| Course Level: | Bachelor's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Program: | Art & Humanities | |
| Course Duration: | 4 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | Class 12th | |
| Course Level: | Bachelor's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Program: | Art & Humanities | |
| Course Duration: | 4 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | Class 12th | |
Founded: 1971 (Originally part of the California Family Study Center)
Location: Chatsworth, Los Angeles, California, USA
Specialization: Psychology, Marriage & Family Therapy (MFT), Counseling, Organizational Management
Accreditation: Accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC)
Student-Focused: Small class sizes, hands-on training, and experienced faculty
Phillips Graduate University offered master’s and certificate programs in:
Marriage and Family Therapy (MFT)
School Counseling
Clinical Psychology
Organizational Management and Consulting
Note: The university was well known for Marriage and Family Therapy (MFT) programs, preparing students for licensure in California.
Phillips Graduate University permanently closed in 2020 due to financial challenges.
Program Transition: Many of its programs were transferred to Campbellsville University (Kentucky) and other institutions.
Master of Arts (M.A.) in Marriage and Family Therapy (MFT)
Focus: Training for licensure as an MFT in California
Specializations:
MFT with Professional Clinical Counseling (PCC) Option
MFT with Art Therapy
Master of Arts (M.A.) in School Counseling
Focus: Preparing students for counseling roles in K-12 schools
Credential: Pupil Personnel Services (PPS) Credential
Master of Arts (M.A.) in Organizational Management & Consulting
Focus: Leadership, business psychology, and human resources management
Postgraduate Certificate in Executive & Professional Coaching
Postgraduate Certificate in Organizational Consulting
Course Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
M.A. in Marriage and Family Therapy (MFT) |
2 years |
$23,000 – $25,000 |
|
M.A. in MFT with Professional Clinical Counseling (PCC) Option |
2 years |
$23,000 – $25,000 |
|
M.A. in MFT with Art Therapy |
2 years |
$25,000 – $27,000 |
|
M.A. in School Counseling (with Pupil Personnel Services Credential - PPS) |
2 years |
$22,000 – $24,000 |
|
M.A. in Organizational Management & Consulting |
2 years |
$20,000 – $22,000 |
International students applying to Phillips Graduate University were required to meet the following criteria:
Bachelor’s Degree Equivalent: A recognized undergraduate degree (equivalent to a U.S. bachelor's degree)
English Proficiency:
TOEFL iBT: Minimum 80
IELTS: Minimum 6.5
Transcripts Evaluation: Official transcripts evaluated by WES, ECE, or NACES-approved agencies
Statement of Purpose & Letters of Recommendation
Financial Proof: Bank statements or sponsorship documents showing financial capability
Phillips Graduate University primarily offered master’s degree programs, including:
M.A. in Marriage and Family Therapy (MFT)
M.A. in School Counseling (PPS Credential)
M.A. in Organizational Management & Consulting
Note: Phillips did not offer undergraduate or PhD programs.
Phillips Graduate University was authorized to issue the Form I-20, which allowed international students to apply for an F-1 student visa.
F-1 Visa Process:
Receive an I-20 Form after admission
Pay the SEVIS fee ($350)
Schedule a visa interview at the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate
Phillips Graduate University offered master’s and certificate programs, including:
M.A. in Marriage and Family Therapy (MFT)
M.A. in School Counseling (PPS Credential)
M.A. in Organizational Management & Consulting
Note: Phillips did not offer undergraduate or PhD programs.
Applicants needed to complete an online application form via the university’s admissions portal.
Application Fee: ~$50 (Non-refundable)
Applicants had to submit the following documents:
Bachelor’s Degree: From an accredited institution (official transcripts required)
GPA Requirement: Minimum 3.0 GPA (on a 4.0 scale)
Letters of Recommendation: Typically two from professors, employers, or mentors
Statement of Purpose: Explaining career goals and interest in the program
Resume/CV: Highlighting academic and professional experience
For International Students:
English Proficiency:
TOEFL iBT: Minimum 80
IELTS: Minimum 6.5
Transcript Evaluation: Required for foreign degrees (WES, ECE, or NACES-approved agencies)
Financial Proof: Required for F-1 visa applicants
Some programs, especially Marriage and Family Therapy (MFT), required an admissions interview to assess suitability for the program.
Decisions were typically made within 4–6 weeks after submission.
Accepted students received an offer letter and further enrollment instructions.
Students needed to confirm their acceptance and pay an initial deposit.
Tuition payment plans and limited scholarships were available.
Phillips Graduate University followed a rolling admissions process, meaning applications were accepted throughout the year until programs were full.
Phillips Graduate University followed a rolling admissions process, meaning applications were accepted throughout the year until programs were full.
However, most programs had two primary intakes per year:
Fall Intake – Classes started in September
Spring Intake – Classes started in January
Note: Some programs, especially in Marriage and Family Therapy (MFT) and School Counseling, had limited spots and encouraged early application.
Applicants needed to meet the following requirements:
Bachelor’s Degree – From an accredited institution (preferably in psychology, counseling, or related fields)
Minimum GPA – 3.0 GPA (on a 4.0 scale)
Letters of Recommendation – Two professional or academic references
Statement of Purpose – A personal essay explaining career goals and interest in the program
Resume/CV – Highlighting academic and professional experience
For Marriage and Family Therapy (MFT) Applicants:
Some applicants were required to complete an admissions interview as part of the selection process.
International students had additional requirements:
English Proficiency:
TOEFL iBT: Minimum 80
IELTS: Minimum 6.5
Transcript Evaluation: Required for foreign degrees (WES, ECE, or NACES-approved agencies)
Financial Proof: Required for F-1 visa sponsorship
Valid Passport & Visa Documentation
Scholarship Name |
Eligibility |
Award Amount (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Merit-Based Scholarship |
High academic achievement (Minimum 3.5 GPA in undergraduate studies) |
$2,000 – $5,000 |
|
Need-Based Financial Aid |
Students demonstrating financial need (FAFSA required) |
(Partial Tuition Coverage) |
|
Diversity & Inclusion Scholarship |
Underrepresented minority students in counseling & psychology programs |
$1,500 – $3,000 |
|
MFT Program Scholarship |
Students enrolled in the Marriage and Family Therapy (MFT) program |
$2,000 |
|
School Counseling Grant |
Students pursuing an M.A. in School Counseling |
$2,500 |
|
External & Private Scholarships |
Students could apply for outside funding sources (e.g., APA, NASP, Fulbright) |
N/A |
Facility |
Details |
|---|---|
|
Location |
Chatsworth, Los Angeles, California, USA |
|
Campus Type |
Small, urban campus |
|
Library |
Specialized collection for psychology, counseling, and organizational studies |
|
Classrooms |
Small, seminar-style classes for personalized learning |
|
Student Lounge |
Social space for students to relax and network |
|
Technology & Labs |
Computer labs, research support, and online learning resources |
|
Career Services |
Internship support, career counseling, and alumni network |
|
Parking |
Free parking available for students |
Since Phillips Graduate University did not provide on-campus dormitories, students had to arrange off-campus housing in nearby areas like Chatsworth, Northridge, and Woodland Hills.
Accommodation Type |
Features |
Average Monthly Rent (USD) |
Annual Cost (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Shared Apartment |
Private bedroom, shared kitchen & bathroom |
$800 – $1,500 |
$9,600 – $18,000 |
|
Studio Apartment |
Private unit with small kitchen & bath |
$1,200 – $2,000 |
$14,400 – $24,000 |
|
One-Bedroom Apartment |
Private bedroom, living space, full kitchen & bath |
$1,800 – $2,800 |
$21,600 – $33,600 |
Since Phillips was a graduate-only institution, student life was centered around academics, research, and professional growth. Students were primarily working professionals, career changers, or recent graduates seeking advanced degrees in psychology and counseling.
Small Class Sizes: Encouraged close interaction with faculty and peers.
Collaborative Learning Environment: Group projects, case studies, and practical training.
Research & Practical Experience: Emphasis on real-world applications, internships, and counseling practice.
Although Phillips did not have traditional student clubs, it offered professional organizations and networking opportunities, including:
American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy (AAMFT) Student Chapter – Workshops and career guidance for MFT students.
Counseling & Psychology Seminars – Guest lectures from mental health professionals.
Alumni & Career Networking Events – Connecting students with industry experts and former graduates.
Workshops & Conferences – Training sessions on therapy techniques, career development, and mental health trends.
As a small graduate school, Phillips did not have Greek life, sports teams, or large social events. However, students often engaged in:
Study Groups & Peer Support – A strong culture of collaboration.
Mental Health & Wellness Programs – Support groups and stress management workshops.
Community Outreach & Volunteer Work – Involvement in local mental health initiatives.
Casual Gatherings & Networking Mixers – Opportunities to meet classmates in an informal setting.
Located in Chatsworth, Los Angeles, Phillips students had access to:
Nearby Universities – USC, UCLA, and Pepperdine, which hosted public lectures and events.
Outdoor Activities – Hiking, beaches, and parks within an hour’s drive.
Cafés & Restaurants – Local coffee shops and eateries for study sessions.
Cultural Attractions – Museums, theaters, and entertainment options in Los Angeles.
High Employment Rate: The majority of Phillips graduates found jobs within six months of graduation.
Top Career Fields:
Marriage & Family Therapy (MFT)
School Counseling
Clinical Psychology & Mental Health Counseling
Human Resources & Organizational Management
Licensure Preparation: Programs prepared students for California state licensure in therapy and counseling fields.
Phillips Graduate University required students to complete internships and supervised training as part of their programs.
Marriage & Family Therapy (MFT) Internships – Training at mental health clinics, private practices, and hospitals.
School Counseling Internships – Placements in K-12 schools, preparing students for Pupil Personnel Services (PPS) Credential.
Organizational Management Internships – Opportunities in corporate HR, consulting firms, and business leadership roles.
Graduates from Phillips Graduate University secured roles at mental health agencies, schools, hospitals, and private practices. Some top employers included:
Mental Health & Counseling Centers:
The Help Group
Pacific Clinics
Didi Hirsch Mental Health Services
Los Angeles County Department of Mental Health
Schools & Educational Institutions:
Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD)
Charter Schools & Private Schools
Corporate & Organizational Consulting:
HR & Business Consulting Firms
Non-Profit Organizations
Phillips Graduate University provided career guidance through:
Career Counseling & Resume Workshops – Helping students build strong job applications.
Alumni Networking Events – Connecting students with experienced professionals in the field.
Licensure & Certification Support – Assisting MFT and School Counseling students in meeting state requirements.
Marriage & Family Therapists (MFTs): $50,000 – $75,000 per year
School Counselors: $55,000 – $80,000 per year
Clinical & Mental Health Counselors: $45,000 – $70,000 per year
Organizational Consultants: $60,000 – $100,000 per year
Note: Salaries varied based on location, experience, and industry. Many graduates pursued private practice after gaining experience.
Before closing in 2020, Phillips Graduate University had a high acceptance rate due to its specialized focus on graduate programs in psychology, counseling, and organizational management.
Estimated Acceptance Rate: 80–90%
Less Competitive Admissions: Since Phillips was a graduate-only institution, admissions were based on meeting eligibility criteria rather than competition.
Phillips Graduate University focused on holistic admissions, considering:
Bachelor’s Degree (Required) – Minimum 3.0 GPA preferred
Relevant Background – Psychology, counseling, or related fields preferred
Letters of Recommendation – Two required from professors or professionals
Statement of Purpose – Explaining career goals and program interest
Interview (For Some Programs) – Required for Marriage & Family Therapy (MFT) applicants
Note: While the university accepted most qualified applicants, some programs (like MFT) had limited spots, making early application advisable.
If you're looking for similar graduate programs with moderate acceptance rates, consider:
The Chicago School of Professional Psychology – Acceptance Rate ~75%
Pepperdine University (Graduate School of Education & Psychology) – Acceptance Rate ~60%
Alliant International University (California School of Professional Psychology - CSPP) – Acceptance Rate ~85%
Phillips Graduate University was located in Chatsworth, Los Angeles, California, USA before its closure in 2020.
Address:
Phillips Graduate University
19900 Plummer Street
Chatsworth, CA 91311
United States
Nearest City: Los Angeles, California
Nearest Airport: Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) (~35 miles from campus)
Urban Setting: Located in the San Fernando Valley region of Los Angeles.
Professional Environment: The campus was small and designed for graduate students, faculty, and counseling clinics.
Access to Mental Health Agencies: Close to hospitals, schools, and therapy clinics, offering strong internship opportunities.
Nearby Universities: Located near institutions like California State University, Northridge (CSUN) and Pepperdine University.
Note: Phillips Graduate University closed in 2020, and its programs were transferred to Campbellsville University (Kentucky) and other institutions.
