Amridge University Academic Catalog

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 1.3, Effective 9.23.2008].

MESSAGE FROM THE DEAN OF THE SCHOOL OF HUMAN SERVICES

The School of Human Services at Amridge University is committed to providing excellent training in the fields of Marriage and Family Therapy and Professional Counseling. In today’s world, it is imperative to equip men and women to address the mental health and relational needs of individuals, couples, families, and even communities.

Graduates of our Masters and Doctoral Programs in the School of Human Services are equipped to be leaders. Not only are they taught the relevant theories and techniques for doing counseling, they are also taught skills that will help them to become leaders in their field. Through our innovative delivery methods, our outstanding faculty, and our emphasis upon students being taught (and learning) relevant material in their field, students are given opportunities to prepare to meet the mental health, relational and human service needs in the 21^st century.

We invite you to explore our Masters Programs, DMin Programs, and Ph.D. Programs in either Marriage and Family Therapy or Professional Counseling. We think that you will discover both a curriculum and faculty that will help you achieve your goals and dreams of either becoming a Marriage and Family Therapist or Professional Counselor through our Masters Programs, or building upon your experience in the field through completing one of our doctoral programs.

Dale E. Bertram, Ph.D.
Dean, School of Human Services

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 (M.S.) 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 Associate 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 M.S. 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 associate 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 exit exam administered in the following capstone course:

FT 7372 – MFT Clinical Training II

Master of Science: Ministerial Leadership

The Master of Science (M.S.) in Ministerial Leadership is a professional-level degree designed to prepare students for work in Christian ministry with a practitioner's approach to Biblical studies. Likewise, this program provides a foundation for students to pursue more advanced studies and degree programs such as the Master of Divinity (M.Div.) in Ministerial Leadership followed by the Doctor of Ministry (D.Min.).

The M.S. in Ministerial Leadership is offered through the School of Human Services. The School of Human Services seeks to prepare students for the ministerial and teaching professions and for effective voluntary Christian service through both academic and practical studies at the graduate level. Graduates of the School of Human Services are prepared to be effective Christian leaders, ministers, church leaders, teachers, and scholars who will use their gifts and knowledge in proclaiming the gospel, strengthening the church, and serving humanity.

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

1. Learned the skills necessary to work in Christian ministry;

2. Learned biblical principles necessary to practice ministry;

3. Been prepared to move to the Master of Divinity (M.Div.) in Ministerial Leadership which could lead to the Doctor of Ministry (D.Min.); and

4. Been prepared to teach undergraduate courses on the college level in Ministerial Leadership.

These outcomes are assessed in the following courses. A student may demonstrate achievement of these outcomes by receiving a passing grade in the exit exam administered in the following capstone course:

LD 6385 – Ministerial Leadership

Master of Arts: Marriage and Family Therapy

The Master of Arts (M.A.) 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 M.A. 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 certification in Marriage and Family Therapy and Professional Counseling. Students interested in a dual certification 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 Ph.D. in Family Therapy.

FT 7372 – MFT Clinical Training II

Master of Arts: Professional Counseling

The Master of Arts (M.A.) 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 M.A. 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 certification in Professional Counseling and Marriage and Family Therapy. Students interested in a dual certification 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 her or his clients; and

8. Been prepared to advance to the Ph.D. in Family Therapy.

PT 7372 – PC Clinical Training II

Master of Divinity: Marriage and Family Therapy

The Master of Divinity (M.Div.) 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.

This program is the prerequisite for admission into the Doctor of Ministry Degree program.

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 to the Doctor of Philosophy in Marriage and 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 (M.Div.) 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 (M.Div.) 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 (M.Div.) 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 M.Div. 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 M.Div. 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 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 (D.Min.) 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 Family Therapy

Offered through the Amridge University School of Human Services, the Ph.D. Degree Programs in Marriage and Family Therapy and in Professional Counseling are 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.

These Ph.D. programs are 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 these programs 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 and 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 or psychology;

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;

5. Applied family therapy practice or counseling skills 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.

ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS

As there may be slight variations for admission to each of the degree programs provided through the Amridge University School of Human Services, the admission requirements are provided under the heading Admission and Degree Requirements of each of the programs of study specified within.

RESPONSE TO ADMISSION APPLICATIONS

Upon receiving a student’s application, the Admissions Office will formally acknowledge his or her academic status with Amridge University. The Admissions Office will inform the student periodically as to the receipt of all necessary transcripts and documents.

After the applicant completes the requirements for admission, he or she will be notified of his or her status. The applicant will receive a letter of acceptance or denial from the Admissions Office.

When the applicant has been accepted for admission to the University, the Registrar’s Office will prepare an evaluation of all transcripts. This evaluation will give the student direction as to what course requirements must be completed.

ADMISSION OF TRANSFER STUDENTS

Amridge University allows students to transfer credit from other accredited colleges and universities. Official transcripts from all postsecondary schools attended must be received by Amridge University directly from these institutions. Documentation of high school graduation or accepted equivalent as specified in Section 2: Admissions of this catalog must also be on file.

Transfer of credit for work earned in other accredited institutions of higher learning is not automatic, but an applicant may, when making application, request the acceptance of previously earned college credit. The Registrar’s Office will provide the student, upon receipt of all transcripts, with a preliminary unofficial evaluation of those credits which will apply toward the respective degree. When all official transcripts are received by the University, registered students will receive official evaluation of each semester.

The amount of credit accepted will be determined by a preliminary evaluation. The amount may vary depending on the courses submitted for transfer and the level of the program the applicant is entering at Amridge University. For applicants transferring from other accredited institutions, the amount of transfer credit and advanced standing allowed will be determined by the Registrar. Courses with grades of D are only acceptable for transfer in those degree programs in which grades of D are acceptable for courses taken at Amridge University. Because of Amridge University’s distinctive curriculum, all credits transferred in and posted on an academic record will be agreed upon before a student finishes his first semester of work.

An applicant who has been suspended indefinitely or is on probationary status from other institutions may be considered for admissions in accordance with the provisions of the Admission of Students on Suspension or Probationary Status from other Institutions provided in Section 2: Admissions of this catalog.

Transfer enrollment is applicable for the bachelor and master’s degree levels but are not applicable for doctoral programs unless specified in the admissions requirements for a given doctoral degree.

REQUIREMENTS FOR A COMPLETED APPLICATION

An application is not considered complete until all items noted in the sections, below, have been properly submitted to the Amridge University Admissions Office. Until all items are received by the Admissions Office, the student is considered to be provisionally admitted. He or she may not register for subsequent Amridge University semesters, and no official transcripts will be released by the University. The required admissions items are as follows:

Graduate

1. Application with fee

2. Two letters of recommendation

3. Standardized test score

4. Official transcripts from every college previously attended

Doctoral

1. Application with fee

2. Three letters of recommendation

3. Standardized test score

4. Official transcripts from every college previously attended

5. Monograph on career goals

6. Term paper from masters degree or doctoral dissertation

7. Interview of the applicant

8. Committee approval

9. Response form

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 (M.S.) 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 Associate 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 M.S. 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 associate 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 exam. A student may demonstrate achievement of these outcomes by receiving a passing grade in the 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 in the application packet, on Amridge University’s website, and is available from the Admissions Office. This one-time fee is non-refundable.

· An earned Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science degree from an 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 in the application packet and are also 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.

· Letters of Recommendation – Graduate applicants must submit letters of recommendation for graduate study from two persons not related to the applicant but who know the applicant well. Preferably recommendations should come from businesspersons, church elders, ministers, or professors.

· Standardized Tests – Have submitted to the Amridge University Admissions Office an official copy of the results of the Graduate Record Exam General (GRE) Test or the Miller Analogies Test (MAT) taken by the applicant. 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 of at least 440 on the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) for the paper version and 123 for the computer version.

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.

· Optional – 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 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 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, Family, and Group Dynamics	3
	FT 7331 Marital and Family Systems	3
	RS 6339 Research and Evaluation	3
	FT 7340 Assessment of Individuals and Families	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 7373 MFT Clinical Training III	3 3
	FT 7355 Psychopathology and Psychopharmacology	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 42 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. 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 Associate 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 Counselors may be interested in becoming a Member Associate 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 Associate 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 36117-3553

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 SCIENCE IN MINISTERIAL LEADERSHIP

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

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

1. Learned the skills necessary to work in Christian ministry;

2. Learned biblical principles necessary to practice ministry;

3. Been prepared to move to the Master of Divinity (M.Div.) in Ministerial Leadership which could lead to the Doctor of Ministry (D.Min.); and

4. Been prepared to teach undergraduate courses on the college level in Ministerial Leadership.

LD 6385 – Ministerial Leadership

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.

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

Time Normally Required to Complete the Program

The Master of Science in Ministerial Leadership may be completed in 5 semesters. A student may take courses on a part-time or full-time basis.

Required Courses for the Master of Science in Ministerial Leadership

Required Courses	Sem. Hrs.
NT 6301 Critical Introduction to the New Testament	3
FT 7301 Introduction to Pastoral Counseling	3
OT 6301 Critical Introduction to the Old Testament	3
RS 6339 Research and Evaluation	3
LD 6362 Spiritual Leadership	3
PS 6302 Homiletics	3
LD 6353 Leadership Visualization and Values	3
FD 6312 Hermeneutics	3
LD 6357 Organizational Communication	3
PS 6310 Personal Evangelism	3
LD 6358 Theories of Motivational Leadership	3
TH 6310 Systematic Theology	3
LD 6385 Ministerial Leadership (Capstone Course)	3
NT 6320 The Book of Acts	3
Total Required	42

Graduation Requirements for the Master of Science in Ministerial Leadership

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

1. Complete a total of 42 graduate semester hours of the required course work;

2. At least 36 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 for the degree;

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

5. 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

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

The Master of Arts (M.A.) 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 M.A. 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 Ph.D. 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.

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

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	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@southerchristian.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 a grade of “B-” (3.0) in each course. A course with a grade below “B-” must be repeated;

5. Pass the program capstone course and the Program Exit Examination 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 Haleyon 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 36117-3553

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 (M.A.) 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 M.A. 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 her or his clients; and

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

FT PT 7372 – PC Clinical Training II

Applications for admission to the Master of Arts in Professional Counseling 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.

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

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 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	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 a grade of “B-” (3.0) in each course. A course with a grade below “B-” must be repeated;

5. Pass the program capstone course and the Program Exit Examination 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 7330 – Interpersonal and Family Dynamics

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/exams/stateboards.htm

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 Psychology
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 7330 – Interpersonal and Family Dynamics
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 – Clinical Training II

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

Alabama Board of Examiners

in Marriage and Family Therapy (LMFT)

7550 Haleyon 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 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 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 certification in Professional Counseling. Students interested in a dual certification 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.

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

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		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

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. Student 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 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

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 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;

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. 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 Haleyon 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 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.

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

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 7330 Interpersonal and Family Dynamics		3
	FT 7331 Marital and Family Systems		3
	FT 7332 Counseling for Abusive Relationships		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 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.

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 7330 – Interpersonal and Family Dynamics

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/exams/stateboards.htm

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 Psychology
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 7330 – Interpersonal and Family Dynamics
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 – Clinical Training II

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

Alabama Board of Examiners

in Marriage and Family Therapy (LMFT)

7550 Haleyon 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 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.

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

Time Normally Required to Complete the Program

The Master of Divinity in Family Therapy – 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

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

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. 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 Associate 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 Associate 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 Associate 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 M.Div. 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.

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

· 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 M.Div. 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 M.Div. 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