Department of Marriage & Family Therapy

FAQ

Frequently asked questions

Questions & Answers

How may we help you?

If you do not find the answer to your question(s) here, then please contact us at 253-535-7659 or email mfth@plu.edu.

How long is the program?

The program is designed to be completed in two to three years.

How many students are accepted each year?

Typically 20 students.

When can I start the program?

Applicants are admitted once a year in the spring. Those accepted have the choice of beginning summer term, and taking one or two courses, or the fall term.

What is a typical schedule?

The typical schedule for the first two or three semesters is two courses that meet weekly from 3:00-6:20 p.m. (currently on Tuesday and Thursday). When students begin their internship (usually in their third or fourth semester), they spend 20 hours practicing therapy and take two individual courses. As a result, they are typically involved three or four days and several evenings per week in some aspect of the program. Thus, the time devoted to their education increases significantly the second year in the program.

I do not have the necessary prerequisite courses, should I take them before I apply?

No. The prerequisites can be incorporated into your individualized program.

Is it possible to maintain a job while in the program?

If your job is flexible it is possible to work full-time for the first two or three semesters. During the second year of the program it can be more difficult to maintain a full-time job as you are required to fulfill 20 hours per week at your internship site along with the required classes.

Is it possible to live in Seattle while attending this program?

The MFT Program continues to have many students who commute from the Seattle area. For the first year, it is only necessary to drive to Tacoma twice a week for classes. Once students start their practica, they will have to be on-campus at the CFTC 3-5 days a week. For the remainder of the program, students will attend class at PLU 1-2 days a week, while working at their internships 15-20 hours a week. Two of our off-site internship sites are located in the Seattle area. This will give therapists-in-training a chance to conduct their practica in Seattle, while attending class on campus only one day a week.

What kind of life experience do you need to excel in this program?

Besides application requirements, students should have paid or un-paid experience working with different types of people in an interactive environment. In addition, experience with diverse populations prior to entering the program increases ones ability to contribute to the classroom and practica experience.

Department of Marriage & Family Therapy, Pacific Lutheran University, Tacoma WA 98447