PhD in Marriage and Family Therapy

Brigham Young University (BYU) stands as a distinguished private research university affiliated with The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. BYU has established itself as a prominent institution located in Provo, Utah. With a strong emphasis on combining academic excellence with spiritual growth, the university offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs across diverse fields, including arts, sciences, business, engineering, and more. BYU's unique approach to education blends rigorous academic pursuits with a commitment to fostering moral and ethical values. The campus culture is characterized by a strong sense of community and a dedication to service, creating an environment where students can flourish both intellectually and personally. With a focus on engaging in meaningful research and contributing positively to society, Brigham Young University equips graduates to excel in their chosen careers while upholding principles of faith, integrity, and character.

The program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Marriage and Family Therapy Education of the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy and has three interrelated emphases: Clinical Practice, Teaching and Clinic Supervision, and Research. The PhD program offers two tracks: 1) Academic/Research and 2) Clinical Administration/Private Practice. Electives are offered within each of these categories to help students meet their individual goals. These emphases will be facilitated and directed within an environment of understanding and respect for multicultural diversity. BYU offers two options for the Ph.D. degree in MFT. The first option, for students who already have an MFT master’s degree from an accredited institution, takes approximately three years to complete with the first two years comprising of coursework and clinical hours and the third year primarily focusing on dissertation and internship. The second option is for students with a non-MFT master’s degree program in a clinical field such as Social Work or Counseling Psychology. For this option the students work with their graduate advisor to map out which courses are needed to meet the master’s curriculum and takes approximately one year to complete MFT Master’s Degree curriculum not present in the previous clinical program. The additional courses required of these students allow the students to meet MFT licensing requirements as presented in the Master’s Degree requirements. When all educational requirements for licensure in MFT are completed, they begin the Ph. D. curriculum. In this circumstance, the program may require approximately four years for graduation.