Graduate Programs
Advance Your Calling. Deepen Your Impact.
You’ve built a strong foundation. Now it’s time to reach higher. ACU’s graduate programs combine academic excellence with biblical wisdom, preparing servant-leaders who transform their fields from the inside out. Whether you’re advancing in education, counseling, or ministry, your next level starts here.
Programs That Transform Leaders
Master of Science in Marriage & Family Therapy (MSMFT)
On Campus • 60 Credit Hours
Prepare to bring healing to relationships through clinically excellent, biblically-grounded therapy. Our COAMFTE-accredited program combines rigorous clinical training with integration of faith and practice.
- Specialization available: Families with Disabilities
- Pathway to licensure as an LMFT
- On-site training clinic for real experience
Master of Arts in Education
Online • 30 Credit Hours
Elevate your educational impact with specialized tracks designed for working educators:
- Instructional Leadership: Shape schools and educational systems
- Teaching & Learning: Master advanced pedagogical strategies
- Convenient 8-week terms
- Designed for full-time teachers
Master of Arts in Christian Leadership
Online • 36 Credit Hours
Develop advanced ministry competencies while remaining in your current role:
- Biblical scholarship for real-world application
- Leadership theory meets Kingdom practice
- Network with ministry leaders nationwide
- Flexible scheduling for bi-vocational ministers
Graduate Admission Simplified
Basic Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree from accredited institution
- 3.0 GPA preferred (exceptions considered)
- Faith commitment aligned with ACU’s mission
- Program-specific requirements (see below)
Application Process:
- Complete online graduate application
- Submit official transcripts from all institutions
- Provide 3 professional references
- Write purpose statement (500 words)
- Complete program-specific requirements
- Interview with faculty (some programs)
Program-Specific Requirements
MSMFT Program:
- Background check and fingerprinting
- Clinical readiness interview
- Demonstration of emotional maturity
- Commitment to full-time study
Education Programs:
- Current teaching certificate (preferred)
- Classroom experience
- Technology proficiency for online learning
Christian Leadership:
- Ministry experience (paid or volunteer)
- Pastoral recommendation
- Writing sample (sermon, lesson, or paper)
Investment in Your Future
Tuition Rates (2025-2026):
- MSMFT: $690 per credit hour
- Education (Online): $550 per credit hour
- Christian Leadership (Online): $550 per credit hour
Financial Support:
- Federal loans available for qualified students
- Grad PLUS loans for additional funding
- Ministry scholarships for Christian Leadership
- Employer reimbursement (especially education)
- Payment plans for remaining balance
Why ACU for Graduate Studies?
Integration That Matters
We don’t just add a Bible verse to secular content. Every program fundamentally integrates biblical truth with professional practice, creating graduates who think Christianly about their field.
Faculty Who Mentor
Learn from scholar-practitioners who’ve succeeded in their fields and remain committed to developing the next generation. Small cohorts mean real relationships with professors.
Flexibility for Real Life
- Online programs designed for working professionals
- Evening classes for on-campus programs
- Supportive community understands adult responsibilities
- Technology that works for busy schedules
Practical Application
Every program emphasizes immediate application:
- MSMFT: Clinical hours in our training center
- Education: Implement strategies in your current classroom
- Leadership: Apply concepts in your ministry context
The Graduate Experience
Small Cohort Community
Form deep bonds with fellow professionals who share your values and understand your challenges. These relationships often last throughout careers.
Academic Rigor With Grace
Challenging coursework that respects your experience while pushing you to grow. Professors who maintain high standards while supporting your success.
Spiritual Formation Continues
Graduate chapel options, prayer support, and integration of faith throughout your studies keep spiritual growth central to academic advancement.
Success Stories
“The MSMFT program gave me clinical excellence and spiritual depth. I’m not just treating symptoms—I’m helping restore God’s design for families.” – Licensed Therapist, MSMFT Graduate
“My Education degree transformed my classroom. The biblical worldview perspective helped me see teaching as ministry, not just a job.” – Principal, M.A. Education
“Staying in ministry while earning my degree was challenging but possible. Now I lead with greater confidence and biblical depth.” – Senior Pastor, M.A. Christian Leadership
Is Graduate School Right for You?
Consider ACU graduate programs if you’re:
- Ready to advance in your current field
- Seeking deeper integration of faith and practice
- Called to greater leadership responsibility
- Wanting credentials that open new doors
- Hungry for intellectual and spiritual growth
Next Steps
Don’t wait another year wondering if you should pursue graduate education. Connect with us to explore how our programs align with your calling.
Schedule a Conversation
Speak with program directors about your goals:
- MSMFT: [email protected]
- Education: [email protected]
- Christian Leadership: [email protected]
Attend an Information Session
Virtual sessions monthly for each program
Meet faculty, current students, and alumni
Apply Today
Application fee waived for early applicants
Start Graduate Application
General Graduate Admissions
Phone: (602) 489-5300
Email: [email protected]
Your influence is already significant. Your potential is even greater. At ACU, graduate education isn’t about collecting degrees—it’s about multiplying your Kingdom impact. Take the next step in your calling.
