Frequently Asked Questions
If your question isn't answered below, we invite you to contact us with questions about our educational programs, special events and resources.
Below are some frequently asked questions about the Master of Arts Degree program.
Does the LIOS MA/ABS in systems counseling meet state licensing requirements?
LIOS curriculum currently meets state of Washington requirements for licensing as a Mental Health Counselor, and meets curriculum requirements for licensing as a Marriage and Family Therapist with the addition of one elective course, also offered by LIOS. Graduates who are licensed as a Marriage and Family Therapist with the state of Washington qualify for membership with the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy (AAMFT).
For information relating to post-Master's degree licensing requirements contact the Washington State Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS) - Mental Health Division at http://www1.dshs.wa.gov/mentalhealth/dohlicensing.shtml.
Licensure information for Marriage and Family therapists is found at https://fortress.wa.gov/doh/hpqa1/hps7/Marriage_Family_Therapist/default.htm.
For Mental Health Counselors at https://fortress.wa.gov/doh/hpqa1/hps7/Mental_Health_Counselor/default.htm.
Students planning to practice in other states or provinces should contact the appropriate organizations of those regions. Some states and provinces may require additional course work to meet certification standards. As always, because requirements may change, it is the responsibility of the student to research the specific requirements of the organization from which the student is seeking credentials. LIOS will work with students to help them meet these requirements through independent studies.
Can I transfer credits to LIOS from other educational institutions?
Like most graduate programs, the LIOS/Bastyr program is self-contained. Courses may not be transferred from other colleges or universities.
What if I want to pursue both tracks?
Some students want the benefits and experience offered through both tracks. To do this, students must complete one track and return for a second. This becomes a four-year program, resulting in two degrees.
When can I start? How long does it take to complete the LIOS degree program?
Students may enter the LIOS Master's degree program in fall or winter. No matter the entry point, the graduate program offers the same curriculum content and contact hours, differing only in schedule and faculty. Fall and winter entries deliver curriculum in seven modules each year. Course work is normally completed in six quarters, or within two years. On occasion students require additional time to complete their projects.
How will I be graded?
Grades are issued on a quarterly basis. The LIOS Master's degree program is competency-based. Students are evaluated in a structured way at regular intervals. Grades are as follows: achieved competency, partial competency, incomplete, failed, in progress. An achieved competency grade is equivalent to a "B" or better grade in a traditional educational setting.
Why are LIOS classes in modules?
A key aspect of LIOS experiential education is the modular format of class delivery. Modular classes are scheduled for a sequence of days (four to five in a row), with residential stays encouraged for the duration of the module. This format provides an environment that fosters community growth and development, helps to build trust, and encourages learning without outside distractions. Modular course work takes the student out of known contexts and relationships, and immerses them in an educational experience that is transformative and enriching.
What do students do after graduation? How does the ABS degree help?
LIOS alums pursue very diverse post-graduate paths. The LIOS/Bastyr degree is highly respected and may help to earn a promotion, to launch a new career or to increase confidence in a current position. Many go into private practice or start their own businesses. Most enter the fields of counseling, managing and leading, or consulting. In an alumni survey sent to graduates in 2003, 70 percent reported an increase in income, and 87 percent reported an increase in their sense of well-being. Over 90 percent reported using the skills LIOS teaches often or most of the time in their personal and professional lives. In addition, students from LIOS have gone on to earn doctorates from Yale, Purdue, USC, University of Washington, University of Cincinnati, Rutgers, the Fielding Institute and more.
Below is a selected list of titles and positions LIOS alumni hold:
Titles: Marriage & Family Therapist, Case Manager, Administrator, Consultant (external and internal), Mental Health Counselor, Training and Development Specialist, Professional Coach, HR Consultant, Executive Director, Director of Diversity, Project Manager, Politician, Career Counselor, Director of Strategic Planning, Director of Public Relations, Business Relations Manager, Business owner, etc.
Fields: marketing, education, organizational development, human resources, counseling, banking, IT, health care, communications, not-for-profit, government, non-governmental, children and family services, law, community and corporate development, etc.
What are the prerequisites for the Master of Arts Degree program?
Applicants must have completed an undergraduate degree from an accredited college or university prior to admission, and must complete a statistics exam by an established deadline within the first year of course work. LIOS offers substantial assistance in passing the statistics prerequisite.
Is residency required for all modules?
Full-residency is required for two modules each year. Partial-residency is available for remaining modules. The residential module format is designed to nurture a learning community, and full-residency is highly recommended by faculty, students and alumni.
First year Systems Counseling Track students attend four mini-modules each year. These modules are not residential.
What if I want to change my track or program?
Due to the integrated nature of the LIOS program, transferring between programs and/or tracks may require repeating some curriculum and/or additional course work, and additional tuition and fees. In some cases, graduation may be delayed.