Master of Arts in Cultural and Family Studies

Return to: Academic Programs Offered at Pacific Oaks College

Locations 

Pasadena, Online, and off-campus locations 

*The availability of off-campus locations depends on enrollment. 

Total Credit Hours Required

31 credits

Maximum Allowable Transfer Credits

Transfer credit and waiver of courses are not acceptable in the MA Cultural and Family Studies program

Program Admissions Requirements

Program-Specific Admissions Requirements can be found here: Admissions Policies  

Program Disclosures for Licensure

The MA in Cultural & Family Studies is not a clinical degree program and will not meet the educational requirements for CA BBS to apply for a license in Marriage and Family Therapy (MFT) or Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC). 

Tuition and Fees

Tuition and Fees for the College and individual programs can be found here: Tuition and Fees

Number of Admit Terms per Year

Pasadena: 3

• Fall 
• Spring
• Summer

Program Overview and Philosophy

The MA in Cultural and Family Studies (MA CFS) at Pacific Oaks College is designed to enhance career opportunities and promote professional growth for individuals dedicated to understanding and supporting families within their cultural contexts. Grounded in social justice principles, this program prepares graduates to be culturally intelligent agents of change. The curriculum emphasizes the holistic development of individuals and families across the lifespan, equipping students with the knowledge and skills to address complex social and cultural issues. The program culminates in a Capstone Project, allowing students to synthesize and apply their learning in a meaningful way. 

The MA in Cultural & Family Studies is not a clinical degree program and will not meet the educational requirements for CA BBS to apply for a license in Marriage and Family Therapy (MFT) or Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC). 

Program Delivery Modalities 

The MA in Cultural & Family Studies Program delivery modality is in-person/hybrid (Pasadena-based).  

In-person/Hybrid 

Full-time MA CFS students are expected to attend two courses per semester at the Pasadena campus. This format offers the experience of face-to-face professional theory and skill training. The third class uses a real-time videoconferencing application or software for class meetings that provides live interaction and training in how to conduct virtual meetings.  This helps support a new skill set for providing online mental health services in professional clinical agencies and the private practice community. Part-time students’ schedule will vary per semester.

Expectations for Hybrid and Synchronous Online (live virtual) Format:  

• Hybrid and Synchronous Online students are expected to have their camera on at all times. Reasonable exceptions to this requirement may be considered. Permission to be off camera must receive prior approval from the instructor. 
• Students must participate in the course by using the chat feature or having the professor note participation through verbal engagement. 
•  Attendance, including late arrival or early exit, will be documented by the instructor and can affect the final grade, including potentially leading to not passing the class.
• Distracting noises or other environmental issues (such as walking around outside or speaking to others in the virtual area) will prevent students from receiving credit for class attendance. 
• To participate, students must be sure to have stable internet access. 

Program Learning Outcomes (PLO)

PLO 1: Demonstrate Effective Oral and Written Communication 

Students will be proficient in both oral and written communication, which are essential for professional success in the field of Cultural and Family Studies. They will be able to articulate ideas clearly and persuasively in various formats, including reflection papers, research projects, and presentations. This competency ensures they can effectively convey complex concepts to diverse audiences. 

PLO 2: Examine Cultural and Diversity Issues within the Field of Psychology and Family Studies 

Students will develop a deep understanding of cultural and diversity issues, critically examining how these factors influence psychological and family dynamics. Through coursework and research, they will explore the impact of culture, ethnicity, gender, and socioeconomic status on individual and family behavior, preparing them to work effectively in multicultural environments. 

PLO 3: Identify and Apply Current Research Methods 

Students will be adept at identifying, analyzing, and applying current research methods relevant to Cultural and Family Studies. They will be equipped to conduct original research, evaluate existing studies, and utilize research findings to inform practice and policy. This outcome ensures they can contribute to the evidence base of the field. 

PLO 4: Develop an Understanding of the Principles and Theories of Human and Family Development 

Students will gain comprehensive knowledge of the principles and theories related to human and family development. They will learn how developmental processes affect individuals, couples, and family relationships across the lifespan. This understanding is crucial for implementing effective interventions and support strategies. 

PLO 5: Develop Familiarity with Cross-Cultural Mores and Values 

Students will become familiar with the mores and values of different cultures, understanding how these cultural frameworks shape behaviors, traditions, and family structures. This knowledge enables them to provide culturally sensitive and appropriate services to diverse populations, promoting respect and inclusion. 

PLO 6: Use Critical and Creative Thinking, Skeptical Inquiry, and a Scientific Approach to Address Issues Related to Behavior and Mental Processes 

Students will be trained to think critically and creatively, employing skeptical inquiry and scientific methods to solve problems related to behavior and mental processes. They will develop the ability to analyze situations from multiple perspectives, formulate evidence-based solutions, and challenge assumptions in the field. 

PLO 7: Apply Psychological Principles to Individual, Interpersonal, Group, and Societal Issues 

Students can apply psychological principles to a wide range of contexts, including individual, interpersonal, group, and societal issues. They will use their knowledge to address and resolve challenges faced by individuals and communities, enhancing well-being, and promoting positive change. 

Program Specific Requirements

The Master of Arts in Cultural and Family Studies is a 31-credit graduate degree program that includes courses from the MFT program. The final component of the program is a Capstone Writing Project. A full-time student taking (3) three courses per semester will finish in four semesters. A part-time student taking (2) two courses per semester will complete the program in six semesters. This is a year-round program, including enrollment in summer.  Attendance includes fall and spring 16-week semesters and a 12-week summer semester. 

The MA in Cultural & Family Studies is not a clinical degree program and will not meet the educational requirements for CA BBS to apply for a license in Marriage and Family Therapy (MFT) or Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC). 

Residency Requirement

Students are expected to fulfill all degree requirements through courses offered at Pacific Oaks College.

Course Length

Please refer to the program course and delivery section found here: Academic Calendar

Graduation Requirements

Students must submit the Petition for Degree Completion and fee to the Office of the Registrar during the semester before they anticipate completing their degree requirements. Students must also settle all outstanding fees with the Student Accounts Office, satisfy any deficiencies, and be in good standing in their program for the bachelor’s degree to be awarded.

Please Note: A cumulative grade point average of 3.0 is required for graduation.