Admission FAQ
1. When do I have to complete the program prerequisites?
Prerequisite coursework may be in progress at the time of application. Students admitted to the program are encouraged to complete all prerequisite courses before entering the program. Students may enter the program without having completed prerequisite courses; however, all prerequisite courses must be completed by the end of the fall semester of the student’s entry year. Students who have not completed all prerequisite courses by this time will not be permitted to enroll in spring semester classes.
2. How do I know if a course I have taken meets the prerequisite requirement?
If you feel you have comparable courses that meet the prerequisite courses, please send the full course name with acronym, course description, course syllabus, and unofficial transcripts to Maricela Ibarra. The information will be forwarded to a faculty member for review.
3. Is the GRE required for admission to the program?
No, we do not require the GRE.
4. How many units can be transferred into the program?
Upon review of the Counseling Department faculty after an applicant has been admitted, up to 8 units may be transferred into the CMHC or School Counseling master's degree program.
5. I've submitted my application. When will I hear back about an interview after I apply?
Candidates will be notified around the end of January if they have been selected for an interview.
6. How much does it cost to apply to the program?
The current CalState Apply fee is $70.
7. I have questions about tuition and scholarships. How do I get more information?
Check out our Financial Aid and Scholarships page for more information.
8. I am looking at the sample plan online for the MFT program at Sonoma State for the 2.5 and 3-year plans and I have taken many of the same foundational courses. I am wondering if the credits I have already earned in my Masters program would be counted for. Is it possible to set up a zoom or phone call to chat further?
Unfortunately, courses that were used toward a degree can not be used toward another degree.
9. Who can I send my transcripts to?
Please go to the How to submit transcripts page for details.
10. How do I fill out the Certificate of Clearance?
Visit the Certificate of Clearance Instructions for Filing page.
11. When is the deadline to submit the Certificate of Clearance?
Certificate of Clearance must be submitted with the program application.
12. Would my BA in Psych possibly override the Abnormal psych course prerequisite and be sufficient?
No (there is no way around the prerequisites).
13. I have a question about licensing.
For any licensing questions, please visit BBS.CA.GOV. The tab called Forms and Publications includes FAQ information that will answer most questions for applicants.
14. My undergraduate degree is from _____in ______. Do I need an undergraduate degree in Psychology to be eligible for admissions?
While a BA or BS degree in psychology or another related social/behavioral science is preferred, you can apply with any BA/BS degree from an accredited university. Admission to the program does not solely depend on your academics, we also look at other relevant experiences (through your letters of recommendation), your performance during the interview, etc.
15. Will I become an MFT after program completion?
Completion of the major core requirements and the CMHC coursework satisfies all academic requirements for MFT and PCC licensure in California.
16. Can I transfer units from another program?
Upon review of the counseling department faculty after an applicant has been admitted, up to 8 units may be transferred into the CMHC or School Counseling master's degree program.
16. How does placement work?
Placement will be talked about in detail once you are admitted to the program. SSU works with many agencies/districts in the surrounding counties.
17. Are some classes online?
There are some online classes, but the program is in-person, all students are expected to attend classes on campus.