partly delivered online over the Internet.

Upon completion of the Program the graduates will have:

1. Gained an ability to conduct original research, including both quantitative and qualitative methodologies;

2. Obtained a comprehensive knowledge of the current status of research in psychology and counseling;

3. Learned the psychodynamics of mental illness and techniques to treat these disorders;

4. Demonstrated the ability to function as a scholar/practitioner as evidenced by critical analysis of the student’s own practice setting; and

5. Applied counseling skills and research in teaching or clinical practice.

ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS

See Section 2 – Admissions.

CAPSTONE EXAMINATION

Each student must pass a Comprehensive Examination to receive a graduate degree. In some programs the Comprehensive Examination is external to an individual course. In other programs the Comprehensive Examination is administered within a Capstone course.

ADMISSION AND DEGREE REQUIREMENTS FOR THE MASTER OF SCIENCE IN PASTORAL COUNSELING

The Master of Science (MS) in Pastoral Counseling is a professional-level degree program. Experiences provide the foundation for pastoral counseling theory, scientific research, and clinical practice. In this context, students learn the different approaches and clinical techniques required for today's practitioners offering therapeutic services to individuals and groups. Also, an optional goal of this program is to help prepare students to be a Member of the American Association of Pastoral Counselors (AAPC). Students graduating from the Master of Science in Pastoral Counseling Degree program will be prepared to do counseling through their ministry. This program also prepares students to move to advanced studies in related fields. Students planning to pursue further graduate study beyond the MS in Pastoral Counseling should maintain a 3.0 GPA.

Upon completion of the Master of Science in Pastoral Counseling Program, the graduate will have:

1. Learned foundations of psychological theory used in Pastoral Counseling;

2. Learned clinical techniques required for practitioners in Pastoral Counseling;

3. Been prepared to move to a higher level of studies in counseling;

4. Been prepared to be a Member of the American Association of Pastoral Counselors (AAPC); and

5. Learned to do counseling in the Christian community.

These outcomes are assessed in the following course. A student may demonstrate achievement of these outcomes by receiving a passing grade in the course and on the Program Exit Exam administered in the following capstone course:

FT 7372 – MFT Clinical Training II

Applications for admission to the Master of Science in Pastoral Counseling program will not be considered complete until all of the following items are properly completed and submitted:

· Application Form – This form should be completed in detail.

· Application Fee – The applicant must submit an application fee. Information about the application fee is published on the Amridge University website. This one-time fee is non-refundable.

· An earned Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science degree from a regionally accredited institution.

· Official Transcripts – Applicants must request an official academic transcript from each postsecondary institution previously attended to be sent directly to Amridge University. Transcript Request Forms are available on the University’s web site. No transcript is official unless it is sent from institution to institution and bears the seal of the institution where the work was completed.

If the applicant has not completed the last course(s) at another school for which he or she is registered at the time of filing his or her application with Amridge University, a partial transcript should be sent for evaluation. The final transcript showing courses completed and any degree earned is required before the end of the first semester after initial matriculation. No academic credit will be recorded on a student’s permanent record until all necessary credentials are received.

· Standardized Tests – Have submitted to the Amridge University Admissions Office proof of the results of the Graduate Record Exam General (GRE) or the Miller Analogies Test (MAT) taken by the applicant or other test approved by the Vice President of academic Affairs. Applicants for whom English is a second language must provide documented evidence of English proficiency in one of two ways: (1) A bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited institution in the United States or (2) A score on the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) per the following:

Graduate—minimum total score of 79, with minimum scores for reading and listening increased to “high” levels.

Reading (high)....................... 22

Listening (high)....................... 22

Speaking (fair)....................... 18

Writing (fair)........................... 17

Other national examinations normally accepted for admission to graduate programs of study will also be accepted. Applicants holding a doctoral degree from a regionally accredited institution are not required to take these standardized tests.

Time Normally Required to Complete the Program

The Master of Science in Pastoral Counseling may be completed in five semesters. A student may take his or her courses on a part-time or full-time basis.

Required Courses for the Master of Science in Pastoral Counseling

Required Courses		Sem. Hrs.
	FT 7300 Ethics and Professional Identity	3
	FT 7301 Introduction to Pastoral Counseling	3
	FT 7310 Theories of Counseling and Psychotherapy	3
	FT 7321 Human Sexual Development	3
	FT 7323 Marriage and Family Development	3
	FT 7326 Social and Multicultural Diversity	3
	FT 7327 Psychology of Religion	3
	FT 7336 Basic Counseling Techniques/Helping Relationships	3
	FT 7330 Interpersonal, Family, and Group Dynamics	3
	FT 7331 Marital and Family Systems	3
	RS 6339 Research and Evaluation	3
	FT 7317 Ministerial Counseling with Children and Adolescents	3
	FT 7335 Advanced Therapy	3
	FT 7370 MFT Practicum	3
	FT 7371 MFT Clinical Training I	3
	FT 7372 MFT Clinical Training II (Capstone Course)	3
TOTAL REQUIRED		48

Optional elective hours, if needed, in Pastoral Counseling. Choose from these elective courses:

	FT 7302 Professional Ethics and the Law	3
	FT 7306 Community and Social Systems	3
	FT 7311 Theories of Marriage and Family Therapy	3
	FT 7322 Theories of Personality Development	3
	FT 7332 Counseling for Abusive Relationships	3
	FT 7334 Psychology of Grief, Death and Dying	3
	PT 7350 Lifestyle and Career Development FT 7355 Psychopathology and Psychopharmacology	3 3
	FT 7373 MFT Clinical Training III	3

Special Note Related to Practicum and Clinical Courses: All Practicum and Clinical Training courses require face-to-face on-site clinical practice with the client(s). The experience must be performed under face-to-face supervision of an approved licensed supervisor. This experience should be conducted in the state in which the student will seek licensure. The student must apply to Dr. Wayne Perry, the Director of the Amridge University Counseling and MFT Clinical Programs, at least one semester prior to beginning a Practicum or a Clinical course. Students should contact Dr. Perry via email to receive the Practicum and Clinical Course Form. Dr. Perry’s email address is: CLINICALS@amridgeuniversity.edu

Graduation Requirements for the Master of Science in Pastoral Counseling

Before being graduated with the Master of Science in Pastoral Counseling, a student must satisfy the following requirements:

1. A total of 48 graduate semester hours of the required course work;

2. At least 39 of the graduate semester hours must be from Amridge University. Also, any possible transfer of graduate credits taken from another regionally accredited institution must be agreed upon by the end of the first enrolled semester at Amridge University;

3. Complete all required coursework including the specified practicum and clinical courses, including, three hundred and seventy-five (375) hours of supervised Pastoral Counseling and one hundred and twenty-five (125) hours of supervision, one-third of which must be with an AAPC Approved Supervisor;

4. Pass the program capstone course and the Program Exit Examination that given as part of the capstone course;

5. Have a cumulative GPA of 2.0;

6. Students who expect to pursue further graduate study beyond this degree should maintain a 3.0 GPA; and

7. Complete an Amridge University Degree Completion Application available from Amridge University’s web site. The properly completed and signed application must be submitted no later than the first day of classes of the semester prior to the semester the student plans to graduate. Following this schedule permits the University to conduct a full audit of the respective student’s records to make sure that all courses, programs, and respective graduation requirements have been met. Students having any questions regarding the Degree Completion Application should contact the Registrar’s Office.

Becoming a Member for the American Association of Pastoral Counselors Requirements (optional – see program advisor for more information on the AAPC)

Many graduates of the Master of Science in Pastoral Counseling may be interested in becoming a Member for the American Association of Pastoral Counselors (AAPC). In order to be a Member Associate of the AAPC, the candidate must:

1. Hold a Master of Divinity or a Master of Science in Pastoral Counseling;

2. Complete three hundred and seventy-five (375) hours of supervised Pastoral Counseling;

3. Complete one hundred and twenty-five (125) hours of supervision, one-third of such must be with an AAPC Approved Supervisor; and

4. Submit a plan for becoming a Fellow and/or Diplomat level member of AAPC within seven years.

Additional information on the AAPC may be found on the Internet at the following address: http://www.aapc.org/.

Individuals interested in learning more on becoming a Member with AAPC as related to the Amridge University Master of Science in Pastoral Counseling program should contact Dr. Wayne Perry, the Director of the Amridge University Counseling and MFT Clinical Programs, as soon as possible if they have any questions related to the licensure process in Alabama. Dr. Perry may be contacted as follows:

By email: CLINICALS@amridgeuniversity.edu

By U.S. Postal Service Mail: Dr. Wayne Perry
                                                Director of the Counseling and MFT
                                                Clinical Programs
                                                Amridge University
                                                1200 Taylor Road
                                                Montgomery, AL 36117-3520

By telephone: 800.351.4040, extension 7535

Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) as Related to the Master of Science in Pastoral Counseling

The Amridge University Master of Science in Pastoral Counseling program was not designed with the intent that graduates would become Licensed Professional Counselors (LPCs) or Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFTs) in a state or states. If a student in the Master of Science in Pastoral Counseling program has a strong interest in becoming a LPC, then he or she has two options: (1) Take the additional courses above and beyond those required for the Master of Science in Pastoral Counseling but required by the licensing board of the state or states the student intends to be licensed or (2) Enroll in the Amridge University Master of Divinity in Professional Counseling or Master of Divinity in Family Therapy program.

Students enrolled in the Master of Science in Pastoral Counseling and interested in learning more about becoming a LPC or LMFT should contact Dr. Wayne Perry, the Director of the Amridge University Counseling and MFT Clinical Programs, as soon as possible if they have any questions related to the licensure process in Alabama. Dr. Perry may be contacted as follows:

By email: CLINICALS@amridgeuniversity.edu

By telephone: 800.351.4040, extension 7535

ADMISSION AND DEGREE REQUIREMENTS FOR THE MASTER OF ARTS IN MARRIAGE AND FAMILY THERAPY

The Master of Arts (MA) in Marriage and Family Therapy is a professional-level degree program. Experiences provide the foundation for marriage and family therapy theory, scientific research, and clinical practice. In this context, students learn the different approaches and clinical techniques required for today's practitioners offering therapeutic services to individuals, couples, and families. Also, a major goal of this program is to help prepare students for licensure in Marriage and Family Therapy in their resident state. Students graduating from the MA in Marriage and Family Therapy Degree program will be prepared to do therapy in a church setting, private practice, governmental agency, and community agency. This program also prepares students for advanced studies in related fields.

Upon completion of the Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy Program, the graduate will have:

1. Developed knowledge and skills in therapy which can be applied in church settings, agency setting, or other professional settings;

2. Been prepared for licensure in Marriage and Family Therapy;

3. Learned to practice Marriage and Family Therapy through comprehensive Clinical Training;

4. Learned to conduct himself or herself according to the Code of Ethics of the American Association of Marriage and Family Therapy (AAMFT);

5. Become more sensitive to cultural diversity needs of clients; and

6. Been prepared to advance to the PhD in Family Therapy.

FT 7372 – MFT Clinical Training II

Applications for admission to the Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy program will not be considered complete until all of the following items are properly completed and submitted:

· Application Form – This form should be completed in detail.

· Application Fee – The applicant must submit an application fee. Information about the application fee is published on the Amridge University website. This one-time fee is non-refundable.

· An earned Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science degree from a regionally accredited institution.

Graduate—minimum total score of 79, with minimum scores for reading and listening increased to “high” levels.

Reading (high)....................... 22

Listening (high)....................... 22

Speaking (fair)....................... 18

Writing (fair)........................... 17

Time Normally Required to Complete the Program

The Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy may be completed in seven semesters. A student may take courses on a part-time or full-time basis.

Clinicals and Practicums

Students, not Amridge University, are responsible for locating and making arrangements for their clinical and practicum experiences and courses.

Licensure Examination Test Bank

When registered for courses in this program all students are enrolled in the Licensure Examination Text Bank designed to help students prepare for the respective licensure examination in their home state.

Required Courses for the Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy

Required Courses		Sem. Hrs.
	FT 7300 Ethics and Professional Identity	3
	FT 7306 Community and Social Systems	3
	FT 7310 Theories of Counseling and Psychotherapy	3
	FT 7311 Theories of Marriage and Family Therapy	3
	FT 7320 Human Development	3
	FT 7321 Human Sexual Development	3
	FT 7322 Theories of Personality Development	3
	FT 7323 Marriage and Family Development	3
	FT 7326 Social and Multicultural Diversity	3
	FT 7336 Basic Counseling Techniques/Helping Relationships	3
	FT 7330 Interpersonal and Family Dynamics	3
	FT 7331 Marital and Family Systems	3
	FT 7332 Counseling for Abusive Relationships OR FT 7333 Systemic Treatment of Substance Related Disorders	3
	RS 6339 Research and Evaluation	3
	FT 7340 Assessment of Individuals and Families	3
	FT 7355 Psychopathology and Psychopharmacology	3
	FT 7335 Advanced Therapy	3
	FT 7370 MFT Practicum	3
	FT 7371 MFT Clinical Training I	3
	FT 7372 MFT Clinical Training II (Capstone Course)	3
TOTAL REQUIRED		60

A student needing extra courses for Licensure or Certification may select from the following:

	FT 7302 Professional Ethics and the Law	3
	FT 7334 Psychology of Grief, Death and Dying	3
	PT 7350 Lifestyle and Career Development	3
	FT 7373 MFT Clinical Training III (if needed)	3

Special Note Related to Practicum and Clinical Courses: All Practicum and Clinical Training courses require face-to-face on-site clinical practice with the client(s). The experience must be performed under face-to-face supervision of an approved licensed supervisor. This experience should be conducted in the state in which the student will seek licensure. The student must apply to Dr. Wayne Perry, Director of the Amridge University Counseling and MFT Clinical Programs, at least one semester prior to beginning a Practicum or a Clinical course. Students should contact Dr. Perry via email to receive the Practicum and Clinical Course Form. Dr. Perry’s email address is: clinicals@amridgeuniversity.edu

Also, during clinical training, each student will accumulate a minimum of 500 hours of client contact, supervised by an additional 100 hours with an approved supervisor. Normally, clinical training requires one full year (3 semesters) to complete. Students who do not satisfy the minimum requirements in three semesters may take one additional semester of clinical training.

Graduation Requirements for the Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy

Before being graduated with the Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy, a student must satisfy the following requirements:

1. A total of 60 graduate semester hours of the required course work;

2. At least 51 of the graduate semester hours must be from Amridge University. Also, any possible transfer of graduate credits taken from another regionally accredited institution must be agreed upon by the end of the first enrolled semester at Amridge University;

3. Complete all required coursework including the specified practicum and clinical courses. This requirement includes the accumulation and documentation of at least 600 hours of face-to-face clinical experience. Of these 600 hours, a minimum of 500 must be client contact, and a minimum of 100 must be concurrent supervision of that client contact with an approved supervisor, for a minimum ratio of 1 hour of supervision for each 5 hours of client contact;

4. Students in the Master of Arts in the Marriage and Family Therapy program are required to earn at least a grade of “B-” (3.0) in each course. A course with a grade below a “B-” must be repeated;

5. Pass the program capstone course and the Program Exit Exam that is given as part of the capstone course; and

6. Complete an Amridge University Degree Completion Application available from Amridge University’s web site. The properly completed and signed application must be submitted no later than the first day of classes of the semester prior to the semester the student plans to graduate. Following this schedule permits the University to conduct a full audit of the respective student’s records to make sure that all courses, programs, and respective graduation requirements have been met. Students having any questions regarding the Degree Completion Application should contact the Registrar’s Office.

Licensure as a Marriage and Family Therapist Outside of the State of Alabama as Related to the Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy

To become a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) in most states, a candidate must present credentials to the appropriate state board of examiners who will schedule an examination. Amridge University makes no guarantees that a student will attain licensure in a given state. Additionally, it is the student’s responsibility, not the University’s, to ensure that he or she meets the licensure requirements for the state or states that he or she intends to be licensed. As such, students are encouraged to contact the appropriate state LMFT board in their home state or the states they plan to be licensed as soon as possible to obtain all of the respective licensure information.

Many LMFT boards, as does Amridge University, follow the academic courses prescribed by the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy (AAMFT). As such, the information provided in the following subsection provides a specification of the AAMFT categories and related Amridge University courses.

Amridge University Marriage and Family Therapy Courses

by AAMFT Category

AAMFT requires the number of courses indicated in the parentheses for each category for clinical membership. Check with your state license board, but in general the requirements should be very similar. Courses shown in Italics are optional. Courses shown in regular font are part of Amridge University’s core 60 semester hour curriculum.

1. Marriage and Family Studies (3 courses)

FT 7323 – Marriage and Family Development

FT 7326 – Social and Multicultural Diversity

FT 7331 – Marital and Family Systems

2. Marriage and Family Therapy (3 courses – Amridge University requires 5)

FT 7310 – Theories of Counseling and Psychotherapy

FT 7311 – Theories of Marriage and Family Therapy

FT 7332 – Counseling for Abusive Relationships

FT 7335 – Advanced Therapy

FT 7336 – Basic Counseling Techniques/Helping Relationships

3. Human Development (3 courses – Amridge University requires 5)

FT 7320 – Human Development

FT 7321 – Human Sexual Development

FT 7322 – Theories of Personality Development

FT 7340 – Assessment of Individuals and Families

FT 7355 – Psychopharmacology and Psychopathology

4. Ethics (1 course)

FT 7300 – Ethics and Professional Identity

FT 7302 – Professional Ethics and the Law

5. Research (1 course)

RS 6339 – Research and Evaluation

6. Practicum (500 hours of client contact, 100 hours of supervision)

FT 7370 – MFT Practicum

FT 7371 – MFT Clinical Training I

FT 7372 – MFT Clinical Training II

FT 7373 – MFT Clinical Training III – required only if necessary to meet the contact hour requirements.

7. Optional Courses Not Fitting Any License Category

FT 7306 – Community and Social Systems

FT 7330 – Interpersonal and Family Dynamics

FT 7334 – Psychology of Grief, Death and Dying

PT 7350 – Lifestyle and Career Development

Below is a link to the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy (AAMFT). Go to this link to obtain the contact name, address, and telephone number for the state licensure boards. Even though some of these state boards include web site addresses, students are encouraged to make person-to-person contact with the respective board to obtain the latest information on licensure information – do not assume that all of the information posted on these web sites is up-to-date or complete.

The web link for the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy listing of state licensure boards is as follows:

http://www.aamft.org/resources/Online_Directories/boardcontacts.htm

Additionally, students are encouraged to contact Dr. Wayne Perry, the Director of Amridge University Counseling and MFT Programs, as soon as possible if they have any questions related to the licensure process. Dr. Perry may be contacted as follows:

By email: CLINICALS@amridgeuniversity.edu

By telephone: 800.351.4040, extension 7535

Licensure as a Marriage and Family Therapist in the State of Alabama as Related to the Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy

In order to be licensed by the State of Alabama as a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, the candidate must:

1. Submit a completed application on the forms prescribed by the Board;

2. Provide documented evidence that the applicant is of good moral character and has not or is not engaged in any practice or conduct that would make the applicant ineligible to receive a license pursuant to the Marriage and Family Therapy Licensure Act;

3. Completion of the education and internships requirements for an MFT Associate. In the case of Amridge University students, completion of the requirements and receive an Amridge University Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy;

4. Pass the marriage and family therapy examination approved by the Board;

5. Completion of a minimum of two (2) years post-degree full-time (30 or more clock hours per week) MFT work experience or the equivalent part-time MFT work experience under the supervision of a Board Approved Supervisor;

6. Completion of two-hundred (200) hours of post degree supervision, at least one hundred (100) of which must be individual. Graduates of COAMFTE accredited programs may count up to one hundred (100) supervision hours earned during the program toward this requirement, when based on a ratio of one (1) supervision hour to every five (5) client contact hours;

7. Completion of a minimum of one thousand (1,000) post-degree direct client hours completed concurrently with the required supervision; two hundred fifty (250) of these direct contact hours must be with couples or families physically present in the therapy room; and

8. Examination Application Requirements: The following are necessary requirements in order to take the Board approved marriage and family therapy examination:

a. Submission of a completed application on the forms prescribed by the Board;

b. Be an MFT Associate or has met all requirements for becoming an MFT Associate.[i]

The contact address of the Alabama Board of Examiners in Marriage and Family Therapy is as follows:

Alabama Board of Examiners

in Marriage and Family Therapy (LMFT)

7550 Halcyon Summit Drive, Suite 125

Montgomery, AL 36117

Telephone number: 334.251.7233

Important note: It is the student’s responsibility, not the University’s, to make certain that he or she meets all of the respective requirements to become a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) in Alabama. As such, students interested in being licensed as a LMFT in Alabama should contact the Alabama Board of Examiners in Marriage and Family Therapy as soon as possible to obtain all the pertinent information and examination dates. Additionally, students are encouraged to contact Dr. Wayne Perry, the Director of Amridge University Counseling and MFT Programs, as soon as possible if they have any questions related to the licensure process in Alabama. Dr. Perry may be contacted as follows:

By email: CLINICALS@amridgeuniversity.edu

By U.S. Postal Service Mail:   Dr. Wayne Perry
                                                Director of the Counseling and MFT
                                                Clinical Programs
                                                Amridge University
                                                1200 Taylor Road
                                                Montgomery, AL 36117-3520

By telephone: 800.351.4040, extension 7535

Dual Licensure

licensure would mean that additional courses would have to be taken. Dual licensure does not mean dual degree which is not available at Amridge University for this degree-level. Students interested in dual licensure should contact Dr. Perry, the Director of the Amridge University Counseling and Marriage and Family Therapy Programs, for additional information.

ADMISSION AND DEGREE REQUIREMENTS FOR THE MASTER OF ARTS IN PROFESSIONAL COUNSELING

The Master of Arts (MA) in Professional Counseling is a degree program for professionals. Experiences provide the foundation in psychology theory, scientific research, and clinical practice. In this context, students learn the different approaches and clinical techniques required for today's practitioners offering therapeutic services to individuals and groups. Also, a major goal of this program is to help prepare students for licensure in Professional Counseling in their resident state. Students who graduate from the MA in Professional Counseling Degree program will be prepared to do therapy in a church setting, private practice, governmental agency, and community agency. This program also prepares students for advanced studies in related fields.

Upon completion of the Master of Arts in Professional Counseling Program, the graduate will have:

1. Developed knowledge and skills in counseling which can be applied in church settings or other professional settings;

2. Been prepared for licensure as a Professional Counselor;

3. Been trained to practice counseling through a comprehensive clinical training program;

4. Been encouraged to conduct himself or herself according to the Code of Ethics of American Counseling Association (ACA);

5. Been abreast of the laws that govern Professional Counselors;

6. Gained knowledge and learned methods to practice the major theories used by Professional Counselors;

7. Been more sensitive to cultural diversity needs in his or her clients; and

8. Been prepared to advance to the PhD in Family Therapy -- Professional Counseling.

PT 7372 – PC Clinical Training II

Applications for admission to the Master of Arts in Professional Counseling program will not be considered complete until all of the following items are properly completed and submitted:

· Application Form – This form should be completed in detail.

· Application Fee – The applicant must submit an application fee. Information about the application fee is published on the Amridge University website. This one-time fee is non-refundable.

· An earned Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science degree from a regionally accredited institution.

Graduate—minimum total score of 79, with minimum scores for reading and listening increased to “high” levels.

Reading (high)....................... 22

Listening (high)....................... 22

Speaking (fair)....................... 18

Writing (fair)........................... 17

Time Normally Required to Complete the Program

The Master of Arts in Professional Counseling may be completed in seven semesters. A student may take the courses on a part-time or full-time basis.

Clinicals and Practicums

Students, not Amridge University, are responsible for locating and making arrangements for their clinical and practicum experiences and courses.

Licensure Examination Test Bank

Required Courses for the Master of Arts in Professional Counseling

Required Courses		Sem. Hrs.
	PT 7300 Ethics and Professional Identity	3
	FT 7306 Community and Social Systems	3
	FT 7310 Theories of Counseling and Psychotherapy	3
	FT 7320 Human Development	3
	FT 7321 Human Sexual Development	3
	FT 7322 Theories of Personality Development	3
	FT 7332 Counseling for Abusive Relationships OR FT 7333 Systemic Treatment of Substance Related Disorders	3
	FT 7326 Social and Multicultural Diversity	3
	FT 7336 Basic Counseling Techniques/Helping Relationships	3
	FT 7337 Group Counseling	3
	FT 7331 Marital and Family Systems	3
	FT 7323 Marriage and Family Development	3
	RS 6339 Research and Evaluation	3
	FT 7340 Assessment of Individuals and Families	3
	PT 7350 Lifestyle and Career Development	3
	FT 7355 Psychopathology and Psychopharmacology	3
	FT 7335 Advanced Therapy	3
	PT 7370 PC Practicum	3
	PT 7371 PC Clinical Training I	3
	PT 7372 PC Clinical Training II (Capstone Course)	3
TOTAL REQUIRED		60

A student needing extra courses for Licensure or Certification may select from the following:

	FT 7302 Professional Ethics and the Law	3
	FT 7334 Psychology of Grief, Death and Dying	3
	PT 7373 PC Clinical Training III (if needed)	3

Also, LPC students will need to complete 100 clock hours during their practicum portion of clinical training, and 600 clock hours during their internship (Clinical Training I and Clinical Training II) portions of their training. These requirements are normally easily met while fulfilling the base Amridge University requirement of 500 client contact hours, and must be appropriately documented on the student's training logs.

Graduation Requirements for the Master of Arts in Professional Counseling

Before being graduated with the Master of Arts in Professional Counseling, a student must satisfy the following requirements:

1. A total of 60 graduate semester hours of the required course work;

4. Students in the Master of Arts in the Professional Counseling program are required to earn at least a grade of “B-” (3.0) in each course. A course with a grade below a “B-” must be repeated;

5. Pass the program capstone course and the Program Exit Exam that given as part of the capstone course; and

Licensure as a Professional Counselor Outside of the State of Alabama as Related to the Master of Arts in Professional Counseling

To become a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in most states, a candidate must present credentials to the appropriate state board of examiners who will schedule an examination. Amridge University makes no guarantees that a student will attain licensure in a given state. Additionally, it is the student’s responsibility, not the University’s, to ensure that he or she meets the licensure requirements for the state or states within which he or she intends to be licensed. As such, students are encouraged to contact the appropriate state LPC board in their home state or the states they plan to be licensed as soon as possible to obtain all of the respective licensure information.

Many LPC boards, as does Amridge University, follow the academic courses prescribed by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP) in Section II of the CACREP 2001 Standards. As such, the information provided in the following subsection provides a specification of the CACREP categories and related Amridge University courses.

Amridge University Professional Counseling Courses

by CACREP Category

These categories correspond to Section II of the CACREP 2001 Standards. Check with the respective state license board to ensure the state’s standards are the same as the CACREP 2001 Standards. Courses shown in Italics are optional. Courses shown in regular font are part of Amridge University’s core 60 semester hour curriculum.

1. Professional Identity

FT 7300 – Ethics and Professional Identity

2. Social and Cultural Diversity

FT 7306 – Community and Social Systems

FT 7326 – Social and Multicultural Diversity

3. Human Growth and Development

FT 7320 – Human Development

FT 7321 – Human Sexual Development

FT 7322 – Theories of Personality Development

FT 7355 – Psychopathology and Psychopharmacology

4. Career Development

PT 7350 – Lifestyle and Career Development

5. Helping Relationships

FT 7310 – Theories of Counseling and Psychotherapy

FT 7336 – Basic Counseling Techniques/Helping Relationships

FT 7332 – Counseling for Abusive Relationships

FT 7335 – Advanced Therapy

6. Group Work

FT 7337 Group Counseling

FT 7331 – Marital and Family Systems

7. Assessment

FT 7340 – Assessment of Families and Individuals

8. Research and Program Evaluation

RS 6339 – Research and Evaluation

See Section III of the CACREP 2001 Standards for the clinical program standards:

Practicum (100 clock hours; of these, at least 40 must be client contact)

PT 7370 – PC Practicum

Internship (600 clock hours; the balance of the 500 client contact hours and the balance of the 100 hours of supervision necessary for graduation must come during these courses)

PT 7371 – PC Clinical Training I

PT 7372 – PC Clinical Training II

PT 7373 – PC Clinical Training III – required only if necessary to meet the contact hour requirements.

Additional Courses which may be taken which do not fit any CACREP category:

FT 7302 – Professional Ethics and the Law

FT 7323 – Marriage and Family Development

FT 7334 – Psychology of Grief, Death, and Dying

Below is a link to the National Board for Certified Counselors and Affiliates (NBCCA). Go to this link to obtain the contact name, address, and telephone number for the state licensure boards. Even though some of these state boards include web site addresses, students are encouraged to make person-to-person contact with the respective board to obtain the latest information on licensure information – do not assume that all of the information posted on these web sites is up-to-date or complete.

The web link for the National Board for Certified Counselors and Affiliates listing of state licensure boards is as follows:

http://www.nbcc.org.

By email: CLINICALS@amridgeuniversity.edu

By telephone: 800.351.4040, extension 7535

Licensure as a Professional Counselor in the State of Alabama as Related to the Master of Arts in Professional Counseling

In order to be licensed by the State of Alabama as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), the candidate must:

1. Complete a master’s degree in counseling from a Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP) or the substantial equivalent institution;

2. Pass a requisite standardized examination such as the National Counselor Examination; and

3. Complete 3 years (i.e., 3,000 hours) of supervised, full-time experience in professional counseling in accordance with pertinent state regulations and in accordance with the following:

a. Three thousand (3,000) hours minimum of professional counseling of which:

1. Two thousand, two hundred and fifty (2,250) hours will be face-to-face counseling with individuals, couples, families, or groups.

2. Seven hundred and fifty (750) hours will be related to counseling services in the clinical supervisory setting.

b. One hundred and fifty (150) hours of one-to-one, face-to-face, personal individual supervision by an Approved Supervisor.

Important Note: Upon completion of the degree and passing the standardized test, the candidate for the Licensure will receive the designation of Certified Counselor Associate (CCA) until all of the full-time supervised experience is completed.

Academic Requirement by the Alabama Board of Examiners in Counseling

Coupled with the preceding information, the following courses must be taken and passed with at least a grade of "B-" (3.0) in each course in order to qualify to sit for the licensure examination in Alabama:

ACADEMIC GRID OF REQUIRED COURSES

(Note: This Academic Grid has been updated and is pending final approval by the Alabama Board of Examiners in Counseling)

COURSE CATEGORY	AMRIDGE UNIVERSITY COURSE NUMBER AND NAME
Counseling Theory	FT 7310 – Theories of Counseling and Psychotherapy
Human Growth and Development	FT 7320 – Human Development
Social Multicultural	FT 7326 – Social and Multicultural Diversity
Helping Relationship	FT 7336 – Basic Counseling Techniques/Helping Relationships
Group Counseling	FT 7337 Group Counseling
Lifestyle/Career Development	PT 7350 – Lifestyle and Career Development
Testing Appraisal	FT 7340 – Assessment of Individual and Families
Research and Evaluation	RS 6339 – Research and Evaluation
Professional Orientation	FT 7300 – Ethics and Professional Identity
Practicum	PT 7370 – PC Practicum
Internship	PT 7371 – PC Clinical Training I
	PT 7372 – PC Clinical Training II

The contact address of the Alabama Board of Examiners in Counseling is as follows:

Alabama Board of Examiners in Counseling

950 22nd Street North,

Suite 765

Birmingham, AL 35203

Telephone number: 334.251.7233

Important note: It is the student’s responsibility, not the University’s, to make certain that he or she meets all of the respective requirements to become a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Alabama. As such, students interested in being licensed as a LPC in Alabama should contact the Alabama Board of Examiners as soon as possible to obtain all the pertinent information and examination dates. Additionally, students are encouraged to contact Dr. Wayne Perry, the Director of Amridge University Counseling and MFT Clinical Programs, as soon as possible if they have any questions related to the licensure process in Alabama. Dr. Perry may be contacted as follows:

By email: CLINICALS@amridgeuniversity.edu

By telephone: 800.351.4040, extension 7535

Dual Licensure

There is a growing trend among professionals in counseling and therapy fields to become dual-certified or licensed. Dual licensed means being a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) in one or more states. Being eligible for dual licensure would mean that additional courses would have to be taken. Dual licensure does not mean dual degree which is not available at Amridge University for this degree-level. Students interested in dual licensure should contact Dr. Perry, the Director of the Amridge University Counseling and Marriage and Family Therapy Programs, for additional information.

ADMISSION AND DEGREE REQUIREMENTS FOR THE MASTER OF DIVINITY IN MARRIAGE AND FAMILY THERAPY

The Master of Divinity (MDiv) in Marriage and Family Therapy is a professional-level degree program for individuals planning to enter or continue careers in full-time ministry. A major element of this program provides students with extensive studies in the biblical text and thorough preparation in theology and various areas of practical ministry. Another major element provides students with a foundation for marriage and family therapy theory, scientific research, and clinical practice. Finally, this program also helps prepare students for licensure in Marriage and Family Therapy (LMFT) in their resident state. LMFTs will be able to do therapy with families, couples, and individuals in their ministry.

Students may also consider taking additional courses for a dual licensure in Professional Counseling. Students interested in a dual licensure in Professional Counseling should consult with the Dean of the School of Human Services. This program meets the course meets the course prerequisite for admission into our doctoral degree programs in the therapy and counselling area.

Upon completion of the Master of Divinity in Marriage and Family Therapy Program, the graduate will have:

1. Developed knowledge and skills in therapy which can be applied in church settings or other professional settings;

2. Learned a higher professional level application of Marriage and Family Therapy;

3. Become prepared to work within the Christian community setting as a Family Minister;

4. Been prepared by taking extra courses necessary for licensure in Marriage and Family Therapy; and

5. Been prepared to advance to the Doctor of Ministry in Family Therapy.

Applications for admission to the Master of Divinity in Marriage and Family Therapy program will not be considered complete until all of the following items are properly completed and submitted:

· Application Form – This form should be completed in detail.

· Application Fee – The applicant must submit an application fee. Information about the application fee is published on the Amridge University website. This one-time fee is non-refundable.

· An earned Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science degree from a regionally accredited institution.

Graduate—minimum total score of 79, with minimum scores for reading and listening increased to “high” levels.

Reading (high)....................... 22

Listening (high)....................... 22

Speaking (fair)....................... 18

Writing (fair)........................... 17

Time Normally Required to Complete the Program

The Master of Divinity in Marriage and Family Therapy may be completed in about three years. A student may take the courses on a part-time or full-time basis.

Clinicals and Practicums

Students, not Amridge University, are responsible for locating and making arrangements for their clinical and practicum experiences and courses.

Licensure Examination Test Bank

Required Courses for the Master of Divinity in Marriage and Family Therapy

Required Non-Marriage and Family Therapy (MFT) Courses		Sem. Hrs
	FD 6312 Hermeneutics	3
	NT 6301 Critical Introduction to the New Testament	3
	OT 6301 Critical Introduction to the Old Testament	3
	LD 6362 Spiritual Leadership	3
	PS 6302 Homiletics	3
	FD 7323 Synthesis of Theological Curriculum II (Comprehensive Exam)	3
Total Required Non-MFT Hours		18

Marriage and Family Therapy Courses			Sem. Hrs.
	FT 7300 Ethics and Professional Identity		3
	FT 7306 Community and Social Systems		3
	FT 7310 Theories of Counseling and Psychotherapy		3
	FT 7311 Theories of Marriage and Family Therapy		3
	FT 7320 Human Development		3
	FT 7321 Human Sexual Development		3
	FT 7322 Theories of Personality Development		3
	FT 7323 Marriage and Family Development		3
	FT 7326 Social and Multicultural Diversity		3
	FT 7336 Basic Counseling Techniques/Helping Relationships		3
	FT 7330 Interpersonal and Family Dynamics		3
	FT 7331 Marital and Family Systems		3
	FT 7332 Counseling for Abusive Relationships OR FT 7333 Systemic Treatment of Substance Related Disorders		3
	FT 7335 Advanced Therapy		3
	RS 6339 Research and Evaluation		3
	FT 7340 Assessment of Individuals and Families		3
	FT 7355 Psychopathology and Psychopharmacology		3
	FT 7370 MFT Practicum		3
	FT 7371 MFT Clinical Training I		3
	FT 7372 MFT Clinical Training II		3
Total Required MFT Hours			60

Elective Non-Marriage and Family Therapy Courses
		Textual Courses	12
		Foundation Studies	3
		Theological Studies	3
Total Elective Non-MFT Hours			18
Total Required Hours For Degree			96

Special Note Related to Practicum and Clinical Courses: All Practicum and Clinical Training courses require face-to-face on-site clinical practice with the client(s). The experience must be performed under face-to-face supervision of an approved licensed supervisor. This experience should be conducted in the state in which the student will seek licensure.The student must apply to Dr. Wayne Perry, the Director of the Amridge University Counseling and MFT Clinical Programs, at least one semester prior to beginning a Practicum or a Clinical course. Students should contact Dr. Perry via email to receive the Practicum and Clinical Course Form. Dr. Perry’s email address is: CLINICALS@amridgeuniversity.edu

Comprehensive Examination Requirement

All Master of Divinity students anticipating graduation must pass the Comprehensive Examination. In order to take the exam one must register for the course "Synthesis of Theological Curriculum II." (FD 7323).

Please see the Semester Class Schedule for the test dates. All Master of Divinity students are required to take the Comprehensive Examination on the Amridge University Campus in Montgomery, Alabama. Also, all Master of Divinity students must pass the Comprehensive Examination before graduating. The specific content of the Comprehensive Examination is determined for each student in consultation with the faculty through the "professor in charge" that year.

Qualifications for the Comprehensive Examination

In order for students to qualify for the Comprehensive Examination they must be within nine credit hours of completing all course work in the Master of Divinity program. Additionally, students must then register for the course “Synthesis of Theological Curriculum II.” Students who do not register for the course will not be allowed to take the examination. Students who register are required to take the examination on the appointed day. Students are encouraged to take the Comprehensive Examination during their next to last semester.

Comprehensive Examination Testing Procedure

The Comprehensive Examination measures the range of knowledge acquired by Master of Divinity students by synthesizing the knowledge gained from the various courses taken and expressing these concepts in written format. Examination dates are scheduled according to the school calendar and offered on that day on the Amridge University campus in Montgomery, Alabama. Specific instructions for the comprehensive examination are as follows: (1) The time allowed for taking the examination is seven hours, which includes one hour for lunch. Students are encouraged to bring lunch since they are not allowed to leave the facilities during testing hours. (2) Students may bring to the examination unmarked (personal notes) bible(s) in any language, lexicons for the biblical language, and concordances of biblical texts. Students who are anticipating translation of either a Hebrew or Greek text should bring the appropriate Hebrew or Greek text. (3) Amridge University computers may be allowed in writing the examination. (4) Amridge University provides the paper on which the student's answers are to be written.

Grading of the Comprehensive Exam

The Comprehensive Examination is graded in accordance with the following:

1. Grading is on a "qualifying" (Q) "not qualifying" (NQ) basis. At least two professors out of three must grade an examination as "qualifying" (Q). Examinations may receive a "qualifying with distinction" (QD), if the readers determine that the examination warrants special recognition.

2. The Vice President of Academic Affairs assigns three professors to read the different Comprehensive Examinations on a blind basis. This blind reading ensures that no professor knows the identity of the author of the examination being read nor the identity of the other professors who read the examination.

3. When two readers assign the examination a "qualifying" (Q) or "not qualifying" (NQ) grade, the grading process has been completed.

4. Should a student not qualify, that student may be allowed to sit for a retake examination at a date assigned by the Vice President of Academic Affairs in consultation with the faculty. Students who do not qualify in this retake examination must petition for a second retake. Such students, if their petition is accepted, may be required to take an oral examination in accordance with number five below.

5. In certain precisely defined circumstances (such as failure of a retake examination) a student may be required to take an oral examination in lieu of the written format, if such an examination is necessary to ensure fairness to the student.

Graduation Requirements for the Master of Divinity in Marriage and Family Therapy

Before being graduated with the Master of Divinity in Marriage and Family Therapy, a student must satisfy the following requirements:

1. A total of 96 graduate semester hours of which at least 51 semester hours must be taken at Amridge University. Also, any possible transfer of graduate credits taken from another regionally accredited institution must be agreed upon by the end of the first enrolled semester at Amridge University;

2. Complete all required coursework including the specified practicum and clinical training courses. This requirement includes the accumulation and documentation of at least 600 hours of face-to-face clinical experience. Of these 600 hours, a minimum of 500 must be client contact, and a minimum of 100 must be concurrent supervision of that client contact with an approved supervisor, for a minimum ratio of 1 hour of supervision for each 5 hours of client contact. The coursework must include a minimum of 36 semester credit hours in bible or divinity courses;

3. Students in the Master of Divinity in the Marriage and Family Therapy program are required to earn at least a grade of “B-” (3.0) in each course. A course with a grade below “B-” must be repeated;

4. Pass the respective Comprehensive Examination as specified within this publication. The Comprehensive Examination serves as the Program Exit Examination; and

5. Complete an Amridge University Degree Completion Application available from Amridge University’s web site. The properly completed and signed application must be submitted no later than the first day of classes of the semester prior to the semester the student plans to graduate. Following this schedule permits the University to conduct a full audit of the respective student’s records to make sure that all courses, programs, and respective graduation requirements have been met. Students having any questions regarding the Degree Completion Application should contact the Registrar’s Office.

Licensure as a Marriage and Family Therapist Outside of the State of Alabama as Related to the Master of Divinity in Marriage and Family Therapy

To become a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) in most states, a candidate must present credentials to the appropriate state board of examiners who will schedule an examination. Amridge University makes no guarantees that a student will attain licensure in a given state. Additionally, it is the student’s responsibility, not the University’s, to ensure that he or she meets the licensure requirements for the state or states within which he or she intends to be licensed. As such, students are encouraged to contact the appropriate state LMFT board in their home state or the states they plan to be licensed as soon as possible to obtain all of the respective licensure information.

Amridge University Marriage and Family Therapy Courses

by AAMFT Category

1. Marriage and Family Studies (3 courses)

FT 7323 – Marriage and Family Development

FT 7326 – Social and Multicultural Diversity

FT 7331 – Marital and Family Systems

2. Marriage and Family Therapy (3 courses – Amridge University requires 5)

FT 7310 – Theories of Counseling and Psychotherapy

FT 7311 – Theories of Marriage and Family Therapy

FT 7336 – Basic Counseling Techniques/Helping Relationships

FT 7332 – Counseling for Abusive Relationships

FT 7335 – Advanced Therapy

3. Human Development (3 courses – Amridge University requires 5)

FT 7320 – Human Development

FT 7321 – Human Sexual Development

FT 7322 – Theories of Personality Development

FT 7340 – Assessment of Individuals and Families

FT 7355 – Psychopharmacology and Psychopathology

4. Ethics (1 course)

FT 7300 – Ethics and Professional Identity

FT 7302 – Professional Ethics and the Law

5. Research (1 course)

RS 6339 – Research and Evaluation

6. Practicum (500 hours of client contact, 100 hours of supervision)

FT 7370 – MFT Practicum

FT 7371 – MFT Clinical Training I

FT 7372 – MFT Clinical Training II

FT 76373 – MFT Clinical Training III – required only if necessary to meet the contact hour requirements.

7. Optional Courses Not Fitting Any License Category

FT 7306 – Community and Social Systems

FT 7330 – Interpersonal and Family Dynamics

FT 7334 – Psychology of Grief, Death and Dying

PT 7350 – Lifestyle and Career Development

The web link for the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy listing of state licensure boards is as follows:

http://www.aamft.org/resources/Online_Directories/boardcontacts.htm

Additionally, students are encouraged to contact Dr. Wayne Perry, the Director of Amridge University Counseling and MFT Clinical Programs, as soon as possible if they have any questions related to the licensure process. Dr. Perry may be contacted as follows:

By email: CLINICALS@amridgeuniversity.edu

By telephone: 800.351.4040, extension 7535

Licensure as a Marriage and Family Therapist in the State of Alabama as Related to the Master of Divinity in Marriage and Family Therapy

In order to be licensed by the State of Alabama as a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, the candidate must:

1. Submit a completed application on the forms prescribed by the Board;

3. Have completed the education and internships requirements for an MFT Associate. In the case of Amridge University students, completion of the requirements and receive an Amridge University Master of Divinity in Marriage and Family Therapy;

4. Pass the marriage and family therapy examination approved by the Board;

5. Have completed a minimum of two (2) years post-degree full-time (30 or more clock hours per week) MFT work experience or the equivalent part-time MFT work experience under the supervision of a Board Approved Supervisor;

6. Have completed two hundred (200) hours of post degree supervision, at least one hundred (100) of which must be individual. Graduates of COAMFTE accredited programs may count up to one hundred (100) supervision hours earned during the program toward this requirement, when based on a ratio of one (1) supervision hour to every five (5) client contact hours;

7. Have completed a minimum of one thousand (1,000) post-degree direct client hours completed concurrently with the required supervision; two hundred fifty (250) of these direct contact hours must be with couples or families physically present in the therapy room; and

8. Examination Application Requirements: The following are necessary requirements in order to take the Board approved marriage and family therapy examination:

a. Submission of a completed application on the forms prescribed by the Board;

b. Be an MFT Associate or has met all requirements for becoming an MFT Associate.[ii]

The contact address of the Alabama Board of Examiners in Marriage and Family Therapy is as follows:

Alabama Board of Examiners

in Marriage and Family Therapy (LMFT)

7550 Halcyon Summit Drive, Suite 125

Montgomery, AL 36117

Telephone number: 334.251.7233

Important note: It is the student’s responsibility, not the University’s, to make certain that he or she meets all of the respective requirements to become a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Alabama (LMFT). As such, students interested in being licensed as a LMFT in Alabama should contact the Alabama Board of Examiners in Marriage and Family Therapy as soon as possible to obtain all the pertinent information and examination dates. Additionally, students are encouraged to contact Dr. Wayne Perry, the Director of Amridge University Counseling and MFT Clinical Programs, as soon as possible if they have any questions related to the licensure process in Alabama. Dr. Perry may be contacted as follows:

By email: CLINICALS@amridgeuniversity.edu

By telephone: 800.351.4040, extension 7535

Dual Licensure

ADMISSION AND DEGREE REQUIREMENTS FOR THE MASTER OF DIVINITY IN PROFESSIONAL COUNSELING

The Master of Divinity (MDiv) in Professional Counseling is a professional-level degree program for individuals planning to enter or continue careers in full-time ministry. A major element of this program provides students with extensive studies in the biblical text and thorough preparation in theology and various areas of practical ministry. Another major element provides students with a foundation for psychology theory, scientific research, and clinical practice. In this context, students learn the different approaches and clinical techniques required for today's practitioners offering therapeutic services to individuals and groups. Also, a major goal of this program is to help prepare students for licensure in Professional Counseling in their resident state. LPCs will be able to provide counseling to individuals and groups through their ministry.

Upon completion of the Master of Divinity in Professional Counseling program, the graduate will have:

1. Developed knowledge and skills in counseling which can be applied in church settings or other professional settings;

2. Learned a higher professional level application of Professional Counseling;

3. Become prepared to work within the Christian community setting as a Counselor;

4. Been prepared by taking extra courses necessary for licensure in Professional Counseling; and

5. Been prepared to advance to the Doctor of Ministry in Family Therapy.

Applications for admission to the Master of Divinity in Professional Counseling program will not be considered complete until all of the following items are properly completed and submitted:

· Application Form – This form should be completed in detail.

· Application Fee – The applicant must submit an application fee. Information about the application fee is published on the Amridge University website. This one-time fee is non-refundable.

· An earned Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science degree from a regionally accredited institution.

Graduate—minimum total score of 79, with minimum scores for reading and listening increased to “high” levels.

Reading (high)....................... 22

Listening (high)....................... 22

Speaking (fair)....................... 18

Writing (fair)........................... 17

Time Normally Required to Complete the Program

The Master of Divinity in Professional Counseling may be completed in about three years. A student may take the courses on a part-time or full-time basis.

Clinicals and Practicums

Students, not Amridge University, are responsible for locating and making arrangements for their clinical and practicum experiences and courses.

Licensure Examination Test Bank

Required Courses for the Master of Divinity in Professional Counseling

Required Non-Counseling Courses			Sem. Hrs.
		FD 6312 Hermeneutics	3
		NT 6301 Critical Introduction to the New Testament	3
		OT 6301 Critical Introduction to the Old Testament	3
		LD 6362 Spiritual Leadership	3
		PS 6302 Homiletics	3
		FD 7323 Synthesis of Theological Curriculum II (Comprehensive Exam)	3
Total Required Non-Counseling Hours			18

Professional Counseling Courses
	PT 7300 Ethics and Professional Identity		3
	FT 7306 Community and Social Systems		3
	FT 7310 Theories of Counseling and Psychotherapy		3
	FT 7320 Human Development		3
	FT 7321 Human Sexual Development		3
	FT 7323 Marriage and Family Development		3
	FT 7326 Social and Multicultural Diversity		3
	FT 7336 Basic Counseling Techniques/Helping Relationships		3
	FT 7337 Group Counseling		3
	FT 7331 Marital and Family Systems		3
	FT 7332 Counseling for Abusive Relationships OR FT 7333 Systemic Treatment of Substance Related Disorders		3
	FT 7335 Advanced Therapy		3
	FT 7322 Theories of Personality Development		3
	RS 6339 Research and Evaluation		3
	FT 7340 Assessment of Individuals and Families		3
	PT 7350 Lifestyle and Career Development		3
	FT 7355 Psychopathology and Psychopharmacology		3
	PT 7370 PC Practicum		3
	PT 7371 PC Clinical Training I		3
	PT 7372 PC Clinical Training II		3
Total Counseling Hours			60

Elective Non-Counseling Courses
		Textual Courses	12
		Foundation Studies	3
		Theological Studies	3
Total Elective Non-Counseling Hours			18
TOTAL REQUIRED HOURS FOR DEGREE			96

Special Note Related to Practicum and Clinical Courses: All Practicum and Clinical Training courses require face-to-face on-site clinical practice with the client(s). The experience must be performed under face-to-face supervision of an approved licensed supervisor. This experience should be conducted in the state in which the student will seek licensure. The student must apply to Dr. Wayne Perry, Director of the Amridge University Counseling and MFT Clinical Programs, at least one semester prior to beginning a Practicum or a Clinical course. Students should contact Dr. Perry via email to receive the Practicum and Clinical Course Form. Dr. Perry’s email address is: CLINICALS@amridgeuniversity.edu.

Comprehensive Examination Requirement

Qualifications for the Comprehensive Examination

Comprehensive Examination Testing Procedure

Grading of the Comprehensive Exam

The Comprehensive Examination is graded in accordance with the following:

1. Grading is on a "qualifying" (Q) “not qualifying" (NQ) basis. At least two professors out of three must grade an examination as "qualifying" (Q). Examinations may receive a "qualifying with distinction" (QD), if the readers determine that the examination warrants special recognition.

3. When two readers assign the examination a "qualifying" (Q) or "not qualifying" (NQ) grade, the grading process has been completed.

Graduation Requirements for the Master of Divinity in Professional Counseling

Before being graduated with the Master of Divinity in Professional Counseling, a student must satisfy the following requirements:

3. Students in the Master of Divinity in the Professional Counseling program are required to earn at least a grade of a “B-” (3.0) in each course. A course with a grade below a “B-” must be repeated.

4. Pass the respective Comprehensive Examination as specified within this publication. The Comprehensive Examination serves as the Program Exit Examination.

Licensure as a Professional Counselor Outside of the State of Alabama as Related to the Master of Divinity in Professional Counseling

To become a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in most states, a candidate must present credentials to the appropriate state board of examiners who will schedule an examination. Amridge University makes no guarantees that a student will attain licensure in a given state. Additionally, it is the student’s responsibility, not the University’s, to ensure that he or she meets the licensure requirements for the state or states that he or she intends to be licensed. As such, students are encouraged to contact the appropriate state LPC board in their home state or the states they plan to be licensed as soon as possible to obtain all of the respective licensure information.

Amridge University Professional Counseling Courses

by CACREP Category

1. Professional Identity

FT 7300 – Ethics and Professional Identity

2. Social and Cultural Diversity

FT 7306 – Community and Social Systems

FT 7326 – Social and Multicultural Diversity

3. Human Growth and Development

FT 7320 – Human Development

FT 7321 – Human Sexual Development

FT 7322 – Theories of Personality Development

FT 7355 – Psychopathology and Psychopharmacology

4. Career Development

PT 7350 – Lifestyle and Career Development

5. Helping Relationships

FT 7310 – Theories of Counseling and Psychotherapy

FT 7336 – Basic Counseling Techniques/Helping Relationships

FT 7332 – Counseling for Abusive Relationships

FT 7335 – Advanced Therapy

6. Group Work

FT 7337 Group Counseling

FT 7331 – Marital and Family Systems

7. Assessment

FT 7340 – Assessment of Individuals and Families

8. Research and Program Evaluation

RS 6339 – Research and Evaluation

See Section III of the CACREP 2001 Standards for the clinical program standards:

Practicum (100 clock hours; of these, at least 40 must be client contact)

PT 7370 – PC Practicum

Internship (600 clock hours; the balance of the 500 client contact hours and the balance of the 100 hours of supervision necessary for graduation must come during these courses)

PT 7371 – PC Clinical Training I

PT 7372 – PC Clinical Training II

PT 7373 – PC Clinical Training III – required only if necessary to meet the contact hour requirements.

Additional Courses which may be taken which do not fit any CACREP category:

FT 7302 – Professional Ethics and the Law

FT 7323 – Marriage and Family Development

FT 7334 – Psychology of Grief, Death, and Dying

The web link for the National Board for Certified Counselors and Affiliates listing of state licensure boards is as follows:

http://www.nbcc.org.

By email: CLINICALS@amridgeuniversity.edu

By telephone: 800.351.4040, extension 7535

Licensure as a Professional Counselor in the State of Alabama as Related to the Master of Divinity in Professional Counseling

In order to be licensed by the State of Alabama as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), the candidate must:

1. Complete a master’s degree in counseling from a Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP) or the substantial equivalent institution;

2. Pass a requisite standardized examination such as the National Counselor Examination; and

3. Complete 3 years (i.e., 3,000 hours) of supervised, full-time experience in professional counseling in accordance with pertinent state regulations and in accordance with the following:

A. Three thousand (3,000) hours minimum of professional counseling of which:

1. Two thousand, two hundred and fifty (2,250) hours will be face-to-face counseling with individuals, couples, families, or groups.

2. Seven hundred and fifty (750) hours will be related to counseling services in the clinical supervisory setting.

B. One hundred and fifty (150) hours of one-to-one, face-to-face, personal individual supervision by an Approved Supervisor.

Academic Requirement by the Alabama Board of Examiners in Counseling

ACADEMIC GRID OF REQUIRED COURSES

(Note: This Academic Grid has been updated and is pending final approval by the Alabama Board of Examiners in Counseling.)

COURSE CATEGORY	AMRIDGE UNIVERSITY COURSE NUMBER AND NAME
Counseling Theory	FT 7310 – Theories of Counseling and Psychotherapy
Human Growth and Development	FT 7320 – Human Development
Social Multicultural	FT 7326 – Social and Multicultural Diversity
Helping Relationship	FT 7336 – Basic Counseling Techniques/Helping Relationships
Group Counseling	FT 7337 Group Counseling
Lifestyle/Career Development	PT 7350 – Lifestyle and Career Development
Testing Appraisal	FT 7340 – Assessment of Individual and Families
Research and Evaluation	RS 6339 – Research and Evaluation
Professional Orientation	FT 7300 – Ethics and Professional Identity
Practicum	PT 7370 – PC Practicum
Internship	PT 7371 – PC Clinical Training I
	PT 7372 – PC Clinical Training II

The contact address of the Alabama Board of Examiners in Counseling is as follows:

Alabama Board of Examiners in Counseling

950 22nd Street North,

Suite 765

Birmingham, AL 35203

Telephone number: 334.251.7233

Important note: It is the student’s responsibility, not the University’s, to make certain that he or she meets all of the respective requirements to become a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Alabama. As such, students interested in being licensed as a LPC in Alabama should contact the Alabama Board of Examiners as soon as possible to obtain all the pertinent information and examination dates. Additionally, students are encouraged to contact Dr. Wayne Perry, the Director of Amridge University Counseling and MFT Clinical Programs, as soon as possible if they have any questions related to the licensure process in Alabama. Dr. Perry may be contacted as follows:

By email: CLINICALS@amridgeuniversity.edu

By telephone: 800.351.4040, extension 7535

Dual Licensure

ADMISSION AND DEGREE REQUIREMENTS FOR THE MASTER OF DIVINITY IN PASTORAL COUNSELING

Upon completion of the Master of Divinity in Pastoral Counseling Program, the graduate will have:

1. Learned a higher professional level application of Pastoral Counseling;

2. Become prepared to work within the Christian community setting as a Pastoral Counselor;

3. Been prepared for membership in the American Association of Pastoral Counselors (AAPC); and

4. Been prepared to advance to the Doctor of Ministry Family Therapy.

Applications for admission to the Master of Divinity in Pastoral Counseling program will not be considered complete until all of the following items are properly completed and submitted:

· Application Form – This form should be completed in detail.

· Application Fee – The applicant must submit an application fee. Information about the application fee is published on the Amridge University website. This one-time fee is non-refundable.

· An earned Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science degree from a regionally accredited institution

Graduate—minimum total score of 79, with minimum scores for reading and listening increased to “high” levels.

Reading (high)....................... 22

Listening (high)....................... 22

Speaking (fair)....................... 18

Writing (fair)........................... 17

Time Normally Required to Complete the Program

The Master of Divinity in Pastoral Counseling may be completed in about three years. A student may take the courses on a part-time or full-time basis.

Clinicals and Practicums

Students, not Amridge University, are responsible for locating and making arrangements for their clinical and practicum experiences and courses.

Required Courses for the Master of Divinity in Pastoral Counseling

Required Non-Counseling Courses			Sem. Hrs.
	NT 6301 Critical Introduction to the New Testament		3
	OT 6301 Critical Introduction to the Old Testament		3
	FD 6312 Hermeneutics		3
	LD 6362 Spiritual Leadership		3
	PS 6302 Homiletics		3
	FD 7323 Synthesis of Theological Curriculum II		3
Total Required Non-Counseling Hours			18

Pastoral Counseling Courses
	FT 7300 Ethics and Professional Identity		3
	FT 7301 Introduction to Pastoral Therapy		3
	FT 7310 Theories of Counseling and Psychotherapy		3
	FT 7321 Human Sexual Development		3
	FT 7323 Marriage and Family Development		3
	FT 7326 Social and Multicultural Diversity		3
	FT 7327 Psychology of Religion		3
	FT 7336 Basic Counseling Techniques/Helping Relationships		3
	FT 7330 Interpersonal and Family Dynamics		3
	FT 7331 Marital and Family Systems OR FT 7304 Marital and Pre-Marital Counseling		3
	FT 7335 Advanced Therapy		3
	RS 6339 Research and Evaluation		3
	FT 7340 Assessment of Individuals and Families		3
	FT 7370 MFT Practicum		3
	FT 7371 MFT Clinical Training I		3
	FT 7372 MFT Clinical Training II		3
Total Counseling Hours			48

Elective Non-Counseling Courses
		Textual Courses	12
		Foundation Studies	3
		Theological Studies	9
Total Elective Non-Counseling Hours			24
TOTAL REQUIRED HOURS FOR DEGREE			90

Comprehensive Examination Requirement

Qualifications for the Comprehensive Examination

Comprehensive Examination Testing Procedure

Grading of the Comprehensive Exam

The Comprehensive Examination is graded in accordance with the following:

3. When two readers assign the examination a "qualifying" (Q) or "not qualifying" (NQ) grade, the grading process has been completed.

Graduation Requirements for the Master of Divinity in Pastoral Counseling

Before being graduated with the Master of Divinity in Pastoral Counseling, a student must satisfy the following requirements:

1. A total of 90 graduate semester hours of which at least 48 semester hours must be taken at Amridge University. Also, any possible transfer of graduate credits taken from another regionally accredited institution must be agreed upon by the end of the first enrolled semester at Amridge University;

2. Complete all required coursework including the specified practicum and clinical courses;

3. Have a cumulative GPA of 2.0;

4. Students who expect to pursue further graduate study beyond this degree should maintain a 3.0 GPA;

5. Pass the respective Comprehensive Examination as specified within this publication. The Comprehensive Examination serves as the Program Exit Examination; and

Becoming a Member for the American Association of Pastoral Counselors Requirements (optional – see program advisor for more information on the AAPC)

Many graduates of the Master of Divinity in Pastoral Counselors may be interested in becoming a Member for the American Association of Pastoral Counselors (AAPC). In order to be a Member Associate of the AAPC, the candidate must:

1. Hold a Master of Divinity or a Master of Science in Pastoral Counseling;

2. Complete three hundred seventy-five (375) hours of supervised Pastoral Counseling;

3. Complete one hundred twenty-five (125) hours of supervision, one-third of such must be with an AAPC Approved Supervisor; and

4. Submit a plan for becoming a Fellow and/or Diplomat level member of AAPC within seven years

Additional information on the AAPC may be found on the Internet at the following address: http://www.aapc.org/.

Individuals interested in learning more on becoming a Member with AAPC as related to the Amridge University Master of Divinity in Pastoral Counseling program should contact Dr. Wayne Perry, the Director of Amridge University Counseling and MFT Clinical Programs, as soon as possible if they have any questions related to the licensure process in Alabama. Dr. Perry may be contacted as follows:

By email: CLINICALS@amridgeuniversity.edu

By telephone: 800.351.4040, extension 7535

Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) as Related to the Master of Divinity in Pastoral Counseling

The Amridge University Master of Divinity in Pastoral Counseling program was not designed with the intent that graduates would become Licensed Professional Counselors (LPC) in a state or states. If a student in the Master of Divinity in Pastoral Counseling program has a strong interest in becoming a LPC, then he or she has two options: (1) Take the additional courses above and beyond those required for the Master of Divinity in Pastoral Counseling but required by the licensing board of the state or states the student intends to be licensed or (2) Enroll in the Amridge University Master of Divinity in Professional Counseling program. Also, the student must maintain a “B-” for counseling-related courses.

Students enrolled in the Master of Divinity in Pastoral Counseling and interested in learning more about becoming a LPC should contact Dr. Wayne Perry, the Director of Amridge University Counseling and MFT Clinical Programs, as soon as possible if they have any questions related to the licensure process in Alabama. Dr. Perry may be contacted as follows:

By email: CLINICALS@amridgeuniversity.edu

By telephone: 800.351.4040, extension 7535

ADMISSION AND DEGREE REQUIREMENTS FOR THE MASTER OF DIVINITY IN MINISTERIAL LEADERSHIP

Advanced Bible Placement of 75 Hours – Students who have a major in religious studies on the undergraduate level will receive 15 semester hours Advanced Bible Placement – reducing required degree total from 90 to 75 semester hours. Note: Hebrew and/or Greek languages are recommended in the MDiv program, but not required.

Upon completion of the Master of Divinity in Ministerial Leadership Program, the graduate will have:

1. Been prepared to enter or continue a career in full time ministry at the highest level;

2. Learned extensive principles from the text of the Bible and practical ways to do Christian ministry;

3. Learned to do evangelism;

4. Learned to communicate in an effective manner; and

5. Become spiritually mature and morally sensitive to people in need.

Applications for admission to the Master of Divinity in Ministerial Leadership program will not be considered complete until all of the following items are properly completed and submitted:

· Application Form – This form should be completed in detail.

· Application Fee – The applicant must submit an application fee. Information about the application fee is published on the Amridge University website. This one-time fee is non-refundable.

· An earned Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science degree from a regionally accredited institution

Graduate—minimum total score of 79, with minimum scores for reading and listening increased to “high” levels.

Reading (high)....................... 22

Listening (high)....................... 22

Speaking (fair)....................... 18

Writing (fair)........................... 17

· Advanced Bible Placement of 15 semester hours can be obtained if the student has completed an undergraduate major in religious studies. A student receiving Advanced Bible Placement would be required to take 75 semester hours to complete the degree option (assuming that no transferable graduate credits can be considered beyond the undergraduate degree). Then all 75 semester hours must be taken at Amridge University to qualify for graduation for those receiving 15 semester hours of Advanced Bible Placement. Note: If another accredited institution has given you Advanced Bible Placement applied toward a completed Master's degree (e.g. MAR- nonthesis), then Amridge University will not re-apply these to our MDiv degree.

Time Normally Required to Complete the Program

The Master of Divinity in Ministerial Leadership may be completed in about three years. A student may take the courses on a part-time or full-time basis.

Required Courses for the Master of Divinity in Ministerial Leadership

Required Courses

	Note: Advanced Bible Placement of 75 Hours
	Students who have a major in religious studies on the undergraduate level will receive Advanced Bible Placement -- reducing required degree total from 90 to 75 semester hours.
	Note: Hebrew and/or Greek languages are recommended in the MDiv program but are not required
		Sem. Hrs
	LD 6362 Spiritual Leadership	3
	NT 6301 Critical Introduction to the New Testament	3
	OT 6301 Critical Introduction to the Old Testament	3
	RS 6339 Research and Evaluation	3
	PS 6302 Homiletics	3
	LD 6353 Leadership Visualization and Values	3
	FD 6312 Theological Hermeneutics	3
	LD 6357 Organizational Communication	3
	PS 6310 Personal Evangelism	3
	LD 6358 Theories of Motivational Leadership	3
	TH 6310 Systematic Theology	3
	FT 7301 Introduction to Pastoral Counseling	3
	TH 6320 Christian Evidences	3
	NT 6320 The Book of Acts	3
	NT 6312 The Life and Teachings of Christ	3
	LD 6351 Leadership Foundations	3
	LD 6360 Negotiation and Conflict Resolution	3
	FD 7323 Synthesis of Theological Curriculum II	3
Total Required Hours For Ministerial Leadership Major		54

Electives
	General Electives: Can include courses in Leadership, Languages, and Textual courses 18 credit hours
	Professional Studies, Missions, and Counseling, etc., 9 credit hours Foundation studies 6 credit hours Theological studies 3 credit hours

Total Elective Hours Required		36
TOTAL REQUIRED HOURS FOR DEGREE		90

Comprehensive Examination Requirement

Qualifications for the Comprehensive Examination

Comprehensive Examination Testing Procedure

Grading of the Comprehensive Exam

The Comprehensive Examination is graded in accordance with the following:

3. When two readers assign the examination a "qualifying" (Q) or "not qualifying" (NQ) grade, the grading process has been completed.

Graduation Requirements for the Master of Divinity in Ministerial Leadership

Before being graduated with the Master of Divinity in Ministerial Leadership, a student must satisfy the following requirements:

1. A total of 90 graduate semester hours of which at least 48 semester hours must be taken at Amridge University, if there is no Advanced Bible Placement applied. If 15 hours of Advanced Bible Placement are applied, 39 semester hours must be taken at Amridge University. Also, any possible transfer of graduate credits taken from another regionally accredited institution must be agreed upon by the end of the first enrolled semester at Amridge University;

2. Complete all required coursework for the degree;

3. Have a cumulative GPA of 2.0;

4. Students who expect to pursue further graduate study beyond this degree should maintain a 3.0 GPA;

5. Pass the respective Comprehensive Examination as specified within this publication. The Comprehensive Examination serves as the Program Exit Examination; and

ADMISSION AND DEGREE REQUIREMENTS FOR THE DOCTOR OF MINISTRY IN FAMILY THERAPY I

The Doctor of Ministry (DMin) in Family Therapy I is an advanced professional degree for community organizations and church-related vocations. This program infuses academics and practice to prepare students for family therapy and counseling ministry.

The purposes of this program include: (1) Developing advanced knowledge and professional skills in Family Therapy; (2) Understanding and interpreting ministry in relation to the context of Family Therapy; (3) Acquainting the student with literature, materials, and methodologies which develop leadership, teaching, and counseling skills to be used in helping relationships; (4) Guiding the student in personal reflection and growth; and (5) Providing courses necessary to be a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) or Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC). The Doctor of Ministry in Family Therapy I is designed for students who do not have a Master of Divinity in a related field.

Upon completion of the Doctor of Ministry in Family Therapy I Program, the graduate will have:

1. Developed knowledge and skills in therapy which can be applied in church settings, agency setting, or other professional settings;

2. Developed advanced knowledge and professional skills in Family Therapy;

3. Understood and interpreted ministry in relation to the context of Family Therapy;

4. Become acquainted with literature, materials, and methodologies which develop leadership, teaching, and counseling skills used in helping relationships;

5. Developed personal reflection and growth;

6. Taken courses necessary to be a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) or to be a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC); and

7. Been prepared to be a member of the American Association of Pastoral Counselors (AAPC).

These outcomes are assessed in the following course. A student may demonstrate achievement of these outcomes by receiving a passing grade in the Dissertation Module IV.

Applications for admission to the Doctor of Ministry in Family Therapy I program will not be considered complete until all of the following eight items are properly completed and submitted:

1. Complete an Amridge University Admissions Application;

2. Have official transcripts sent to the Amridge University Admissions Office from every institution of higher education that the applicant attended;

3. Have completed a master’s degree, in a related field from a regionally accredited institution with a 3.0 grade point average on a 4.0 scale;

4. Have submitted to the Amridge University Admissions Office proof of the results of the Graduate Record Exam General (GRE) or the Miller Analogies Test (MAT) taken by the applicant.

a. Scores are calculated as follows:

1. GRE score divided by 100 = Score

2. Pre-2003 MAT score times .18 = Score

3. 2003 MAT score divided by 2, minus 156, time .18 = Score

b. Other Test Options

1. Other national examinations normally accepted for admission to graduate programs of study will also be considered as approved by the Vice President of Academic Affairs.

2. Applicants holding a doctoral degree from a regionally accredited institution are not required to submit a standardized test score.

c. Applicants for whom English is a second language must provide documented evidence of English proficiency in one of two ways:

1. A bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited institution in the United States or

2. A score on the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) per the following:

Graduate—minimum total score of 79, with minimum scores for reading and listening increased to “high” levels.

Reading (high)....................... 22

Listening (high)....................... 22

Speaking (fair)....................... 18

Writing (fair)........................... 17

;

5. Develop and submit a monograph on the applicant's career goals. The monograph must be written solely by the applicant and may be 5 to 20 pages in length. Appendices, attachments, or other items sent with the monograph will not be accepted. The University may use electronic system to check writing authenticity;

6. Submit a term paper from the master's degree level or a doctoral dissertation that is written in accordance with a style manual generally accepted by colleges and universities. The writing sample must have been written solely by the applicant and should reflect the applicant's research and academic writing skills. Ideally, the term paper shall contain grade marks by the course instructor to whom it was originally submitted. The University may use electronic systems to check writing authenticity;

7. Submit three letters of recommendation: One from a former teacher, one from a colleague, and one from an employer; and

8. Participate in an interview. A faculty member will be assigned to arrange a question and answer conference interview with the applicant – this may be done by telephone.

During the admissions process, the preceding eight admissions requirements will be reviewed by Amridge University admissions staff and faculty. Each item, 1 – 8, shall generate an item score of 0 – 10. The admission staff shall enter 10 for each of the first three items achieved. Applications with a score of 10 for each of the first three items will be interviewed by the Program Chairperson or his designee. Each completed application file shall be reviewed by the Application Review Faculty Committee. Each member of the Application Review Faculty Committee shall assign to each item 5 – 8 a score of 0 – 10. The Program chairperson shall summarize the evaluations of the Application Review Faculty Committee. The normal acceptable total score for admission is 64, 80% of the possible score. Individuals admitted to the program will be provided an individualized degree evaluation that will show all courses accepted as the minimum admission requirements and courses that must completed in the program in accordance with their respective degree concentration. With this in mind, it is important to note that some students may be required to take additional courses that are not shown on the concentration degree maps if they have not had the respective course prerequisites for the required degree concentration courses.

Also, all applicants are encouraged to submit a recent photograph. The picture should be a close-up of head and shoulders. This may be sent in a JPEG format to admissions@amridgeuniversity.edu. A student is not required to send a photograph in order to be admitted to Amridge University.

Time Normally Required to Complete the Program

The Doctor of Ministry in Family Therapy I may be completed in four years attending full-time. A student may take the courses on a part-time or full-time basis. Full-time is six credit hours per semester. With the approval of the Dean a student may take more than six credit hours in a semester.

Approval by Institutional Review Board

Faculty members or students conducting research in association with Amridge University, including research for dissertations, master’s theses or other studies must have prior approval of the Institution Review Board (IRB). Students must receive approval from the IRB prior to completion of dissertation Module II or Master’s Thesis Part I.

The purpose of Amridge University’s Institutional Review Board (IRB) is to insure that the use and treatment of human subjects participating in research associated with this University is ethical and in compliance with established standards. Although researchers are ultimately responsible for the ethical treatment of their human subjects, it is the policy of Amridge University that all faculty members conducting research associated with this University involving human subjects must receive approval from the (IRB) before commencing their projects or beginning data collection. This requirement also applies to student researchers who are collecting data under the supervision of a faculty member. Students engaged in projects for theses, dissertations, independent research courses, or faculty-student collaborations which involve human subjects must seek IRB approval through their thesis or dissertation committee chairperson. The IRB may require a background check of the investigator before approving a research plan involving research subjects who are minors.

Required Courses for the Doctor of Ministry in Family Therapy I (66 semester hours.)

First Year

Fall Semester

Sem. Hrs.

FT 9300 Family Therapy in the D. Min. Setting
(Required Attendance – take first semester.)

FT Family Therapy Course

Spring Semester

FT Family Therapy Courses

Summer Semester

FT Family Therapy Courses

Second Year

Fall Semester

FT Family Therapy Courses

Spring Semester

FT Family Therapy Courses

Summer Semester

FT Family Therapy Courses

Third Year

Fall Semester

FT Family Therapy Courses

Spring Semester

FT Family Therapy Course

RS 9340 – Research Dissertation Module I (3 Semester Hours) or RS 9345 – Research Dissertation Module I First Continuation (3 Semester Hours) or RS 9355 – Research Dissertation Module I Second Continuation (3 Semester Hours)

Summer Semester

FT Family Therapy Course

RS 9341 – Research Dissertation Module II (3 Semester Hours) or RS 9346 – Research Dissertation Module II First Continuation (3 Semester Hours) or RS 9356 – Research Dissertation Module II Second Continuation (3 Semester Hours)

Fourth Year

Fall Semester

RS 9342 – Research Dissertation Module III (3 Semester Hours) or RS 9347 – Research Dissertation Module III First Continuation (3 Semester Hours) or RS 9357 – Research Dissertation Module III Second Continuation (3 Semester Hours )

FT Family Therapy Course

Spring Semester

RS 9343 – Research Dissertation Module IV (3 Semester Hours) or Dissertation Module IV First Continuation (3 Semester Hours) or RS 9358 – Research Dissertation Module IV Second Continuation (3 Semester Hours)

FT Family Therapy Course

TOTAL REQUIRED HOURS FOR DEGREE

Dissertation Committee

A Dissertation Committee shall be appointed near the time that the student enrolls in the first dissertation module, RS 9340 -- Research Dissertation in Therapy Module I. The Dissertation Committee shall be appointed by the Dean of the School of Human Services with the approval of the Vice President of Academic Affairs. The student may request specific individuals to be appointed to the Dissertation Committee. A minimum of two signatory members of the Dissertation Committee shall have a doctorate in a field related to family therapy. The Committee shall establish protocol for communication among the Committee members. Each dissertation module and the final total dissertation shall be approved by the Committee Chairperson, the Reader, the Dissertation Secretary, the Dean and the Vice President of Academic Affairs before a grade is assigned for the module. The Committee Chairperson shall be the instructor of record for the dissertation modules.

Dissertation Modules

The dissertation is to be completed through a sequence of dissertation module courses. The minimum sequence involves Research Dissertation Module I, Research Dissertation Module II, Research Dissertation Module III and, Research Dissertation Module IV. The sequence may also involve module continuation courses. A Research Dissertation Module First Continuation and a Research Dissertation Module Second Continuation course is available for each module level if the student does not complete all requirements for a given module in one semester.

A student must achieve “Candidacy Status” prior to enrolling in a dissertation Module. After beginning the dissertation the student must enroll in a dissertation module or dissertation continuation module each semester until completion of the dissertation, unless prior written approval is obtained from the Appeals Committee. The dissertation modules must be completed in sequence.

A student who fails to enroll in a dissertation course in a succeeding semester, unless prior written approval is obtained from the Appeals Committee, will be removed from the program. An individual so removed from the program may submit an appeal to the Appeals Committee for consideration of readmission to the program.

Allowable Grades for a Dissertation Module course are:

· “P” for pass if all requirements of the module have been met, “IP” for in-progress if satisfactory progress, as specified below, has been made but not all module requirements have been met, or F for failure if satisfactory progress has not been made.

· The “IP” for a Dissertation Module course is a permanent grade. Students receiving a grade of IP on a dissertation module must register for and pay tuition and fees for the appropriate Dissertation Module First Continuation course to complete requirements for the dissertation module. Tuition and fees, including the Dissertation Lab Fee, will be charged for this course.

Allowable Grades for a Dissertation Module First Continuation course are:

· “P” for pass if all requirements of the module have been met,

· “IP” for in-progress if satisfactory progress, as specified below, has been made but not all module requirements have been met, or F for failure if satisfactory progress has not been made.

Students receiving a grade of “IP” on Dissertation Module First Continuation course must register for and pay tuition and fees for the appropriate Dissertation Module Second Continuation course to complete requirements for the dissertation module. Tuition and fees, including the Dissertation Lab Fee, will be charged for this credit course.

Allowable Grades for a Dissertation Module Second Continuation courses are:

· “P” for pass if all requirements of the module have been met, or

· “F” for failure if all requirements of the module have not been met.

A student who receives a grade of “F” for any dissertation module, dissertation module first continuation course or dissertation module second continuation course will be removed from the program. An individual so removed from the program may submit an appeal to the Appeals Committee for consideration of readmission to the program.

The appeals Committee shall consult with the student’s dissertation committee in considering the appeal.

Requirements for Dissertation Module Courses

See the section titled Requirements for Dissertation Module Courses for the Doctor of Ministry and Doctor Philosophy Programs under Section 10 – Course Description of this version of the Amridge University Academic Catalog.

Special note on the Doctor of Ministry in Family Therapy I

The format of the Doctor of Ministry in Family Therapy I makes use of both traditional classroom lecture and distance learning technology. Applicants must come to campus for two, one-week seminars. They are: (1) FT 9300 – Family Therapy in the DMin Setting and (2) RS 9340 – Research Dissertation Workshop, Module I.

Graduation Requirements for the Doctor of Ministry in Family Therapy I

Before being graduated with the Doctor of Ministry in Family Therapy I, a student must satisfy the following requirements:

1. A minimum of 66 graduate semester hours of the required course work;

2. All of the above graduate semester hours must be from Amridge University;

3. Successfully complete all required coursework for the degree;

4. Submit and gain faculty approval of dissertation proposal appropriate to the student’s area of specialization and research competency;

5. Maintain a 3.0 in all courses taken at Amridge University;

6. Dissertation Module IV serves as the Program Exit Examination. The student must receive a passing grade in the Dissertation Module IV in order to graduate; and

Licensure as a Professional Counselor Outside of the State of Alabama as Related to the Doctor of Ministry in Family Therapy I

To become a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in most states, a candidate must present credentials to the appropriate state board of examiners who will schedule an examination. Amridge University makes no guarantees that a student will attain licensure in a given state. Additionally, it is the student’s responsibility, not the University’s, to ensure that he or she meets the licensure requirements for the state or states that he or she intends to be licensed. As such, students are encouraged to contact the appropriate state LPC board in their home state or the states they plan to be licensed as soon as possible to obtain all of the respective licensure information.

The web link for the National Board for Certified Counselors and Affiliates listing of state licensure boards is as follows:

http://www.nbcc.org.

By email: CLINICALS@amridgeuniversity.edu

By telephone: 800.351.4040, extension 7535

Licensure as a Professional Counselor in the State of Alabama as Related to the Doctor of Ministry in Family Therapy I

In order to be licensed by the State of Alabama as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), the candidate must:

1. Complete a master’s degree in counseling from a Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP) or the substantial equivalent institution;

2. Pass a requisite standardized examination such as the National Counselor Examination; and

3. Complete 3 years (i.e., 3,000 hours) of supervised, full-time experience in professional counseling in accordance with pertinent state regulations and in accordance with the following:

A. Three thousand (3,000) hours minimum of professional counseling of which:

1. Two thousand, two hundred and fifty (2,250) hours will be face-to-face counseling with individuals, couples, families, or groups.

2. Seven hundred and fifty (750) hours will be related to counseling services in the clinical supervisory setting

B. One hundred and fifty (150) hours of one-to-one, face-to-face, personal individual supervision by an Approved Supervisor.

The contact address of the Alabama Board of Examiners in Counseling is as follows:

Alabama Board of Examiners in Counseling

950 22nd Street North,

Suite 765

Birmingham, AL 35203

Telephone number: 334.251.7233

Important note: It is the student’s responsibility, not the University’s, to make certain that he or she meets all of the respective requirements to become a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Alabama. As such, students interested in being licensed as a LPC in Alabama should contact the Alabama Board of Examiners as soon as possible to obtain all the pertinent information and examination dates. Additionally, students are encouraged to contact Dr. Wayne Perry, the Director of Amridge University Counseling and MFT Clinical Programs, as soon as possible if they have any questions related to the licensure process in Alabama. Dr. Perry may be contacted as follows:

By email: CLINICALS@amridgeuniversity.edu

By telephone: 800.351.4040, extension 7535

Licensure as a Marriage and Family Therapist Outside of the State of Alabama as Related to the Doctor of Ministry in Family Therapy I

The web link for the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy listing of state licensure boards is as follows:

http://www.aamft.org/resources/Online_Directories/boardcontacts.htm

By email: CLINICALS@amridgeuniversity.edu

By telephone: 800.351.4040, extension 7535

Licensure as a Marriage and Family Therapist in the State of Alabama Related as Related to the Doctor of Ministry in Family Therapy I

In order to be licensed by the State of Alabama as a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, the candidate must:

1. Submit a completed application on the forms prescribed by the Board;

3. Completion of the education and internships requirements for an MFT Associate;

4. Pass the marriage and family therapy examination approved by the Board;

6. Completion of two-hundred (200) hours of post degree supervision, at least one-hundred (100) of which must be individual. Graduates of COAMFTE accredited programs may count up to one-hundred (100) supervision hours earned during the program toward this requirement, when based on a ratio of one (1) supervision hour to every five (5) client contact hours;

8. Examination Application Requirements: The following are necessary requirements in order to take the Board approved marriage and family therapy examination:

a. Submission of a completed application on the forms prescribed by the Board;

b. Is an MFT Associate or has met all requirements for becoming an MFT Associate.[iii]

The contact address of the Alabama Board of Examiners in Marriage and Family Therapy is as follows:

Alabama Board of Examiners

in Marriage and Family Therapy (LMFT)

7550 Halcyon Summit Drive, Suite 125

Montgomery, AL 36117

Telephone number: 334.251.7233

Important note: It is the student’s responsibility, not the University’s, to make certain that he or she meets all of the respective requirements to become a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Alabama (LMFT). As such, students interested in being licensed as a LMFT in Alabama should contact the Alabama Board of Examiners in Marriage and Family Therapy as soon as possible to obtain all the pertinent information and examination dates. Additionally, students are encouraged to contact Dr. Wayne Perry, the Director of Amridge University Counseling and MFT Clinical Programs, as soon as possible if they have any questions related to the licensure process in Alabama. Dr. Perry may be contacted as follows:

By email: CLINICALS@amridgeuniversity.edu

By telephone: 800.351.4040, extension 7535

Dual Licensure

ADMISSION AND DEGREE REQUIREMENTS FOR THE DOCTOR OF MINISTRY IN FAMILY THERAPY II

The Doctor of Ministry in Family Therapy II is designed for students who have a Master of Divinity in a related field.

Upon completion of the Doctor of Ministry in Family Therapy II Program, the graduate will have:

1. Developed knowledge and skills in therapy which can be applied in church settings or other professional settings;

2. Developed advanced knowledge and professional skills in Family Therapy;

3. Understood and interpreted ministry in relation to the context of Family Therapy;

4. Become acquainted with literature, materials, and methodologies which develop leadership, teaching, and counseling skills used in helping relationships;

5. Developed personal reflections and growth;

6. Taken courses necessary to be a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) or to be a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC); and

7. Been prepared to be a member of the American Association of Pastoral Counselors (AAPC).

These outcomes are assessed in the following course. A student may demonstrate achievement of these outcomes by receiving a passing grade in Dissertation Module IV.

Applications for admission to the Doctor of Ministry in Family Therapy II program will not be considered complete until all of the following eight items are properly completed and submitted:

1. Complete an Amridge University Admissions Application;

2. Have official transcripts sent to the Amridge University Admissions Office from every institution of higher education that the applicant attended;

3. Have completed a master’s degree, in a related field from a regionally accredited institution with a 3.0 grade point average on a 4.0 scale;

4. Have submitted to the Amridge University Admissions Office proof of the results of the Graduate Record Exam General (GRE) or the Miller Analogies Test (MAT) taken by the applicant.

a. Scores are calculated as follows:

1. GRE score divided by 100 = Score

2. Pre-2003 MAT score times .18 = Score

3. 2003 MAT score divided by 2, minus 156, time .18 = Score

b. Other Test Options

1. Other national examinations normally accepted for admission to graduate programs of study will also be considered as approved by the Vice President of Academic Affairs.

2. Applicants holding a doctoral degree from a regionally accredited institution are not required to submit a standardized test score.

c. Applicants for whom English is a second language must provide documented evidence of English proficiency in one of two ways:

1. A bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited institution in the United States or

2. A score on the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) per the following:

Graduate—minimum total score of 79, with minimum scores for reading and listening increased to “high” levels.

Reading (high)....................... 22

Listening (high)....................... 22

Speaking (fair)....................... 18

Writing (fair)........................... 17;

6. Submit a term paper from the master's degree level or doctoral dissertation that is written in accordance with a style manual generally accepted by colleges and universities. The writing sample must have been written solely by the applicant and should reflect the applicant's research and academic writing skills. Ideally, the term paper shall contain grade marks by the course instructor to whom it was originally submitted;

7. Submit three letters of recommendation: One from a former teacher, one from a colleague, and one from an employer; and

8. Participate in an interview. A faculty member will be assigned to arrange a question and answer conference interview with the applicant – this may be done by telephone.

Time Normally Required to Complete the Program

The Doctor of Ministry in Family Therapy II may be completed in three years attending full-time. A student may take the courses on a part-time or full-time basis.

Approval by Institutional Review Board

Required Courses for the Doctor of Ministry in II (36 semester hours.)

First Year
Fall Semester			Sem. Hrs.
		FT 9300 Family Therapy in the DMin Setting (Required Attendance First Semester	3
		FT Family Therapy Course	3
Spring Semester
		FT Family Therapy Courses	6
Summer Semester
		FT Family Therapy Courses	6
Second Year
Fall Semester
		FT Family Therapy Courses			6
Spring Semester
		RS 9340 Research Dissertation – Module I			3
Summer Semester
		RS 9341 Research Dissertation – Module II			3
Third Year
Fall Semester
	RS 9342 Research Dissertation – Module III			3

Spring Semester
	RS 9343 Research Dissertation – Module IV			3

TOTAL REQUIRED HOURS FOR DEGREE				36

Dissertation Committee

A Dissertation Committee shall be appointed near the time that the student enrolls in the first dissertation module, RS 9340 Research Dissertation Module I. The Dissertation Committee shall be appointed by the Dean of the School of Human Services with the approval of the Vice President of Academic Affairs. The student may request specific individuals to be appointed to the Dissertation Committee. A minimum of two signatory members of the Dissertation Committee shall have a doctorate in a field related to family therapy. The Committee shall establish protocol for communication among the Committee members. Each dissertation module and the final total dissertation shall be approved by the Committee Chairperson, the Reader, the Dissertation Secretary, the Dean and the Vice President of Academic Affairs before a grade is assigned for the module. The Committee Chairperson shall be the instructor of record for the dissertation modules.

Dissertation Modules

Allowable Grades for a Dissertation Module course are:

· “P” for pass if all requirements of the module have been met, “IP” for in-progress if satisfactory progress, as specified below, has been made but not all module requirements have been met, or “F” for failure if satisfactory progress has not been made.

Allowable Grades for a Dissertation Module First Continuation course are:

· “P” for pass if all requirements of the module have been met,

· “IP” for in-progress if satisfactory progress, as specified below, has been made but not all module requirements have been met, or “F” for failure if satisfactory progress has not been made.

Students receiving a grade of IP on Dissertation Module First Continuation course must register for and pay tuition and fees for the appropriate Dissertation Module Second Continuation course to complete requirements for the dissertation module. Tuition and fees, including the Dissertation Lab Fee, will be charged for this credit course.

Allowable Grades for a Dissertation Module Second Continuation courses are:

· “P” for pass if all requirements of the module have been met, or

· “F” for failure if all requirements of the module have not been met.

The appeals Committee shall consult with the student’s dissertation committee in considering the appeal.

Requirements for Dissertation Module Courses

Special note on the Doctor of Ministry in Family Therapy II

Graduation Requirements for the Doctor of Ministry in Family Therapy II

Before being graduated with the Doctor of Ministry in Family Therapy II, a student must satisfy the following requirements:

1. A total of 36 graduate semester hours of the required course work;

2. All of the above graduate semester hours must be from Amridge University;

3. Successfully complete all required coursework for the degree;

4. Submit and gain faculty approval of dissertation proposal appropriate to the student’s area of specialization and research competency;

5. Maintain a 3.0 in all courses taken at Amridge University;

6. Dissertation Module IV serves as the Program Exit Examination. The student must receive a passing grade in the Dissertation Module IV in order to graduate; and

Licensure Related to the Doctor of Ministry in Family Therapy Program II

The Doctor of Ministry (DMin) in Family Therapy II program was designed, but not required, with the intent that students enrolling in the program would already be licensed as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and/or a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT). If a student enrolled in the DMin in Family Therapy II program does not hold a LPC or LMFT license and is interested in being eligible to sit for the respective state board examination, then additional course work will be required. Another option would be for the student to enroll in the DMin in Family Therapy II which includes course work required for either a LPC or a LMFT. Please note that Amridge University makes no guarantees that a student will attain licensure in a given state. Additionally, it is the student’s responsibility, not the University’s, to ensure that he or she meets the licensure requirements for the state or states that he or she intends to be licensed. As such, students are encouraged to contact the appropriate state licensing board in their home state or the states they plan to be licensed as soon as possible to obtain all of the respective licensure information.

Below are the Internet links for the National Board for Certified Counselors and Affiliates (NBCCA) and the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy. Go to these links to obtain the contact names, addresses, and telephone numbers for the state licensure boards. Even though some of these state boards include web site addresses, students are encouraged to make person-to-person contact with the respective board to obtain the latest information on licensure information – do not assume that all of the information posted on these web sites is up-to-date or complete.

The web link for the National Board for Certified Counselors and Affiliates listing of state licensure boards is as follows:

http://www.nbcc.org.

The web link for the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy listing of state licensure boards is as follows:

http://www.aamft.org/

By email: CLINICALS@amridgeuniversity.edu

By telephone: 800.351.4040, extension 7535

DOCTOR OF PHILOSOPHY DEGREE IN MARRIAGE AND FAMILY THERAPY

Offered through the Amridge University School of Human Services, the Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) Degree program in Marriage and Family Therapy is a 60-semester hour rigorous research oriented program beyond the Master's degree. The number of hours required for the completion of this doctorate will depend on the number of graduate hours the student has already taken before entering the program.

This Ph.D. program is not designed to prepare individuals for professional licensure. It is assumed that the applicant has already completed the course work required for professional licensure. If the applicant wishes to obtain professional licensure, additional courses may be required.

The distinctive components in this program will be the emphasis on traditional and non-traditional extended learning delivery systems. Broadly put, upon completion of the program, the student will have an advanced degree with both therapeutic expertise and scholarship.

Students will complete intensive studies in theories of marriage and family therapy, human development, problems with abuse and addiction, cultural diversity, and research. Courses offered in this program will be taught partly from traditional class settings and will be partly delivered online over the Internet.

Students benefit from collegial learning during both face-to-face and concomitant residency experiences. The on-campus experiences are enhanced and extended through the concomitant classes and meetings. The University provides live classroom broadcasts with video and audio transmission for an academic residency component of the Ph.D. program. This live Internet online transmission permits teacher-student interaction and discussion. This interaction between faculty member and students is a concomitant synchronized period in a traditional classroom. This synchronous learning alternative is the New Academic Residency Option open to Amridge University students who live at a distance from the main campus. Amridge University maintains a record of each student's residency requirements in the program. A program may be completed in 4 years; however, the completion time depends on factors such as the number of credits transferred, the pace at which courses are taken, and the time necessary to research and write the dissertation.

Upon completion of the Program the graduates will have:

1. Gained an ability to conduct original research, including both quantitative and qualitative methodologies;

2. Obtained a comprehensive knowledge of the current status of research in marriage and family therapy;

3. Learned the psychodynamics of mental illness and techniques to treat these disorders;

4. Demonstrated the ability to function as a scholar/practitioner as evidenced by critical analysis of the student’s personal setting; and

5. Applied family therapy practice skills and research in teaching or clinical practice.

These outcomes are assessed through completion of the courses work, completion of the comprehensive examination, and completion of the dissertation.

Admission to the Amridge University Ph.D. Degree Program in Marriage and Family Therapy will be offered to prospective students who have demonstrated the intellectual ability, the preparation, and the motivation for a scholarly vocation. The basis of this determination will be through the admissions application process where applicants for the Ph.D. Degree Program in Marriage and Family Therapy must, as a minimum, meet eight admission requirements before being considered for admission to the program.

These admission requirements are as follows:

1. Complete an Amridge University Admissions Application;

2. Have official transcripts sent to the Amridge University Admissions Office from every institution of higher education that the applicant attended;

3. Have completed a master's degree in a related field from a regionally accredited institution with a minimum 3.0 grade point average on a 4.0 scale. A related field may be family therapy, guidance, psychology, human services, educational psychology, mental health, social services, or similar area;

4. Have submitted to the Amridge University Admissions Office proof of the results of the Graduate Record Exam General (GRE) Test or the Miller Analogies Test (MAT) taken by the applicant.

a. Scores are calculated as follows:

1. GRE score/ 100;

2. Pre-2003 MAT score x .18 = score;

3. 2003 MAT score /2, – 156, x.18, = score.

b. Other Test Options

1. Other national examinations normally accepted for admission to graduate programs of study may be accepted.

2. Applicants holding a doctoral degree from a regionally accredited institution are not required to submit a standardized test score.

c. Applicants for whom English is a second language must provide documented evidence of English proficiency in one of two ways:

1. A bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited institution in the United States or

2. A score on the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) per the following:

Graduate—minimum total score of 79, with minimum scores for reading and listening increased to “high” levels.

Reading (high)....................... 22

Listening (high)....................... 22

Speaking (fair)....................... 18

Writing (fair)........................... 17;

6. Submit a term paper or thesis from the master's degree level or a doctoral dissertation that is written in accordance with a style manual generally accepted by colleges and universities. The writing sample must have been written solely by the applicant and should reflect the applicant's research and academic writing skills. Ideally, the term paper shall contain grade marks by the course instructor to whom it was originally submitted;

7. Submit three letters of recommendation: One from a former teacher, one from a colleague, and one from an employer; and

8. Participate in an interview. The assigned Amridge University faculty interviewer will arrange an interview with the applicant. A telephone interview may be acceptable.

The applicant is expected to have appropriate foundation preparation at the graduate level that is equivalent to a 60 semester hour masters in marriage and family therapy program. This course work may be from any regionally accredited marriage and family therapy, related program. The graduate preparation is assessed as follows: A list of ten three-semester credit hour courses are presented below. The course definitions are available in the course descriptions section of the catalog. The applicant must have completed (3.0 or higher) each listed course or an equivalent course or the applicant must take the course at Amridge University as an additional (levelling course) to the Ph.D. program. The specified leveling course must be completed prior to the student enrolling in the associated course in the PhD program. An additional 30 graduate semester credit hours are required in counseling, therapy, psychology, psychiatry or related courses.

The required leveling courses for the PhD program in Marriage and Family Therapy are:

· FT 7300 Ethics and Professional Identity

· FT 7311 Theories of Marriage and Family Therapy

· FT 7320 Human Development

· FT 7321 Human Sexual Development

· FT7326 Social and Multicultural Diversity

· FT 7336 Basic Counseling Techniques/Helping Relationships

· FT 7332 Counseling for Abusive Relationships

· FT 6339 Research and Evaluation

· FT 7355 Psychopathology and Psychopharmacology

· FT 7335 Advanced Therapy

Time Normally Required to Complete the Program

The Doctor of Philosophy in Marriage and Family Therapy may be completed in four years attending full-time. A student may take the courses on a part-time or full-time basis. This estimate includes coursework and the writing and acceptance of the dissertation.

Approval by Institutional Review Board

Required Courses for the Doctor of Philosophy in Marriage and Family Therapy

	Course		Sem. Hrs.
DT 9300 Family Therapy and Professional Counseling in the Ph.D. Setting		3
DT 9303 Integrative Models of Marriage and Family Therapy		3
DT 9309 Applied Adult Development		3
DT 9312 Relational Sexual Therapy		3
DT 9315 Strategies to reduce Marriage and Family Dysfunction		3
DT 9318 Systemic Interventions in Abusive Relationships		3
DT 9321 Analysis of Substance Abuse Interventions		3
DT 9324 Systems of Relational and Intrapsychic Diagnosis		3
DT 9327 Consultation with Larger Systems		3
DT 9330 Medical Family Therapy		3
DT 9336 Quality Practice and Fiscal Systems (For students who plan to practice.) OR		3
DT 9337 Teaching Practicum (For students who plan to teach.)		3
FT 8300 Supervisor Training		3
RS 9361 Advanced Research Methods		3
RS 9362 Theory and Methodology in Qualitative Research		3
RS 9363 Design and Quantitative Analysis in Research I		3
	RS 9364 Design and Quantitative Analysis in Research II		3
	RT 9391 Research Dissertation in Marriage and Family Therapy Module I OR		3
	RT 9395 Research Dissertation in Counseling Module I First Continuation or RT 9385 Research Dissertation in Marriage and Family Therapy Module I Second Continuation
	RT 9392 Research Dissertation in Marriage and Family Therapy Module II OR		3
	RT 9396 Research Dissertation in Marriage and Family Therapy Module II First Continuation or RT 9386 Research Dissertation in Marriage and Family Therapy Module II Second Continuation
	RT 9393 Research Dissertation in Marriage and Family Therapy Module III OR		3
	RT 9397 Research Dissertation in Marriage and Family Therapy Module III First Continuation or RT 9387 Research Dissertation in Marriage and Family Therapy Module II Second Continuation
	RT 9394 Research Dissertation in Marriage and Family Therapy Module IV OR		3
	RT 9398 Research Dissertation in Marriage and Family Therapy Module IV First Continuation or RC 9388 Research Dissertation in Marriage and Family Therapy Module IV Second Continuation
	Total Required Hours for Degree		60

Residency Requirements

Students in this program are required to meet 18 semester residency credit hours through a combination of face-to-face residency and live web residency. Normally, students will be on campus for one week each year in each of the first three fall semesters. During this week of on campus time, the student will be participating in two designated courses through face-to-face residency. During the rest of the semester the student will participate in the two courses through weekly, live web residency/class participation. These weekly sessions will be listed on the graduate semester schedule next to the designated courses, listing the day/time for this live class participation for student-teacher, student-student, and teacher-student interaction.

Refer to the subsection Student Degree Requirements – Completion Options – Course Delivery Methods and Course Deliver Formats in Section 4: Amridge University Distance Learning Program within this Academic Catalog for additional information related to the respective course completion and delivery options and requirements. Also, see the respective semester course schedule for specific course delivery options and completion requirements.

Research Expectations.

The Doctor of Philosophy degree program differs substantially in several respects from other degrees offered at Amridge University. In addition to the heightened level of knowledge and performance required, students must understand that the Ph.D. is a research degree. While demonstrated excellence in-field is a primary determinant for attainment of applications-based credentials, the student’s ability to organize, conduct, and complete quantitative and qualitative research in the discipline is a critical requirement for the Ph.D. Such research must make a meaningful contribution to the body of knowledge in the field. Acceptable research must be publication quality and be positively affirmed through peer review within and/or outside of the Amridge University scholar community.

Comprehensive Examination Preparation Course

The Comprehensive Examination attempts to measure the range of knowledge acquired by doctoral students by synthesizing the knowledge gained from the various courses that were taken and expressing these concepts in written format. The Comprehensive Examination Preparation course is automatically uploaded and charged the semester the student enrolls in the initial program course DT 9300 Marriage and Family and Professional Counseling Therapy in the Ph.D. Setting. The Comprehensive Examination Preparation course will include a pool of questions similar to the questions that will be included on the Comprehensive Examinations. A student may draw random questions from the pool as guides for preparing for the Comprehensive Examination. The preparation course will also include guides in the form of the rubric that will be used in evaluating student responses to the Comprehensive Examination. The Comprehensive Exam fee is a one-time fee.

Qualifications and Procedures for the Comprehensive Examination

1. To qualify for the Comprehensive Examination, a student must have completed at least 39 semester hours of the core course requirements.

2. The student must register for the course DT 9051 Comprehensive Examination for Doctor of Philosophy in Family Therapy.

3. The Comprehensive Examination will be administered only on the Montgomery campus.

3. The Comprehensive Examination will be administered over a two day period, the times of which will be included in the semester schedule.

5. The Comprehensive Examination will be drawn from the pool of questions in the Comprehensive Examination Preparation Course.

6. Student responses to the Comprehensive Examination will be evaluated based on the rubric provided to students in the Comprehensive Examination Preparation Course.

7. The Comprehensive Examination evaluation outcomes will be on a pass or fail basis.

8. A student who fails the exam must retake the entire exam.

9. Students may retake the exam as early as the following semester.

10. Students who fail the exam the second time may not retake the exam without approval of the program faculty.

11. An appeal for a third opportunity to take the exam must be submitted to the Ph.D. Program Director who will chair the faculty committee to consider the appeal. An appeal will be granted only in very unusual circumstances.

Candidacy Status

Candidacy status is a milestone designation for the student. Candidacy status indicates that the student has demonstrated extensive knowledge and academic achievement in the student’s major area and that the student has the knowledge base to conduct original research in the field.

The minimum requirements to attain Candidacy Status shall include: (a) Completion of all prerequisite courses for the student's chosen program; (b) Completion all program residency requirements as specified in the University's Academic Catalog; (c) Completion all required Ph.D. core courses; (d) Passage of the written comprehensive examination within the student's chosen program; and, (e) Demonstration of competency to produce a manuscript publishable in a peer refereed journal by presenting to the Examination Team conducting the Comprehensive Examination for Candidacy Status: (1) documentation that the student has published in a peer refereed journal during the student’s tenure in the Ph.D. program at Amridge University, or (2) a manuscript which is judged by the Comprehensive Examination Team to be of publishable quality and ready to be submitted for publication in a refereed journal.

Dissertation Committee for the Doctor of Philosophy in Marriage and Family Therapy

A Dissertation Committee shall be appointed near the time that the student enrolls in the first dissertation module, RT 9391 Research Dissertation in Marriage and Family Therapy Module I. The Dissertation Committee shall be appointed by the Ph.D. Program Director with the approval of the Vice President of Academic Affairs. The student may request specific individuals to be appointed to the Dissertation Committee. A minimum of two signatory members of the Dissertation Committee shall have a Ph.D. in a field related to marriage and family therapy. The Committee shall establish protocol for communication among the Committee members. Each dissertation module and the final total dissertation shall be approved by the Committee Chairperson, the reader, and the Dissertation Secretary before a grade is assigned for the module. The Committee Chairperson shall be the instructor of record for the dissertation modules.

Dissertation Modules

A student must achieve “Candidacy Status” prior to enrolling in a dissertation Module. After beginning the dissertation the student must enroll in a dissertation module or dissertation continuation module each semester until completion of the dissertation, unless prior written approval is obtained from the Appeals Committee.. The dissertation modules must be completed in sequence.

Allowable Grades for a Dissertation Module course are:

Allowable Grades for a Dissertation Module First Continuation course are:

· “P” for pass if all requirements of the module have been met,

· “IP” for in-progress if satisfactory progress, as specified below, has been made but not all module requirements have been met, or F for failure if satisfactory progress has not been made.

Allowable Grades for a Dissertation Module Second Continuation courses are:

· “P” for pass if all requirements of the module have been met, or

· “F” for failure if all requirements of the module have not been met.

The appeals Committee shall consult with the student’s dissertation committee in considering the appeal.

Requirements for Dissertation Module Courses

Graduation Requirements for the Doctor of Philosophy in Marriage and Family Therapy

To receive a PhD Degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from Amridge University, the student must:

1. Complete the degree courses as specified within and in accordance with the individualized degree evaluation provided to the Amridge University student during the admissions process. The individualized degree evaluation will be completed and given to the student as soon as copies of all pertinent college and university transcripts are received by the admissions office. All of the credit for the PhD Degree must be earned at Amridge University;

2. Maintain at least a 3.0 GPA for all courses taken at Amridge University;

3. Pass the respective Comprehensive Examination as specified within this publication;

4. Be awarded candidacy status in the PhD Degree Program;

5. Satisfactorily complete a dissertation that convinces the Dissertation Committee of student's superior knowledge within the student's program area. The student must achieve candidacy Status prior to enrolling in a dissertation module. The dissertation must make an original contribution to knowledge and demonstrate the student's ability to articulate material to others. The student has the responsibility to make all changes recommended by the Dissertation Committee and submit an amended and approved copy to the Registrar;

7. Dissertation Module IV serves as a Program Exit Examination. The student must receive a passing grade in the Dissertation Module IV in order to graduate; and

8. Be current on all tuition and fees owed to the University.

DOCTOR OF PHILOSOPHY DEGREE IN PROFESSIONAL COUNSELING

Offered through the Amridge University School of Human Services, the Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) Degree in Professional Counseling is a 60-semester hour rigorous research oriented program beyond the Master's degree. The number of hours required for the completion of this doctorate will depend on the number of graduate hours the student has already taken before entering the program.

The Ph.D. program is not designed to prepare individuals for professional licensure. It is assumed that the applicant has already completed the course work required for professional licensure. If the applicant wishes to obtain professional licensure, additional courses may be required.

The distinctive components in this program will be the emphasis on traditional and non-traditional extended learning delivery systems. Broadly put, upon completion of either program, the student will have an advanced degree with both therapeutic expertise and scholarship.

Students will complete intensive studies in theories of counseling, human development, problems with abuse and addiction, cultural diversity, and research. Courses offered in these programs will be taught partly from traditional class settings and will be partly delivered online over the Internet.

Upon completion of the Program the graduates will have:

1. Gained an ability to conduct original research, including both quantitative and qualitative methodologies;

2. Obtained a comprehensive knowledge of the current status of research in marriage and family therapy or counseling;

3. Demonstrated the ability to function as a scholar/practitioner as evidenced by critical analysis of the student’s personal setting; and

4. Applied counseling skills and research in teaching or clinical practice.

These outcomes are assessed through completion of the courses work, completion of the comprehensive examination, and completion of the dissertation.

Admission to the Amridge University Ph.D. Degree Program in Professional Counseling will be offered to prospective students who have demonstrated the intellectual ability, the preparation, and the motivation for a scholarly vocation. The basis of this determination will be through the admissions application process where applicants for the Ph.D. Degree Program in Professional Counseling must, as a minimum, meet eight admission requirements before being considered for admission to the program.

These admission requirements are as follows:

1. Complete an Amridge University Admissions Application;

2. Have official transcripts sent to the Amridge University Admissions Office from every institution of higher education that the applicant attended;

4. Have submitted to the Amridge University Admissions Office proof of the results of the Graduate Record Exam General (GRE) Test or the Miller Analogies Test (MAT) taken by the applicant.

a. Scores are calculated as follows:

1. GRE score/ 100;

2. Pre-2003 MAT score x .18 = score;

3. 2003 MAT score /2, – 156, x.18, = score.

b. Other Test Options

1. Other national examinations normally accepted for admission to graduate programs of study may be accepted.

2. Applicants holding a doctoral degree from a regionally accredited institution are not required to submit a standardized test score.

c. Applicants for whom English is a second language must provide documented evidence of English proficiency in one of two ways:

1. A bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited institution in the United States or

2. A score on the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) per the following:

Graduate—minimum total score of 79, with minimum scores for reading and listening increased to “high” levels.

Reading (high)....................... 22

Listening (high)....................... 22

Speaking (fair)....................... 18

Writing (fair)........................... 17;

7. Submit three letters of recommendation: One from a former teacher, one from a colleague, and one from an employer; and

8. Participate in an interview. The assigned Amridge University faculty interviewer will arrange an interview with the applicant. A telephone interview may be acceptable.

The applicant is expected to have appropriate foundation preparation at the graduate level that is equivalent to a 60 semester hour masters in counseling or marriage and family therapy program. This course work may be from any regionally accredited therapy, psychology or counseling related program. The graduate preparation is assessed as follows: A list of ten three-semester credit hour courses are presented below. The course definitions are available in the course descriptions section of the catalog. The applicant must have completed (3.0 or higher) each listed course or an equivalent course or the applicant must take the course at Amridge University as an additional (levelling course) to the Ph.D. program. The specified leveling course must be completed prior to the student enrolling in the associated course in the PhD program. An additional 30 graduate semester credit hours are required in counseling, therapy, psychology, psychiatry or related courses.

The required leveling courses for the PhD program in Professional Counseling are:

· FT 7300 Ethics and Professional Identity

· FT 7310 Theories of Counseling and Psychotherapy

· FT 7320 Human Development

· FT 7321 Human Sexual Development

· FT7326 Social and Multicultural Diversity

· FT 7336 Basic Counseling Techniques/Helping Relationships

· FT 7332 Counseling for Abusive Relationships

· FT 6339 Research and Evaluation

· FT 7355 Psychopathology and Psychopharmacology

· FT 7335 Advanced Therapy

Time Normally Required to Complete the Program

The Doctor of Philosophy in Professional Counseling may be completed in four years attending full-time. A student may take the courses on a part-time or full-time basis. This estimate includes coursework and the writing and acceptance of the dissertation.

Approval by Institutional Review Board

Required Courses for the Doctor of Philosophy in Professional Counseling

Course	Sem. Hrs.
DT 9300 Therapy and Counseling in the Ph.D. Setting	3
DT 9306 Synthesis of Counseling and Psychotherapy	3
DT 9309 Applied Adult development	3
DT 9312 Relational Sexual Therapy	3
DT 9315 Strategies to reduce Marriage and Family Dysfunction	3
DT 9318 Systemic Interventions in Abusive Relationships	3
DT 9321 Analysis of Substance Abuse Interventions	3
DT 9324 Systems of Relational and Intrapsychic Diagnosis	3
DT 9327 Consultation with Larger Systems	3
DT 9330 Medical Family Therapy	3
DT 9336 Quality Practice and Fiscal Systems (For students who plan to practice.) OR	3
DT 9337 Teaching Practicum (For students who plan to teach.)
DT 9332 Counseling for Change	3
RS 9361 Advanced Research Methods	3
RS 9362 Theory and Methodology in Qualitative Research	3
RS 9363 Design and Quantitative Analysis in Research I	3
RS 9364 Design and Quantitative Analysis in Research II	3
RC 9391 Research Dissertation in Counseling Module I or RC 9395 Research Dissertation in Counseling Module I First Continuation or RC 9385 Research Dissertation in Counseling Module I Second Continuation	3

RC 9392 Research Dissertation in Counseling Module II or RC 9396 Research Dissertation in Counseling Module II First Continuation or RC 9386 Research Dissertation in Counseling Module II Second Continuation	3

RC 9393 Research Dissertation Counseling Module III or RC 9397 Research Dissertation in Counseling Module III or First Continuation or RC 9387 Research Dissertation in Counseling Module II Second Continuation	3

RC 9394 Research Dissertation in Counseling Module IV or RC 9398 Research Dissertation in Counseling Module IV First Continuation or RC 9388 Research Dissertation in Counseling Module IV Second Continuation	3

Total Required Hours for Degree	60

Residency Requirements

Research Expectations.

Comprehensive Examination Preparation Course

The Comprehensive Examination attempts to measure the range of knowledge acquired by doctoral students by synthesizing the knowledge gained from the various courses that were taken and expressing these concepts in written format. The Comprehensive Examination Preparation course is automatically uploaded and charged the semester the student enrolls in the initial program course DT 9300 Marriage and Family Therapy and Professional Counseling in the Ph.D. Setting. The Comprehensive Examination Preparation course will include a pool of questions similar to the questions that will be included on the Comprehensive Examinations. A student may draw random questions from the pool as guides for preparing for the Comprehensive Examination. The preparation course will also include guides in the form of the rubric that will be used in evaluating student responses to the Comprehensive Examination. The Comprehensive Exam fee is a one-time fee.

Qualifications and Procedures for the Comprehensive Examination

1. To qualify for the Comprehensive Examination, a student must have completed at least 39 semester hours of the core course requirements.

2. The student must register for the course DT 9052 Comprehensive Examination for Doctor of Philosophy in Professional Counseling

3. The Comprehensive Examination will be administered only on the Montgomery campus.

4. The Comprehensive Examination will be administered over a two day period, the times of which will be included in the semester schedule.

5. The Comprehensive Examination will be drawn from the pool of questions in the Comprehensive Examination Preparation Course.

6. Student responses to the Comprehensive Examination will be evaluated based on the rubric provided to students in the Comprehensive Examination Preparation Course.

7. The Comprehensive Examination evaluation outcomes will be on a pass or fail basis.

8. A student who fails the exam must retake the entire exam.

9. Students may retake the exam as early as the following semester.

10. Students who fail the exam the second time may not retake the exam without approval of the program faculty.

Candidacy Status

Dissertation Committee for the Doctor of Philosophy in Professional Counselling

A Dissertation Committee shall be appointed near the time that the student enrolls in the first dissertation module, RC 9391 Research Dissertation in Counselling Module I. The Dissertation Committee shall be appointed by the Dean of the School of Human Services with the approval of the Vice President of Academic Affairs. The student may request specific individuals to be appointed to the Dissertation Committee. A minimum of two signatory members of the Dissertation Committee shall have a doctorate in a field related to family therapy. The Committee shall establish protocol for communication among the Committee members. Each dissertation module and the final total dissertation shall be approved by the Committee Chairperson, the Reader, the Dissertation Secretary, the Dean and the Vice President of Academic Affairs before a grade is assigned for the module. The Committee Chairperson shall be the instructor of record for the dissertation modules.

Dissertation Modules

A student must achieve “Candidacy Status” prior to enrolling in a dissertation Module. After beginning the dissertation the student must enroll in a dissertation module or dissertation continuation module each semester until completion of the dissertation, unless prior written approval is obtained from the Appeals Committee.. The dissertation modules must be completed in sequence.

Allowable Grades for a Dissertation Module course are:

Allowable Grades for a Dissertation Module First Continuation course are:

· “P” for pass if all requirements of the module have been met,

· “IP” for in-progress if satisfactory progress, as specified below, has been made but not all module requirements have been met, or F for failure if satisfactory progress has not been made.

Allowable Grades for a Dissertation Module Second Continuation courses are:

· “P” for pass if all requirements of the module have been met, or

· “F” for failure if all requirements of the module have not been met.

The appeals Committee shall consult with the student’s dissertation committee in considering the appeal.

Requirements for Dissertation Module Courses

Graduation Requirements for the Doctor of Philosophy in Professional Counseling

To receive a Ph.D. Degree in Professional Counseling from Amridge University, the student must:

2. Maintain at least a 3.0 GPA for all courses taken at Amridge University;

3. Pass the respective Comprehensive Examination as specified within this publication;

4. Be awarded candidacy status in the Ph.D. Degree Program;

6. Complete an Amridge University Degree Completion Application. The properly completed and signed application must be submitted no later than the first day of classes of the semester prior to the student plans to graduate. Following this schedule permits the University to conduct a full audit of the respective student’s records at make sure that all courses, programs, and respective graduation requirements have been met;

7. Dissertation Module IV serves as a Program Exit Examination. The student must receive a passing grade in the Dissertation Module IV in order to graduate;

8. Final defense:

a. The student must defend, and receive a passing grade for their doctoral dissertation before their dissertation committee, the dean of the School of Human services, and other faculty. This defense will take place in Montgomery at a time set by the dissertation committee.

b. The student must comply with all requirements for submission of the completed dissertation to the Amridge University Head Librarian.

9. Comply with all requirements for submission of the completed dissertation to the Amridge University Head Librarian; and

10. Be current on all tuition and fees owed to the University

The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Marriage and Family Therapy and the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Professional Counseling programs were designed with the intent, yet not as a requirement, that students enrolling in the program would already be licensed as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and/or a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT). If a student enrolled in the PhD in Marriage and Family Therapy program or in the PhD in Professional Counseling program does not hold a LPC or LMFT license and is interested in being eligible to sit for the respective state board examination, then additional course work may be required. Students interested in additional licensure information are encouraged to contact the appropriate state licensing board in their home state or the states where they plan to be licensed as soon as possible to obtain all of the respective licensure information. Below are the Internet links for the National Board for Certified Counselors and Affiliates (NBCCA) and the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy. Go to these links to obtain the contact names, addresses, and telephone numbers for the state licensure boards. Even though some of these state boards include web site addresses, students are encouraged to make person-to-person contact with the respective board to obtain the latest information on licensure information – do not assume that all of the information posted on these web sites is up-to-date or complete.

The web link for the National Board for Certified Counselors and Affiliates listing of state licensure boards is as follows:

http://www.nbcc.org.

The web link for the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy listing of state licensure boards is as follows:

http://www.aamft.org/resources/Online_Directories/boardcontacts.htm

Additionally, students are encouraged to contact Dr. Wayne Perry, the Director of the Amridge University Counseling and MFT Clinical Program, as soon as possible if they have any questions related to the licensure process. Dr. Perry may be contacted as follows:

By email: CLINICALS@amridgeuniversity.edu

By U.S. Postal Service Mail:

Dr. Wayne Perry
Director of the Counseling and MFT
Clinical Programs

School of Human Services
            Amridge University
            1200 Taylor Road
            Montgomery, AL 36117-3520

By telephone: 800.351.4040, extension 7535

FACULTY FOR THE SCHOOL OF HUMAN SERVICES

Note: Faculty listed below teach in the Amridge University School of Human Services but may also teach in one of the other three Amridge University schools.

Shirley Barnes

BA, Auburn University

MEd, Tuskegee University

PhD, Auburn University

Jonathan Davis

BS, georgia Institute of Technology

MMFT, Abilene Christian University

PhD, Purdue University

Terry E. Gunnells

BA, Atlanta Christian College

MA, MTh, Amridge University

DMin, Lutheran Theological Southern Seminary

Suzanne Hanna

BS, PhD, Brigham Young University

MS, University of Utah

Blake Horne

BA, Mercer University

MFT, Mercer University of Medicine

PhD, Florida State University

James Kelly

BA, Xavier University

PhD, Union Institute and University

Dale Mannon

BBA, Freed-Hardeman University

MA, Marshall University

EdD, University of Memphis

James R. Megar

BA, Rhodes College

MS, Tennessee State University

EdD, Texas A & M, Commerce

Bryan Miller

AA, York College

BA, Harding University

MAR, Harding University Graduate School of Religion

PhD, Iowa State University

John Nerswick

BA, Harding University

MS, Nova Southeastern University

PhD, University of Georgia

William Northey

BS, University of Delaware

MS, University of Maryland

PhD, Kansas State University

Charles Wayne Perry

BA, Campbell College

MDiv, Wesley Theological Seminary

DMin, Emory University

PhD, Amridge University

James Savage

AA, Freed-Hardeman College

BA, Lipscomb University

MTh, Harding University Graduate School of Religion

MPhil, PhD, Hebrew Union College

PhD, The Union Institute

John Mark Trent

BRE, God's Bible School and College

MS, Amridge University

PhD, Auburn University

Source Notes