Earlier this year, Seattle University Provost Shane P. Martin announced that the Master of Arts in Couples and Family Therapy (MACFT) program will move to the College of Arts and Sciences effective July 1, 2021.
Due to the changing landscape in theological higher education, Seattle University announced the difficult decision to close Seattle University’s School of Theology and Ministry. While some programs are ending, with teach out plans in place for current students, it was determined that the MACFT program should continue. Building on the strengths of STM’s pastoral counseling program, the program transitioned to training couples and family therapists (2012). The MACFT program achieved Commission on the Accreditation of Marriage and Family Therapy Education (COAMFTE) accreditation in May 2014. After significant review, the university concluded that the program fits best within the College of Arts and Sciences.
David V. Powers, PhD, Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences, said, “The MACFT program aligns with the College’s mission to provide students with an excellent holistic education in the arts, humanities, social sciences, and professional disciplines to develop and nurture a vision for a more just and humane world. They are a welcome addition to our portfolio of graduate programs.”
The College of Arts and Sciences offers seven other graduate programs in arts leadership, criminal justice, kinesiology, nonprofit leadership, psychology, public administration, and social work.
Christie Eppler, PhD, LMFT, Program Director and Professor, said “The MACFT program is excited to continue our work of training compassionate and competent systemic therapists who have the skills to treat clients from across social locations. We look forward to training therapist who bolster clients’ resilience. Couples and family therapy education aligns with the College of Arts and Sciences’ vision to train knowledgeable, creative, and Jesuit-informed graduates. Continuing students will continue to learn from current faculty who interweave faith and culture into clinical care.”
Seattle University is accepting applications to the Master of Arts in Couples and Family Therapy for Fall 2022 and beyond. There is no fee for new applications through Fall 2022.