The Master of Arts in Counseling (M.A.C.) at America Evangelical University (AEU) offers a 40-unit graduate program that integrates counseling theory, clinical practice, and Christian faith. It prepares students for counseling and ministry roles in churches, community organizations, and nonprofit settings. Emphasizing both spiritual formation and professional competence, the program trains students to serve individuals, couples, and families with compassion, skill, and biblical understanding.
Students may specialize in one of two tracks:
• Track 1: Marriage & Family Therapy (MFT)
• Track 2: Substance Use Disorder (SUD) Counseling
※ Track I does not directly prepare students for California state licensure as an LMFT or LPCC. Students who wish to pursue licensure may continue into AEU’s 66-unit Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology (M.A.C.P.) program.
※ Track II is designed to equip students with the competencies necessary for addiction recovery, mental health counseling, and co-occurring disorder treatment, in alignment with TAP 21 standards and California certification pathways (CAADC/LAADC).
Program Summary
• Total Units: 40
• Duration: 2–2.5 years
• Format: On-campus, online, or hybrid
• Transfer Credit: Up to 9 graduate units (with approval)
• Practicum: 200–300 supervised hours (non-licensure practicum)
Additional Requirements
• Professional Development: Students complete a 50-hour professional development sequence focused on integrating ethical practice with Christian values. This training emphasizes personal maturity, counselor identity, and spiritual leadership.
• Clinical Training: A minimum of 400 supervised clinical hours is required—300 hours of direct client counseling and 100 hours of relational counseling (couples, family, or group). Practicum placements are conducted at approved field sites and follow California certification standards.
Program Highlights
• 40-unit graduate degree completed in approximately 2–2.5 years
• Two specialized counseling tracks: MFT or SUD
• Biblically grounded and clinically informed curriculum
• Hybrid learning options for working professionals
• Small class sizes and personalized mentorship
• Qualified faculty with professional counseling and ministry experience
Career Pathways — Track I
• Church and ministry counseling settings
• Family and youth service programs
• Nonprofit and community care centers
• Para-professional counseling and family education roles
Career Pathways — Track II
• Recovery and treatment centers
• Church-based or nonprofit addiction ministries
• Community health and prevention programs
• Rehabilitation and aftercare organizations
