Lubbock Christian University (LCU) is launching two new graduate programs beginning in the fall of 2024: the Master of Science in Human Performance (MSHP) and the Marriage, Couple, and Family Therapy (MCFT) emphasis for the Clinical Mental Health Counseling (CMHC) degree.
The MSHP is the first graduate offering of LCU’s Department of Exercise and Sport Science. This advanced degree is developed to prepare students to meet industry demands in high-growth and opportunity careers in human performance, coaching, strength and conditioning, mental performance, and the physical rehabilitation industry.
"We are excited to introduce our MSHP to students and working professionals,” says Dr. Christopher Huggins, Chair of the Department of Exercise and Sport Sciences and instructor in the Master of Science in Human Performance program. "Our program offers a 30-hour non-thesis and 36-hour thesis option with a curriculum designed to provide an applied and comprehensive understanding of the research process, biomechanics, exercise physiology, nutrition, motor learning, strength and conditioning, and performance psychology.”
Dr. Monica J. Hill, Master of Science in Human Performance Program Coordinator and program instructor, says, “This program will equip and prepare graduates to make significant contributions in the sport science and sport performance industries."
The MSHP program is ideal for individuals interested in advancing their coaching, health, or fitness careers. Others who will benefit from this graduate program include those who desire to strengthen their application to professional school, take a gap year, pursue doctoral studies in a related field, or prepare for the Strength and Conditioning certification process. Rigorous coursework and hands-on learning in the MSHP program equip students with the knowledge and skills needed to excel in various roles within the sports industry, healthcare settings, and research institutions.
The second program added to LCU’s robust roster of graduate programs is the Marriage, Couple, and Family therapy emphasis for the Clinical Mental Health Counseling degree.
"Studying marriage, couple, and family therapy is one of the best skills a counselor can have,” explains Dr. Carlos Perez, Chair of LCU’s Department of Behavioral Sciences. “Everything we do is in relationship to other people, and sometimes, we need help in managing our relationships. Marriage, couple, and family therapy is a wholistic approach that studies individuals in the context of their relationships and social environments.”
This addition to LCU’s CMHC offerings is a substantial boon to those aspiring to serve the mental health needs of others. “At LCU, our students in marriage, couple, and family therapy are trained in all aspects of mental health through a range of skills, including active listening, empathy, conflict resolution, and critical thinking,” Dr. Perez explained. “Our students learn to advocate for mental health awareness and policy changes, contributing to broader societal improvements and reduced stigma around mental health issues, all from a Christian perspective.”
There is a shortage of mental health professionals, including marriage and family therapists, as mental health needs and awareness are rising across the United States and wider world. The value of therapy contributes to job security and opportunities in the field.
Classes for each of these new programs begin Fall 2024, joining other recently-launched degree programs like LCU’s first doctoral program, the Clinical Doctor of Nursing Practice, a testament to not only the institution’s momentum, but also the new ways in which LCU seeks to serve the Lubbock community and students from across the United States.
Interested in furthering your career? Learn more about the Master of Science in Human Performance (MSHP)and the Marriage, Couple, and Family Therapy (MCFT) emphasis.