If you’re thinking of becoming licensed in marriage and family therapy, cost might be a big deciding factor. Luckily, there are many lower-cost online MFT degrees available throughout the United States. Picking an affordable online program can allow you to further your education without the stress of how you are going to pay for classes while still living your day-to-day life. There are many benefits to furthering your education and obtaining a master’s degree in marriage and family therapy, and with low-cost MFT programs available, you can start sooner than you may have previously believed. The following article highlights affordable masters in MFT programs that can be completed both in-person and online.
Why Are MFT’s Important?
Obtaining an affordable master’s degree in marriage and family therapy is an excellent way to further your knowledge and open up options for a diverse and interesting career path while helping others along the way. Marriage and family therapists are highly sought after, as they are highly trained professionals whose education and experience greatly contribute to helping improve other’s mental health, relationships, and lives in general. MFT’s have been shown to be effective at diagnosing and treating a variety of mental and emotional disorders, as well as issues such as addiction, marital and familial conflicts, and more. Marriage and family therapists can work in a variety of locations, such as:
- Social service agencies
- Schools
- Hospitals
- Inpatient care facilities
- Nursing and rehabilitation care facilities
- Outpatient care centers
- Legal and correctional systems
- Department of Veteran Affairs (VA)
- Correctional Facilities
- Mental health centers
- Addiction treatment centers
- Private practice
What You Will Learn In an Online MFT Program
Following your undergraduate program, you can generally expect the total length of a low-cost marriage and family therapy program to be the equivalent of two full-time years of coursework. Some programs, however, have alternative options that allow students to complete the program in three years or more. To obtain an affordable master’s degree in marriage and family therapy, you must undergo an intensive program that covers a wide variety of subject matter, which ensures that you will be fully ready to navigate a number of complex situations. The benefit of completing a cost-effective MFT program online is that you can receive education from anywhere without needing to be present in a classroom. That being said, the education you will receive will still cover the same variety of topics that are required to help you obtain your license once you have completed your degree.
What to Expect After Obtaining Your MFT Degree
Once you have obtained your low-cost master’s degree, you will need to complete the steps to become licensed as a Marriage and Family Therapist. This part of the process can’t be done online. The process it involves a significant amount of face-to-face interaction with clients to practice skills and gain real-life experience. The LMFT licensure process may look different by state, but usually follows a similar process concerning the overall steps. There are resources to help you find out your individual state MFT licensure requirements, but in general, you can expect to do the following:
- Obtain a qualifying, affordable Master’s degree
- Register as an AMFT
- Undergo a criminal background check
- Accrue hours of supervised experience
- Pass the LMFT clinical exam
- Earn your official license.
Typically, you will find employment or an internship as an AMFT (Associate Marriage and Family Therapist) at a nearby organization or agency where you will be under the supervision of a licensed professional in order to obtain supervised experience hours. Within this process, you will meet with clients and use the skills learned in your degree program while having the help of your supervisor. You will work wih your supervisor to reflect on your experience and any struggles you are having in your daily work. This will be critical to helping you become a knowledgeable LMFT.
What Are Accredited MFT Master’s Programs?
When seeking information on becoming an LMFT, it’s important to find accredited master’s in marriage and family therapy programs. Accreditation means that the program has met certain quality standards set by professionals within the field. The Commission on Accreditation for Marriage and Family Therapy Education (COAMFTE) is the main accrediting body for MFT programs in the US. Accredited schools undergo quality review by a professional team that comes from academia or the industry they are reviewing. Going to an accredited school means that you are receiving a great education that will prepare you for your future career. You will be able to receive any state and federal financial aid that you qualify for; and you will be able to pursue licensure once you have graduated. Therefore, the benefit of attending an accredited, affordable MFT program is that any financial aid that you may qualify for may cover more of the cost, thus saving you more money.
Types of MFT Accreditations
While keeping accreditation in mind when looking for schools at which to pursue your MFT, remember that many states require schools to be accredited regionally, as regional accreditation is considered to be more rigorous than national accreditation. There are some benefits to attending a nationally accredited university, however, so it’s important to look at both options. Regionally accredited schools are regarded as the highest form of accreditation a school can receive and are the most widely recognized. If a student with regionally accredited credits transfers schools, they will likely find themselves accepted by regionally and nationally accredited schools. However, when it comes to affordability, nationally accredited schools are the less expensive option. They also tend to have lower admissions standards than regionally accredited schools
An MFT program that is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Marriage and Family Therapy (COAMFTE) fulfills the preferences and/or requirements of most state licensing boards to ensure someone is eligible for licensure. Someone taking part in a school accredited in this way may experience a shorter supervised practice post-graduation.
The Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Programs (CACREP) is held at the same level of quality as the COAMFTE in some states. The CACREP is the preferred organization for other counseling disciplines and is a respected organization. However, some agencies will not allow you to practice as an LMFT if you have not completed a program under COAMFTE.
For those looking to pursue a Masters in Counseling, finding a CACREP-accredited program will ensure that the program meets the requirements for graduates to fully practice. There are a number of CAREP accredited masters in counseling programs throughout the US.
The third major educational accrediting body in mental health is the Counsel on Social Work Education (CSWE). The CSWE focuses on accrediting schools of social work and specific social work programs and is the standard for accreditation in this field. Legitimate MSW programs in the US are CSWE accredited or working towards accreditation.
Accredited Low-Cost MFT Programs Online
Now that you know the importance of accreditation when it comes to your education, you might be wondering where to start. There are many excellent, accredited, and cheap and affordable online MFT programs throughout the United States. For more information on some of the LMFT degree programs available, take a look at the list below.
Alliant International University is a COAMFTE-accredited university that offers a two-year Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy program that will provide the education and skills needed to confidently join the profession. This program is available online but it is also available in several cities throughout California.
Adler University is a CACREP-accredited university that offers both an in-person and online program. The online program can be completed in 3–4 years and does include some face-to-face teaching over the course of two five-day residency weeks on the Chicago, Illinois, campus. The goal of Adler University is to ensure that students enter the workforce as culturally sensitive clinicians who can provide their expertise in a wide range of clinical settings.
Fairfield University, accredited by the COAMFTE and located in Connecticut, is dedicated to providing education that values diversity and teaches nondiscrimination. The program and staff recognize the importance of addressing social justice and privilege for the students in the coursework so that graduates can leave informed and ready to help a wide variety of populations experiencing a number of different problems. Full-time students can complete the course in three to three and a half years.
What Will You Learn in an Affordable MFT Program?
Once you have begun your MFT courses online, you can expect that the program will generally take you 24-42 months (or 2-3.5 years) to become a fully licensed MFT. This includes the coursework, supervised hours of practice, and preparation for the exam.
Standard Curriculum
Although each low-cost marriage and family therapy program varies depending on which concentration you might choose, an overall theme emerges due to accreditation standards as well as the general knowledge needed to perform the job of an MFT well. No matter which program you take, you will likely learn a variation of the following:
- Therapy theory and techniques, including how to conduct evidence-based therapy and counseling for a variety of groups that may be experiencing mild to severe mental health issues,.
- The understanding of learned theoretical concepts is necessary to be able to critically analyze and apply said theories to real-world scenarios.
- Knowledge of social justice issues and the application of said knowledge in practice settings.
- The ability to apply a significant understanding of legal and ethical standards to decision-making across a range of service contexts and practice settings.
In order to learn the above, a combination of the following courses may be expected. These courses are the most common in an online MFT program, but the programs are not necessarily limited to just these.
- Developmental psychology
- Psychopathology
- Family therapy
- Cultural competency
- Human sexuality
- Sociology
- Child development
- Professional ethics and law
- Substance abuse and addiction
- Case management
- Intersectionality
- Trauma-informed care
- And more subtopics within the above curriculum.
Specialization and Concentrations
In addition to the above subjects that are usually taught as core course requirements, many cost-effective MFT programs also give students the option to focus on a specific specialization or concentration. These studies, if not offered through a specific concentration or specialization track, can still be focused on through electives. Below are some of the most common MFT concentrations and/or electives you might find yourself interested in taking.
- Trauma therapy. This educational track might include coursework on the causes and effects of trauma on individuals, families, and generations, as well as grief, PTSD, and other psychological conditions, diagnoses, and relationship issues that rise as a result of trauma.
- School counseling. This educational track prepares future LMFTs or counselors for the complex job of identifying students in the school who are having behavioral problems and finding the cause behind them, which usually stems from home issues, and working with the student and their parents to resolve these issues.
- Addiction recovery/substance abuse. This educational track provides students with information on how to treat substance use disorders that are affecting individuals and families as well as the causes behind addiction and evidence-based treatment models.
- LGBTQ. This population may experience different kinds of struggles than other kinds of families, such as facing discrimination within the family, struggling with gender identity, and many other unique challenges.
- Conflict in marriage. This educational track will teach students the tools needed to assist married couples through what can be a very frustrating and difficult time in their lives. This can be a challenge for even experienced LMFTs and may be an important focus to learn.
- Community programming. This is a unique focus for those in an LMFT program who want to focus on the overall mental health of a group, and will generally work for nonprofits or the government to educate wide populations on specific topics while offering a therapist’s perspective, which may be different than the perspective of other public health professionals.
Entrance Requirements to Enroll in an Affordable Masters in MFT Program
In order to apply for the low-cost master’s in marriage and family therapy programs, you must first earn a bachelor’s degree. This degree does not always have to be related to the curriculum you will be taking in the MFT program, but it does help you succeed for it to be somewhat related. This also sometimes depends on the school you are looking to attend. Often, once you have completed your bachelor’s degree, you will have to complete some prerequisite or foundational work before applying for the budget-friendly master’s program of your choice. Some of the affordable MFT programs listed in this article do not require a GRE to attend. Once you have earned a bachelor’s degree and qualify to apply for the master’s in marriage and family therapy program of choice, there is an application process you must undergo. While the process may vary depending on which university you are applying for, the general process is outlined below.
- You will have maintained a good standing at the university in which you obtained your bachelor’s degree. This generally means that you will have maintained a good GPA that can range from 2.0 or above or have completed 60-semester units. Note: You may have to submit a Graduate Record Examination (GRE), however, this is not required by all schools. See your individual university application requirements.
- Complete the university’s program application, which may require the following:
a. A personal statement or essay
b. Two to four letters of recommendation from professional references.
c. Potentially submit a professional resume.
d. Participate in the program’s interview process. - Complete any required prerequisite courses that are needed to be admitted into the master’s program with the required GPA as outlined by the university of your choice.
As mentioned above, the GRE is not necessarily needed to be admitted into a master’s program. More and more programs today are taking a holistic approach to entrance requirements and are looking at many factors to a student potentially entering their programs. If a program does not require applicants to take the GRE, they may look at their overall undergraduate GPA, for example.
How To Find Affordable MFT Programs
With cost being an important factor when looking into online MFT degrees, you might consider attending a school within your state. Generally, the cost of tuition for a student who has a residence in the same state as the university will be less than those attending a university that is out of state. That being said, there are still many programs that are very affordable, regardless of where you live. Below is a summary of some of the most affordable online MFT master’s programs.
Alliant International University – Multiple Locations (Los Angeles, Irvine, Sacramento, San Diego)
- Los Angeles | Irvine | Sacramento | San Diego, CA
- 2 years
- Online
Program:
Master of Arts in Marital and Family Therapy
Tuition: $17,130 annually
Accreditation: COAMFTE
Number of Credits: 60
Length: Two years
Format: Online
GRE Required: No
Program Overview:
Alliant International University offers a much more affordable tuition compared to the average cost of a master’s degree in the US. This online MFT program has been accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Marriage and Family Therapy Education (COAMFTE). Students will receive hands-on training through a 600-hour field practicum that includes face-to-face contact with clients, supervision with a licensed therapist, and professional development hours. Alliant also offers resources for the chance to receive up to $50,000 of loan reimbursement through certain service requirements.
Touro University Worldwide – Los Alamitos, CA
- Los Alamitos, CA
- 18 months to 5 years
- Online
Program:
Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy
Tuition: $36,000 total
Accreditation: COAMFTE
Number of Credits: 72
Length: 18 months to five years
Format: Online
GRE Required: No
Program Overview:
The MA in Marriage and Family Therapy degree program offers both a clinical and non-clinical track depending on a student’s goals. Students will apply what they have learned by practicing their skills in a practicum that involves 300 hours of client contact. This program is offered at an affordable rate that is below the average of master’s programs in the United States. While the MFT program is accredited by the COAMFTE, the program also has accreditation from the Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission.
Mid-America Christian University – Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
- Oklahoma City, OK
- 27 months
- Online
Program:
Master of Science in Counseling, Marital, Couples, and Family Counseling/Therapy
Tuition: $38,520
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Number of Credits: 60
Length: 27 months
Format: Online
GRE Required: No
Program Overview:
The MS in Counseling, Marital, Couples, and Family Counseling/Therapy at Mid-American Christian University offers a great education at an affordable price. In the program, students learn counseling and therapy techniques, as well as the theories behind them to build a strong foundation. They also learn about the ethics of counseling and how to promote equity in order to provide high-quality service to their clients. Courses are taken one at a time every six weeks.
Liberty University – Lynchburg, Virginia
- Lynchburg, VA
- 2 years
- Online
Program:
Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy.
Tuition: $13,560 annually
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
Number of Credits: 60
Length: Two years
Format: Online
GRE Required: No
Program Overview:
Liberty University’s MA in Marriage and Family Therapy is one of the most affordable online therapy programs around. Students who wish to do so have the option to transfer up to 50% of the degree. The program is 100% online, other than two required on-campus intensives. Students will also complete a 600 hour internship as well as a 100 hour practicum. Liberty University is ideal for those who wish to receive an accredited Christian education.
Lancaster Bible College – Lancaster, Pennsylvania
- Lancaster, PA
- 2 years
- Hybrid
Program:
Master of Arts in Marriage, Couple, and Family Counseling
Tuition: $27,300 annually
Accreditation: Association for Biblican Higher Education Commission on Accreditation
Number of Credits: 60
Length: Two years
Format: Hybrid
GRE Required: No
Program Overview:
Lancaster Bible College has an exceptionally low-cost MFT program, making it one of the most affordable programs in the state of Pennsylvania. This program provides a Christian education to those who wish to pursue it. Graduates will be prepared to sit for the Pennsylvania licensing exam. The program combines online learning with face-to-face interactions.
Antioch University – Santa Barbara, California
- Santa Barbara, CA
- 2 years minimum
- Online
Program:
Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology, Marriage and Family Therapy
Tuition: $69,888 total
Accreditation: COAMFTE
Number of Credits: 90 quarter units
Length: 24 months minimum
Format: Online
GRE Required: No
Program Overview:
The MA in Psychology, MFT program is unique in that it offers two tracks that students may choose between: Latinx Mental Health, or Somatic Psychotherapy. There is also the option to meet the qualifications for just an LPCC, or complete the dual track for LMFT/LPCC licensure. Students gain the skills needed to complete treatment plans, counseling, and diagnosis for individuals and families.
Amridge University – Montgomery, Alabama
- Montgomery, AL
- Seven semesters
- Online
Program:
Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy
Tuition: $17,357 annually
Accreditation: SACSCOC
Number of Credits: 60
Length: Seven semesters
Format: Online
GRE Required: No
Program Overview:
Amridge University offers a Christian education that leads to a master’s degree in marriage and family therapy. Students complete 500 hours of client contact and 100 hours of supervision. In each class, students are required to earn at least a 3.0 in each course. The program prepares students for both a career in therapy as well as advanced studies in a doctoral program, if they so choose. Students can enjoy the affordability of the program as one of the most accessible in the US.
Kairos University – Myerstown, Pennsylvania
- Myerstown, PA
- 2.5 – 4 years
- Online
Program:
Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy
Tuition: $4,800 annually
Accreditation: COAMFTE
Number of Credits: 65
Length: 2.5-4 years
Format: Online
GRE Required: No
Program Overview:
Kairos University’s MA in Marriage and Family therapy is one of the most affordable programs out there at $4,800 annually. The program provides education through live online classes, which allows for interaction with peers and professors in real time. Additionally, the program requires students to complete 300-500 hours of working face-to-face with clients. Students go through the program in a cohort, which starts each fall.
University of Massachusetts Global – Multiple Locations
- Irvine, CA
- 2 years
- Online
Program:
Master’s in Marriage and Family Therapy
Tuition: $12,510 annually
Accreditation: Not specified
Number of Credits: 60
Length: Two years
Format: Online
GRE Required: No
Program Overview:
UMass Global’s affordable MFT program has a low cost of attendance, particularly compared to other MFT programs in the US. It is accessible through an online format that helps future students meet the qualifications for licensure in 39 states. Students are instructed by practicing professionals who are experts in their field. To be admitted, students should have a GPA of at least 2.75 and complete the application, autobiographical essay, and other application requirements.
Lamar University – Beaumont, Texas
- Beaumont, TX
- 30 months
- Online
Program:
Master of Education in Counseling and Development – Marriage Couple and Family Counseling
Tuition: $7,788 annually
Accreditation: Association for Advancing Quality in Educator Preparation (AAQEP)
Number of Credits: 60
Length: 30 months
Format: Online
GRE Required: No
Program Overview:
Lamar University offers their master’s degree program for the affordable total cost of $20,520 total, which is close to ⅓ of the cost of many other MFT or counseling programs in the US. The program helps students meet the qualifications to become a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, or a Licensed Professional COnselor in the state of Texas. A 15-week practicum and 15-week internship is also a part of the program.
Regent University Online – Virginia Beach, Virginia
- Virginia Beach, VA
- 2 years
- Online
Program:
Master of Arts in Marriage, Couple, and Family Counseling
Tuition: $14,600 annually
Accreditation: CACREP
Number of Credits: 60
Length: Two years
Format: Online or in person
GRE Required: No
Program Overview:
Regent University offers an affordable MA in Marriage, Couple, and Family Counseling that has been accredited by CACREP, which ensures the quality of the education students receive. Online students will complete a residency while in the program. Regent University is a Christian program that integrates science and faith into their education. Applicants should have a minimum GPA of 3.0 in undergraduate work from an accredited university.
Indiana Wesleyan University Online – Marion, Indiana
- Marion, IN
- 2 years
- Online
Program:
Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Counseling/Therapy
Tuition: $9,840 annually
Accreditation: COAMFTE
Number of Credits: 60
Length: Two years
Format: Online
GRE Required: No
Program Overview:
Indiana Wesleyan University is a significantly affordable Christian-based program that encourages the marriage and family therapy students to become a community that can share knowledge with each other. The information covered in the program encourages holistic care through traditional and contemporary systems. Additionally, there is a requirement to complete at least 300 hours of direct clinical practice to hone a student’s skills.
National University – La Jolla, California
- La Jolla, CA
- 2 years
- Online
Program:
Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy
Tuition: $11,466 annually
Accreditation: International Accreditation Commission for Systemic Therapy Education
Number of Credits: 45
Length: Two years
Format: Online
GRE Required: No
Program Overview:
The low-cost MFT master’s program at National University was one of the first to be accredited by the COAMFTE. As a result, they provide a rigorous, high-quality educatio that teaches future therapists to become competent, culturally sensitive professionals who practice ethically. By graduation, students should be prepared to take their licensing exam. There is no group work or residency required for this program.
Colorado Christian University – Lakewood, Colorado
- Lakewood, CO
- 2 years
- Online + Hybrid + Campus
Program:
Masters in Counseling, Marriage and Family Therapy
Tuition: $14,948 annually
Accreditation: Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP)
Number of Credits: 69
Length: Two years
Format: Online, hybrid, or on campus
GRE Required: No
Program Overview:
Colorado Christian University is a private Christian university offering a master’s degree in counseling at a more affordable price than other programs in the US or the state of Colorado. Students are taught to provide “biblically-informed prevention, intervention, and healing for distressed families, couples, and individuals”. Graduates from this program generally work to become Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists. Courses in this program are taken two at a time and completed in blocks of seven weeks.
Pentecostal Theological Seminary – Cleveland, Tennessee
- Cleveland, TN
- Four semesters
- Online
Program:
Masters in Counseling: Marriage and Family Therapy
Tuition: $11,988 annually
Accreditation: CACREP, SACSCOC
Number of Credits: 60
Length: Four semesters
Format: Online
GRE Required: No
Program Overview:
The affordable master’s in counseling program at Pentecostal Theological Seminary meets the educational requirements to become licensed in any state in the US. Students in this program will learn the skills needed to have competent skills in counseling. They will also be able to address issues related to spiritual and religious mental health struggles. The program prepares students to work in religious and church environments, along with places like inpatient and outpatient mental health settings.
Bellevue University – Bellevue, Nebraska
- Bellevue, NE
- 2 years
- Online + Campus
Program:
Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Tuition: $649 per credit hour
Accreditation: CACREP
Number of Credits: 60
Length: Two years
Format: Online or on campus
GRE Required: No
Program Overview:
Someone wishing to become a counselor or therapist can save money by doing so through Bellavue University’s master of science in clinical mental health counseling program. Students will learn four key skills: assessment, case conceptualization, diagnosis, and treatment planning to help clients recover from mental health or relationship struggles. Within the program, students will complete 100 practicum hours and 600 hours of a clinical internship. Those who are taking the online courses can complete the internship in their home town.
Amberton University – Garland, Texas
- Garland, TX
- Four semesters
- Online + Campus
Program:
Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy
Tuition: $14,540 annually
Accreditation: Texas Higher Education coordinating Board
Number of Credits: 60
Length: Four semesters
Format: Online and on-campus
GRE Required: No
Program Overview:
Amberton University is an affordable program through which to earn an MFT degree at $300 per credit. The program prepares graduates to become licensed MFTs in Texas. Students complete the degree through online and on-campus components. This program gives students the knowledge needed to work for a variety of organizations including government agencies or nonprofits. The main mission of this program is to ensure that individuals graduate to become ethical and competent therapists.
Students are required to earn a minimum GPA of 3.00.
Loma Linda University – Loma Linda, CA
- Loma Linda, CA
- 1.5 years
- Online + Campus
Program:
Master of Science in Marital and Family Therapy
Tuition: $37,332
Accreditation: COAMFTE
Number of Credits:
Length: 2.5 years
Format: Online or on campus
GRE Required: No
Program Overview:
Loma Linda University, established in 1905 is a Seventh-Day Adventist university that combines faith and science to provide students with a well-rounded education that is affordable. Their School of Behavioral Health offers a MS in Marital and Family Therapy that is offered both online and on-campus, and is fully accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Marriage and Family Therapy Education (COAMFTE). As such, students are well prepared to take their licensing exam upon graduation and go into their careers as prepared, ethical therapists who work with diverse clientele.
Are There Scholarships or Grants Available to Make an MFT Program More Affordable?
Another way to pay for an MFT degree is by filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). This application is a great way to find out if you qualify for certain grants and loans, all in one process.
Besides the FAFSA, here are some other resources where one can apply for scholarships to be able to afford their MFT program:
- FastWeb
- Unigo
- Big Future
- Scholly
- Professional Associations
- Sallie Mae’s Graduate School Scholarship Search
- Scholarship America
- GoGrad
Affordable MFT Programs Online
While many MFT programs are available, the following list includes all affordable MFT programs available online. This list of marriage and family therapy programs can be sorted by accreditation, degree level, and state.| Name | City | State | Degree Level | Accreditation | GRE Required? | Full Program Name | URL |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Northcentral University | Scottsdale | AZ | Masters | COAMFTE | No | MASTER OF ARTS DEGREE IN MARRIAGE AND FAMILY THERAPY | Learn More |
| Alliant International University - Irvine | Irvine | CA | Doctoral | COAMFTE | No | PsyD in Marital and Family Therapy | Learn More |
| Bethel Seminary (MA) | San Diego | CA | Masters | COAMFTE | No | MA in Marriage and Family Therapy | Learn More |
| California Southern University | Costa Mesa | CA | Masters | HLC | No | Master of Arts (MA) in Psychology, with an Emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy | Learn More |
| Fresno Pacific University | Fresno | CA | Masters | Association of Theological Schools | Yes | MA in Marriage and Family Therapy | Learn More |
| Loma Linda University | Loma Linda | CA | Masters | COAMFTE | No | MS in Marital and Family Therapy | Learn More |
| Northcentral University | San Diego | CA | Masters | COAMFTE | No | MA in Marriage and Family Therapy | Learn More |
| Northcentral University | San Diego | CA | Doctoral | COAMFTE | No | Doctor of philosophy in Marriage and Family Therapy | Learn More |
| Pacific Oaks College | San Jose | CA | Masters | COAMFTE | N/A | M.A. Marriage and Family Therapy: Trauma Studies Specialization | Learn More |
| Palo Alto University | Palo Alto | CA | M.A. | CACREP | No | M.A. in Marriage, Couple and Family Counseling | Learn More |
| Pepperdine University | Malibu | CA | Masters | WSCUC | Yes | M.A. in Clinical Psychology with Emphasis in Marriage & Family Therapy | Learn More |
| Touro University Worldwide | Los Alamitos | CA | Masters | COAMFTE | No | MA in Marriage and Family Therapy | Learn More |
| University of the West | Rosemead | CA | Masters | COAMFTE | Yes | Marriage & Family Therapy, MA | Learn More |
| Adams State University | Alamosa | CO | M.A | CACREP | No | Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling | Learn More |
| Colorado Christian University | Colorado | CO | Masters | CACREP | No | Online Master's in Counseling with a Focus on Marriage & Family Therapy | Learn More |
| Toccoa Falls College | Toccoa Falls | GA | Masters | COAMFTE | Yes | M.A. in Marriage and Family Therapy | Learn More |
| Chaminade University of Honolulu | Honolulu | HI | Doctoral | WASC | N/A | Doctor of Marriage and Family Therapy Program | Learn More |
| Northwestern University, The Family Institute (MS) Online | Evanston | IL | Masters | COAMFTE | No | M.S. in Marriage & Family Therapy | Learn More |
| Indiana Wesleyan University - Online (MA) | Indianapolis | IN | Masters | COAMFTE | No | M.A. in Marriage & Family Therapy | Learn More |
| University of Holy Cross | New Orleans | LA | M.A. | CACREP | No | M.A. in Marriage, Couple and Family Counseling | Learn More |
| Cambridge College | Boston, | MA | Masters | COAMFTE | N/A | Marriage and Family Therapy | Learn More |
| Western Michigan University | Kalamazoo | MI | M.A. | CACREP | No | M.A. in Marriage, couple and family counseling | Learn More |
| Walden University | Minneapolis | MN | M.S. | CACREP | No | MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling Marriage, Couple, and Family Counseling specialization | Learn More |
| Manhatan College | Riverdale | NY | Masters | COAMFTE | N/A | MARRIAGE & FAMILY THERAPY - M.S. | Learn More |
| Syracuse University (MA) | Syracuse | NY | Masters | COAMFTE | Yes | M.A. in Marriage & Family Therapy | Learn More |
| Mid-America Christian University | Oklahoma City | OK | Masters | NCA | No | Masters in Family Therapy to Strengthen Couples and Families | Learn More |
| Oklahoma Baptist University | Shawnee | OK | Masters | NCA | Yes | Masters in Marriage and Family Therapy | Learn More |
| Geneva College | Beaver Falls | PA | Masters | CACREP | N/A | Master's in counseling program | Learn More |
| Geneva College | Beaver Falls | PA | M.A. | CACREP | No | M.A. in Marriage, Couple and Family Counseling | Learn More |
| Messiah University (previously Messiah College) | Mechanicsburg | PA | M.A. | CACREP | No | M.A. in Marriage, Couple and Family Counseling | Learn More |
| Trevecca Nazarene University | Nashville | TN | M.M.F.C./T. | CACREP | Yes | M.M.F.C./T. in Marriage, Couple and Family Counseling | Learn More |
| Houston Baptist University | Houston, | TX | Masters | COAMFTE | N/A | The Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy | Learn More |
| Sam Houston State University | Huntsville | TX | M.A. | CACREP | No | M.A. in Marriage, Couple and Family Counseling | Learn More |
| Abilene Christian University Online (MMFT) | Dallas | TX | Masters | COAMFTE | No | Master of Family Therapy | Learn More |
| Regent University | Virginia Beach | VA | Masters | CACREP | N/A | M.A. in Marriage, Couple & Family Counseling | Learn More |
| Regent University | Virginia Beach | VA | M.A. | CACREP | No | M.A. in Marriage, Couple and Family Counseling | Learn More |
| lu online liberty university address | Lynchburg | VA | Masters | SACSCOC | Yes | MA in Family and Marriage Therapy Online MFT Degree | Learn More |
| University of Wisconsin Superior | Superior, | WI | Masters | COAMFTE | N/A | MSE in Counseling Marriage and Family Therapy | Learn More |
What are the benefits of an Affordable MFT program?
There are numerous benefits to earning a master’s in marriage and family therapy, especially if it’s through an online, affordable, MFT program. An affordable MFT program means more return on investment, as LMFT’s can make anywhere from $41,707-$103,274 annually depending on the state. Additionally, an online program means that you may have more flexibility in your day-to-day life. Other benefits of obtaining a master’s degree in marriage and family therapy include:
- Personal fulfillment. This career path is challenging, but rewarding, and allows for a lot of personal growth as you learn along with your clients.
- Improving the lives of others. You will be helping individuals, families, and children improve their lives by helping them navigate challenges.
- Enjoy job security. The demand for this job is constantly growing and likely will be for a long time, so you can appreciate the security of knowing that you can find a job almost anywhere.
Additional Resources for MFT Program Candidates
Board of Behavioral Sciences: Guide to LMFT Out-of-State Applicant Requirements
