Searching for the right Master in Marriage and Family Therapy program may feel overwhelming when you first start looking. With so many options, it can be difficult to know which programs are right for you and which will provide you with the best education and job opportunities overall. An important first step you can take towards furthering your education by obtaining an MFT master’s degree is choosing an accredited school. COAMFTE-accredited schools are a great choice when deciding which program to attend.
What Is a COAMFTE-accredited MFT Master’s Program?
To become a licensed marriage and family therapist, you must go through a qualifying accredited master’s degree program and subsequent licensure process. One good option for obtaining a degree is to find a program accredited by the COAMFTE. The COAMFTE is recognized as providing quality assurance to higher education marriage and family therapy graduate programs and schools. The COAMFTE quality assurance process is a public service that aims to maintain and improve the quality of education. In order to become COAMFTE-accredited, MFT programs go through a rigorous, multi-year process to meet the set quality standards. Once they are accredited, however, this means that they have met the standards for a top-notch education. If you want to go through school to become a marriage and family therapist, it might be a good idea to seek a COAMFTE-accredited MFT program.
A licensed marriage and family therapist is a mental health professional that is trained in a number of complex subjects regarding relationships, psychology, and human behavior. MFTs are able to evaluate, diagnose, and treat mental and emotional health disorders with their licensure. Students will find the comprehensive education and licensure process to be rigorous but necessary for preparing them for a future of helping families and individuals lead better lives. Although the coursework at a COAMFTE-accredited school can vary a little between different schools and states, there is a notable amount of consistency in regard to the content of the coursework that students will take. This coursework will typically include, but is not limited to:
- Psychopathology: The scientific study of mental health disorders.
- Family therapy: A type of psychological counseling that can help families resolve conflict and improve their communication.
- Psychology: The scientific study of the mind and behavior.
- Cultural competency: The awareness of one’s own cultures and beliefs as well as the awareness and respect of cultures and beliefs of others in the world.
- Human sexuality: The biological, emotional, social, psychological, emotional, and spiritual ways humans experience and express themselves sexually.
- Sociology: The organization and structure of social groups and the relationships within them.
- Child development: The study of how children change and grow over the course of childhood as well as how their experiences affect their development.
- Substance abuse and addiction: The study of the causes and consequences of drug use and addiction as well as possible methods for healing.
- Case management: Also known as care coordination, MFT students will learn about the types and stages of case management and how it contributes to the health and social care of people with complex needs.
- Intersectionality: The natural connection between aspects of social categorization such as race, class, and gender, as well as how they overlap and how such intersections create systems of disadvantages or discrimination.
- Trauma-informed care: An approach in the human services field that strategizes to assume that individuals have experienced trauma as opposed to the other way around, as those who have trauma may display symptoms that affect their behavior.
- And more subtopics within the above curriculum.
COAMFTE MFT Program Licensure Steps
After earning your master’s degree in marriage and family therapy, you will need to become licensed through your chosen COAMFTE-accredited MFT program. This process generally takes about 3000 hours over a period of 104 weeks. While the MFT licensing process differs by state, there is a general process you can expect to go through.
- Obtain a master’s degree through a COAMFTE-accredited school. This will typically take you about two to three years to achieve, and you can usually earn your degree online, in-person, or a combination of the two. Before entering your master’s program, however, you will need to earn a qualifying bachelor’s degree. For more information on that process, please see the section titled “Requirements to Enroll in a COAMFTE-accredited Masters in MFT Program”.
- Register as an AMFT (Associate Marriage and Family Therapist). This step is usually done through an application which varies by state. Your program will have more information on this process.
- Undergo a criminal background check and Livescan (fingerprinting).
- Accrue hours of supervised experience. Becoming an associate marriage and family therapist and gaining clinical experience under the supervision of a licensed MFT is an important step after your formal education in the classroom. This is the step that will get you real-world experience with real clients, and with the supervision of a licensed practitioner, you can problem-solve and learn more effectively so that once you are licensed, you will enter the field confidently.
- Pass the LMFT clinical exam. The Association of Marital and Family Therapy Regulatory Boards encourages all MFT students to read the Handbook for Candidates in order to prepare for the exam.
- Earn your official license.
- Gain employment as a licensed marriage and family therapist.
Why Choose A COAMFTE-accredited School for My MFT Program?
The importance of choosing a COAMFTE-accredited MFT program cannot be understated. In fact, in some states, graduates of a COAMFTE-accredited program perform better on the licensing exam than graduates of non-accredited programs. Accreditation means that certain organizations of professionals within the US have set certain quality standards for schools to meet. To obtain COAMFTE accreditation, schools must undergo a quality review by professional teams who stem from academia and relevant industries. Therefore, schools with accreditation status are more likely to ensure that you are receiving a high-quality education that will prepare you for your future career. Additionally, an accredited school allows you to receive any state and federal financial aid for which you qualify and allows you to pursue licensure once you have graduated, which is necessary to practice as a marriage and family therapist.
There are many other reasons to attend a school that is COAMFTE-accredited that benefit students like yourself, including:
- Transferability of coursework, clinical hours, and credits completed among other programs that are accredited by COAMFTE. This means that should you decide to change to a different COAMFTE-accredited school, you won’t lose the progress you have made in your program.
- License portability. Once you are licensed as a marriage and family therapist, if you decide to move States, you will likely have an easier time meeting each state’s requirements. This is because most states specify that you had to have graduated from a COAMFTE-accredited school — or its “equivalent” — to be licensed in that state. Depending on the state, proving equivalency to a COAMFTE-accredited education may be easy or difficult and require additional coursework. Meanwhile, the COAMFTE accreditation guarantees that every state will presume that you have met the educational standards needed for licensure.
- Employment eligibility. Many places of employment recognize that COAMFTE-accredited programs provide high-quality education, and thus employers will recognize that you are adequately and competently prepared to enter the workforce as an LMFT. Additionally, some places of employment, such as the Department of Veteran Affairs, will only allow you to advance your career if you have graduated from an MFT program accredited by COAMFTE.
What Will You Learn in a COAMFTE-accredited MFT Program?
Once your courses have begun in your accredited MFT program, you will generally graduate within the span of 24-42 months, which includes coursework, clinical practice hours, and exam preparation. One way is not better than the other. It really just depends on what is best for your individual circumstances.
Standard Curriculum
Although each accredited MFT MA program varies slightly if the school you chose offers a variety of concentrations, the COAMFTE accreditation standards ensure consistency among programs, as there is an overall general knowledge that students will need to become familiar with in order to perform the job of an MFT adequately. Each program will consist of a variation of the following:
- The knowledge of social justice issues and demonstrable application of said knowledge. This is important due to the wide population that you will be serving that may be experiencing a number of issues that you may or may not have experienced yourself.
- The real-world analysis, understanding, and application of theoretical concepts as related to family and social issues. This is important because learning in a classroom is one thing, and applying it in real life is another. These are both important skills that you will learn within your program.
- Utilizing therapeutic theory and evidence-based techniques to a variety of groups and individuals that may be experiencing a range of mental health issues in a number of settings. These settings could include hospitals, private practices, mental health clinics, and more.
- Applying decision-making skills using significant knowledge of legal and ethical standards across a range of practice settings and service contexts. Privacy, for example, is an important legal and ethical standard that you will learn about and need to follow as an LMFT to protect your patient’s privacy.
The following courses can be expected by a COAMFTE-accredited MFT program in order to meet the above learning objectives:
- Developmental psychology, including childhood development and human sexuality.
- Psychopathology, family therapy, and trauma-informed care.
- Sociology, including intersectionality and cultural competency.
- Professional ethics and law.
- Substance abuse and addiction.
Requirements to Enroll in a COAMFTE-accredited Master in MFT Program
There are several important prerequisites that you will encounter when undergoing the application process for an MFT program. Being aware of them ahead of time can help you prepare so that you can meet the program application deadlines without too much stress.
Bachelor’s Degree for Masters
The most important of the COAMFTE-accredited MFT program enrollment prerequisites are that you have obtained a bachelor’s degree. To set yourself up for success, and to expedite the process by avoiding having to complete additional general education courses, you may wish to have completed a bachelor’s degree in fields such as social work, psychology, nursing, counseling, or education. Sometimes, though, you can apply for programs with an unrelated bachelor’s degree by taking the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) or by applying to schools with a more holistic standard of admission.
Application
Each school generally has a window at which time you can apply for the master’s in marriage and family therapy program. It’s important that you are prepared to submit the correct information within this window. Generally, most of the information you will need is consistent across all schools, even if some program requirements may vary. The general program application requirements may include:
- A personal statement or essay.
- Two to four letters of recommendation from professional references.
- Professional or academic resume.
- An interview with the university.
- A GRE (graduate record examination). Not all schools require this.
GRE Requirements for COAMFTE-Accredited MFT Programs
A GRE is a standardized exam that is intended to help universities identify students that are prepared for graduate-level studies by providing an objective measure for the schools to compare the applicants of each program. However, many schools that do require a GRE will waive the exam for some applicants if they meet certain criteria, such as:
- Having reached a certain GPA in their undergraduate program
- Having another graduate degree in a different field
- Having extensive relevant professional experience
That being said, some MFT programs don’t require a GRE at all and instead look at other requirements such as the ones outlined above. It’s up to you which programs you apply for.
How to Find a COAMFTE-accredited MFT Program
While there are many great schools out there to consider when pursuing MA MFT programs accredited by the COAMFTE, there are some features within each university you might want to look at to ensure that the school you choose is able to meet your individual circumstances.
Cost Considerations
Generally, you may find that the costs for a COAMFTE-accredited MFT program will be approximately between $27,000-$41,000. However, costs depend on the school you choose to attend, as well as how quickly you complete the program, and individual session costs. Additionally, there may be other fees included, such as the cost of books and other materials. That being said, there are many private and federal financial aid programs for which you can apply. A good first step might be to talk to the financial advisor at the schools you wish to attend to see what they recommend.
When you begin the MFT program application process, be sure to fill out the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid), and continue to renew the form each year that you are in school. The benefit of attending a COAMFTE-accredited program is that you can have the peace of mind of knowing that you will receive any money you qualify for through the FAFSA.
Online, In-Person, or Hybrid Attendance
Many people who are seeking a higher education often are already involved in full-time careers or have families that keep them busy. Luckily, there are options for students in all kinds of circumstances in the educational world. Lots of universities that offer online and hybrid courses for their MFT program have gone through COAMFTE accreditation.
- Online attendance – By working through your accredited MFT program online, you can take advantage of the flexibility to stay involved in other aspects of your life, such as work and family, without having to commute to a classroom every day. However, it’s important to note that, in an MFT program, you will not be able to complete your supervised clinical hours online, and will have to find an internship within your city or town to do this.
- Hybrid attendance – For those who enjoy the classroom setting, but can’t be there full-time, a hybrid program may be for you. MFT programs that offer hybrid attendance have many of the same benefits as both online and in-person courses.
- In-person attendance – Whether the benefit comes from socializing and having discussions with other students or having a teacher directly present, some students benefit from working on their courses full-time in a classroom. Going through an MFT program in person can be helpful in terms of access to your professors, especially if you aren’t prone to digital communication and like to have face-to-face discussions, especially for such a comprehensive program.
COAMFTE Accredited Marriage and Family Therapy Programs
COAMFTE is the leading accreditation for Marriage and Family Therapy programs. See below for a complete list of programs and schools that are COAMFTE accredited.| Name | City | State | Degree Level | GRE Required? | Full Program Name | URL |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| University of Winnipeg (MMFT) | Winnipeg | AK | Masters | No | Marriage & Family Therapy Program | Learn More |
| Auburn University (MS) | Auburn | AL | Masters | No | Master of Science in MFT | Learn More |
| The University of Alabama | Tuscaloosa | AL | Masters | No | Masters in Marriage and Family Therapy | Learn More |
| Arizona State University | Tempe, | AZ | Masters | No | Marriage and Family Therapy, MAS | Learn More |
| Northcentral University | Scottsdale | AZ | Masters | No | Masters in Marriage and Family Therapy | Learn More |
| Alliant International University - Irvine | Irvine | CA | Masters | No | MA in Marital and Family Therapy | Learn More |
| Alliant International University - Los Angeles (MA) | Alhambra | CA | Masters | No | MA in Marital and Family Therapy | Learn More |
| Alliant International University - Sacramento (MA) | Sacramento | CA | Masters | No | MA in Marital and Family Therapy | Learn More |
| Alliant International University - San Diego | San Diego | CA | Masters | No | MA in Marital and Family Therapy | Learn More |
| Alliant International University - Irvine | Irvine | CA | Doctoral | No | PsyD in Marital and Family Therapy | Learn More |
| Bethel Seminary (MA) | San Diego | CA | Masters | No | MA in Marriage and Family Therapy | Learn More |
| California State University, Northridge | Northridge | CA | Masters | Yes | Master of Science in Marriage & Family Therapy | Learn More |
| Campbellsville University | Chatsworth | CA | Masters | N/A | M.A. Marriage and Family Therapy | Learn More |
| Chapman University | Orange | CA | Masters | Yes | M.A. Marriage and Family Therapy | Learn More |
| Hope International University (MA) | Fullerton | CA | Masters | No | MA in Marriage and Family Therapy | Learn More |
| Loma Linda University | Loma Linda | CA | Doctoral | No | Doctor of Marital and Family Therapy | Learn More |
| Loma Linda University | Loma Linda | CA | Masters | No | MS in Marital and Family Therapy | Learn More |
| Loma Linda University | Loma Linda | CA | Doctoral | Yes | Systems, Families, and Couples (PhD) | Learn More |
| Northcentral University | San Diego | CA | Masters | No | MA in Marriage and Family Therapy | Learn More |
| Northcentral University | San Diego | CA | Doctoral | No | Doctor of philosophy in Marriage and Family Therapy | Learn More |
| Pacific Oaks College | San Jose | CA | Masters | N/A | Master’s in Marriage and Family Therapy | Learn More |
| Pacific Oaks College | Pasadena | CA | Masters | N/A | M.A. Marriage and Family Therapy: African American Family Studies Specialization | Learn More |
| Pacific Oaks College | Pasadena | CA | Masters | N/A | M.A. Marriage and Family Therapy: Latinx Family Studies Specialization | Learn More |
| Pacific Oaks College | Pasadena | CA | Masters | N/A | M.A. Marriage and Family Therapy: LGBTQIA+ Studies Specialization | Learn More |
| Pacific Oaks College | San Jose | CA | Masters | N/A | M.A. Marriage and Family Therapy: Trauma Studies Specialization | Learn More |
| San Diego State University | San Diego | CA | Masters | No | MA in Marriage and Family Therapy | Learn More |
| Touro University Worldwide | Los Alamitos | CA | Masters | No | MA in Marriage and Family Therapy | Learn More |
| University of San Diego | San Diego | CA | Masters | No | MA in Marriage and Family Therapy | Learn More |
| University of San Francisco | San Francisco | CA | Masters | N/A | Marriage & Family Therapy, MA | Learn More |
| University of the West | Rosemead | CA | Masters | Yes | Marriage & Family Therapy, MA | Learn More |
| Regis University | Thornton | CO | Masters | No | MA in Marriage and Family Therapy | Learn More |
| University of Colorado Denver | Denver | CO | Masters | No | MA in Marriage and Family Therapy | Learn More |
| Colorado State University | Fort Collins | CO | Masters | No | MS in Marriage and Family Therapy | Learn More |
| University of Colorado Denver | Colorado | CO | Masters | Yes | MA, Couple, Marriage and Family Therapy | Learn More |
| Regis University | Colorado | CO | Masters | Yes | M.A. Marriage and Family Therapy | Learn More |
| Southern Connecticut State University | New Haven | CT | Masters | No | M.S. in Marriage and Family Therapy | Learn More |
| University of Saint Joseph | West Hartford | CT | Masters | No | M.A. in Marriage and Family Therapy | Learn More |
| Central Connecticut State University | New Britain | CT | Masters | No | MS in Marriage and Family Therapy | Learn More |
| Fairfield University | Fairfield | CT | Masters | Yes | M.A. in Marriage & Family Therapy | Learn More |
| Florida State University | Tallahassee | FL | Doctoral | Yes | Doctor of Philosophy, Marriage and Family Therapy | Learn More |
| Nova Southeastern University | Fort Lauderdale | FL | Masters | Yes | M.A. in Marriage & Family Therapy | Learn More |
| Nova Southeastern University | Fort Lauderdale | FL | Doctoral | Yes | Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology | Learn More |
| Valdosta State University (MS) | Valdosta | GA | Masters | No | M.S. in Marriage & Family Therapy | Learn More |
| University of Georgia (PhD) | Athens | GA | Doctoral | No | Ph.D. in Marriage and Family Therapy | Learn More |
| Mercer University - Atlanta (MFT) | Atlanta | GA | Masters | Yes | Master of Family Therapy | Learn More |
| Mercer University - Macon (MFT) | Macon | GA | Masters | Yes | Master of Family Therapy (MFT) | Learn More |
| Toccoa Falls College | Toccoa Falls | GA | Masters | Yes | M.A. in Marriage and Family Therapy | Learn More |
| Iowa College of Education | Iowa | IA | Masters | N/A | Couple and Family Therapy | Learn More |
| Mount Mercy University (MA) | Cedar Rapids | IA | Masters | No | M.A. in Marriage & Family Therapy | Learn More |
| University of Iowa (PhD) | Iowa City | IA | Doctoral | Yes | PhD in Couple and Family Therapy | Learn More |
| Northern Illinois University (MS) | DeKalb | IL | Masters | No | M.A. in Marriage & Family Therapy | Learn More |
| Wheaton College Graduate School (MA) | Wheaton | IL | Masters | No | M.A. in Marriage & Family Therapy | Learn More |
| Northwestern University, The Family Institute (MS) Online | Evanston | IL | Masters | No | M.S. in Marriage & Family Therapy | Learn More |
| Adler University | Chicago | IL | Masters | Yes | M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling | Learn More |
| Adler University | Chicago | IL | Doctoral | Yes | Ph.D. in Couple and Family Therapy | Learn More |
| Indiana University | Bloomington | IN | Masters | N/A | Master of Science in Education in Marriage, Couple, and Family Counseling | Learn More |
| Christian Theological Seminary | Indianapolis | IN | Masters | No | M.A. in Marriage & Family Therapy | Learn More |
| Indiana Wesleyan University - Indianapolis (MA) | Indianapolis | IN | Masters | No | M.A. in Marriage & Family Therapy | Learn More |
| Indiana Wesleyan University - Marion (MA) | Marion | IN | Masters | No | M.A. in Marriage & Family Therapy | Learn More |
| Purdue University Northwest | Hammond | IN | Masters | No | M.S in Couple and Family Therapy | Learn More |
| Indiana Wesleyan University - Online (MA) | Indianapolis | IN | Masters | No | M.A. in Marriage & Family Therapy | Learn More |
| The University of Kansas | Lawrence | KS | Masters | N/A | FAMILY COUNSELING | Learn More |
| Friends University - Kansas City (MS) | Overland Park | KS | Masters | No | Master of Science in Family Therapy | Learn More |
| Kansas State University (PhD) | Manhattan | KS | Doctoral | No | Doctorate in Couple and Family Therapy | Learn More |
| Friends University (MS) | Wichita | KS | Masters | No | Master of Science in Family Therapy | Learn More |
| Kansas State University (MS) | Manhattan | KS | Masters | No | Master of Science in Family Therapy | Learn More |
| Louisville Presbyterian Theological Seminary (MA) | Louisville | KY | Masters | No | M.S. in Marriage & Family Therapy | Learn More |
| Campbellsville University (MMFT) | Louisville | KY | Masters | No | Marriage and family therapy | Learn More |
| University of Louisville (MSSW) | Louisville | KY | Masters | No | Master of Science in Social Work | Learn More |
| University of Kentucky (MS) | Lexington | KY | Masters | Yes | M.S. in Marriage & Family Therapy | Learn More |
| University of Louisiana at Monroe (PhD) | Monroe | LA | Doctoral | Yes | Doctor of Philosophy in Marriage and Family Therapy | Learn More |
| University of Louisiana at Monroe (MA) | Monroe | LA | Masters | Yes | M.S. in Marriage & Family Therapy | Learn More |
| Springfield College | Springfield | MA | Masters | N/A | Marriage and Family Therapy | Learn More |
| William James College | Newton, | MA | Masters | N/A | Couples and Family Therapy | Learn More |
| Cambridge College | Boston, | MA | Masters | N/A | Marriage and Family Therapy | Learn More |
| University of Maryland | College Park | MD | Masters | N/A | Couple and Family Therapy (FCFT) | Learn More |
| University of Maryland (MS) | College Park | MD | Masters | No | M.S. in Marriage & Family Therapy | Learn More |
| Michigan State University | East Lansing, | MI | Masters | N/A | Marriage and Family Therapy - Master of Arts | Learn More |
| Michigan State University (PhD) | East Lansing | MI | Doctoral | Yes | Ph.D. in Rehabilitation Counselor Education | Learn More |
| St. Cloud State University | St. Cloud, | MN | Masters | N/A | Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy | Learn More |
| Bethel University | St. Paul, | MN | Masters | N/A | M.A. in Marriage and Family Therapy | Learn More |
| University of St. Thomas | Minneapolis | MN | Masters | N/A | Family Psychology Concentration (LMFT) | Learn More |
| Saint Mary's University of Minnesota (MA) | Minneapolis | MN | Masters | No | M.A in Marriage & Family Therapy | Learn More |
| University of Minnesota (PhD) | St. Paul | MN | Doctoral | No | Ph.D. in Couple & Family Therapy | Learn More |
| University of Central Missouri | Warrensburg | MO | Masters | N/A | Marriage & Family Therapy Opt. MS | Learn More |
| University of Missouri | Columbia, | MO | Masters | N/A | Marriage and Family Therapists | Learn More |
| Saint Louis University (MA) | Saint Louis | MO | Masters | Yes | Medical Family Therapy Program | Learn More |
| Saint Louis University (PhD) | Saint Louis | MO | Doctoral | Yes | PhD in Medical Family Therapy Program | Learn More |
| University of Southern Mississippi (MS) | Hattiesburg | MS | Masters | Yes | M.S. in Marriage & Family Therapy | Learn More |
| UNC Greensboro | Street Greensboro | NC | Masters | N/A | Counseling, M.S., concentration in Couple and Family Counseling | Learn More |
| North Carolina A & T State University | GREENSBORO | NC | Masters | No | MARRIAGE & FAMILY COUNSELING CERTIFICATE | Learn More |
| Appalachian State University (MA) | Boone | NC | Masters | Yes | M.A. in Marriage & Family Therapy | Learn More |
| East Carolina University (MS) | Greenville | NC | Masters | Yes | M.A. in Marriage & Family Therapy | Learn More |
| Pfeiffer University (MA) | Charlotte | NC | Masters | Yes | M.A. in Marriage & Family Therapy | Learn More |
| Pfeiffer University, Raleigh-Durham (MA) | Morrisville | NC | Masters | Yes | M.A. in Marriage & Family Therapy | Learn More |
| East Carolina University (PhD) | Greenville | NC | Doctoral | Yes | PhD in Marriage Family Therapy Program | Learn More |
| University of Nebraska Lincoln (MS) | Lincoln | NE | Masters | Yes | M.S. in Marriage & Family Therapy | Learn More |
| PLYMOUTH STATE UNIVERSITY | Plymouth, | NH | Masters | N/A | MARRIAGE & FAMILY THERAPY | Learn More |
| Antioch University New England (MA) | Keene | NH | Masters | No | M.A. in Marriage & Family Therapy | Learn More |
| University of New Hampshire (MS) | Durham | NH | Masters | No | M.S. in Marriage & Family Therapy | Learn More |
| Antioch University New England (PhD) | Keene | NH | Doctoral | No | PhD in Couple & Family Therapy | Learn More |
| Seton Hall University | South Orange | NJ | Masters | Yes | Marriage and Family Therapy (M.A.) | Learn More |
| New Mexico State University | Las Cruces | NM | Masters | N/A | Masters of Science (MS) program in Marriage and Family Therapy (MFT) | Learn More |
| University of Nevada, Las Vegas (MS) | Las Vegas | NV | Masters | No | M.S. in Marriage & Family Therapy | Learn More |
| Mercy College | Manhattan | NY | Masters | N/A | MARRIAGE AND FAMILY THERAPY Master of Science | Learn More |
| Long Island University | Brooklyn | NY | Masters | N/A | M.S. in Marriage and Family Therapy | Learn More |
| Manhatan College | Riverdale | NY | Masters | N/A | MARRIAGE & FAMILY THERAPY - M.S. | Learn More |
| Nyack College (MA) | New York | NY | Masters | No | M.A. in Marriage & Family Therapy | Learn More |
| Iona College (MS) | New Rochelle | NY | Masters | No | M.S. in Marriage & Family Therapy | Learn More |
| University of Rochester (MS) | Rochester | NY | Masters | No | M.S. in Marriage & Family Therapy | Learn More |
| Syracuse University (PhD) | Syracuse | NY | Doctoral | No | Marriage & Family Therapy Ph.D. | Learn More |
| Hofstra University | Hempstead | NY | Masters | No | MA in Marriage and Family Therapy (MFT) | Learn More |
| Syracuse University (MA) | Syracuse | NY | Masters | Yes | M.A. in Marriage & Family Therapy | Learn More |
| Falk College | Syracuse | NY | Masters | Yes | Marriage & Family Therapy M.A. | Learn More |
| Falk College | Syracuse | NY | Doctoral | Yes | Marriage & Family Therapy Ph.D. | Learn More |
| The Ohio State University | Columbus, | OH | Masters | N/A | Couple and Family Therapy | Learn More |
| University of Akron (MA) | Akron | OH | Masters | No | Master's in Marriage and Family Therapy | Learn More |
| Ohio State University (PhD) | Columbus | OH | Doctoral | No | PhD in Human Development and Family Science | Learn More |
| Oklahoma State University (MS) | Stillwater | OK | Masters | No | M.S. in Marriage & Family Therapy | Learn More |
| University of Central Oklahoma | Norman | OK | Masters | No | Masters in Science Family and child studies | Learn More |
| Oklahoma State University | Stillwater | OK | Masters | Yes | Master of Science in Human Development and Family Science | Learn More |
| University of Oregon | Eugene | OR | Masters | N/A | Couples and Family Therapy (CFT) | Learn More |
| University of Oregon (MS) | Eugene | OR | Masters | No | M.S. in Marriage & Family Therapy | Learn More |
| Lewis and Clark College (MCFT) | Portland | OR | Masters | No | Marriage, Couple & Family Therapy | Learn More |
| Oregon Institute of Technology | Klamath Falls | OR | Masters | No | Master's in Marriage and Family Therapy | Learn More |
| Kairos University | Sioux Falls | PA | Masters | N/A | Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy | Learn More |
| Evangelical Theological Seminary (MA) | Myerstown | PA | Masters | No | M.A. in Marriage & Family Therapy | Learn More |
| LaSalle University (MA) | Philadelphia | PA | Masters | No | M.A. in Marriage & Family Therapy | Learn More |
| Drexel University (MFT) | Philadelphia | PA | Masters | No | Master of Family Therapy (MFT) | Learn More |
| Thomas Jefferson University (MMFT) | Philadelphia | PA | Masters | Yes | Master of Family Therapy (MFT) | Learn More |
| drexel university | Philadelphia | PA | Masters | No | Master of Family Therapy | Learn More |
| University of Rhode Island (MS) | Kingston | RI | Masters | No | M.S. in Human Development and Family Science | Learn More |
| The University of Rhode Island | Kingston | RI | Masters | N/A | Couple and Family Therapy | Learn More |
| Converse University - University Center of Greenville | Greenville | SC | Masters | No | M.A. in Marriage & Family Therapy | Learn More |
| Converse University (MMFT) | Spartanburg | SC | Masters | No | Master of Marriage and Family Therapy | Learn More |
| Converse University | Spartanburg | SC | Masters | N/A | Master of Marriage and Family Therapy (MMFT) | Learn More |
| Converse University | Spartanburg | SC | Masters | N/A | Converse’s Master of Marriage and Family Therapy (MMFT) | Learn More |
| South Dakota State University | Brookings, | SD | Masters | N/A | Marriage and Family Counseling (M.S.) | Learn More |
| KAIROS UNIVERSITY | Sioux Falls, | SD | Masters | N/A | Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy | Learn More |
| The University of Tennessee | Knoxville, | TN | Masters | N/A | Master in Family Therapy (M.F.T.) or Master in Marriage and Family Therapy (M.M.F.T. | Learn More |
| Lee University (MS) | Cleveland | TN | Masters | No | M.S. in Marriage & Family Therapy | Learn More |
| Lipscomb University (MMFT) | Nashville | TN | Masters | Yes | Master of Family Therapy | Learn More |
| ST. MARY'S UNIVERSITY | San Antonio, | TX | Masters | N/A | Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy | Learn More |
| ST. MARY'S UNIVERSITY | San Antonio, | TX | Masters | N/A | Doctor of Philosophy in Marriage and Family Therapy Program. | Learn More |
| Houston Baptist University | Houston, | TX | Masters | N/A | The Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy | Learn More |
| A&M University | Killeen, | TX | Masters | N/A | The Marriage and Family Therapy (MFT) master’s program | Learn More |
| University of Houston | Houston, | TX | Masters | N/A | The Master of Arts in Family Therapy | Learn More |
| Texas Tech University (MS) | Lubbock | TX | Masters | No | Couple, Marriage, and Family Therapy | Learn More |
| Texas Tech University (PhD) | Lubbock | TX | Doctoral | No | Couple, Marriage, and Family Therapy Ph.D. | Learn More |
| Our Lady of the Lake University - Houston (MS) | Houston | TX | Masters | No | M.S. in Marriage & Family Therapy | Learn More |
| Our Lady of The Lake University - Rio Grande Valley | La Feria | TX | Masters | No | M.S. in Marriage & Family Therapy | Learn More |
| Our Lady of the Lake University - San Antonio (MS) | San Antonio | TX | Masters | No | M.S. in Marriage & Family Therapy | Learn More |
| Texas Wesleyan University (MS) | Fort Worth | TX | Masters | No | M.S. in Marriage & Family Therapy | Learn More |
| Texas Woman's University (MS) | Denton | TX | Masters | No | M.S. in Marriage & Family Therapy | Learn More |
| Abilene Christian University (MMFT) | Abilene | TX | Masters | No | Master of Family Therapy | Learn More |
| Texas Wesleyan University (PhD) | Fort Worth | TX | Doctoral | No | PH.D. IN MARRIAGE & FAMILY THERAPY | Learn More |
| Texas Woman's University (PhD) | Denton | TX | Doctoral | No | Ph.D. in Marriage & Family Therapy | Learn More |
| Abilene Christian University Online (MMFT) | Dallas | TX | Masters | No | Master of Family Therapy | Learn More |
| University of Houston Clear Lake (MA) | Houston | TX | Masters | Yes | M.A in Marriage and Family Therapy (MFT) | Learn More |
| Utah State University (MS) | Logan | UT | Masters | No | M.S in Marriage and Family Therapy | Learn More |
| Brigham Young University (PhD) | Provo | UT | Doctoral | Yes | Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Marriage and Family Therapy. | Learn More |
| Brigham Young University (MS) | Provo | UT | Masters | Yes | M.S in Marriage and Family Therapy | Learn More |
| Family Therapy Center of Virginia Tech | Blacksburg, | VA | Masters | N/A | marriage and family therapy doctoral program | Learn More |
| Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University - Blacksburg (PhD) | Blacksburg | VA | Doctoral | No | Ph.D. in Marriage and Family Therapy Concentration | Learn More |
| Virginia Tech | Blacksburg | VA | Masters | No | Virginia Tech’s marriage and family therapy doctoral program | Learn More |
| Whitworth University | Spokane, | WA | Masters | N/A | Marriage & Family Therapy Program | Learn More |
| Pacific Lutheran University | Tacoma | WA | Masters | N/A | M.A. Marriage and Family Therapy | Learn More |
| Seattle Pacific University, Seattle, WA | Seattle | WA | Masters | N/A | M.S. Marriage and Family Therapy | Learn More |
| Seattle University (MA) | Seattle | WA | Masters | No | M.A in Couples and Family Theraphy | Learn More |
| Antioch University Seattle (MA) | Seattle | WA | Masters | No | MA in Couple and Family Therapy | Learn More |
| Pacific Lutheran University (MA) | Tacoma | WA | Masters | No | Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy | Learn More |
| Seattle Pacific University (MS) | Seattle | WA | Masters | Yes | Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy | Learn More |
| EDGEWOOD COLLEGE | Madison, | WI | Masters | N/A | Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy | Learn More |
| University of Wisconsin Superior | Superior, | WI | Masters | N/A | MSE in Counseling Marriage and Family Therapy | Learn More |
| University of Wisconsin Stout (MS) | Menomonie | WI | Masters | No | M.S. Marriage and Family Therapy | Learn More |
COAMFTE-Accredited Online Programs:
Capella University. This is a 16-course accredited online MA MFT program that is an excellent choice for those who want to learn to help clients therapeutically but need an online learning environment.
- Cost per credit: $440-$815
- Included in this program:
- Systemic Family Therapy (including diversity and social justice)
- Psychopathology
- Impact of Addiction and Addictive Behavior on Family Systems
Northcentral University. This MA MFT online accredited program includes 45 hours of credit coursework and offers multiple specializations
- Cost per credit: $913
- Included in this program:
- Treatment Planning
- Traditional Therapy
- Family Therapy with Children
- Postmodern Family Therapy
- Recovery-Oriented Care
COAMFTE-Accredited In-Person Programs:
University of San Diego. This California-based Marital and Family Therapy program involves two years of full-time coursework which includes approximately 1100 hours towards the 3000 hours that are required for an MFT license.
- Cost per credit: $1,555
- Included in this program:
- Human Diversity in Family Therapy
- Recovery-oriented Case Management
- Treatment of Severe Mental Illness
- Family Development
East Carolina University. This North Carolina-based MS in Marriage and Family Therapy program prepares students to become leaders in their roles as LMFTs upon leaving the program through their two-year program that includes 51 semester hours.
- Cost per credit: See the East Carolina University website for tuition information.
- Included in this program:
- Family Therapy Theories
- Research Methods in Child/Family Studies
- Critical Issues in Family and Cultural Diversity
COAMFTE-Accredited MFT Masters Program Scholarships and Grants
When it comes to researching and applying for financial aid, the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) tends to be the most universally recommended best first step. The FAFSA provides the opportunity for millions of students each year to receive low-interest loans or grants from the federal government based on their income.
Important FAFSA Facts
- You will need to submit a new FAFSA before each academic year that you need financial aid. Make sure to pay attention to the window in which the FAFSA opens and closes.
- If you are under a certain age, you may need to include your parent’s income on the FAFSA. There may be some exceptions to the FAFSA parental income requirement depending on your circumstances. Talk to the school of your choice about your options if you are unsure.
- Be sure to use a permanent email address when filling out the FAFSA form, not a school email address.
- The FAFSA is free to fill out and you don’t need to pay anyone to fill it out for you.
Besides the FAFSA, however, there are other resources where you can apply for scholarships that may be able to help you afford your MFT program.
- FastWeb
- Unigo
- Big Future
- Scholly
- Professional Associations
- Sallie Mae’s Graduate School Scholarship Search
- Scholarship America
- GoGrad
These resources compile scholarships and grants available to students to help them pay for their education. By combining any financial aid that you may qualify for with the FAFSA along with any grants or scholarships you could receive, pursuing higher education may be well within reach!
Other Mental Health Education Accrediting Bodies
CACREP Accredited Counseling Programs – While some MFT programs are accredited by CACREP, the organization primarily focuses on accredited counseling programs.
CSWE Accredited Social Work Programs – CSWE stands for Council of Social Work Education and is focused on accrediting both schools of social work and individual social work programs.
