*This FAQ pertains to the on-campus ACU MMFT program in Abilene, TX.
When is the on-campus Master of Marriage and Family Therapy (MMFT) application deadline?
Early: November 1
Priority: February 1
Standard: August 1 (or until capacity is reached)
Is the on-campus MMFT application and online MMFT application the same?
No, students who are interested in applying for the online MMFT program can click here to begin the application process.
Do you have to have an undergraduate degree in a related field in order to apply?
Are specific prerequisites required?
No prerequisites are required for the MMFT program.
Is there an application fee?
Yes, the $65 application fee can be paid within your application portal.
How many students are accepted each year?
Approximately 15 – 20 students are accepted each year.
What is the minimum GPA and GRE score required to apply?
A 3.0 GPA is required. Students with less than a 3.0 GPA are considered on a case-by-case basis and may be admitted on academic probation. For more information, email the Program Director, Dr. Lisa Merchant at lisa.merchant@acu.edu.
The GRE is not required.
Is an on-campus interview required? Are virtual interviews offered for out-of-state students?
Yes, an interview is required for admission consideration. On-campus interviews are preferred, however, a virtual interview can be arranged for out-of-state students.
When will I be notified of my admission decision?
Applicants who participate in an interview will receive an admissions notification soon after their interview takes place.
Is the program accredited?
Yes, the on-campus MMFT program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Marriage and Family Therapy Education (COAMFTE).
What is the value of COAMFTE accreditation?
Please click here to learn more about the benefits of COAMFTE accreditation.
Are there any dual/joint degree opportunities with other graduate programs?
Yes, in cooperation with the Graduate School of Theology, the MMFT has developed a path whereby the MMFT students can pursue the Master of Arts in Christian Ministry or the Master of Divinity concurrently.
What is the length of the program?
Students complete the MMFT in 2 years. The program is 60 credit hours for non-thesis students and 66 credit hours for students enrolled in the thesis track.
Can students enroll part-time?
Although most students enroll full time, students have enrolled part time and completed the program in 3 years. Please email Dr. Lisa Merchant at lisa.merchant@acu.edu for more information about enrolling part-time.
Can I begin the ACU online MMFT and then transfer to the on-campus version? Or vice versa?
Transferring from one program to the other is done on a case-by-case basis. To discuss transferring, email Dr. Lisa Merchant at lisa.merchant@acu.edu
Does this program prepare students who are also interested in doctoral work?
Yes. ACU MMFT graduates have a high doctoral program acceptance rate. Many of our MMFT students begin doctoral programs immediately after graduating and are very successful.
How many entry terms are offered per year?
Because we use a cohort-model, we only admit students in the fall.
What is the cost of the program?
Standard tuition is $1049 per credit hour. All students are awarded at least a $250 per hour departmental scholarship, though additional funds may be awarded based on GPA or ability to provide Spanish-language therapy. ACU alumni receive a 20% discount from the University. See table for scholarship amounts and total program cost.
Is it possible to work while enrolled in the program?
Yes, students generally work 10-15 hours per week outside employment. Between class, homework, and clinical work, the program is 35-40 hours per week. If you need to work more than 25 hours per week in outside employment, reach out to Dr. Lisa Merchant (lisa.merchant@acu.edu) about part-time options. Classes are scheduled during daytimes (typically 9:00 AM-12:00 PM or 1:00-4:00 PM) Monday through Thursday. Most clinical activity is in the evenings; students are typically in the clinic two nights per week. Students schedule clients based on the student’s availability.
I am deciding between several degree options and disciplines. Can I meet with someone to discuss these career paths and/or attend an open house?
Absolutely! Please contact the Office of Graduate Programs at gradinfo@acu.edu or 325-674-6911 to be connected with the MMFT Program Director and to learn more about Open House events.