Vanguard University of Southern California

2010-11 Program Update

In keeping with the new educational requirements for Marriage and Family Therapists (MFTs) in California, we have implemented changes to our curriculum starting with the Fall 2010 Semester. All MFT programs are required to adopt these changes as of August 1, 2012, but we believe that by adopting these changes to our curriculum now we can better serve our students by allowing them to be among the first to be trained in these additional areas.

Mission

The Master of Science in Clinical Psychology Program equips its students to serve with excellence as Christian mental health professionals by providing the highest quality of rigorous academic training, guided professional development, and integrative faith-based learning in a collaborative and supportive environment.

Distinctions of Our Programjerre's office again

Academic Features

  • This degree fulfills all academic requirements for licensure as a Marriage and Family Therapist as set forth by the California Board of Behavioral Sciences.
  • Clinical class sizes are limited to 15 and practicum class sizes are limited to 8.
  • Full-time students receive a Masters degree in two years (five semesters).
  • Exit Project required in place of a thesis. 

Professional Development

  • Required personal therapy concurrent with course work benefits the student by giving them the opportunity to be engaged in the therapeutic process as a client.
  • Content and structure aids in further career development of ministers, law enforcement officers, health care workers, teachers and other mental health workers.
  • Clinical interests developed through training in a variety of agencies.
  • Appropriate training and fieldwork experience equips students to work and minister effectively within a variety of secular and Christian settings.
  • Specific training in clinical conceptualization.

Program Design

  • Late afternoon and evening classes.
  • Full and part time availability with a four year, evening only track.
  • Selected classes are offered online or during the summer.

Christian Community

  • Mentoring and individual attention from faculty and staff.
  • Emphasis placed on integration of Christianity and psychology.
  • Environment that facilitates development of a cohesive and supportive community.
  • Faculty are professionals committed to Christian excellence, spirituality and community.