Master of Arts in Christian Psychology (MACP)

Notice: This program is pending approval by SACSOC for closure in 2024.

The Master of Arts in Christian Psychology (MACP) is the first program of its kind in North America. Bringing together the rich theological, spiritual and pastoral care traditions of Christianity with the clinical advances of contemporary psychology, psychotherapy, and counseling, this degree enables a graduate to become a Licensed Psychological Associate (LPA) in Texas (and other states with similar requirements). The MACP and the MA in Christian Counseling programs (MACC) at HCU share 80% of their courses. However, in contrast to the LPC, there is greater emphasis on psychological science (physiological psychology and personality dynamics) and additional courses on psychological assessment.

Along with the MACC, this degree is distinguished by its thorough grounding in a Christian worldview (in contrast to the worldview of naturalism that dominates contemporary psychotherapy and counseling). However, graduates will be trained to practice effectively in both Christian and public mental health settings.

Our 72-hour MACP program includes 12 hours in Christian worldview studies (biblical studies, theology, and philosophy) and 6 hours of spiritual formation training, as well as all of the courses required for LPA, though they too are informed by Christian content, resulting in a program unique in the field of psychology and psychotherapy: Christ-centered, biblically-rooted, and clinically informed.

MACP Degree Plan

For students seeking certification or licensure inside the State of Texas: Programs offered at HCU designed to fulfill the educational requirements for a specific professional licensure or certification do meet the educational requirements for the State of Texas.

For students seeking certification or licensure outside the State of Texas: Students seeking certification or licensure from any state other than Texas should check with their state licensing board to determine eligibility. Houston Christian University has not determined whether their program of study meets the students state licensure requirements. Please check the following link for more information.

Top Reasons to Attend HCU’s MACP Program
1. The first Christian therapy program in North America based on a Christian psychology/worldview orientation, that is Christ-centered, biblically rooted, and clinically informed.
2. Only program in North America that provides “Two-Community training,” equipping graduates 1) how to work uniquely with members of the Christian Community using evidence-based, distinctly Christian clinical practices, in a variety of settings (e.g., churches, private practice, Christian counseling centers, Christian mental health facilities, as well as public mental health settings open to it); as well as 2) how to work with members of the entire “Human Community,” using evidence-based clinical practices common to all, with sensitivity, compassion and wisdom, in public mental health settings of all kinds.
3. Emphasis throughout the curriculum on personal growth and transformation in relation to Christ, self, and others.
4. Scholarships are available based on academic promise and financial need.

Christian Psychology Masters Degree Plan

Masters of Arts in Christian Psychology Requirements