M.S. in Marriage, Family, and Child Counseling

Entry requirements for Postgraduate Programs

Application Fees : US$ 70

1. Academic Requirements:

• Applicants must have completed a recognized undergraduate degree from an accredited institution.
• A minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale (or its equivalent) is required. This translates to approximately 60% or above in the grading system.

2. English Language Proficiency:

• IELTS: A minimum overall score of 6.5 with no individual band score less than 6.0.
• TOEFL iBT (Test of English as a Foreign Language - Internet-Based Test): A minimum overall score of 83.
• PTE (Pearson Test of English): A minimum score of 53.
• DET (Duolingo English Test): A minimum score of 105.

California State University, Fresno, is committed to supporting the academic aspirations of international students by offering various scholarships and financial aid opportunities. These scholarships help ease the financial burden of pursuing higher education in the United States. 

1. International Student Scholarship: Fresno State offers merit-based scholarships specifically for international students. These scholarships are awarded based on academic achievement and may cover a significant portion of tuition costs.

2. Dean's Graduate Medal: This scholarship is awarded to the top graduate student from each academic college at Fresno State. It recognizes outstanding academic achievement and contributions to the college.

3. President's Graduate Medal: The President's Graduate Medal is the highest honor for a graduate student at Fresno State. It is awarded to a graduate student who has demonstrated exceptional scholarship, leadership, and service.

4. Graduate Equity Fellowship: The Graduate Equity Fellowship is designed to support underrepresented and economically disadvantaged graduate students. It provides financial assistance and mentoring to help students succeed in their academic pursuits.

5. Athletic Scholarships: Fresno State offers athletic scholarships to talented student-athletes. These scholarships are typically awarded to individuals who excel in specific sports and contribute to the university's athletic programs.

6. External Scholarships: International students can also explore external scholarship opportunities, including those offered by government agencies, private organizations, and foundations in their home countries.

7. Departmental Scholarships: Some academic departments at Fresno State may offer scholarships to graduate students in specific fields of study. These scholarships often have specific eligibility criteria and application processes.

8. Fulbright Scholarships: Fresno State participates in the Fulbright Program, which offers scholarships for international students to study, teach, or conduct research in the United States. Applicants can apply for Fulbright scholarships through the Fulbright Commission or U.S. Embassy in their home country.

9. Cultural and Exchange Program Scholarships: Fresno State may offer scholarships to international students participating in cultural exchange programs or partnership agreements with specific universities and organizations.

10. Research and Teaching Assistantships: Graduate students may have opportunities to work as research or teaching assistants, which often come with a stipend and/or tuition remission.

Tips for Scholarship Application:

• Applicants should pay close attention to scholarship application deadlines and ensure that all required documents are submitted on time.
• Strong academic performance, letters of recommendation, a well-written personal statement, and a demonstrated commitment to community involvement and leadership can enhance scholarship application chances.

Graduates of the M.S. in Marriage, Family, and Child Counseling program at California State University, Fresno, are prepared for fulfilling and impactful careers in the field of counseling.  

1. Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT): Graduates can pursue licensure as LMFTs, allowing them to work in private practice or clinical settings, providing counseling to individuals, couples, and families.

2. School Counselor: Some graduates choose to work in K-12 schools, providing counseling services to students, addressing academic, social, and emotional issues.

3. Substance Abuse Counselor: Those interested in addiction counseling can pursue roles as substance abuse counselors, helping individuals and families recover from substance use disorders.

4. Clinical Supervisor: Experienced counselors may become clinical supervisors, overseeing the work of other counselors and ensuring the quality of client care.

5. Crisis Intervention Counselor: Graduates can work in crisis intervention and mental health agencies, providing support to individuals and families facing acute emotional crises.

6. Community Mental Health Counselor: Counselors may work in community mental health centers, offering a range of counseling services to diverse populations.

7. Family Therapist: Specializing in family therapy, graduates can address complex family dynamics and relationships, helping families navigate challenges and improve their communication.

8. Private Practice: Many counselors choose to establish their own private practices, offering counseling services independently.

9. Researcher and Educator: Graduates interested in research and education may pursue roles as educators in academic settings or engage in research related to counseling and family therapy.

10. Nonprofit and Advocacy Work: Some counselors may work in nonprofit organizations focused on mental health advocacy and support for families in need.

11. EAP Counselor: Employee Assistance Program (EAP) counselors provide counseling services to employees and their families, often in workplace settings.